Old State Capitol State Historic Site, Western Illinois Travel Guide

4.6 (1161)

Walk in Lincoln's footsteps at Illinois' Old State Capitol, a meticulously reconstructed landmark where history comes alive in Springfield.

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Old State Capitol State Historic Site

Step back in time at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, a meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival building that served as the state's capitol from 1840 to 1876. Here, Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech and honed his legal skills. Experience Illinois' rich history and walk in the footsteps of a legend.

A brief summary to Old State Capitol State Historic Site

526 E Adams St, Springfield, Downtown, Illinois, 62701, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old State Capitol State Historic Site.

Check the official website for current opening hours and any ongoing re-conditioning efforts that may affect your visit.
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
Take advantage of the free guided tours to gain deeper insights into the building's history and significance.
Explore the underground parking garage for convenient access to the site, especially during inclement weather.
Donations to support the historic site are appreciated and can be made online or during your visit.

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Springfield Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

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Getting There

Walking

The Old State Capitol is located in downtown Springfield at 526 E Adams St.. From many downtown locations, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, it is easily accessible by foot. Simply head east towards the Old State Capitol Plaza. The building is located at the intersection of 6th and Adams Streets. You can enter the site from either the east (6th Street) or south (Adams Plaza) gates.
Public Transport

The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service to the downtown area. Several bus routes stop near the Old State Capitol. Check the SMTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Capitol building. Single ride fares are around $1-2.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Springfield. A short taxi ride from the Amtrak station or other locations in Springfield to the Old State Capitol will typically cost around $14. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before you start your trip.
Driving

If driving, parking is available in an underground garage beneath the Old State Capitol, with the entrance on Sixth Street between Adams and Washington. The hourly rate is $1.50 per 30 minutes. Metered street parking is also available, but enforced Monday-Friday. Several other parking lots and garages are located within walking distance. Be aware that 7th Street is a one-way street.

Discover more about Old State Capitol State Historic Site

The Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, is more than just a building; it's a portal to the past, a place where history comes alive. This meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival structure served as Illinois' statehouse from 1840 to 1876, witnessing pivotal moments in the state and nation's history. Designed by architect John Francis Rague, the building was constructed from yellow limestone sourced from a nearby town. It housed the chambers for the General Assembly, offices for the Governor and other officials, and the Illinois Supreme Court. Abraham Lincoln spent considerable time here as a legislator and lawyer, arguing cases before the Supreme Court and shaping his political career.The Old State Capitol is most famous as the site where Lincoln delivered his powerful 'House Divided' speech in 1858, a defining moment in his campaign for the U.S. Senate. Following his election as President, Lincoln maintained an office here. In 1865, his body lay in state at the Capitol before being transported to his final resting place.In 1966, the building was dismantled and rebuilt to include a modern physical plant and staff facilities. The original stone exterior was preserved, while the interior was reconstructed to resemble its 1860 appearance, the last time Lincoln saw it before leaving for Washington. Today, visitors can explore the building through guided or self-guided tours, immersing themselves in the history and significance of this landmark.