Top 10 Things to Do in Springfield IL
Introduction
Hey there! My name is Emily Johnson and I recently visited Springfield, IL. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by how much there is to do in this small town. From historical sites to delicious food, Springfield has something to offer everyone. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 things to do in Springfield, IL. So, let’s get started!
Top Statistics and Interesting Facts about Springfield IL
- Springfield is the capital city of Illinois.
- The most famous resident of Springfield was Abraham Lincoln, who lived here from 1837 to 1861.
- Springfield is home to more than 40 historic sites and landmarks related to Lincoln.
- The Illinois State Capitol building in Springfield is taller than the US Capitol building in Washington, DC.
- The Illinois State Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in the country, is held annually in Springfield.
- Springfield is also known for its unique food, including horseshoe sandwiches and deep-dish pizza.
- The city has a population of around 115,000 people.
- Springfield has a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters.
- The city is located in central Illinois, about 200 miles south of Chicago.
- Springfield is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Top 10 Things to Do in Springfield IL
Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. This state-of-the-art museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of our 16th president. You’ll find interactive exhibits, artifacts, and even a holographic projection of Lincoln himself. I spent hours here and could have easily spent more time exploring.
Take a Tour of the Illinois State Capitol Building
The Illinois State Capitol Building is an impressive structure that dominates the skyline of downtown Springfield. The building is open to the public and free tours are available. You’ll learn about the history of the building and the state government. Plus, the views from the top of the building are stunning!
Explore the Lincoln Home National Historic Site
The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in the heart of Springfield and is where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1844 until he was elected president in 1860. The site includes the Lincoln family home, as well as several other historic buildings. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own. I loved learning about Lincoln’s family life and seeing where he lived before he became president.
Visit the Old State Capitol Building
The Old State Capitol Building served as the state capitol from 1839 to 1876 and is where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous House Divided speech in 1858. Today, the building is a museum and is open to the public. You can take a tour, see historical exhibits, and even sit in the same courtroom where Lincoln argued cases as a lawyer.
Eat a Horseshoe Sandwich
A horseshoe sandwich is a Springfield specialty that consists of bread, meat, french fries, and a cheese sauce. It’s not the healthiest meal, but it’s definitely worth trying. You can find horseshoe sandwiches at several restaurants throughout the city. My personal favorite was at D’Arcy’s Pint.
See the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site
The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, as well as his wife and several of his children. The tomb is located in Oak Ridge Cemetery and is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own. Be sure to rub the nose of the bronze Lincoln bust on your way out for good luck!
Try Deep-Dish Pizza at Saputo’s
While Chicago may be famous for its deep-dish pizza, Springfield has its own version that is just as delicious. Saputo’s is a local favorite and has been serving up pizza for over 60 years. The crust is thick and crispy, and the toppings are piled high. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
Visit the Dana-Thomas House
The Dana-Thomas House is a stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School architecture. The house was built in 1902 for Susan Lawrence Dana and has been restored to its original splendor. You can take a guided tour of the house and see the beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and unique design elements.
See a Show at the Hoogland Center for the Arts
The Hoogland Center for the Arts is a performing arts venue that hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including plays, musicals, concerts, and more. The theater is located in a historic building in downtown Springfield and has a charming and intimate atmosphere. I saw a production of The Importance of Being Earnest here and it was fantastic.
Stroll Through Washington Park
Washington Park is a beautiful public park located just south of downtown Springfield. The park features a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a performance at the bandshell.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Springfield?
The best time to visit Springfield is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
How long should I plan to stay in Springfield?
You can see the highlights of Springfield in a weekend, but if you want to explore more of the city and its surroundings, I would recommend staying for at least four or five days.
What other attractions are there in Springfield?
In addition to the top 10 things to do listed in this article, there are plenty of other attractions in Springfield, including the Illinois State Museum, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, and the Illinois Executive Mansion.
Where can I find more information about Springfield?
You can visit the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau website for more information about things to do, places to stay, and events in Springfield.