Old State Capitol State Historic Site, Corn Belt Travel Guide

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Walk in Lincoln's footsteps at Illinois' Old State Capitol, a meticulously reconstructed landmark where history and political legacy come alive.

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Old State Capitol State Historic Site

Step back in time at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, a meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival building that served as Illinois' statehouse from 1840 to 1876. Here, Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech and defended cases before the Illinois Supreme Court.

A brief summary to Old State Capitol State Historic Site

526 E Adams St, Springfield, Downtown, Illinois, 62701, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old State Capitol State Historic Site.

Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience.
Check the schedule for reenactments or special events to enhance your visit.
Take a guided tour for deeper insights into the site's history.
Photography is allowed, so bring your camera to capture the architecture.
Allow at least one hour to fully explore the exhibits and grounds.

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A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old State Capitol State Historic Site, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Old State Capitol is located in downtown Springfield, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions and hotels. From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, head east on E Washington St, then turn right onto S 6th St. Walk one block south, and the Old State Capitol will be on your left. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 6 minutes.
Public Transport

The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) offers bus service throughout the city. Several routes have stops near the Old State Capitol. Check the SMTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is around $1.
Parking

An underground parking garage is available beneath the Old State Capitol, with the entrance on 6th Street between Adams and Washington. The rate is $1.50 per 30 minutes. Metered street parking is also available, but enforced Monday through Friday.

Discover more about Old State Capitol State Historic Site

The Old State Capitol State Historic Site stands as a powerful reminder of Illinois' rich political history and its connection to Abraham Lincoln. This meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival building served as the statehouse from 1840 to 1876, witnessing pivotal moments in the state's and nation's development. Designed by architect John Francis Rague, the building housed the chambers for the General Assembly, offices for the Governor and other officials, and the Illinois Supreme Court. Lincoln, as a state lawmaker and lawyer, frequented this building. Here, in 1858, he delivered his stirring 'House Divided' speech, a defining moment in his campaign for the U.S. Senate. His body also lay in state here before his burial.In 1966, the building was dismantled and rebuilt to include modern facilities, including an underground parking garage. The reconstruction aimed to resemble the building's appearance in 1860, allowing visitors to step back in time to when Lincoln last saw the capitol. Today, the Old State Capitol serves as a museum, offering guided and self-guided tours.