You are probably familiar with Springfield as the state capital of Illinois, as well as the location where Abraham Lincoln spent some of his formative years before being elected to the House of Representatives.
There are also many more sights to view and activities to enjoy.
22 Best & Fun Things To Do In Springfield, IL (2025)
1. Daughters Of Union Veterans Civil War Museum
It’s no coincidence that so much of the Civil War has been preserved.
The Daughers of Union Veterans Civil War Museum, for example, allows visitors to see remnants of this historic struggle today.
Visit this Springfield museum for an excellent education about the American Civil War.
This museum has existed for a very long period.
It was founded in 1885 and has done an outstanding job of conserving photographs, correspondence, weapons, and apparel.
There is also a gift shop with various Civil War-related books for sale.
You can also visit the memorial garden, which honors the museum’s founders and supporters, as well as those who fought for our country.
The Daughters of Union Veterans Civil War Museum is one of Springfield’s finest museums, as well as one of the best Civil War museums overall.
They are open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Every guest is accepted for free.
Address: 503 S Walnut St, Springfield, IL 62704, United States
2. Long Nine Junction
Long Nine Junction, located on the Old State Capitol Plaza, is a Springfield restaurant known for serving high-quality comfort food.
There’s plenty of homey charm here, but with a polished attitude that distinguishes it.
If you’re looking for new twists on familiar favorites in Springfield, visit Long Nine Junction.
Long Nine Junction is a great place to have a sandwich for lunch.
Their menu includes the Cubano, Fifth Street Turkey, and grilled cheese.
This is the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich, featuring white American, cheddar, provolone, and Swiss on garlic focaccia.
Long Nine Junction also serves delicious salads, soups, and hearty “Meals in a Bowl.”
This Springfield bistro demonstrates how delicious a basic meal can be when prepared with care.
They are open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Friday.
Address: 5 W Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701, United States
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3. Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum
This museum tells the fascinating stories of Springfield’s African American community.
The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum delves deeply into this legacy.
Its exhibits highlight the crucial role of Black Americans in Illinois and elsewhere.
There are exhibitions dedicated to world-renowned people such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President Barack Obama here.
However, there are also ones honoring lesser-known figures, such as the Walker Family.
This family was among the first Black pioneers in central Illinois.
The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum showcases how much African Americans have contributed to American history.
Come here to be inspired by the achievements of these individuals.
You can also learn about elements of Black history that you may not have known much about.
Address: 1440 Monument Ave, Springfield, IL 62702, United States
4. Engrained Brewery & Restaurant
Engrained Brewery & Restaurant in Springfield serves a fun meal that is also produced with integrity.
You’ll not only have one of Springfield’s best meals, but you’ll also get the benefits of farm-to-table cuisine.
Guests of Engrained Brewery & Restaurant have an advantage even before they glance at the menu.
However, once you see the menu, you should start salivating.
Founder Brent Schwoerer grew raised on a farm and understands the importance of high-quality foods.
This also applies to their beer, which may enhance the flavor of dishes like the blackened salmon Caesar salad even more.
Engrained Brewery & Restaurant demonstrates that there is always a place for food prepared with care, and that fresh and local is best.
Springfield people are fortunate to have such an excellent spot to eat and drink.
Engrained Brewery & Restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Address: 1120 Lincolnshire Blvd, Springfield, IL 62711, United States
5. Incredibly Delicious
It’s certainly brave to call a restaurant “Incredibly Delicious.”
However, Incredibly Delicious gets its moniker from its fantastic food.
Whether you want something sweet or savory, you’ll want to kiss your lips after visiting this Springfield establishment.
Incredibly Delicious is housed in the Howard K Weber House, a 19th-century Italianate architecture.
This sets a peaceful mood.
As you eat a croissant or a quiche at this French bakery/café, you can admire the vintage building and the wonderful art that adorns it.
If you are planning a wedding in Springfield, Incredibly Delicious also offers delicious wedding cakes.
When you visit Incredibly Delicious, even an ordinary day can be transformed into an unforgettable experience.
They’re open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. between Mondays and Fridays and from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
Address: 925 S 7th St, Springfield, IL 62703, United States
6. Henson Robinson Zoo
Henson Robinson Zoo is the ideal destination to spend a fun day with the family.
Having just celebrated its 40th anniversary, this Zoo continues to impress.
The Henson Robinson Zoo features species from all over the world.
The Henson Robinson Zoo houses animals from all continents except Antarctica.
Even so, you can find penguins here—African penguins, to be exact.
You can also see lemurs, cougars, boa constrictors, and other fantastic creatures.
Go to the Henson Robinson Zoo if you love animal-focused tourist attractions.
This Springfield zoo really comes through for animals and guests alike.
Their hours of operation vary based on the time of year.
Address: 1100 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL 62712, United States
7. International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
If you’re searching for something unique and enjoyable to do in Springfield, Illinois, visit the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival.
Every year, bikers and car enthusiasts flock to Springfield for this exciting event.
Being among all of these beautiful vehicles may evoke memories of “Easy Rider” or motivate you to look for a vintage car yourself.
They have over 1,000 vehicles to choose from, and even seeing a sample of these might be daunting.
Whatever you select, this is one of the most enjoyable events in Springfield today.
The International Route 66 Mother Road Festival in Springfield is a highly anticipated annual event.
Each event is fantastic, and you’ll learn a lot about antique vehicles and motorcycles.
Springfield offers fantastic locations to explore all year, but this event is only held once a year.
8. Great Western Depot
Abraham Lincoln’s presence might transform ordinary places like the Great Western Depot into historical landmarks.
Lincoln delivered a passionate speech at Springfield’s train station before departing for Washington, D.C., where he would begin his administration.
Trains no longer depart from Great Western Depot, although it retains legendary significance.
Use your creativity when you visit Great Western Depot.
Imagine yourself listening to this wonderful man as he prepares to lead the country in front of thousands of people.
This speech was apparently given on the spontaneity of the moment.
If you know anything about Lincoln, you are aware that he was a gifted speaker.
Today, tourists seeking Springfield’s top Lincoln-related attractions go to Great Western Depot.
It’s among Illinois’s most significant tourist destinations.
If you want to see some interesting historic sites in Springfield this weekend, go visit Great Western Depot.
Address: 930 E Monroe St, Springfield, IL 62701, United States
9. Indigo Restaurant
The atmosphere in Springfield at night is different—quite beautiful, actually.
Treat yourself and any guests to a nice meal for a fun night out.
The cuisine of Indigo Restaurant is diverse, yet brilliance unites them all.
The atmosphere in Springfield at night is different—quite beautiful, actually.
Treat yourself and any guests to a nice meal for a fun night out.
The cuisine of Indigo Restaurant is diverse, yet brilliance unites them all.
Address: 3013 Lindbergh Blvd, Springfield, IL 62704, United States
10. Elijah Iles House
When you visit Springfield, Illinois, you will be close to a wealth of amazing history.
But you must visit the city’s oldest building as part of your sightseeing.
Although the appears to be a straightforward residence, its significance in Springfield’s narrative makes it far more fascinating.
This home was built sometime around 1837.
Elijah Iles, the man who bears its name, was the county’s first shopkeeper.
In 1978, the house was Elijah Iles House added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Although it has had extensive exterior alterations, a large portion of it remains true to its original design. The stairs that Iles took can be climbed by you.
If you’re searching for important sites to see in Springfield, Illinois, the Elijah Iles House is ideal.
Even though it may only be the home of a Springfield business owner, it is far more significant.
However, their hours are somewhat restricted, as they are only open from midday to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Address: 628 S 7th St, Springfield, IL 62703, United States
11. Camp Butler National Cemetery
Visit Camp Butler National Cemetery to pay your respects to those who have died in battle.
As the Civil War raged, Union soldiers trained there and Confederate soldiers were imprisoned there, making it a highly sensitive spot.
What has survived is the graveyard, where other veterans have been buried.
This cemetery is a must-see if you’re in Springfield, Illinois for Memorial Day weekend or Veterans Day.
On certain days, they honor heroes with elaborate rituals.
If not, you can visit to express your gratitude to individual warriors or to the entire group of people interred here.
A vacation doesn’t have to be solely focused on entertainment.
Springfield is among the best destinations to visit because of things like Camp Butler National Cemetery.
Address: 5063 Camp Butler Rd, Springfield, IL 62707, United States
12. Air Combat Museum
Are you wondering what sights in Springfield, Illinois can truly make your heart race?
The Air Combat Museum may hold the solution.
Here, aircraft from the 1920s are preserved, retaining their grandeur and impressive impact.
Although it’s not necessary to be an aviation encyclopedia to enjoy yourself at the Air Combat Museum, it can’t hurt.
Here, you can see various ground-level fighting vehicles in addition to the aircraft.
You may have never seen such warships outside of a historical drama.
American military prowess is exemplified by military-based attractions like the Air Combat Museum.
This museum is only open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays.
Although admission is free, you might want to consider making a donation.
Address: 835 S Airport Dr, Springfield, IL 62707, United States
13. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has the most extensive collection of materials pertaining to Abraham Lincoln.
As one might anticipate from a presidential library, this one has impeccable archiving, keeping more than 1,000 objects signed by Lincoln.
Given Lincoln’s significance, each of these artifacts should be valued highly.
You can gain a more comprehensive understanding of Lincoln’s life in the adjoining museum, which is reachable by skywalk.
He was raised in a log cabin in Kentucky, and it tells the narrative of how he handled the tremendous pressure of becoming president during one of the most trying periods in American history.
Knowing or reading about Abraham Lincoln is one thing.
Being close to all of these amazing artworks honoring his life and accomplishments is quite another.
Every day of the week, the museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The library is closed on weekends and closes at 4:30 p.m.
Adult visitors pay $15, seniors 62 and over and students with IDs pay $12, military personnel pay $10, and children aged five to fifteen pay $6.
Address: 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701, United States
15. Cozy Dog Drive In
Movies are not shown at another fantastic drive-in in Springfield.
They do serve good hot dogs, though.
If you’ve ever had a “Cozy Dog,” which is a hot dog on a stick, you can thank Cozy Dog Drive In since that’s where the delicious treat first appeared.
Another enjoyable location along Route 66 is this one.
The most recent site began operations in 1996, whereas the original one opened in 1949.
But the new location is adjacent to the old one.
Maintaining family ownership and making sure the recipes remain accurate and the cuisine remains delectable are two other customs that have been upheld.
Many tourist attractions revolve around food.
As you bite into their distinctive product, Cozy Dog Drive In will undoubtedly make you feel warm.
You can visit here from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day but Sunday.
Address: 2935 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703, United States
16. Route 66 Drive In Theater
Even though they’re not as common as they were a few decades ago, drive-in theaters are still a fantastic way to pass the time.
An excellent example of a throwback attraction is the Route 66 Drive In Theater.
You should definitely check out a double feature here if you’re in Springfield during the summer.
A drive-in movie is a lot of fun, and one of the best venues to see one is the Route 66 Drive In Theater.
You can watch a movie in the convenience of your car.
As a teenager, you may recall watching drive-in movies.
One of the best places to view a movie in Springfield is the Route 66 Drive-In Theater.
This theater perfectly captures the essence of a drive-in.
Address: 1700 Recreation Dr, Springfield, IL 62711, United States
17. Dana-Thomas House
Important sites are sometimes worth seeing not because of the people who lived there but because of the people who created them.
An excellent illustration of this occurrence is the Dana-Thomas House in Springfield.
This structure was the brainchild of architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
His genius is evident in every aspect of this house.
Completed in 1904, this house was a precursor to Wright’s Prairie-style architecture.
It features more than 250 glass doors and windows that were created with sheer creativity, and it has around three dozen rooms.
It was constructed after socialite Susan Lawrence Dana urged Wright to renovate her family’s home so she could host guests more effectively.
Her guests must have been absolutely blown away.
In terms of subtle architecture, the Dana-Thomas House still stands as a remarkable example.
Frank Lloyd Wright was able to create buildings that were not only incredibly beautiful but also functional and useful.
It’s a must-see if you want to be genuinely inspired by a house, and it contributes to Springfield’s status as one of the most picturesque travel destinations in the United States.
On Mondays and Tuesdays, the Dana-Thomas House is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; on all other days, it is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 301 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield, IL 62703, United States
18. Illinois State Capitol
The Old Capitol Building was decommissioned shortly after it was constructed.
The new one is undoubtedly catching up in years, though.
Since its completion in 1868, it has remained one of Springfield’s top tourist destinations.
From the exterior, the Illinois State Capitol is stunning, especially with its imposing dome.
You could be astounded, nevertheless, when you enter and see the dome’s interior’s vibrant design.
Who knew stained glass could be used for so many things?
This place has a ton of other interesting sights to view.
See the Illinois House and Senate chambers by taking a tour.
Additionally, you can observe the chambers where the state Supreme Court convenes.
It’s surprisingly enjoyable to see the Illinois State Capitol.
The tours are fascinating, and admission is free.
It is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends.
Address: 401 S 2nd St, Springfield, IL 62701, United States
19. Oak Ridge Cemetery
The Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., may be familiar to you, but Springfield, Illinois, is home to another significant one.
You can see the grave of Abraham Lincoln at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
It is a worthy homage to a great person who made a positive impact on the world.
This isn’t your typical graveyard.
The mausoleum is 117 feet tall and has a rotunda as part of its dramatic interior design.
Lincoln is interred here with his wife and three of their children.
Oak Ridge Cemetery’s tributes for those who lost their lives in wars like World War II and the Vietnam War are another reason it’s one of Springfield’s most interesting attractions.
Address: 1441 Monument Ave, Springfield, IL 62702, United States
20. Vachel Lindsay Home
There were other notable residents of Springfield besides Abraham Lincoln.
The renowned poet Nicholas Vachel Lindsay’s home is a fun place to visit.
Anyone who want to see the life of a significant writer should take a tour.
Lindsay was born and died here, in addition to having lived here.
He was a celebrity of the medium because of his unique lyricism and creative attitude.
It seems as though Lindsay is still among us because so many contemporary artists are influenced by him.
If you’re searching for tourist attractions that focus on remarkable people, the Vachel Lindsay House is a fantastic choice.
Plan on coming this weekend.
It is open from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day of the week.
Address: 603 S 5th St, Springfield, IL 62703, United States
21. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon
Washington Park is home to several of Springfield, Illinois’s top attractions.
The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon is located in addition to the lovely floral grounds.
You’ve probably seen pictures of carillons someplace, even if you’ve never heard of one.
An arrangement of bells inside a tower is called a carillon.
They can produce delightful sounds and are operated by a keyboard.
You will frequently encounter them in places of worship.
The fifth largest in the world is located in Springfield’s Washington Park.
Among the attractions in Springfield, the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon is special.
It is a massive tool that also has the sense of a community member.
You can take a tour inside to admire its magnificent bells and enjoy the observation deck’s breathtaking views of the surroundings.
around order to attend the International Carillon Festival, try to visit around June.
Address: 1740 W Fayette Ave, Springfield, IL 62704, United States
22. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site if you only have time to see one of Springfield’s Abraham Lincoln-related attractions.
He has lived here for 17 years with Mary Todd.
You can get a better idea of Lincoln before he became one of the most significant individuals in the history of this nation by going here.
It’s also not a small log cabin.
It’s a great house in its own right, even though it’s not the White House.
More crucial background is given by the Lincoln tours and movie.
One of the best things to do in Springfield, Illinois, if you enjoy studying about Lincoln, is to visit his home.
In the winter, tours run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and in the summer, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Tickets at the visitor center are free.
Address: 413 S 8th St, Springfield, IL 62701, United States
Start Planning Your Trip To Springfield, IL
There are countless exciting and impactful locations to explore in Springfield, Illinois.
There are a lot of places to visit if you’re researching Abraham Lincoln.
Take in as much of the history as you can while visiting as many of these wonderful locations as you can.
Additionally, keep in mind that you possess the ability to create history, whether it be by advocating for the right cause or lending a hand to those in need.
Have a great trip!