Illinois State Museum: Exploring Illinois' Heritage
Discover Illinois' natural history, Native American heritage, and artistic achievements at the Illinois State Museum in Springfield.
The Illinois State Museum in Springfield showcases the state's rich natural, cultural, and artistic heritage. With exhibits spanning prehistoric fossils to contemporary art, the museum offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages, revealing the story of Illinois' land, life, people, and art.
A brief summary to Illinois State Museum
- 502 S Spring St, Springfield, Vinegar Hill, Illinois, 62706, US
- +1217-782-7386
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's calendar for upcoming events, including science lectures and family-friendly activities.
- Visit the Mary Ann MacLean Play Museum for interactive exhibits designed for children.
- Allow ample time to explore all three floors of exhibitions, from natural history to fine art.
- Take advantage of the free parking available in the lot on the southwest corner of Spring and Edwards Streets.
Getting There
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Walking
The Illinois State Museum is located in the Capitol Complex, just south of the Illinois State Capitol. From the Capitol building, walk one block south on Spring Street to reach the museum entrance. The walk is short and straightforward.
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Public Transport
The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service to the Illinois State Museum. The 'Historic Sites' route stops at the Illinois State Museum. Check the SMTD website or visitor centers for the most up-to-date route schedules and fare information. A single ride fare is around $1.
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Driving
The Illinois State Museum is located at 502 S Spring St, Springfield, IL 62706. From I-55, take the Sangamon Ave exit and head east. Turn south onto Sixth Street, then east onto Edwards Street. The museum is at the corner of Spring and Edwards Streets. Free parking is available in the lot on the southwest corner of Spring and Edwards Streets. Metered parking is available along Edwards Street. Pay attention to the time limits on the meters to avoid tickets.
Discover more about Illinois State Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Illinois State Capitol Building
0.2 km
Visit the Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield: a landmark of architectural beauty and the heart of Illinois government.
Illinois Liberty Bell Replica
0.2 km
Visit the Illinois Liberty Bell Replica in Springfield, a majestic symbol of freedom and democracy, and explore the rich history that surrounds it.
Pasfield House
0.3 km
Experience Springfield's history and elegance at the Pasfield House, a beautifully restored 1896 mansion turned boutique hotel and event venue.
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
Discover the haunting history of the Donner Party at this Springfield landmark, where stories of survival and resilience come to life.
Lincoln Plaza Galleria
0.7 km
Discover local and national art, unique gifts, and artisan coffee in the heart of downtown Springfield, Illinois.
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
0.8 km
Explore Abraham Lincoln's legal roots at his preserved Springfield law office, offering a glimpse into his early career and 19th-century law practice.
Springfield Visitors Center
0.8 km
Discover Springfield, Illinois: History, culture, and Lincoln's legacy await at the heart of downtown. Start your adventure here!
Historic Preservation Agency
0.8 km
Explore Illinois' rich past with the Historic Preservation Division in Springfield, dedicated to preserving and promoting the state's historical treasures.
The Bressmer
0.8 km
Experience Victorian elegance at The Bressmer, a Lincoln-era landmark in Springfield's historic Old Aristocracy Hill, near top attractions.
Springfield, IL
0.8 km
Walk in Lincoln's footsteps at Illinois' Old State Capitol, where history comes alive in a meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival masterpiece.
Lincoln Home Parking
0.8 km
Convenient parking for exploring Abraham Lincoln's Springfield home and neighborhood, offering a direct connection to American history.
America's National Parks Store at Lincoln Home National Historic Site
0.8 km
Find unique souvenirs, books, and educational materials that celebrate America's National Parks and the legacy of Abraham Lincoln in his Springfield home.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lincoln Statue
0.2 km
Explore the iconic Lincoln Statue in Springfield, Illinois, a remarkable tribute to President Abraham Lincoln's enduring legacy and leadership.
Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site
0.4 km
Discover the architectural masterpiece of the Dana-Thomas House, a historic site reflecting the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright in Springfield, Illinois.
Illinois Governor's Mansion
0.5 km
Discover the elegance and history of the Illinois Governor's Mansion, a remarkable historical site in Springfield showcasing the state's political past.
3rd Street Murals
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant street art of the 3rd Street Murals in Springfield, IL, a colorful celebration of local culture and creativity.
Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site
0.5 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
0.6 km
Explore Springfield's Bicentennial Plaza, a cultural landmark celebrating Illinois' rich heritage through art, history, and beautiful green spaces.
Kidzeum of Health and Science
0.6 km
Explore interactive exhibits at the Kidzeum of Health and Science in Springfield, IL, where learning about health and science is an exciting adventure for kids.
Lincoln Family Statue
0.8 km
Explore the Lincoln Family Statue in Springfield, a heartfelt tribute to Abraham Lincoln and his legacy, surrounded by historical charm and natural beauty.
Old State Capitol State Historic Site
0.8 km
Discover Illinois' historical roots at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site, where architecture meets the stories of a pivotal era in American history.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site Visitor Center
0.8 km
Discover the legacy of Abraham Lincoln at the National Historic Site in Springfield, a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture.
Elijah Iles House Foundation
0.8 km
Explore the Elijah Iles House Foundation, a historic museum in Springfield, Illinois, showcasing the rich heritage of the region and its early pioneers.
Lincoln Home
0.8 km
Explore Lincoln Home, the historic residence of Abraham Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois, and immerse yourself in an iconic American legacy.
Allen Miller House
0.9 km
Explore the historic Allen Miller House in Springfield, Illinois, where history, architecture, and serene gardens come together for a memorable experience.
Dean House
0.9 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Dean House in Springfield, Illinois, a captivating museum showcasing local heritage.
Route History
0.9 km
Explore the fascinating evolution of American transportation at the Route History Museum in Springfield, Illinois, where history comes alive.
Essential places to dine
Boone's
0.2 km
Discover Boone's: A lively restaurant and bar in Springfield offering delicious food, craft drinks, and vibrant live music for an unforgettable experience.
Loukinens' On 4th
0.4 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Loukinens' On 4th in Springfield – where every meal tells a story of local flavors.
Sawse Entrees
0.5 km
Discover authentic Midwestern flavors at Sawse Entrees in Downtown Springfield – where every dish tells a story.
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.
Cafe Moxo
0.6 km
Discover Cafe Moxo in Springfield: where fresh ingredients meet delicious American cuisine in a cozy setting.
3rd Shift Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience delicious dining at 3rd Shift Kitchen in Springfield, IL - where innovative cuisine meets warm hospitality.
The Feed Store
0.7 km
Experience the warmth of American hospitality at The Feed Store, where hearty sandwiches meet community spirit in downtown Springfield.
Di Piero's
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Di Piero's in downtown Springfield—where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
MaryFlor Mexican Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at MaryFlor Mexican Restaurant in Springfield - where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Maldaner's Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience fine dining at Maldaner's Restaurant in Springfield - where seasonal ingredients meet culinary excellence.
La Piazza Cucina Italiana
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Piazza Cucina Italiana—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
The Alamo
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Springfield's nightlife at The Alamo - a lively Tex-Mex bar and grill with fantastic live music.
Twisted Fork
0.8 km
Discover the unique flavors of Twisted Fork in Downtown Springfield—where American classics meet innovative culinary artistry.
Springfield Carriage
0.9 km
Experience Springfield's rich culinary heritage at Springfield Carriage - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
THE GRILLE AT CITY CENTRE
1.0 km
Discover delectable American cuisine in downtown Springfield at The Grille at City Centre - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flea Market To Fabulous
0.3 km
Explore unique furniture and eclectic decor at Flea Market To Fabulous in Springfield, where every piece has a story waiting to be discovered.
The Keep Store
0.6 km
Discover unique, locally sourced products at The Keep Store in Downtown Springfield, your destination for eco-friendly shopping.
Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk
0.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion trends at Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk in Springfield, where style and individuality come together.
Springfield Vintage
0.6 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.
Corrine's Closet LLC
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover unique treasures and local artistry at Studio on 6th, a boutique offering eclectic gifts, home goods, and fashionable women's clothing.
Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts
0.7 km
Explore Springfield's charm at Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts, where unique memorabilia and local crafts await your discovery.
Murphy's Loft
0.8 km
Explore Springfield's hidden gem, Murphy's Loft, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
Abe's Old Hat Antiques
0.9 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
0.9 km
Explore the unique artistic handicrafts and handmade pottery at Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique in Springfield, Illinois, your destination for local treasures.
Iris & Ivy
0.9 km
Discover unique treasures and local craftsmanship at Iris & Ivy, the charming boutique in Springfield, Illinois, perfect for all your shopping needs.
Springfield Clock Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique timepieces and charming gifts at Springfield Clock Shop, where craftsmanship meets nostalgia in the heart of downtown Springfield.
Upper Limits Midwest, Inc.
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant world of vaporizers, cannabis, and exquisite glass artistry at Upper Limits Midwest, Inc. in Springfield, Illinois.
District 23 Boutique
1.5 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
Trish & Mary's Public House
0.2 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.
D H Brown's
0.4 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.
J P Kelly's Pub & Pkg Liquor
0.5 km
Discover J P Kelly's Pub in Springfield, where vibrant nightlife meets a friendly atmosphere and a diverse selection of drinks.
Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market
0.6 km
Discover Springfield's Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market, where exceptional wines and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
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.
Buzz Bomb Brewing Co
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Buzz Bomb Brewing Co in Springfield, where brews, bites, and live music create an unforgettable experience.
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.
Replay Lounge
0.6 km
Experience Springfield's vibrant nightlife at Replay Lounge, where delicious American cuisine meets exciting karaoke entertainment.
Floyd's Thirst Parlor
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Floyd's Thirst Parlor, a unique bar in downtown Springfield offering craft cocktails and a lively social scene.
Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery
0.7 km
Experience the unique blend of handcrafted beers and delicious dining at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery in historic Springfield.
The Wakery
0.7 km
Discover The Wakery, Springfield's unique bar, coffee shop, and tea house with a lively atmosphere and eclectic events.
clique
0.7 km
Discover Clique, Springfield's favorite gay nightclub, where vibrant nightlife meets inclusivity and unforgettable experiences.
Celtic Mist Pub
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant Celtic Mist Pub in downtown Springfield, where drinks flow, music plays, and the warmth of Irish hospitality awaits.
Brewhaus
0.9 km
Discover Brewhaus in downtown Springfield, where craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere create the perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
