How To Spend Your Time in Springfield ILSpringfield, Illinois, the state capital, is renowned for its deep ties to Abraham Lincoln. Additionally, Springfield is a key stop along the famous and historic Route 66.AuthorsSteller
DestinationsSpringfieldItinerary

Unique Things to See and Do

Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Learn about Abraham Lincoln's life here in Springfield. Tour the house and see what life was like for the 16th president.
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Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Journey through time in Abraham Lincoln's life - from growing up in Kentucky to life in the White House.
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Washington Park Botanical Garden
Stroll through this tranquil and beautiful park. There are over 1200 plant species in this garden, covering 20 acres.
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Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site
See the final resting place of Abraham, Mary, Todd, and three of their four boys, where they have been laid to rest.
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Old State Capitol State Historic Site
Tour the Old Illinois State Capitol inside and out. You can either walk the building yourself or take a guided tour.
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Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center
Explore a visual representation of what Springfield looked like when Abraham Lincoln lived here. See the restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands.
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Illinois Route 66 Experience at Illinois State Fairground
Experience the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66, this exhibit is open 365 days a year. See vintage billboards, signs, drive-in movie theatres, and more.
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Ace Sign Co
See many of the popular signs that used to line Route 66. They have 85 signs in their collection, and it only continues to grow. This museum is free and open to the public Monday-Friday from 10 am to 2 pm.
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Land of Lincoln Smartphone Audio APP Self Guided Walking Tour
Listen to a guide take you through Springfield as they tell you about Lincoln's history here.
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Springfield Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour
Explore Springfield at your own pace while learning about the history it holds.
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Best Places to Eat

Charlie Parker's Diner
Charlie's is a 50's 50s-themed diner that is popular in Springfield. Btw, bring a big appetite with you! Their 16-inch pancake and horseshoe breakfasts are massive!
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Cafe Moxo
Cafe Moxo offers a warm and welcoming environment with some delicious food options! There are a ton of options to choose from, but make sure whatever you choose, save room for one of the best cookies on the planet!
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A Taste of Seoul/Seoul 4 Soul
Consider this a simple American dish with a Korean twist. This is the perfect place to grab lunch. Try the Korean smashburger. It's a local fav!
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The Foundry Kitchen
The Foundry Kitchen is proud to make most of what's on your plate in-house. Try one of their smashburgers, pizzas, or artichoke dip served with pizza bones and topped with fresh jalapeño and parmesan, which is a crowd-pleasing appetizer for sure.
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Curate
Try the Roasted Brie. It's delicious! Served with fig jam, apples, roasted garlic, and a warm baguette, pair it with the braised short ribs. The ribs are one of the most popular and highly reviewed dishes on the menu.
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Legacy Pointe Eatery
Try an appetizer like their Cajun shrimp and grit cake, and for an entree, try a spicy goat burger. They offer a wide range of sauces to add to the equation, too, if you're a sauce fan.
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Sleep Comfortably

President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
This hotel is an excellent choice for visitors to Springfield, especially those interested in Abraham Lincoln’s history. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s just a short walk from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library, the Illinois State Capitol, and other notable sites.
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Carpenter Street Hotel
It's just one mile from the Illinois State Capitol and within proximity to major attractions such as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site,
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