(StatePoint) Travel along iconic Route 66 to Springfield, the history-filled capital of Illinois. Experience one of America’s most beloved presidents, Abraham Lincoln, and his Presidential Museum. Relax at one of several local wineries and breweries while enjoying the ultimate in Springfield cuisine. Discover a vibrant arts and architecture scene, including the Illinois State Capitol and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Dana-Thomas House.
Grab a photo along Route 66. Check out attractions including the Route 66 Twin Drive-In, Cozy Dog Drive-in and Motorheads Bar, Grille, Museum & Entertainment Complex. Visiting on a Saturday? Soar down the 4-story-high, iconic giant slide at the historic Illinois State Fairgrounds, and while there visit the Gate 2 Route 66 Experience on the grounds.
Walk the entire Illinois Route 66 corridor in microform. Marvel at the Neon Sign Park with new and restored neon signs, a paved brick road, a 25-foot tall, fiberglass Route 66 muffler man, a drive-in theater replica and interpretive signs highlighting each Route 66 community from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks bridge.
Engage all your senses with our Explorer Passport, 25 ideas in one free pocket-size passport. Take part in Abe’s Hat Hunt scavenger hunt and the Living Legends & Landmarks of Route 66 adventure throughout Springfield. Transport yourself with the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and experiences that are sure to entertain travelers of all ages. Showcasing this many high quality, affordable options to visit helps to emphasize the fact that Springfield truly is “More Than One Day.”
June 2-August 5, take part in the History Comes Alive 14th season. Meet the Lincolns at historic sites throughout the city and learn about their lives in Springfield. From historic portrayals at locations such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Lincoln Herndon Law Office Visitors Center, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to a Flag Lowering Ceremony at the Lincoln Tomb with the 114th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry Reactivated, visitors are invited to become a part of living history.
Listen to Abraham deliver some of his most famous speeches at the Lincoln Depot, meet and greet both Mary Lincoln and General Ulysses S. Grant, and enjoy live music and an ice cream social at Edwards Place.
There's the recreated 1830s log cabin village at Lincoln's New Salem, where Lincoln lived from 1831 to 1837, and the national park that is Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the only home the Lincolns would ever own. You'll meet Lincoln the business owner, Postmaster General, Surveyor - the man before his political rise and hear about his incredible humor, love for his children, warmth towards his neighbors....and his tendency to be late for dinner.
Visit the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln tried cases before the court, served in the Illinois Legislature and ran his presidential campaign. Stop by the Springfield Visitors Center to see an exhibit depicting the Lincoln Herndon Law Office, then walk to Lincoln Depot where Lincoln delivered his Farewell Address as he departed for Washington D.C. in 1861. As your journey winds down, travel to Lincoln Tomb to reflect and remember the accomplishments of one of America's most beloved presidents. Both Abraham and Mary are buried at Oak Ridge Cemetery along with three of their four children.
No matter what your interest, Springfield truly has something for everyone! Plan to spend a few days, you'll need it!