Unravel the Tapestry of History at Route History Museum
Explore the fascinating evolution of American transportation at the Route History Museum in Springfield, Illinois, where history comes alive.
Nestled in the heart of Springfield, Illinois, the Route History Museum offers an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of American transportation history. This museum is a must-visit for tourists looking to explore the evolution of travel in America, showcasing a wealth of artifacts, engaging exhibits, and interactive displays that capture the essence of the open road and the stories that shaped it.
A brief summary to Route History
- 737 E Cook St, Springfield, Old Aristocracy Hill, Illinois, 62703, US
- +1217-503-4129
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid larger weekend crowds.
- Allocate extra time for the interactive exhibits, which are highly engaging for all ages.
- Check the museum's schedule for any special events or temporary exhibitions during your visit.
- Consider visiting in the morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the exhibits at your own pace.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from downtown Springfield, head east on East Monroe Street toward South 4th Street. Continue walking straight for about 0.5 miles (10 minutes) until you reach the intersection with East Cook Street. Turn left onto East Cook Street and continue walking for about 0.3 miles (5 minutes). Route History will be on your left at 737 E Cook St.
-
Public Transit (Bus)
From downtown Springfield, walk to the nearest bus stop on East Monroe Street. Take the Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) bus route number 12 (East Side) toward Sangamon Center. Stay on the bus for approximately 15 minutes and get off at the stop at East Cook Street and South 7th Street. From there, walk west on East Cook Street for about 0.2 miles (5 minutes) until you reach Route History at 737 E Cook St.
-
Biking
If you are renting a bike, start at the downtown bike rental station and head east on East Monroe Street. Continue for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with East Cook Street. Turn left onto East Cook Street and ride for another 0.3 miles. Route History will be on your left at 737 E Cook St. Make sure to lock your bike at the designated bike racks outside the museum.
Discover more about Route History
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lincoln Home Parking
0.2 km
Discover the significance of Lincoln Home Parking as your gateway to the historic sites of Springfield, Illinois, and explore the life of President Abraham Lincoln.
America's National Parks Store at Lincoln Home National Historic Site
0.3 km
Explore a unique gift shop celebrating America's national parks, offering souvenirs, educational materials, and local crafts in Springfield, Illinois.
The Bressmer
0.4 km
Discover the charm and history of The Bressmer, a historic landmark hotel in the heart of Springfield, Illinois, blending past elegance with modern comforts.
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
0.6 km
Discover the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, a key historical landmark in Springfield, Illinois, where President Abraham Lincoln once practiced law.
Lincoln Plaza Galleria
0.6 km
Explore the creative heart of Springfield at Lincoln Plaza Galleria, where contemporary art meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Springfield Visitors Center
0.6 km
Explore Springfield, Illinois through its Visitors Center, your guide to historical landmarks, local attractions, and cultural experiences.
Springfield, IL
0.6 km
Explore the rich historical tapestry of Springfield, IL, from the iconic Old Capitol to the legacy of Abraham Lincoln.
Old State Capitol Historical Markers
0.7 km
Explore the Old State Capitol Historical Markers in Springfield, IL—a beacon of history showcasing Illinois' rich political past and architectural beauty.
Donner Party Historic Site
0.7 km
Explore the Donner Party Historic Site in Springfield, IL, a tribute to the resilience of pioneers and a key chapter in American history.
Historic Preservation Agency
0.7 km
Discover the Historic Preservation Agency in Springfield, Illinois, and explore the architectural treasures of the state's rich heritage.
Illinois Liberty Bell Replica
0.8 km
Visit the Illinois Liberty Bell Replica in Springfield, a majestic symbol of freedom and democracy, and explore the rich history that surrounds it.
Central Springfield Historic District
0.9 km
Explore the historic charm of Central Springfield Historic District, a treasure trove of architecture and history in the heart of Illinois.
Unmissable attractions to see
Elijah Iles House Foundation
0.1 km
Explore the Elijah Iles House Foundation, a historic museum in Springfield, Illinois, showcasing the rich heritage of the region and its early pioneers.
Henson Robinson House
0.2 km
Explore the Henson Robinson House, a historic gem in Springfield, IL, showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
Allen Miller House
0.2 km
Explore the historic Allen Miller House in Springfield, Illinois, where history, architecture, and serene gardens come together for a memorable experience.
Charles Arnold House
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and captivating stories of the Charles Arnold House in Springfield, Illinois, a must-visit museum for history lovers.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
0.2 km
Discover the legacy of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, a historic gem in Springfield, Illinois, celebrating America's past.
Lincoln Home
0.3 km
Explore Lincoln Home, the historic residence of Abraham Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois, and immerse yourself in an iconic American legacy.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site Visitor Center
0.3 km
Discover the legacy of Abraham Lincoln at the National Historic Site in Springfield, a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture.
Dean House
0.3 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Dean House in Springfield, Illinois, a captivating museum showcasing local heritage.
Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site
0.4 km
Explore the Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, and immerse yourself in the legacy of this celebrated American poet.
Bicentennial Plaza
0.4 km
Explore Springfield's Bicentennial Plaza, a cultural landmark celebrating Illinois' rich heritage through art, history, and beautiful green spaces.
Illinois Governor's Mansion
0.4 km
Discover the elegance and history of the Illinois Governor's Mansion, a remarkable historical site in Springfield showcasing the state's political past.
Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site
0.5 km
Discover the architectural masterpiece of the Dana-Thomas House, a historic site reflecting the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright in Springfield, Illinois.
Lincoln Depot
0.5 km
Discover the Lincoln Depot, a historic site in Springfield, IL, where President Lincoln began his journey to the White House.
Lincoln Colored Home
0.6 km
Discover the historical significance of the Lincoln Colored Home, a vital site reflecting African American heritage and the fight for equality in Springfield, Illinois.
Sculpture
0.6 km
Explore Springfield's outdoor art gallery at the Sculpture Experience in Pioneer Park, where creativity and nature converge in stunning harmony.
Essential places to dine
Springfield Carriage
0.1 km
Experience Springfield's rich culinary heritage at Springfield Carriage - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Lulu's Diner
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Lulu's Diner in Springfield - where delicious breakfasts meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Chili Parlor
0.3 km
Discover the best chili in Springfield at The Chili Parlor—where every bowl tells a delicious story.
Loukinens' On 4th
0.5 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Loukinens' On 4th in Springfield – where every meal tells a story of local flavors.
Saputo's
0.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Saputo's in downtown Springfield - where traditional flavors meet modern dining.
Maldaner's Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience fine dining at Maldaner's Restaurant in Springfield - where seasonal ingredients meet culinary excellence.
La Piazza Cucina Italiana
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Piazza Cucina Italiana—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
THE GRILLE AT CITY CENTRE
0.6 km
Discover delectable American cuisine in downtown Springfield at The Grille at City Centre - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
The Globe Tavern & Restaurant
0.6 km
Savor delicious American cuisine at The Globe Tavern & Restaurant in downtown Springfield – where great food meets vibrant nightlife.
Lindsay's Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in downtown Springfield at Lindsay's Restaurant—where every meal feels like home.
Di Piero's
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Di Piero's in downtown Springfield—where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
Jerk Shop Go
0.6 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Jerk Shop Go in Springfield – where every bite is a journey to the islands.
3rd Shift Kitchen
0.6 km
Experience delicious dining at 3rd Shift Kitchen in Springfield, IL - where innovative cuisine meets warm hospitality.
The Feed Store
0.6 km
Experience the warmth of American hospitality at The Feed Store, where hearty sandwiches meet community spirit in downtown Springfield.
Cafe Moxo
0.8 km
Discover Cafe Moxo in Springfield: where fresh ingredients meet delicious American cuisine in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts
0.1 km
Explore Springfield's charm at Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts, where unique memorabilia and local crafts await your discovery.
Iris & Ivy
0.4 km
Discover unique treasures and local craftsmanship at Iris & Ivy, the charming boutique in Springfield, Illinois, perfect for all your shopping needs.
Corrine's Closet LLC
0.6 km
Explore Corrine's Closet in downtown Springfield for trendy women's clothing, vintage finds, and unique accessories that capture local flair.
Studio on 6th
0.6 km
Discover unique treasures and local artistry at Studio on 6th, a boutique offering eclectic gifts, home goods, and fashionable women's clothing.
Murphy's Loft
0.6 km
Explore Springfield's hidden gem, Murphy's Loft, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
Springfield Vintage
0.7 km
Explore Springfield Vintage, where history meets style through a unique collection of antiques, vintage clothing, and home goods in downtown Springfield.
Daisy Jane's
0.7 km
Explore Daisy Jane's in Springfield, a delightful gift shop offering unique treasures, handcrafted jewelry, and charming greeting cards for every occasion.
Springfield Clock Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique timepieces and charming gifts at Springfield Clock Shop, where craftsmanship meets nostalgia in the heart of downtown Springfield.
Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk
0.8 km
Discover unique women's fashion trends at Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk in Springfield, where style and individuality come together.
The Keep Store
0.8 km
Discover unique, locally sourced products at The Keep Store in Downtown Springfield, your destination for eco-friendly shopping.
Abe's Old Hat Antiques
0.8 km
Explore Abe's Old Hat Antiques in Springfield, IL - A Unique Antique Store with Vintage Furniture and Quirky Gifts.
Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique
0.8 km
Explore the unique artistic handicrafts and handmade pottery at Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique in Springfield, Illinois, your destination for local treasures.
Flea Market To Fabulous
0.9 km
Explore unique furniture and eclectic decor at Flea Market To Fabulous in Springfield, where every piece has a story waiting to be discovered.
Upper Limits Midwest, Inc.
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of vaporizers, cannabis, and exquisite glass artistry at Upper Limits Midwest, Inc. in Springfield, Illinois.
District 23 Boutique
2.0 km
Explore Springfield's District 23 Boutique for a curated selection of vintage clothing, unique gifts, and women's fashion that supports local artisans.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery
0.3 km
Experience the unique blend of handcrafted beers and delicious dining at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery in historic Springfield.
Whiskey Jack's
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Jack's, a downtown bar in Springfield offering great drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Unique's Bar & Grill
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious food of Unique's Bar & Grill in Springfield, where local culture meets great dining.
Bar None
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar None, a premier bar in downtown Springfield offering craft drinks and live entertainment.
The Gin Mill
0.6 km
Discover The Gin Mill, a lively bar in downtown Springfield, offering a welcoming atmosphere, extensive drink menu, and engaging events for all visitors.
Floyd's Thirst Parlor
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Floyd's Thirst Parlor, a unique bar in downtown Springfield offering craft cocktails and a lively social scene.
Replay Lounge
0.7 km
Experience Springfield's vibrant nightlife at Replay Lounge, where delicious American cuisine meets exciting karaoke entertainment.
Celtic Mist Pub
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant Celtic Mist Pub in downtown Springfield, where drinks flow, music plays, and the warmth of Irish hospitality awaits.
Buzz Bomb Brewing Co
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Buzz Bomb Brewing Co in Springfield, where brews, bites, and live music create an unforgettable experience.
The Wakery
0.7 km
Discover The Wakery, Springfield's unique bar, coffee shop, and tea house with a lively atmosphere and eclectic events.
D H Brown's
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Springfield at D H Brown's, a lively bar with a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Brewhaus
0.8 km
Discover Brewhaus in downtown Springfield, where craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere create the perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market
0.8 km
Discover Springfield's Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market, where exceptional wines and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
J P Kelly's Pub & Pkg Liquor
0.8 km
Discover J P Kelly's Pub in Springfield, where vibrant nightlife meets a friendly atmosphere and a diverse selection of drinks.
Trish & Mary's Public House
0.8 km
Discover the warm and inviting atmosphere of Trish & Mary's Public House in Springfield, Illinois – a perfect blend of local charm and delightful drinks.
