 Over the last two years our fair city has found itself in the bright lights of history-inthe making many times. Each time President Barack Obama speaks of his love of Springfield and his admiration for Abraham Lincoln’s history in central Illinois, the city collectively beams with pride. Whether you’ve traveled from a faraway land or just a few hours by car, we hope that you find Illinois’ capital city a warm and welcoming place to visit.
Many who visit Springfield have come to learn more about our already famous American president, Abraham Lincoln. The Lincoln experience begins for most at the Presidential Library and Museum, which is just three years old this year. The museum’s interactive displays, live performances and theatrical recreations nearly bring him back to life, and the adjacent library is a one-of-a-kind resource for scholars and students. It is a short walk down Sixth Street to the Old State Capitol building, where Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech; nearby is his law office. Visitors can also tour the only home Lincoln ever owned, the church where he and his family worshipped, and his tomb. A short drive from Springfield is New Salem, the rustic 1830s village where Lincoln lived before his days in the state legislature.
Of course, Abe isn’t the only attraction in town. On the west side of downtown is the “new” (1868) Illinois State Capitol, open daily to tourists. Just around the corner from the capitol is the Illinois State Museum, where visitors can explore the cultural and natural history of Illinois, including all the fossils your kids can handle. On nearby Fourth Street you’ll find the Executive Mansion, home to Illinois’ Gov. Patrick Quinn. Turn another corner to find the Dana- Thomas House, a pristine example of worldrenowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie Style. For a peaceful retreat from the tourist beat, explore the legacy of landscape pioneer Jens Jensen at the Lincoln Memorial Garden, located on the shores of Lake Springfield.
We’re also proud of our Route 66 heritage and recommend a visit to Bill Shea’s Gas Station Museum and the original Cozy Dog restaurant — just two of dozens of nearby sites for those intrigued by “car lore.” If you can’t get enough, come back for the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival in September. The capital city also hosts the Illinois State Fair in August and the weeklong International Carillon Festival in October.
When it is time for food and fun, Springfield does not disappoint. This publication includes a directory of restaurants, bars and nightspots around the city, along with an extensive calendar of fairs, festivals and other seasonal events that take place throughout the year. The center pages feature maps provided by the Springfield Convention and Visitor’s Bureau to help you find your way. For a fresh weekly guide to local entertainment, pick up a copy of Illinois Times, the capital city’s free weekly newspaper.
Look for newsstands around downtown and at area hotels, restaurants and government offices. A complete digital copy of the weekly paper is available at www.illinoistimes.com.
Enjoy your visit. Sharon Whalen, publisher |
