Attractions and Places To See around Springfield - Top 20

Springfield is rich with sites dedicated to Abraham Lincoln. You can explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, tour the preserved Lincoln Home National Historic Site where he lived for 17 years, and visit his final resting place at the Lincoln Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery. Don't miss the Old State Capitol State Historic Site where he delivered key speeches, or the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site.

Yes, Springfield offers several natural spaces. Washington Park provides walking trails, a botanical garden, and ponds. The Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center features six miles of trails along Lake Springfield. You can also explore Carpenter Park Nature Preserve for diverse ecosystems and birdwatching, or the Adams Wildlife Sanctuary for hiking and birdwatching.

Beyond Lincoln, Springfield has a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Illinois State Museum to explore the state's natural history and cultural heritage. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Dana-Thomas House, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Prairie School home. The Illinois State Capitol offers tours, and the Illinois Governor's Mansion is also open for public tours.

Springfield offers several family-friendly options. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has immersive exhibits for all ages. For outdoor fun, Lake Springfield provides boating and fishing, and the Henson Robinson Zoo houses over 80 species of animals. Parks like Washington Park and Southwind Park are great for walks and play.

To delve into Illinois' military past, you can visit the Illinois State Military Museum, located on the grounds of Camp Lincoln. Additionally, the city hosts the World War II Illinois Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, honoring the sacrifices of Illinois residents.

For unique historical insights, visit the Lincoln Depot, where Abraham Lincoln delivered his Farewell Address. Explore the Old State Capitol State Historic Site, a landmark where both Lincoln and Barack Obama announced candidacies. The Edwards Place Historic Home and the Elijah Iles House offer glimpses into early Springfield life.

Yes, the Sangamon Valley Trail is an 11.5-mile paved multi-use path, perfect for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting through woodlands and fields. Lake Mercer also features a paved trail that encircles the lake, offering shady surroundings. For more options, you can find various running trails and road cycling routes around Springfield.

Springfield attractions are generally enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring outdoor sites like the Lincoln Memorial Garden and Lake Mercer, especially when the aspen trees change color in autumn. Indoor attractions like the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Museum are great options regardless of the season.

Absolutely! Don't miss the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, a self-guided exhibit celebrating the iconic highway. For a taste of local history, visit the Cozy Dog Drive In, credited with inventing the corn dog.

Yes, Springfield acknowledges its African American history. The Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial honors almost 1,800 African Americans who sought freedom during the Civil War. Additionally, the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum shares authentic stories about the community's past.

Near Springfield's attractions, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The area offers numerous MTB trails, including options like Wakefield Park and Accotink Loop. For those who prefer running, there are several running trails around Lake Accotink and Schoonmaker Lake. Cyclists can explore road cycling routes that take you to places like Hains Point or Belmont Bay.

Beyond historical buildings, Springfield boasts the Dana-Thomas House, a masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902, showcasing his Prairie School style with extensive original art glass and furniture. The Old State Capitol State Historic Site itself is a notable example of Greek Revival architecture.