Visit Charming Historical Springfield, Illinois

When you first arrive in Springfield, Illinois, you could absolutely forget that it is actually the state capital – it lacks the usual hustle and bustle of most state capitals — and certainly lacks the high energy of Illinois’s most famous city: Chicago. While Springfield may not move at the pace of Chicago, it definitely has its own charms!

You'll find many Lincoln historical sites in Springfield, Illinois as it is the birthplace and resting place of the 16th president. In fact, he played a key role in getting the city its capital status! Many people visit the city to explore the historical sites associated with Abraham Lincoln.

Lincoln Historical Sites in Springfield, Illinois

If you are headed to Springfield to explore the history of Lincoln, a good place to start is the Capitol Building. The limestone-domed building is built in Renaissance Revival architecture, and it is the place where Abe gave his House Divided speech. Once you finish at the Capitol, it's time to hit up the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum on 6th Street.

Another spot to check out is the Lincoln Home Visitors Center, where you can watch a short film on Springfield and also obtain tickets to explore his 12-room house. Tours are available seven days a week (minus holidays), and there is no admission charge. You'll find this Lincoln historical site at 426 S. 7th Street.

Another site worth visiting is Lincoln's tomb which can be found in Oak Ridge Cemetery, located on Monument Avenue. Abe, Mary Todd, and three of their sons are all buried there. Visitors are allowed every day from 9 am to 5 pm (minus holidays). Remember, you are not supposed to touch any artifacts or statues inside the tomb.

Not that into Lincoln? There is another famous Springfield resident!

Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana-Thomas House

Situated just a few blocks from the Capitol building, the Dana-Thomas House was built in 1902 and was Wright's 72nd building. The home was commissioned by socialite Susan Lawrence Dana who basically gave the architect a blank check to create a house. The house contains 16 levels spread out among 12,000 square feet of living space comprising 35 rooms. A visit to the Dana-Thomas House allows you to check out one of the largest collections of original Wright art glass and furniture. Tours require reservations.

If you are a huge Wright fan, you could continue on through the state of Illinois and check out the Frank Lloyd Wright trail! Springfield and the Dana-Thomas House are the 13th stop on the trail.

FAQs

How much time do you need in Springfield, Illinois?

For history buffs, Springfield is a great stopover spot. You should be able to explore the city and the Lincoln historical sites in one to two days.

Can you take a day trip to Springfield from Chicago?

Technically you could, but it is roughly a three-hour drive from the Windy City meaning you would spend a great portion of your day driving back and forth. It would be much better to spend at least one night in Springfield instead of trying to make it a day trip.

What can you do in Springfield, Illinois with kids?

Unless your kids are super into history, they probably aren't going to care that much about the Lincoln historical sites in Springfield or the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. However, that doesn't mean you need to leave them at home! You can take your kiddos to the Illinois State Museum with its zoology and biology exhibits or stop in at the small nonprofit Henson Robinson Zoo.

Headed to Springfield?

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