Springfield, Illinois is a pleasant Midwestern city with a rich history and a plethora of activities to discover, and many things to do in Springfield Illinois. Springfield, the state capital of Illinois, had an important role in Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy, and the city is home to various museums and monuments dedicated to the 16th President of the United States. However, Springfield is more than its Lincoln connection. Visitors can participate in a variety of activities, such as exploring outdoor parks and gardens and delighting in local cuisine and craft beer.
Springfield has many historical sites and art exhibits such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and Illinois State Museum or the Springfield Art Association. Explore nature at Sangamon River or visit the Adams Wildlife Sanctuary. Foodies can try local cuisines’ like famous horseshoe sandwiches.
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Explore, Eat, and Sightseeing, Here are the top best things to do in Springfield Illinois
We’ll look at some of the best things to do in Springfield, Illinois, in this guide to help you plan an amazing trip to this intriguing city.
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. It features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that offer an immersive experience of Lincoln’s life.
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site: This is the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned and is now a museum. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home and learn about the history of the Lincoln family.
- Illinois State Capitol: This iconic building is the seat of government for the state of Illinois. Visitors can take a free guided tour and learn about the history and architecture of the Capitol.
- Dana-Thomas House: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this house is a masterpiece of Prairie School architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its history and unique design features.
- Henson Robinson Zoo: This zoo features a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and primates. Visitors can also take a train ride around the zoo or feed the animals at the petting zoo.
- Old State Capitol: This historic building was the seat of government for the state of Illinois from 1839 to 1876. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about its history and its role in Abraham Lincoln’s political career.
- Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site: This site is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, and three of their sons. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tomb and learn about the history of the Lincoln family.
- Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site: This historic village is a recreation of the town where Abraham Lincoln lived as a young man. Visitors can explore the village and learn about life on the frontier in the early 1800s.
- Knight’s Action Park and Caribbean Water Adventure: This amusement park and water park features rides, attractions, and a large swimming pool. Visitors can also play miniature golf, go-karting, or enjoy a game of volleyball.
- Illinois State Museum: This museum features exhibits on the natural history, art, and culture of Illinois. Visitors can learn about the state’s geological history, view works of art by Illinois artists, and see artifacts from the state’s history.
- Route 66 Drive-In Theater: This classic drive-in theater shows current movies on weekends from spring through fall. Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic movie experience from the comfort of their cars.
- Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site: This historic site is where Abraham Lincoln practiced law with his partner William Herndon. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about Lincoln’s legal career.
- Illinois State Fair: Held annually in August, the Illinois State Fair is a 10-day event that includes carnival rides, concerts, livestock shows, and exhibits showcasing Illinois agriculture.
- Washington Park Botanical Garden: This garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a herb garden. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour offered on weekends.
- Lincoln’s Ghost Walk: This walking tour takes visitors through downtown Springfield to learn about the ghostly legends and folklore associated with the city’s historic sites and buildings.
- Lincoln Land Community College Museum of Art: This museum features rotating exhibits of contemporary art from local and regional artists. Admission is free, and the museum is open to the public.
- Prairie Capital Convention Center: This convention center hosts events and conferences throughout the year, including concerts, sports events, and trade shows.
- The Springfield Muni Opera: This outdoor theater hosts musicals and plays during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy the shows from lawn seating or reserve a table in the covered pavilion.
- Shea’s Gas Station Museum: This museum showcases vintage gas pumps, signs, and other memorabilia from the golden age of American gas stations. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
- Oak Ridge Cemetery: This cemetery is the burial site of many notable people, including Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cemetery to view the graves of famous Illinoisans.
FAQs
What is there to do between Chicago and Springfield?
There are several things to do between Chicago and Springfield, Illinois. One popular attraction is Starved Rock State Park, which is known for its beautiful canyons and waterfalls. Another option is to visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. Additionally, the city of Bloomington-Normal, home of Illinois State University, is located along the way and offers various dining and entertainment options.
What is interesting about Springfield?
One interesting thing about Springfield, Illinois, is that it is the birthplace of the corn dog. The city is also home to many historic sites, including the Old State Capitol Building, which is where Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech.
What is the best time of year to visit Springfield Illinois?
The best time of year to visit Springfield, Illinois, is during the fall when the leaves change color, and the weather is cool and comfortable. This is also when many of the city’s festivals and events take place, such as the Springfield International Film Festival and the Route 66 Mother Road Festival.
What is Springfield Illinois best known for?
Springfield, Illinois is best known for being the home of Abraham Lincoln and his presidential library and museum. It is also the capital city of the state of Illinois and has a rich history as an important center for politics and government.
