Things to Do in Springfield, Illinois

Springfield Things to Do

For those looking for some fun or educational activities in Springfield, Illinois, there is no shortage! Here are some of the top attractions in the city of Springfield.

Amazing History Of Lincoln

For an educational visit to Springfield, or for history buffs who want to add a few new photos to their collection, Springfield is the city to be in. While you are here, you can visit the home of Abraham and Mary Lincoln, donated by their oldest son in hopes to keep it preserved, One of his requests was that all of the tours be free, so you can visit the home where President Abe Lincoln lived, and even see his old furniture and appliances. There is also a visitor center where you can get maps, purchase gifts, and get more information.

You can also visit Abraham Lincolns tomb, where he and his family are buried (minus his eldest son, who is buried in Arlington National Cemetery) at the Oak Ridge Cemetery. Inside the monument are excerpts from his speeches, as well as statues of Lincoln and access to his tomb is free. When you walk in, you will notice that a large sculpture of Lincoln sits out front, its nose shinier than the rest of his face, because it has been said to bring good luck if you rub it.

Lincoln’s law office has also been preserved and turned into a museum for those who want to take a glimpse around his old office that he shared with friend and business partner, William Herndon. While there isn’t much left in the building to see, the desk where he wrote his presidential speech has been saved and preserved for visitors to observe.

Other Monuments And More

Although a new state capital has been built, the old one still stands. The old state capital building is where Lincoln gave his “A House Divided” speech and also where his body was momentarily housed after his assassination. You can also go and visit New Salem, which is a reconstruction of how things used to be with log cabins, and other themes as well as animals to help recreate simpler times.

In Springfield sits Frank Lloyd Wright’s Dana-Thomas house. This well preserved, beautiful home still has some of its original furnishings, and you can take a guided tour around the home that was built for the wife of a prominent Springfield lobbyist back in 1902. It is one of the most well preserved Wright structures in the midwest. For those who love animals, the Henson Robinson Zoo is a great place to stop. It is very inexpensive for both adults and children and very child-friendly.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Springfield.