Springfield

Tourist places in Springfield, Springfield Travel Info

Springfield City Overview

Springfield is the capital city of the state of Illinois and the county seat of Sangamon County. It is most famous for being the home of Abraham Lincoln before he became President. The city is rich in history and serves as a center for government, healthcare, and education.

Location and Climate

Springfield is located in central Illinois. It has a humid continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with variable but often pleasant weather. The flat landscape is typical of the prairie state.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Springfield is in the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild. These seasons are ideal for walking tours of the historic sites. Summer can be hot, while winter can be cold and icy, though indoor museums remain open.

Best Ways to Get Around

Springfield is easy to navigate by car. The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) operates buses throughout the city. For visitors focused on the Lincoln sites downtown, walking is a viable option as many attractions are clustered together. Amtrak also serves the city.

Top 5 Things to Do

  1. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: Immerse yourself in the life and legacy of the 16th President through state-of-the-art exhibits and artifacts.
  2. Tour the Lincoln Home National Historic Site: Walk through the only home Lincoln ever owned and the surrounding historic neighborhood restored to its 1860s appearance.
  3. Explore the Illinois State Capitol: Take a tour of the current state capitol building, known for its stunning Renaissance Revival architecture and glass dome.
  4. Visit the Lincoln Tomb: Pay respects at the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary, and three of their sons in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
  5. Wander through the Dana-Thomas House: Tour this architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, featuring the largest collection of site-specific glass and furniture.