Donner Party Historic Site: A Somber Landmark
Explore the tragic tale of the Donner Party's departure from Springfield, a pivotal moment in American pioneer history.
Commemorates the tragic journey of the Donner Party, pioneers who faced extreme hardship in the Sierra Nevada during the winter of 1846-1847, with informative displays and a serene landscape for reflection.
A brief summary to Donner Party Historic Site
- Springfield, Downtown, Illinois, 62701, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit the nearby Illinois State Museum to complement your historical exploration.
- Take time to read the informative plaques to gain a deeper understanding of the site's history.
- Consider visiting Lincoln Square, the actual departure point of the Donner Party, marked by a plaque.
Getting There
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Walking
The Donner Party Historic Site is located in downtown Springfield. From the Old State Capitol, walk south on 6th Street, then turn right onto East Adams Street. Continue to the corner of Spring and Edwards Streets. The site is near the Illinois State Museum.
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Public Transport
The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service throughout the city. Several routes stop near the Capitol Complex. Check the SMTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ride fare is $1.25.
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Driving
The Donner Party Historic Site is located at the corner of Spring and Edwards Streets in Springfield. From I-55, take exit 96B for Clearlake Avenue West. Continue on Clearlake Avenue, then turn left onto S 9th Street. Turn right onto E Edwards Street. Metered street parking is available, and free on weekends. Free parking is also available at the State Capitol Complex Visitors Center Lot, one block west of the Illinois State Museum. Several parking garages are also located downtown. Street parking is free after 5 p.m. on weekdays and free all day on Saturdays and Sundays.
Discover more about Donner Party Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Donner Party Historic Site
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Discover the haunting history of the Donner Party at this Springfield landmark, where stories of survival and resilience come to life.
Old State Capitol Historical Markers
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Explore the Old State Capitol Historical Markers in Springfield, IL—a beacon of history showcasing Illinois' rich political past and architectural beauty.
Historic Preservation Agency
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Explore Illinois' rich past with the Historic Preservation Division in Springfield, dedicated to preserving and promoting the state's historical treasures.
Lincoln Plaza Galleria
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Discover local and national art, unique gifts, and artisan coffee in the heart of downtown Springfield, Illinois.
Springfield Visitors Center
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Discover Springfield, Illinois: History, culture, and Lincoln's legacy await at the heart of downtown. Start your adventure here!
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
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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, IL
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Walk in Lincoln's footsteps at Illinois' Old State Capitol, where history comes alive in a meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival masterpiece.
America's National Parks Store at Lincoln Home National Historic Site
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Find unique souvenirs, books, and educational materials that celebrate America's National Parks and the legacy of Abraham Lincoln in his Springfield home.
Lincoln Home Parking
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Convenient parking for exploring Abraham Lincoln's Springfield home and neighborhood, offering a direct connection to American history.
Illinois Liberty Bell Replica
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Visit the Illinois Liberty Bell Replica in Springfield, a majestic symbol of freedom and democracy, and explore the rich history that surrounds it.
Illinois State Capitol Building
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Central Springfield Historic District
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lincoln Family Statue
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Kidzeum of Health and Science
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Wild Rose Mural
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3rd Street Murals
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Union Square Park
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Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
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Bicentennial Plaza
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Lincoln Home National Historic Site Visitor Center
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Lincoln Home
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Dean House
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Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Dean House in Springfield, Illinois, a captivating museum showcasing local heritage.
Illinois Governor's Mansion
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Lincoln Home National Historic Site
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Lincoln Statue
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Allen Miller House
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Charles Arnold House
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Essential places to dine
The Feed Store
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Di Piero's
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3rd Shift Kitchen
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MaryFlor Mexican Restaurant
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Jerk Shop Go
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La Piazza Cucina Italiana
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Maldaner's Restaurant
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Cafe Moxo
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The Alamo
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Twisted Fork
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Lindsay's Restaurant
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The Globe Tavern & Restaurant
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THE GRILLE AT CITY CENTRE
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Saputo's
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Loukinens' On 4th
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Daisy Jane's
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Studio on 6th
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Murphy's Loft
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Springfield Vintage
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Corrine's Closet LLC
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Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk
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Abe's Old Hat Antiques
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Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique
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Springfield Clock Shop
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The Keep Store
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Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts
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Iris & Ivy
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Flea Market To Fabulous
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Upper Limits Midwest, Inc.
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Happy Daze Gift Shop LLC
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Floyd's Thirst Parlor
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The Wakery
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Replay Lounge
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The Gin Mill
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Bar None
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Buzz Bomb Brewing Co
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Whiskey Jack's
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Celtic Mist Pub
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Brewhaus
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clique
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Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market
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J P Kelly's Pub & Pkg Liquor
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D H Brown's
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Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery
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Trish & Mary's Public House
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