Coming to Springfield, IL? Here is a 3 day guide for what to do while you’re here!
Perhaps you’ve planned a family vacay, a solo trip or you’re here for a wedding. But if you have made to Springfield, then welcome! Springfield, Illinois may be small, but it’s packed with history, charm, and great food! Here’s how to make the most of a short visit (2–3 days) in the city. Keep in mind though, before making the trip for any of the Lincoln sites, to call and make sure they are open! Government shut down is a real thing.
Day 1: Discover Lincoln’s Legacy
Springfield is synonymous with Abraham Lincoln, so start your trip with the highlights:
Morning
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum – An absolute must. The exhibits and life-sized displays bring Lincoln’s story to life in an immersive way.
Old State Capitol – Just a few blocks away; this is where Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech.
Lunch
Incredibly Delicious: Set in a historic mansion, this charming bakery offers homey breakfast and lunch meals, plus dessert. www.incrediblydelicious.com
Afternoon
Lincoln Home National Historic Site – Tour the only home Lincoln ever owned, preserved beautifully on a cobblestone street.
Stroll through the downtown historic district for local shops, antiques, and souvenirs.
Dinner
Saputo’s: Old-school Southern Italian restaurant serving pizza, pasta, traditional entrees and family style meals. https://www.saputos.com
Day 2: Culture, Nature & Quirk
Morning
Illinois State Capitol Building – Stunning architecture, and free guided tours run daily. This is a must visit if you want some pretty cool pictures.
Walk through the Illinois State Museum to explore state history and art.
Lunch
Cozy Dog Drive-In – Birthplace of the corn dog! A Springfield institution on old Route 66. https://www.cozydogdrivein.com
Afternoon
Washington Park & Botanical Gardens or Lincoln Memorial Gardens – Beautiful trails, fountains, and floral displays — perfect for a peaceful walk.
https://www.lincolnmemorialgarden.orgOr, visit Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright — a masterpiece of Prairie School architecture.
Dinner
Luminary Kitchen & Provisions or VELE for upscale dining.
If you’re feeling casual, Dew Chilli Parlor offers another Route 66 original (Springfield-style “horseshoe” sandwich optional!).
Day 3 (optional): Day Trips or Local Gems
If you have an extra day:
Lincoln’s Tomb & War Memorials – In Oak Ridge Cemetery, where Lincoln and his family are buried.
Route 66 Drive – Take a short trip north or south along Route 66. Visit small towns like Auburn or Williamsville for classic roadside stops.
Lake Springfield – Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or enjoy a picnic style lunch while overlooking the water.
Bonus Stops
Scoop Du Jour – Local favorites for your donut, ice cream and caffeine fix.
https://www.scoopdujour.netThe Wakery – A unique non-alcoholic late-night lounge.
Pole Barn Chic Events --- I can’t let this blog get posted without adding my own venue to this list! The PBC Venue is great for all things photos! Check out our wedding venue on Insta & Facebook under PBC Venue and Tik Tok under Illinois Weddings.
Pole Barn Chic is locally owned and operated. We hope to encourage engaged couples to consider choosing a locally owned wedding venue. We go to great lengths to exceed expectations, and you will find that locally owned wedding venues have far less turnover and that leads to better communication! We love shouting out and supporting our locally owned wedding venue and wedding business colleagues. Here are a few locally owned wedding venues across the US:
Willow Sky Ranch: http://willowskyranch.com
Celebrations Event Center: www.celebrationseventcetner.net
The Hillcrest Estate: www.thehillcrestestate.com
The Hidden Abbey: http://thehiddenabbey.com
Ellas Garden: http://ellasgarden.com
Round Barn Farm: https://roundbarnfarm.com