Old State Capitol State Historic Site, River Bend Travel Guide

4.6 (1161)

Walk in the footsteps of Lincoln at Illinois' Old State Capitol, a meticulously reconstructed landmark where history comes alive.

Home
Travel Guides
Illinois
River Bend
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 the state's capitol from 1840 to 1876. It's where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech and where Barack Obama announced his candidacy for president.

A brief summary to Old State Capitol State Historic Site

526 E Adams St, Springfield, Downtown, Illinois, 62701, US
Click to display
Click to display

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.

Check the official website for current opening hours and any ongoing restoration projects that may affect your visit.
Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the building's history and significance.
Explore the underground complex beneath the Capitol, which houses offices and parking.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

Apple River Fort State Historic Site

Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Mississippi River

Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site

Explore Old State Capitol State Historic Site on the Map

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 at 526 E Adams St. If you're already in the downtown area, it's easily accessible on foot. Head towards E Adams Street; the building is readily visible.
Public Transport

The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service to downtown Springfield. Check the SMTD website for routes and schedules. Most buses have stops near the Old State Capitol. From the bus stop, walk towards E Adams St. Current SMTD fares are $1.25 per ride.
Parking

If driving, take I-55 to exit 92B for Clear Lake Ave. Continue to 5th St, turn right, then right again onto E Adams St. The Old State Capitol will be on your left. An underground parking garage is available beneath the Old State Capitol, with the entrance on Sixth Street between Adams and Washington. The rate is $1.50 per 30 minutes. The garage is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Metered street parking is also available, but enforced Monday-Friday.

Discover more about Old State Capitol State Historic Site

The Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, is a reconstruction of the state's fifth statehouse, which served as the heart of Illinois government from 1840 to 1876. This Greek Revival masterpiece, completed in 1840, witnessed pivotal moments in Illinois and U.S. history.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. Abraham Lincoln served his final term as a state lawmaker here and argued cases before the Supreme Court. In 1858, in the House chamber, Lincoln delivered his renowned 'House Divided' speech, launching his campaign for the U.S. Senate. The building also hosted Lincoln's rival, Stephen Douglas.After the capitol moved to the current building in 1876, the Old State Capitol served as the Sangamon County Courthouse for nearly a century. In the 1960s, the state repurchased the building and undertook a meticulous reconstruction to resemble its 1860 appearance, the last time Lincoln saw it before leaving for Washington. The rebuilt House Chamber even hosted the state's Constitutional Convention in 1970. Visitors can explore the building through guided or self-guided tours.