Top 14 Things to Do in Springfield, Illinois

Tap to Read ➤ Ishaan Govardhan Apr 20, 2024

As the hometown of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield has had an indelible impact on the nation's history. But there's a lot more than fascinating history lessons waiting for you in this great city.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Start with a visit to the stunning Illinois State Capitol, which has the prestige of being USA's tallest non-skyscraper capitol. Its silver facade is of French Renaissance and Italianate architecture.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Next, check out a guided tour of the Old State Capitol of Illinois. This Greek Revival-style building served as the capitol from 1840 to 1876.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. For change of pace, spend an afternoon among furry friends at the Henson Robinson Zoo. Don't miss their penguins exhibit!

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Get yourself a fishing license, grab your fishing rod and head to the southern outskirts of the city. Here lies Lake Springfield, with designated fishing areas where you can hook some bass or catfish.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. And while you're at Lake Springfield, you can rent a canoe or a kayak and go paddling on the peaceful surface of the lake.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Hiking through the greenery of Springfield's beautiful Carpenter Park, you'll feel yourself get attuned to nature. There are even more walking trails to explore in Washington Park.

Springfield is all about the 16th US President. Check out Lincoln's home, which is a National Historic Site. Walk in his footsteps as you learn about the fascinating early life of this great president. In the same neighborhood, you'll find the law offices of Lincoln.

Lincoln had such a deep connection to the city, that he was buried right there, along with his family at the iconic Lincoln Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery. Rub the Lincoln statue's nose for good luck!

History buffs are sure to have a great time in Springfield. For a crash course on Lincoln, you can brush up on your knowledge of key events in the president's life at Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Swing by the Old Capitol Farmers' Market for a helping of fresh produce straight from the farm. For 20 years in a row, this farmers' market has been supporting local farms in Springfield.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Spend some time strolling around the idyllic Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden, a park sprawling over 100 acres. In it, you'll find only those plants and flowers that are native to the 3 states Lincoln lived in - Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. If you're looking for thrill-rides, spend a day at the multi-amusement Knight's Action Park. From huge water slides to fast-paced rides in the sky, this place has it all.

And while you're there, you can watch a flick at one of Knight's Action Park's 2 Drive-in Movie theaters. You won't find such an old-fashioned movie-going experience anywhere else.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. You can't leave without a round of golf on Springfield's championship quality links, many of which are always in tournament condition.