kidzeum
Kidzeum is a central feature in downtown. Perfect for ages 2 to 8, Kidzeum promotes a healthy earth, healthy body and healthy community with three floors of engaging exhibits that will provide the whole family hours of learning and discovery through play. Come experience Active Alex, one of Kidzeum’s “biggest” attractions. Take a walk through the corn maze, get active in Kidzeum Fit Klub or turn on the siren and ride in the Kidzeum ambulance—just a few of the many experiences at this imaginative museum. Admission.
412 E. Adams St. (One block west of the Old State Capitol) 217-971-4435 • kidzeum.org (September-February)
Thursday – Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm Closed Monday - Wednesday
(March - August) Tuesday – Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm Closed Mondays
Dana-Thomas House – A Frank Lloyd Wright Design
The Dana-Thomas House is one of the most unique and lavish structures designed by Frank Lloyd Wright during his early Prairie period. The home was built for Springfield socialite Susan Lawrence Dana. She was known for her hospitality, unforgettable parties and concerts as well as community, social and political involvement. Perhaps the most complete of all early Wright dwellings, it was never significantly altered and has over 100 pieces of original Wrightdesigned oak furniture, 250 examples of art glass windows, light fixtures and lamps. The barrel-vaulted dining room and gallery/ballroom are two of the most photographed spaces in the history of American architecture. Connecting the main living quarters to the gallery and library is a sixty-foot long pergola hallway beneath which is a bowling lane, billiard room and walk-in vault.
301 E. Lawrence Ave. 217-782-6776 Open Monday – Tuesday: 10 am - 2 pm, Wednesday – Sunday: 9 am – 4 pm
Explorer Passports
Engage all of your senses as you take part in Abe’s Hat Hunt and the Living Legends 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. One city, two adventures, including 20 sites, attractions, culinary treasures and museums in one passport of memorable fun.
Free passports available for pick up at the Springfield Visitors Center; Dana-Thomas House; Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum; Lincoln Home National Historic Site View website for full details: https://visitspringfieldillinois.com/explorerpassports
African American History
Embark on a historic and emotion filled journey through Springfield with a self-guided walking tour exploring the occurrences that led to the Springfield 1908 Race Riots and the birth of the NAACP. View two of Preston Jackson’s pieces, inspired by the Race Riots: Acts of Intolerance sculpture on 6th and Madison Ave. and the 1908 Race Riot mural inside HSHS St. Johns Hospital. The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, located on Monument Ave., tells the stories of African American life in central Illinois as well as hosts several temporary exhibits. Route History on Cook St. sheds light on local tragedy, resilience and the excellence of African Americans along Route 66 in Springfield.
Locations throughout Springfield For more information visit www.visitspringfieldillinois.com/blogs
Seward Johnson’s “Return Visit” sculpture
Experience “Return Visit” honoring the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln on display in front of the award-winning Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. This 31 foot tall, 37,200 pound bronze statue, by world-renowned sculptor Seward Johnson, is a destination not to be missed. Take in the breathtaking view, enjoy the Instagrammable photo moment and pay homage to our nation’s 16th President (through August 2020).
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum 212 N. 6th St. 217-558-8844
Bicentennial plaza
Bicentennial Plaza, a REALTOR ® community partnership, is a new pedestrian walkway connecting Lincoln Home National Historic Site to the Illinois Governor’s Mansion. Bicentennial Plaza is dedicated to Abraham Lincoln’s vision for an America of opportunity. Sixteen panels flank the plaza and tell the stories of some of the people and events that are part of the city’s complex history. Stories chosen include some known and others told for the first time that show the role that everyday people have in moving society forward.
522 S. 5th St. (Jackson St. between 5th and 6th Streets)
