Explore the Legacy of the Donner Party at the Historic Site
Discover the haunting history of the Donner Party at this Springfield landmark, where stories of survival and resilience come to life.
The Donner Party Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, offers a profound glimpse into American history. This historical landmark commemorates the fateful journey of the Donner Party, who faced unimaginable challenges during their westward expedition. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of resilience and survival, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to Donner Party Historic Site
- Springfield, Downtown, Illinois, 62701, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Take your time reading the informative displays to fully appreciate the site's history.
- Consider combining your visit with other nearby historical sites for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are downtown Springfield, start at the Old State Capitol located at 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701. From the Old State Capitol, head west on East Monroe Street for about 0.2 miles (approximately 4 minutes on foot) until you reach South 5th Street. Turn right (north) onto South 5th Street and continue walking for another 0.3 miles (approximately 6 minutes) until you reach East Washington Street. At the intersection, turn left (west) onto East Washington Street. The Donner Party Historic Site is located in the area of 39.8007068 latitude and -89.6486527 longitude. The site is situated in a park-like setting, so keep an eye out for historical markers as you approach.
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Public Transit - Bus
Start your journey at the nearest bus stop. If you are near the Old State Capitol, walk to the bus stop at 1 Old State Capitol Plaza. Take the Sangamon Mass Transit District bus route that goes towards the 'Washington Park' line. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop near the intersection of East Washington Street and South 5th Street. Disembark the bus and walk west along East Washington Street for about 0.1 miles (approximately 2 minutes) to reach the Donner Party Historic Site.
Discover more about Donner Party Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Donner Party Historic Site
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