Springfield, Illinois Travel Guide

Discover Springfield, Illinois: A blend of rich history, vibrant arts, and beautiful nature. Home to Abraham Lincoln and famous for its unique local cuisine and cultural events.

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Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a unique blend of past and present. Known as the home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield boasts numerous historical sites dedicated to the 16th President of the United States. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and Lincoln's Tomb are a few must-visit locations for history buffs and admirers of Lincoln alike. Springfield isn't just about history. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, with the Hoogland Center for the Arts hosting a variety of performances throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the Illinois State Museum, which showcases the natural history and cultural heritage of the state. For a taste of local culture, the Old State Capitol hosts events and reenactments that bring the past to life. Nature lovers will appreciate Springfield's many parks and natural areas. Washington Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll, while the Henson Robinson Zoo offers a family-friendly outing. Lake Springfield is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Don't forget to visit the Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Springfield's culinary scene is also worth exploring. From the famous horseshoe sandwich, a local specialty, to a variety of dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, there's something to satisfy every palate. The city also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Illinois State Fair, which draws visitors from all over the country. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an arts lover, or simply looking to relax and enjoy the local flavor, Springfield, Illinois, has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Springfield.

Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site early in the day to avoid crowds.
Check the schedule at the Hoogland Center for the Arts for performances during your stay.
Explore Washington Park in the morning for a peaceful experience.
Try the local horseshoe sandwich at various diners around the city.
Plan your visit during the Illinois State Fair for extra entertainment options.

Explore Springfield: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Springfield

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Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway

Visit Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway for thrilling casino excitement, delicious dining, and exhilarating live car racing in Ohio.

3.9

RiverScape MetroPark

Experience the beauty of RiverScape MetroPark, an urban oasis in Dayton, Ohio, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and community events.

4.7

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Discover the legacy of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, a historic gem in Springfield, Illinois, celebrating America's past.

4.8

Day Air Ballpark

Discover the excitement of minor league baseball at Day Air Ballpark, home of the Dayton Dragons, where thrilling moments and local culture collide.

4.7

Best landmarks in Springfield

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Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Explore the life, legacy, and presidency of Abraham Lincoln at this immersive museum and research library in Springfield, Illinois.

4.8

Lincoln Home

Visit the meticulously preserved Springfield home where Abraham Lincoln lived for 17 years before becoming President.

5.0

Illinois State Capitol Building

Visit the Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield: a landmark of architectural beauty and the heart of Illinois government.

4.5

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Visit the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, meticulously preserved in Springfield, Illinois, offering a glimpse into his life before the presidency.

4.8

Best restaurants in Springfield

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D'Arcy's Pint

Discover authentic Irish cuisine at D'Arcy's Pint, where tradition meets modern flair in Springfield, Illinois.

4.6

Smokey Bones Springfield

Discover Smokey Bones Springfield: A barbecue haven offering delicious American cuisine in a lively atmosphere perfect for all occasions.

4.3

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Discover comfort food and Southern hospitality at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Springfield - perfect for families and travelers alike.

4.3

Texas Roadhouse

Discover Texas Roadhouse in Springfield for mouthwatering steaks and an unforgettable American dining experience.

4.5

Best bars in Springfield

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D'Arcy's Pint

D'Arcy's Pint: A vibrant Irish pub in Springfield serving a fusion of traditional Irish, Brazilian, and Cuban dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

Finley's Tap House

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Finley's Tap House, a must-visit restaurant in Springfield, Illinois.

4.4

Curve Inn

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Curve Inn in Springfield, a perfect destination for grill lovers and live music enthusiasts.

4.4

Brickhouse Grill & Pub

Discover the vibrant flavors of Brickhouse Grill & Pub in Springfield, Illinois, where delicious grill fare meets a lively pub atmosphere.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Springfield

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Curve Inn

Experience the lively ambiance of Curve Inn in Springfield: a grill, live music venue, and beer garden for unforgettable evenings.

4.4

Trading Post Saloon

Discover the lively nightlife of Springfield at Trading Post Saloon, where great drinks and unforgettable experiences await you.

4.2

Amber's Place

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Amber's Place, a social club in Springfield that offers great drinks, live music, and a friendly atmosphere.

4.1

Northern Lights Lounge

Experience vibrant karaoke nights and delicious pizza at Northern Lights Lounge, Springfield's go-to bar for fun and entertainment.

4.4

Best shops in Springfield

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Dayton Mall

Discover the Dayton Mall, Ohio's premier shopping destination with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

White Oaks Mall

Explore over 100 shops and diverse dining options at White Oaks Mall, Springfield's premier shopping destination for tourists and locals alike.

3.9

Penny Lane Gifts

Explore Penny Lane Gifts: A delightful gift shop in Springfield, IL, offering unique treasures from fashion to novelties for every taste.

4.7

Happy Daze Gift Shop LLC

Explore Happy Daze Gift Shop in Springfield, IL - your one-stop destination for unique gifts, trendy clothing, and vibrant posters that celebrate individuality.

4.7

Explore Springfield on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Springfield, mapped for you.

Springfield Essentials

Springfield, Illinois is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) offers daily flights from major hubs. Additionally, Springfield is well-connected by Amtrak, with the station located downtown. For those driving, Springfield is conveniently located along Interstate 55, making it accessible from Chicago, St. Louis, and other nearby cities.
Springfield offers several transportation options. The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus services throughout the city. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For visitors who prefer to drive, car rentals are available at the airport and in the city. Biking is another option, with bike rentals and dedicated bike lanes in some areas.
The currency in Springfield is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. ATMs are plentiful, particularly in downtown areas and near tourist attractions. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.
Springfield is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in less populated areas. Neighbourhoods such as East Springfield and certain parts of the North End have higher crime rates and should be approached with caution. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Springfield has several hospitals, including Memorial Medical Center and HSHS St. John's Hospital, which offer emergency services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It's also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, but avoid overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do show respect when visiting religious sites, and dress modestly. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card for bus fares. Don’t be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and tip around 15-20% in restaurants. Don’t forget to say 'please' and 'thank you' to show politeness.
To experience Springfield like a local, visit the Old Capitol Farmers Market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Try a horseshoe sandwich, a local culinary specialty. Explore the historic Lincoln Home National Historic Site and take a walk in Washington Park. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about the city’s rich history.

When is the best time to visit Springfield?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Springfield

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Springfield. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-tur]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [na]
- Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [pleez and thank yuh]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [thanks uh lot]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
- How are you?How's it goin'?
  [hows it goin]
- Fine. And you?Doin' good. How 'bout you?
  [doin good how bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-lish]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [im lost]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan eye chek out the men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [im ve-jah-tear-ee-un]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-ums up]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll take the bill
  [il take the bil]
- Help!I need a hand!
  [i need a hand]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Get the cops!
  [get the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [im turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [im feelin under the we-ther]
- I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...
  [im lookin to pur-chase]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thats a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya cut me a deal?
  [can yuh cut me a deal]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorra
  [tomorra]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
  [wheres the ... at]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the add-ee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [can ya point it out on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) comin'?
  [whens the next bus comin]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Springfield

Springfield, Illinois, was founded in 1821 and officially became the state capital in 1839. The city's location was selected due to its central position within the state and its access to major transportation routes. Early settlers were primarily drawn by the fertile land and the opportunities for farming and trade.
Abraham Lincoln moved to Springfield in 1837, where he practiced law and started his political career. His home in Springfield stands today as a National Historic Site. Lincoln’s time in Springfield was marked by his involvement in numerous legal cases and his rise to national prominence, culminating in his election as the 16th President of the United States in 1860.
The Old State Capitol, constructed between 1837 and 1840, served as the seat of Illinois government until 1876. It was here that Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech in 1858. Today, the restored building is a museum that offers insights into the political history of Illinois and the life of Lincoln.
During the Civil War, Springfield played a critical role as a training and supply center for Union troops. Camp Butler, located just outside the city, was one of the major training camps for Illinois soldiers. The city was also a hub for political activity and support for the Union cause.
The Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902, is a prime example of his Prairie School architectural style. The house was built for socialite Susan Lawrence Dana and features over 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture. The house is now a museum, showcasing Wright's innovative designs and the lifestyle of early 20th-century Springfield elites.
Springfield is one of the cities along the historic Route 66, which was established in 1926 and became a symbol of American mobility and adventure. Many attractions in Springfield, such as the Cozy Dog Drive In and the Route 66 Twin Drive-In Theater, celebrate the city's connection to this iconic highway.
The Illinois State Fair, held annually in Springfield since 1853, is one of the oldest and most celebrated state fairs in the United States. The fairgrounds host a variety of events, including agricultural exhibitions, concerts, and carnival rides, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond.
In recent decades, Springfield has continued to evolve, blending its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. The city is home to numerous museums, such as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Museum, which highlight the region's history and cultural contributions.