Just a three-hour drive away from its metropolitan sister city of Chicago, the city of Springfield, Illinois, is the state’s capital and the largest city in Central Illinois.
Once home to President Lincoln, Springfield’s attractions include a multitude of historic sites commemorating the life and death of our nation’s former president. By exploring Lincoln’s hometown, visitors have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of one of America’s greatest leaders.
We’ve compiled our favorite must-see historic attractions to see during your next visit to Springfield, Illinois.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Museum
After opening in 2005, The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library rapidly became the best attended of all the Presidential libraries and one of the most studied new museum in the world. The museum features interactive displays, dramatic shows, and multimedia effects. Visit on Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (February 12) and gain free entry to the museum.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
By Daniel Schwen – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Step into the home of one of America’s greatest leaders and the only home that President Lincoln owned during his lifetime. For history buffs and those interested in learning more about the life of our former president, the Lincoln home is a well-preserved piece of history that you won’t want to miss. Tickets must be picked up ahead of time at the nearby Visitor’s Center.
Illinois State Capitol Building
Situated downtown and within a short walk from the Lincoln Museum, the ornate capitol building features beautiful glass and woodworking. One of the tallest state capitols in the U.S., the current structure is, in fact, the sixth to serve as capitol since Illinois became a state in 1818.
Dana-Thomas House
By Traveling V on English Wikipedia, CC BY 2.5
The Dana-Thomas is a magnificent home built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1900. Though it was constructed over 100 years ago, the home features a bowling alley, skylight, library, and more. The Dana-Thomas House is often denoted as the best-preserved example of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Prairie period” dwellings.
The spirit of the “Land of Lincoln” is nowhere else so alive as it is in Springfield. Do you have an attraction you’d like to add to our list? Share your must-see additions in the comment section below.
