Weekend in Springfield, Illinois – A Land of Lincoln Weekend Getaway

If you are looking for a weekend destination in the Midwest, we think you should consider Springfield, Illinois.  It may be a relatively small city, without a lot of bi city glamour.  But there are tons of things to do in Springfield, Illinois, and plenty of reasons a weekend in Springfield, Illinois will be a satisfying trip.  The city has some big time history, Americana, outdoor options, and family fun, with small town traffic and prices, Springfield may be ideal for you.  

I will qualify myself by letting you know that Abraham Lincoln is my absolute favorite president, for many reasons, and I enjoy learning about his life.  Springfield, has more opportunity to learn about Honest Abe than any other place in the country, even Washington DC!  Lincoln sites are abundant, including a National Historic Park. 

The city was also a stop on Route 66, with a number of attractions and roadside stops.  Some of that Americana remains, as do some of the restaurants that came in to business just to satisfy the multitudes of travelers.  Believe it or not, some classic comfort foods that were created right there.

Springfield is also the capital of the state of Illinois.  As the government seat big decisions are made here, and big names visit frequently.  Amenities that suit this type of atmosphere must be available.  The city has an opera, a ballet company, a symphony orchestra and several theater companies.  There are also art centers, collectives and studios, as well historic homes and mansions.   

Shoot, I am just getting started on all of the things to do in Springfield, Illinois.  There is more than enough for a great weekend.   You may be surprised!  So hop in the car, and head to Springfield, Illinois, for a Land of Lincoln Weekend Getaway.  

Before we go on, we should point out that Illinois has dozens of choices for fantastic weekend escapes.  If you are not convinced when you finish this article, then check out our St. Louis Weekend Getaway.  Yes, it is technically not Illinois, but it is close enough.  Or check out how awesome a Quad Cities Family Weekend is!

 

Springfield, Illinois, A Bit of History

First settled in the year 1820, the original city name was Calhoun, after a South Carolina Senator.  It was known for the fertile farmland, and the ample trading opportunities, and settlers came from throughout the eastern states.  In 1832, Calhoun was no longer so popular among residents, and they decided to rename their town after Springfield, Massachusetts.  Abraham Lincoln would take up residence in the new Springfield in 1837, and through the efforts of he and his associates, the city would become the third, and final, state capitol of Illinois.

 

 

The city was a hub of Whig party supporters for many years, but this gradually shifted as waves of immigrants moved into the city, and it transitioned to views more in line with the Democratic Party of the times.  Lincoln lived in the city, practicing law, and serving on his legislature throughout this time frame.  It was here that he would purchase the only home he would ever own, and from here that he would depart for Springfield after winning the heated presidential election of 1860.  

Soon after that election, the civil war would break out.  The city would become a training center for Illinois Regiments, some who trained under Ulysses S. Grant.  Camp Butler would open in August of 1861, and served as both an army training center, and a camp for confederate prisoners.  Today, the Camp Butler is a National Cemetery, the final resting place of many fallen soldiers.  

 

 

Half a century later, US Route 66 would wind its way through Springfield.  The city would become a key stopping point for those starting the drive to the west coast out of Chicago, with diners, service stations, and attractions. Although the highway has died, the legend remains, and the yearning to make a cross-country excursion may always remain.  Some of the original sites still stand, in Springfield.  

But, the truth is, not a lot of big deal type things have happened in Springfield, Illinois since Honest Abe and Route 66.  Yes, the Illinois Congress convenes each year, and laws are made.  And of course half of the Governors who make their home in the city while in office get wrapped up in criminal activities.  But otherwise, it is a pretty quiet mid-American city.  

 

Again, why spend a weekend in Springfield, Illinois??

Springfield is a relatively small town, with a population of just under 120,000.  That means no matter where you go, or what you do, there will never be huge crowds or huge traffic. Although this is not a small town, the pace is a bit slower than a huge metropolitan area. Getting around is quick and easy.  It also means lower prices, on food and lodging.  

Despite the smaller feeling, Springfield is still the government seat for the state of Illinois.  Big decisions are made here, and big names visit frequently.  Amenities that suit this type of atmosphere must be available.  The city has an opera, a ballet company, a symphony orchestra and several theater companies.  There are also art centers, collectives and studios, as well as some historic homes and mansions to experience.  

Then of course there are the Abraham Lincoln sites.  Whether you love Lincoln, or recognize his goodness and political genius the way that I do or not, he is still a President who changed the face of the United States.  You can delve deep into his life and try to really understand the inner workings of one America’s greatest men.  If you are not quite that interested, you can still get an overview, and be able to say you have indeed visited the 16th president’s home.  

Those interested in different types of history can find options to suit their interests as well.  From the geological history of the state and surrounding areas, military history, or seeing the American form of government in action, you can experience it first hand in Springfield.  You can also get to know Vachel Lindsay, a noted American poet, famed for the creation of sung poetry, and see the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright.

We will also out on the water, out on the trail, and out on the farm.  We may stop for a flight at one of several wineries or breweries.  We’ll have some belly warming comfort food.  Perhaps we’ll slide into the state’s premier water park and fun center, or spend an evening at an old school drive in movie theater.  There are just so many things to do in Springfield, Illinois.  Why wouldn’t we wouldn’t we want to spend a weekend.

Rather than give you an itinerary for a weekend in Springfield, Illinois, we are just going to give you the long list of things to do, so you can plan your own weekend.

 

Things to Do in Springfield, Illinois

We will go through them all in the following order:

• Lincoln Sites
• Other Government Related Sites
• Family Fun and Amusement Sites
• Unique Museums
• Historic Homes
• Route 66 Sites
• Wineries and Breweries
• Eateries

 

The Lincoln Sites

 

• Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site – the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned.  For a man born in poverty, owning a home was a big deal, and this was it for Lincoln.  He raised his family here, and really solidified his career from this house.  The home and surrounding neighborhood is maintained and operated by the National Park Service, so rangers give tours, and are on hand to answer questions.  The site does not have a Junior Ranger program, but does participate in the trading cards program.  The first floor is accessible.  The most essential of things to do in Springfield, Illinois. **FREE

 

 

• The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library – the most comprehensive source of Lincoln history in the country.  This state of the art facility features a museum geared for all ages, with permanent and temporary exhibits.  There are plenty of multimedia areas to keep visitors involved in the learning experience, and there are hands on areas bringing the learning to life in a fun way.  It is EXTREMELY well done, even in the realm of Presidential Libraries.  I got quite emotional is some places. 
• The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices – A state historic site preserving the offices used by Lincoln and his partner William Herndon, as they practiced law in Springfield, during the years Lincoln served on the Illinois Congress.  The site does not only preserve the offices, it also presents several other historic replicas, such as an 1840s Post Office, a federal courtroom, and a common room, as well as law offices.  An orientation film is featured, followed by a 20 minute guided tour.  The location is fully accessible, and on Wednesdays in the summer, a costumed law clerk presents the tours.   

 

 

• Lincoln’s Tomb – The final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, it is the most visited burial site in the united States, outside of Arlington Cemetery.  Visitors can tour the inside of the chamber, and it is accessible.  The tomb is place of honor and respect, and visitors tend to behave accordingly.  However, few can resist rubbing the nose on the bronze statue outside, as it is said to bring good luck.  The original burial-place is also nearby, but attempted grave robbery forced the move of the president’s body to the current location.  Memorials to Illinois soldiers of war are nearby as well.  
• Lincoln’s New Salem –  New Salem is actually located several miles outside of Springfield, in nearby Petersburg, Illinois, but I think visiting New Salem is a real treat.  The village was Lincoln’s home immediately prior to Springfield, and the entire log cabin village has been replicated.  In essence it is an open air museum, and a fantastic opportunity to see pioneer life, first hand, from soap making, to milling, and many things in between. 

 

 

Other Lincoln Sites:

• The Lincoln Depot – Also known as the Great Western Depot, available May- August.  
• Lincoln Family Pew – They were members of First Presbyterian Church.
• The Lincoln Ledger –  Records of Lincoln’s bank account, in the oldest bank of the state.
  

 

More Government Related Sites

 

 

• The Illinois Capitol Building – Take a tour of the facility and learn how our legislative system works.  Those who are lucky may get to see a session in action.  Also, the architecture is stunning, so it is worth a visit just to admire the craftsmanship.  Be sure to start your visit at the Capitol Complex Visitor’s Center.
• The Old State Capitol – Explore the makings of a states-house without all of the stiffness of live sessions and real congressman.  The Old Capitol was the operating state capitol for almost 40 years.  There is an orientation video, and both guided and independent tour options.  
• Camp Butler National Cemetery – Originally a civil war training area, Camp Butler is now the final resting place of many area soldiers from the civil war, through Vietnam.  It is a serene location, and one where honor and respect should be demonstrated.
• Executive Mansion – Tour the official residence of the Illinois Governor.
• Illinois Military Museum –  I actually found this small museum one of the fun thins to do in Springfield, Illinois.  It’s outdoor and indoor exhibits are honoring and preserving the history of the Illinois Militia and Illinois National Guard, from pioneer times through the modern war on terror.  

 

Places for Family Fun

 

 

• Knights Action Park –  seasonal.  One of central Illinois premier family fun locations, with an extensive water park, go karts, batting cages, miniature golf, and even a couple of amusement rides.  The whole family will find something they love at Knights!
• The Henson Robinson Zoo –  seasonal.  Home to over 90 species of animals from around the world, in natural type settings.  The zoo also hosts a number of educational classes for kids of all ages, with pre-registration.
• Kidzeum of Health and Science – A fun small museum designed for younger children with hands on exhibits.  Exhibits are meant to teach about personal health, and world health.  You can do cool, or gross, things, like look up the nostrils of a giant nose, or crawl through a giant leg to learn about the different layers of skin.
• Adams Wildlife Sanctuary – A protected wildlife area right in the city, operated by the Illinois Audubon Society.  A lovely example of an urban nature center, there are trails to explore, where wildflowers, butterflies and birds can be seen in their natural environment,  **FREE
• Lincoln Memorial Gardens –  Featuring 6 miles of trails, footbridges, ponds, and seating areas, the gardens replicates the natural environment of the state prior to industrialization and agriculture transforming the landscape.  Educational sessions and special events are held frequently.
• Prairie’s Edge Farm – A real working farm that hosts tours, and gives families a chance to pet and feed the animals.  Quite a treat for those who spend most of their lives in the city.  Advance reservation is required, but the farm works great on short notice!
• *** The Route 66 Drive in Theater – seasonal.  Yes that is right, before you hit the pillows, catch a movie at a real drive in theater.  There is nothing like watching a moving from the comfort of your own car, with some good, buttery, theater popcorn!
• The Springfield Park District hosts facilities for all interests, including a skate park, BMX trails, botanical gardens, sled hills, ice skating areas, campgrounds, disc golf, golf courses, and the list goes on.  
• The Springfield Marina – Get out on the water when the weather is nice!  Non-boaters can rent a paddle boat, so everyone can enjoy Lake Springfield.  

 

 

Unique and Magnificent Museums

 

 

• The Illinois State Museum – The State Museum features exhibits ranging from Anthropology to decorative arts, and everything in between, with a focus on the Midwest, and of course Illinois.  This was actually one of my first diverse museum experiences, as a young adult, and I still remember some of the displays, today.  I was particularly fascinated by the very large pieces of the state mineral, which is …??
• The Air Combat Museum – A fun and interesting look at the history of light and fighter planes.  A number of different models are on site.  Air enthusiasts will find this a “must do” among the thins to do in Springfield, Illinois!
• Daughters of Union Veterans Civil War Museum – The National Headquarters of the organization, and a museum honoring the memories of their ancestors and the union army in the civil war.  
• Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum – Sharing the history of African-American citizens in the area, and throughout the country, through the 19th and 20th centuries.  

A Couple More..

• The Illinois State Police Heritage Museum
• The Illinois Firefighters Museum
• The Grand Army of the Republic Civil War Museum

 

Historic Homes and Buildings Worth Seeing

 

 

• The Dana Thomas House – An outstanding example of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, with any of the original furnishings in tact.  For those who are not aware, Wright designed many of his works fully furnished, to maintain the aesthetic.  Remaining examples are rare.  
• Vachel Lindsay Home – The home of the notable Illinois poet, who worked diligently to bring poetry back into the mainstream of American culture.  The home is now on the National Register of Historic Places, and tours highlight both the history of the home, and feature Lindsay’s poetry and artwork.
• Elijah Iles House – Visit the oldest house in the city, and the History of Springfield Museum, in one stop.  
• Edward’s Place –  An Italianate mansion the was once the social center of Springfield.  See first hand what upper class life was like in the mid-1800s.  

 

A Few Fun Route 66 Sites

 

 

• The Lauterbach Tires and Service Giant
• The Curve Inn –  It may not look like a classic, but stop in and hear the story!
• The Original Maid Rite Drive Through
• Skinny Abe Lincoln Railsplitter Statue
• Chatham Railroad Museum
• Sugar Creek Covered Bridge

 

 

Wineries and Breweries

• Danenberger Family Vineyards
• Cooper’s Hawk Winery
• Sheedy Shores Winery
• Obed & Isaac’s
• Buzz Bomb Brewing
• Anvil and Forge
• Springfield Brewing Company
• Engrained Brewery

 

Excellent Eateries – There are dozens, but these are some of our favorites for local fare.

 

 

• Cozy Dog –  A Route 66 classic, and the home of hotdogs on a stick, aka, corn dogs.
• Dew Chili Parlor – Another Route 66 classic, with a recipe said to be over 100 years old.
• Try a Horseshoe – If you don’t know what this is, it is a must try in Springfield, where the creation was originated.  A horseshoe is the epitome of comfort foods.  Some of the best can be found at:  Fairlane Diner, Boone’s Salon, Ritz’s Lil Fryer, D’Arcy’s Pint, or the Dublin Pub.
• Maldaner’s Restaurant – Local ingredients with a Mediterannean flair, a Route 66 classic.
• Chesapeake Seafood House – Local favorite for seafood, featuring a weekday lunch buffet.
• Saputo’s – A local family restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes since 1948.  

 

Lodging Options

Of course all of the chain hotels are here, as well as a few specialty places.  There will be no problem finding a place to stay, except during the tenure of the Illinois State Fair in August.

• For a chain hotel, we have stayed at the Comfort Suites on Dirksen several times, and been very pleased.  You can make a reservation through our Choice Hotels link!

 Book direct & save with Comfort Suites for our Lowest Price Guaranteed! Enjoy spacious suites, breakfast, Wi-Fi and the essentials to be your best!

• Camping:  Riverside Campground is located a bit north of the city.  It is owned and maintained by the park district, and has RV and tent camping sites.  Fishing and hiking are available in the surrounding areas.  There is also a KOA to the south of the city.
• Downtown Stays-  There are often some fantastic deals on the Springfield State House Inn, right in the heart of all the things to do in Springfield, Illinois.  
• Bed and Breakfast:  For a luxury farm-house stay, try the Flagg Farmstead Bed and Breakfast.  It is highly recommended.  

 

Ready for a weekend in Springfield, Illinois?

Hard to believe there could be so many cool options in a small city in central Illinois, isn’t it??  But we are sure that it is more than enough for you, or you and your family, to enjoy a fantastic weekend getaway, at a pretty reasonable price.  We hope we have shared enough to pique your interest, and get you thinking about a trip to Springfield, Illinois soon.

Interstates 55 and 72 run through Springfield, so the city is easily accessible by car.  Amtrak service is available, with a station a couple blocks away from the Lincoln Presidential Library.  And of course, air service is available at the Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport.  If you are coming from anywhere in the Midwest, you can make it for weekend in Springfield, Illinois.

If you live anywhere on the map below, you can easily drive to Springfield, Illinois in 2-3 hours.

 

 

 

Be sure to check out all of our Weekend Getaways!  Other Midwest Destinations You Might Like:

• Weekend in St.  Louis
• Weekend in Hannibal, Missouri
• Weekend in Cleveland
• Weekend in Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Weekend in Frankenmuth, Michigan
• Weekend in Memphis

If your purse strings are tight at the moment, check out our Budget Destinations.

If that still isn’t it, try all of our US Destinations.