In 2026, America turns 250—and right here in McDonough County, we’re celebrating 200 years of local heritage. Discover the place where national history and small-town stories meet. From Abraham Lincoln’s influence and Civil Rights history to the creation of Monopoly and the early sounds of Rock & Roll, Macomb brings America’s past to life in a vibrant way.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways in the Midwest, road trips from Chicago, Route 66 road trips, or seeking the best small towns in the Midwest, Macomb is the perfect place to start.
Why This Matters
America 250 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to explore the people, places, and pivotal moments that shaped our country. Here in Macomb, those stories are woven into historic streets, preserved landmarks, and immersive experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
This page is your hub for all things America 250—itineraries, historical context, interactive experiences, and trip-planning tools to help you explore Macomb during this landmark celebration.
Experience America’s Story—Only in Macomb
Play the World’s Largest Monopoly Game
Discover the charming small town connected to the origin story behind the iconic game of Monopoly. Learn more about who invented Monopoly, explore Monopoly game history, and play Macombopoly, the world’s largest life-size version of the classic board game.
Long before Monopoly became one of the world’s most recognizable board games, the ideas behind it were taking shape right here in Forgottonia. Elizabeth Magie—born in Macomb—created The Landlord’s Game in 1904 to illustrate economic inequality. Her game laid the foundation for the Monopoly we know today.
Macomb’s deep connection to this origin story is celebrated through the attraction “Macombopoly”, which is the world’s largest Monopoly game. The game is played through the use of a state-of-the-art app powered by eATLAS! as players circle the game board spanning Macomb’s historic Downtown Courthouse Square, discover local landmarks represented on the board, and learn about the region’s unexpected role in the evolution of this iconic American game.
Walk in Lincoln’s Footsteps
Abraham Lincoln’s influence on Western Illinois is more profound than many realize. Throughout the 1830s–1850s, Lincoln traveled extensively across the region as a lawyer and political figure. He delivered key speeches, argued cases, and built relationships with community leaders who later supported his presidential campaign.
Macomb’s Looking for Lincoln Self-Guided Tour sites highlight these pivotal moments, including documented stops where Lincoln addressed local residents during the 1858 Senate race and the nation’s only Living Lincoln Topiary Monument. These authentic locations connect visitors directly to Lincoln’s early leadership and the ideas that would soon shape a nation at war and reunification.
Macomb is part of the Looking for Lincoln heritage area, featuring speeches, stories, and locations central to Lincoln’s Illinois legacy.
Underground Railroad & Civil Rights History
McDonough County played a meaningful role in the abolitionist movement, serving as a refuge for freedom seekers traveling north through Illinois via the Underground Railroad. Local residents—including farmers, ministers, and community advocates—quietly offered shelter, supplies, and protection as part of the Underground Railroad network.
This legacy continued into the 20th century. Macomb is the hometown of C.T. Vivian, a key strategist and field general for Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement. A Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, Vivian helped shape national strategies for nonviolent protest and voting rights.
Together, these stories reflect Macomb’s enduring commitment to justice, courage, and equality. Stand where freedom seekers found refuge and discover the local leaders—including C.T. Vivian—who shaped national Civil Rights movements when you visit Forgottonia.
Historic Murals & Small-Town Charm
Downtown Macomb reflects nearly two centuries of small-town resilience and Midwestern character. Many buildings date back to the late 1800s, when Macomb was a bustling rail hub and center of regional commerce.
Today, a growing collection of murals tells the town’s story through art—depicting its Underground Railroad roots, early industries, cultural icons, and defining local moments. These murals create a walkable outdoor gallery for visitors while preserving community history in a modern, vibrant way.
Explore more than a dozen outdoor murals, historic downtown architecture, and welcoming local shops and eateries.
Music Heritage: The Roots of Rock & Roll
Macomb is home to Big Al Sears, a nationally celebrated jazz saxophonist who played with Duke Ellington and helped shape the energetic horn-driven style that later influenced early Rock & Roll. Sears’ innovative sound contributed to the transformation of American music during the mid-20th century, bridging jazz, rhythm and blues, and the emerging rock genre.
His legacy underscores Western Illinois’ quiet but powerful influence on the music that would define a generation.
Learn about jazz legend Big Al Sears and other artists whose sounds helped shape American music.
Build Your Itinerary
Take a self-guided journey through the region’s most significant historical sites—including Macombopoly, Lincoln landmarks, Underground Railroad locations, Civil Rights sites, murals, and more, via the America 250 / McDonough County 200 Trail below.
Other Things to See and Do in Forgottonia
- Participate in exciting Local Events
- Enjoy nature through our Outdoor Activities and Parks
- Discover hearty meals through our rich Dining Scene
- Have some fun with Arts & Entertainment
Plan Your America 250 Getaway to Macomb
From heritage tours and family activities to special events throughout 2026, Macomb is a place where America’s 250-year story comes alive.
Make the most of your visit by staying close to the celebrations, historic sites, and downtown experiences that bring Macomb’s past and present together.
