Adams: Discover History, Art, and Nature

Adams offers several distinct themes to explore: Quincy’s history, art, and local culture, as well as the hiking trails at Siloam Springs State Park. As you plan your stay, these themes can provide a starting point: Would you like to explore historic sites, experience art, or spend time outdoors?

History in Quincy

The Quincy Underground Railroad Museum at the Dr. Richard Eells House is one of the earliest and most significant Underground Railroad sites in the United States. Another chapter is presented at the Underground Railroad Exhibit at the History Museum on the Square. It showcases Quincy’s role in helping enslaved people escape. Together, the two sites focus on different aspects of this historic subject.

Washington Park also brings together several chapters of the city’s history. Originally called “John’s Square,” the park was established in 1825 as Quincy’s first park and was the site of the sixth Lincoln-Douglas Debate in 1858. Six Lincoln storyboards in the park are part of a walking tour with 18 stops in all. Alongside the history of the debate, the storyboards serve as their own part of the tour to help orient visitors.

Art and Local Culture

The Art Center’s collection includes more than 400 works by regional and national artists. Courses, workshops, and gallery tours are also offered year-round. You can focus your visit on the art collection or take an interest in one of the educational programs. The Stained Glass Gallery at the History Museum on the Square offers a different perspective: it features stained-glass windows from several churches and buildings in the area.

Another historic site is the 1930s Ag Museum in rural Quincy. It is set on 20 acres. The Downtown Quincy Farmers Market adds a local tradition dating back to 1982 to these cultural themes. Check the seasonal schedule before visiting the market.

Hiking Trails and Camping at Siloam Springs State Park

Siloam Springs State Park is in Adams County, just a few minutes east of Quincy. Its more than 15 miles of scenic hiking trails wind through valleys and plains. These two types of landscape provide a changing backdrop for the trails and make hiking a distinct focus of your trip. The Robert A. Evers Land and Water Reserve is also located within the park, on the Adams County side of the boundary between Adams and Brown Counties.

For camping, the park offers several types of sites: 86 Class A sites, 18 Class B sites, four backpack camping sites accessible only by hiking trails, and three sites accessible only on horseback or on foot. There is also a dedicated group camping area. The sites differ both in their designated categories and in their access requirements.

Practical Planning

Advance reservations are required for tours of the John Wood Mansion: at least 48 hours ahead on weekdays and at least one week ahead for Saturday tours. Check these deadlines again as you plan. This will help you schedule your visit with the required advance notice.

Also note the access restrictions at Burton Cave: the cave is gated and closed to visitors. There is no public access road, parking lot, or official trail there. Burton Cave is therefore not a freely accessible place to visit. If you are looking for outdoor experiences, the trails at Siloam Springs State Park offer a different focus.

This way, you can focus your search on the experiences you want to enjoy in the area.

Discover more destinations: Quincy, Mendon, Peoria, Whiteside County, Piatt, Clinton County, Rock Island, Mcdonough.

For the broader travel overview: Illinois.