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About Our Area

About Springfield, Illinois

Welcome to Springfield, Illinois, a city that offers you everything you're looking for in an unforgettable vacation. From our historical Lincoln attractions to our national art shows, from the Illinois State Fair to the ethnic festival - great adventures await your discovery.

Overflowing with small town friendliness and big city sophistication, Springfield - the capital of Illinois - is located midway between Chicago and St. Louis along historic Route 66.

Whether your trip is for business or pleasure, we look forward to entertaining you!

As Illinois' capital city, Springfield is the state's hub of government action, business activity, arts and cultural affairs. With a City population of over 112,000, Springfield offers a great business climate, an expanding medical community, superb public services, and friendly, caring neighborhoods. We think Springfield is wonderful place to live, work and visit.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library is now a part of downtown Springfield.

Springfield became the Illinois state capital in 1837 with the help of a young lawyer and politician named Abraham Lincoln. He lived in the city until he left to become the 16th President of the United States, in 1861. From that moment on, the city’s history and future have been inexorably tied to this most famous and beloved American citizen.

Population/Economy

Balanced between the public and private sectors, Springfield has a well-diversified economic base an approximate population of 113,000 people. Springfield serves as headquarters for 12 nationally known insurance companies and more than 165 state, regional, and national associations. The community is recognized as a leader in the health care industry and is home to three major hospitals as well as a world renowned heart surgery institute. Springfield’s consumer market area lies within a ten county region, encompassing 5,839 square miles, and supports products for export throughout the world, ranging from cake mixes, livestock and poultry feeds to space age electronics.

Taxes

Springfield has a 10% room tax for accommodations and a 7.25% sales tax on all shopping purchases.

Government

Springfield is the hub of Illinois political activity. As one of the largest and most influential states in the U.S., the state capitol building is a flurry of legislative activity each fall and spring. The city also serves as the seat of county government. The local government is based on a strong mayoral aldermanic council.

Education

The University of Illinois at Springfield, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield College in Illinois and St. John's College, Department of Nursing offer students a diverse selection of higher education opportunities.

Climate

Moderate year-round temperatures. Average temperatures range from 70-80° in the summer months to 30-40° in the winter months.

Transportation

Capital Airport provides 80 commuter flights in and out of Springfield on a daily basis; Amtrak runs twice daily between Chicago and St. Louis downtowns; Springfield Mass Transit provides intra-city bus service, covering all sectors of the city, Greyhound provides intercity bus service; nine taxi firms offer service to the capital city with an average fare of $1.25 for first 1/10 mile and 15 cents for each additional 1/10 mile.

Year-Round Festivals

Springfield offers hundreds of exciting events throughout the year, including: the Old Capitol Art Fair in May, the International Carillon Festival in June, the Illinois State Fair in August and First Night Springfield on New Year’s Eve, just to name a few.

Shopping

From charming, one-of-kind boutiques to nationally recognized, big city department stores, Springfield offers something for everyone. The city’s westside offers White Oaks Mall, (the largest central Illinois indoor shopping facility), national discount shopping centers, home improvement stores, state-of-the-art computer and home entertainment stores, fashion boutiques and more. The historical downtown area is brimming with specialty shops, antique stores, bakeries, art galleries and much more.

Looking For Lincoln Tour

"Looking For Lincoln" is a new multi-faceted heritage tourism project. The program, which currently includes participation from 11 central Illinois communities, is based on the stories of Abraham Lincoln's life and times throughout the area. Still in the early stages of development, this unique heritage tourism project will eventually offer the world a more comprehensive and personal look at Abraham Lincoln before he took his place in history.

Sightseeing
Visitor Information

Over one million visitors a year come to see Springfield’s historic Lincoln sites, which include the Lincoln Home and Neighborhood, Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, Lincoln Tomb, Lincoln’s New Salem, and more. Other attractions include the Dana-Thomas House, the Old State Capitol, the Illinois State Capitol and the Executive Mansion. Plans are now underway for a Lincoln Presidential Library and Interactive Museum.

LINCOLN HOME VISITOR CENTER

426 South 7th Street,
(217) 492-4241, ext. 221
HOURS: 8:30-5 daily, extended spring, summer and fall hours.

Stop here to get your free tickets to tour the Lincoln Home and information on area historic sites, attractions, events, hotels and restaurants. While you're waiting for your tour, take in the free audio-visual programs, view the exhibits, or shop in the Eastern National Book Store.

SPRINGFIELD ILLINOIS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
109 North 7th Street,
(217) 789-2360 or (800) 545-7300
HOURS: 8-5 weekdays

You'll find a complete selection of Springfield area brochures and maps at the Bureau's main office. Stop in when you arrive, sign our guest book and get your questions answered.

CAPITOL COMPLEX VISITORS CENTER
425 South College,
(217) 524-6620
HOURS: 8-4:30 M-F, 9-4 Saturday; Closed Sundays and holidays

If you're interested in information and exhibits about the Capitol Complex, including the State Capitol, the State Archives, State Library, and state office buildings, be sure to visit the Capitol Complex Visitor Center. The center also has informational brochures about sites and attractions throughout Illinois and a 20-minute video presentation.

CENTRAL ILLINOIS TOURISM DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
Springfield Hilton,
700 East Adams,
(217) 525-7980
HOURS: 8:30-5 weekdays

Located in downtown Springfield, here you'll find complete tourist information on all of Central Illinois, as well as statewide information.

LINCOLN'S NEW SALEM VISITORS CENTER
Route 97,
(217) 632-4000
HOURS: Mar-May 9-5 daily, Jun- Aug 9-8 daily, Sept-Oct 9-5 daily, Nov-Feb 8-4 daily

Prepare yourself for a wonderful journey back into the authentic 1830's historic village where Abraham Lincoln lived and worked. Wonderful exhibits, an orientation film and tickets for performances at "The Theatre in the Park" are available in the Visitors Center.

Abraham Lincoln clerked in a store, enlisted in the Blackhawk War, served as postmaster and deputy surveyor, studied law and was elected legislator during his years in New Salem. Timber houses, shops, and stores now comprise the reconstructed historic village where history comes to life as costumed interpreters take on the characters of the people who lived and worked here more than 150 years ago.

You can prepare for your entrance into pioneer life in 1830s Illinois by stopping by the Visitors Center as you enter the park. Also, from June through August make plans to come back for an evening of entertainment at New Salem'' outdoor theater - Theatre in the Park.

LINCOLN-HERNDON LAW OFFICES
6th and Adams,
(217) 785-7289
HOURS:
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices will be closed until further notice.

Painting of all three levels of the building are currently in progress.

Please visit the Old State Capitol, if you are intrested in seeing an informational video on the Lincoln-Herdon Law Offices.

Mar-Oct 9am-5pm, Nov-Feb 9am-4pm; Closed Sunday and Monday. Also closed New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday, Presidents Day, General Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day;

Abraham Lincoln practiced law in the offices above Seth Tinsley's store from 1843 until 1852. It was an ideal location for a rising young law firm - near the Capitol and Springfield's finest hotel of the day, and just above the local post office and Federal Courtroom. Stephen Logan (1843-44) and William Herndon (1844-65) were his partners during this time. Last tour 45 minutes before closing.

OLD STATE CAPITOL
Downtown Mall,
(217) 785-7961
HOURS:
Tues-Sat. Mar-Oct 9am-5pm; Nov-Feb 9am-4pm; Closed Sunday and Monday, New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday, Presidents Day, General Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day

Abraham Lincoln tried several hundred cases in the Supreme Court, borrowed books from the state library, and read and swapped stories with other lawyers and politicians in the law library. On May 3 & 4, 1865, Mr. Lincoln's body lay in state in Representatives Hall as a crowd estimated at 75,000 filed past to pay their last respects. Last tour 45 minutes before closing.

LINCOLN TOMB
Oak Ridge Cemetery,
(217) 782-2717
HOURS:
Daily Mar-Oct 9am-5pm, Nov-Feb 9am-4pm; Closed New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday, Presidents Day, General Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.

Abraham Lincoln was buried in Springfield's Oak Ridge Cemetery at the request of Mrs. Lincoln after his assassination in 1865. The monument was designed by sculptor Larkin Mead, completed in 1874, and paid for with public donations. The original receiving vault in which Abraham Lincoln was buried can be seen on a tour of the cemetery. Be sure to ask about the special Civil War Retreat Ceremony held at the Tomb each Tuesday evening during the summer .

Oak Ridge Cemetery: Oak Ridge is the second most visited cemetery in the U.S. People from across the country and throughout the world come to see the tomb of Springfield's most famous citizen. But, this beautiful 300-acre cemetery is also the final resting place for other notable historical figures including labor leader John L. Lewis, the famous poet Vachel Lindsay, four Illinois governors, and Lincoln's law partner, William Herndon.

Stories In Stone: Historic Monument Tour

From the Hamer-Brant treestone, suggesting a life cut short - to the white marble statue of Mattie Rayburn standing 40 feet above the rural landscape - every stone tells a story in this self-guided, audiocassette tour of Oak Ridge Cemetery.

This Historic Monument Tour features a glimpse into the world of some of the most unusual, artistic and remarkable Victorian-era tombstones and monuments.

Oak Ridge Cemetery Office
1441 Monument Avenue
Springfield, IL 62702
217-789-2340
Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday; 8am-Noon Saturday during Daylight Saving Time.

Bloomington-Normal, IL

David Davis Mansion State Historic Site
Judge David Davis was a close friend, mentor, and legal and political ally of Abraham Lincoln. After becoming President, Lincoln appointed Davis to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1862. The Davis mansion, "Clover Lawn," was a lavish Victorian home with eight marble fireplaces and boasted many modern features including central heating and indoor plumbing. The home has been completely restored and contains many original furnishings.

Lincoln, IL

Postville Courthouse State Historic Site
The present Postville Courthouse, a reproduction of the original 1840 Courthouse, was visited by Lincoln while he traveled the 8th Judicial Circuit.

Lincoln College and Museum

The Lincoln College and Museum houses a majorcollection of Lincoln artifacts as well as the Hall of Presidents Museum, honoring the nation's Chief Executives from George Washington through the present.

Watermelon Christening Site

As the first lots were sold in the town of Lincoln, residents asked Abraham Lincoln to come from Springfield to christen the first town to be named for him. He did so using the juice of a watermelon.

Mt. Pulaski Statehouse State Historic Site

The Mt. Pulaski Statehouse is one of only two surviving 8th Judicial Circuit courthouse in Illinois where Abraham Lincoln practiced law. In 1847, local citizens, craftsmen, and merchants donated materials and labor and raised $2,700 to construct the building. Today, the building has been restored and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Springfield, IL

Lincoln Home National Historic Site
A great starting point for your tour of Springfield. The Quaker-brown residence where the Abraham Lincoln family lived for seventeen years (1844-1861) is a national treasure. It's located in the midst of a four-block historic neighborhood. Your tour of the only home the Lincoln's ever owned will be conducted by National Park Service rangers. Free tickets are required and may only be obtained at the Lincoln Home Visitor Center at 426 S. 7th Street.

Petersburg, IL

Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site
Abraham Lincoln grew to "a man of purpose and destiny" during the six years (1831-1837) he lived in New Salem village. While there, he clerked in a store, enlisted in the Blackhawk War, served as postmaster and deputy surveyor, studied law and was elected legislator. Timber houses, shops, and stores now comprise the reconstructed historic village where history comes to life as costumed interpreters take on the characters of the people who lived and worked here more than 150 years ago.

Athens, IL

Long Nine Museum
Abraham Lincoln and a dedicated cadre of eight other Illinois legislators (known as the "long nine") won the General Assembly's approval to move the state capitol from Vandalia to Springfield. They were honored at a banquet held upstairs in the building that stands now where it stood then in 1837.

Beardstown, IL

City Hall
The Beardstown City Hall built in 1844 is the original building where Lincoln tried the famous "Almanac Trial" in 1858. It is the only courtroom in which Lincoln practiced law to still hold court.

Decatur, IL

Macon County Historical Museum Complex
This living history museum features a train depot, schoolhouse, prairie stores, a blacksmith shop and the Lincoln Log courthouse where Abraham Lincoln tried several cases.

Vandalia, IL

Vandalia Statehouse State Historic Site
The Vandalia Statehouse is the oldest existing building and the third that served as the Capitol of Illinois. This historic building has been completely restored with the rooms furnished as they appeared during Lincoln's time. Lincoln served as a state representative from 1834-1839 and gave several famous speeches against slavery in the Old State Capitol.

Lerna, IL

Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site
"Goosenest Prairie Farm," located in Lerna, Illinois, was the last homesite of our 16th President's father and step-mother, Thomas and Sarah Bush Lincoln. This site functions as a living history farm where first-person interpreters perform day-to-day chores of the 1840's..

Abraham Lincoln & The City He Loved

This three-day tour is designed to illustrate the many historic sites, exciting attractions, and memorable adventures Springfield has to offer. If you would prefer, we can customize a tour from this full and varied three-day schedule to fit any time frame from 1/2 day to 2-1/2 full days..

Day One

Begin your tour by visiting Lincoln Home National Historical Site, a restored four-block neighborhood. First stop, Lincoln Home Visitor Center for your free tickets to tour the Lincoln Home. The Visitor Center offers free audio-visual programs, exhibits, and an Eastern National Bookstore for shopping.

A short walk will find you at the doorsteps of the Lincoln Home, the Quaker-brown residence where the Abraham Lincoln family lived for 17 years (1844-1861). Your group will enjoy a guided tour of this national treasure, conducted by a National Park Service ranger.

Next stop, a free guided tour of the Old State Capitol Historic Site, a magnificently restored building with period furnishings. It was here in the Hall of Representatives, that Lincoln gave his famous "House Divided" speech. Lincoln served nearly 20 years as a legislator here, trying hundreds of cases in the Supreme Court. A short distance across the Old State Capitol Plaza, your group will find the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, where Lincoln practiced law from 1843 until 1853.

Lunch suggestion: In the mood for homemade soups, sandwiches and pie? Check out any one of our wonderful downtown eateries.

After lunch, visit Edwards Place, a beautifully preserved Italianate mansion located in a park-like setting. Built in 1833, the house was the center of Springfield's social and political life for dignitaries such as Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, Stephen A. Douglas, Ulysses S. Grant and others. The building currently houses the Springfield Art Association, an art school and the Michael Victor II Art Library.

At the nearby Executive Mansion, home to the Illinois governor, you'll take a delightful tour of formal parlors, a state dining room, ballroom, four bedrooms and a library handcrafted from native American Black Walnut. This mansion is the third-oldest, continuously occupied Governor's home in the nation.

Last stop, Lincoln's Depot, where President-elect Abraham Lincoln departed his beloved Springfield for an uncertain future in Washington D.C. The Depot features restored waiting rooms (one for ladies and one for the luggage and tobacco-spitting men), exhibits of people and places dear to Lincoln, and an exciting audio-visual show recreating the 12-day journey to Washington D.C. for his first inauguration.

Following a full day of sightseeing, check in at the hotel for a chance to refresh. Enjoy dinner at the hotel or at one of the wonderful local restaurants in Downtown Springfield.

We suggest you end your evening with a show at the Springfield Theatre Center, Muni Opera, Sangamon Auditorium at UIS or New Salem's Theatre in the Park. Just ask for a calendar of events for currentperformance schedules.

Day Two

Begin your day with a moving tour of the second most visited cemetery in the United States, Oak RidgeCemetery. This beautiful 300-acre cemetery is the final resting place for Abraham, Mary Todd, Tad, Eddie and Willie Lincoln. (Oldest son, Robert, is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.) Other notable historic figures are also buried here including labor leader John L. Lewis, poet Vachel Lindsay, four Illinois governors, and Lincoln's law partner, William Herndon.

The grand Lincoln Tomb monument was designed by sculptor Larkin Mead, completed in 1874, and paid for with public donations. Be sure to notice the ceiling inside the tomb's rotunda, it's been newly re-gilded in palladium leaf. The original receiving vault in which Lincoln was buried can also be seen on the the tour of the cemetery. On a summer evening (Tuesdays only), your group may want to return for the authentic Civil War-era flag retreat ceremony honoring the fallen President.

No tour highlighting Abraham Lincoln's life would be complete without a trip to the New Salem Historic Village. It was here that a young Lincoln grew to "a man of purpose and destiny." Beginning his career as a store clerk and village postmaster, Lincoln taught himself history and the art of debating while studying law. Before long he was running for office. This 100-acre living history pioneer village will take your group back to the 1830s - with its winding paths, timber houses and shops. Costumed interpreters are often on hand to show life as it was more than 150 years ago, with oxen pulling wagons, candlemakers, spinners and blacksmiths hard at work.

Lunch suggestion: Dine in historic and charming Petersburg or picnic near New Salem.

After lunch it's a scenic ride back to Springfield and visit to Washington Park. Take a stroll through the magnificent rose gardens, as well as the perennial, scent and texture gardens. You'll also discover a domed conservatory filled with lush tropical foliageand year-round indoor floral displays from orchids to poinsettias. Washington Park is also home to the sixth largest belltower in the world, Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, and one of the few open to the public. Your group will enjoy the spectacular view of the city from the top of the belltower. (Ask for more information on arranging a private concert for your group.

End the day with a visit to the exquisite Dana-Thomas House, one of Frank Lloyd Wright's finest Prairie-style homes, complete with original furniture, art glass doors, windows and light fixtures. Built in 1902 for local socialite Susan Lawrence Dana, you'll find the home rich in history and architectural significance. (Last tour begins at 4 p.m.)In the evening, relax with dinner at the hotel or check out the variety of entertainment venues at many of the local nightspots.

Day Three

This day begins with a tour of the Illinois State Capitol Complex. A brief stop in the Capitol Complex Visitors Center will provide information and exhibits about the Capitol Complex sites and attractions.

The Illinois State Capitol is the center of state government and houses the offices of the Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller, and Treasurer as well as the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers. If the legislature is in session during your group's visit, you'll be welcome to watch Illinois politics in action from balcony-level seating.

Just across the complex from the Capitol, Illinois State Museum offers an amazing collection of Illinois' natural and cultural treasures including the world's largest Ice Age mastodon. You'll also discover displays of life-like animals from wolves to bald eagles, and savor the sights and sounds of Native American life.

Lunch suggestion: Grab a bite to eat at Incredibly Delicious, located in the historic Weber House, and then browse through the charming shops before heading south.

Head to the Lake Springfield area for a variety of leisure activities including fishing, boating, swimming, golfing, and more. The eight public parks around the lake offer picnic areas, playgrounds, softball diamonds, restrooms, and lake access. The public beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The Henson Robinson Zoo, near the lake, is home to more than 33 species of exotic and native animals including several endangered species. The facility includes a gift shop, concessions, and petting area.

Located on the shores of Lake Springfield, Lincoln Memorial Garden offers you an enjoyable hike along five miles of wooded trails. Depending on the season, you may discover colorful summer wildflowers, burnished autumn leaves, snow-covered maple trees bursting with sap or springtime dogwoods in full bloom.

At the end of the day, head back to the hotel for a special meal and some terrific local entertainment.