Is Springfield worth visiting? That depends—which Springfield are we talking about? With over 30 cities named Springfield in the United States alone, it’s easy to get confused. But whether you’re looking at Springfield, Illinois (the Land of Lincoln), Springfield, Missouri (the gateway to the Ozarks), or Springfield, Massachusetts (the birthplace of basketball), each has its own unique charm and reasons to visit.
For this blog post, we’ll focus on Springfield, Illinois, a city steeped in American history. As the former home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield is a must-visit for history buffs, with sites like the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. But there’s more to Springfield than just history—it also boasts a lively Route 66 heritage, beautiful state parks, and a surprisingly good food scene (if you haven’t tried a Springfield horseshoe sandwich, you’re missing out).
But is Springfield worth visiting for you? In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 reasons why Springfield, Illinois, should be on your travel list, from its fascinating museums to its classic diners and outdoor adventures. We’ll also share travel tips and advice to help you make the most of your trip to this underrated Midwestern gem. Keep reading to see why Springfield might just be your next great American road trip stop.
Table of Contents
Pros – Reasons You Should Visit Springfield
1. Rich Lincoln History
Springfield is Abraham Lincoln’s hometown, making it the ultimate destination for history lovers. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site lets you step inside the only house he ever owned, while the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum brings his story to life with immersive exhibits, wax figures, and dramatic storytelling. There’s also Lincoln’s Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery, where visitors can pay their respects and rub the nose of his bronze statue for good luck.
When I visited, the museum was the highlight—it’s not just facts and documents but an emotional, high-tech experience. Seeing his personal items, like handwritten letters, made him feel more real than just a figure from history books. My tip? Start at the museum for an overview, then explore the home, law offices, and tomb for a full picture of his life.
2. The Illinois State Capitol – A Stunning Building
Springfield is the capital of Illinois, and the State Capitol building is one of its most striking landmarks. Taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., its dome shines over the city, while inside, you’ll find grand staircases, intricate murals, and stunning stained glass ceilings. Guided tours are free and take you through the House and Senate chambers, where real political decisions are made.
Even if politics isn’t your thing, the architecture alone makes this a must-see. I took a tour and was fascinated by the building’s history and hidden details, like the bronze doors that weigh over one ton each. If you’re visiting during the week, sit in on a legislative session—it’s a great way to see democracy in action.
3. Cozy, Small-Town Feel with Big History
Springfield has a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, making it a refreshing break from fast-paced city life. The historic downtown is lined with mom-and-pop cafés, boutique shops, and charming 19th-century buildings, giving it a nostalgic, small-town feel. Unlike larger cities, you won’t feel rushed—this is a place where you can take your time, chat with locals, and soak in the history.
I loved wandering around the downtown area, stopping for coffee at Wm. Van’s Coffee House before exploring the quirky independent shops. Even though it’s the state capital, Springfield feels personal and welcoming. If you enjoy cities with character and a slower pace, you’ll feel right at home here.
4. Delicious Local Food – Home of the Horseshoe Sandwich
Springfield has a surprisingly great food scene, with plenty of hearty Midwestern comfort food. Its most famous dish, the Horseshoe Sandwich, is a local legend—a massive open-faced sandwich with Texas toast, your choice of meat, a mountain of fries, and a rich cheese sauce poured over the top. Other local favourites include cozy diners, BBQ joints, and classic Route 66-style eateries.
I tried the original Horseshoe at D’Arcy’s Pint, and it was a glorious, cheesy, gut-busting experience. If you’re a fan of indulgent, no-nonsense food, this is a must-try. For a unique twist, check out places that serve variations, like breakfast Horseshoes with eggs and bacon.
5. Oak Ridge Cemetery – Lincoln’s Final Resting Place
Springfield’s Oak Ridge Cemetery is one of the most visited cemeteries in the U.S., thanks to the Lincoln Tomb, where Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd, and three of their sons are buried. The towering monument is an impressive sight, and the bronze Lincoln statue at the entrance is a popular spot where visitors rub his nose for good luck.
Even if cemeteries aren’t usually on your itinerary, this one is worth a visit. Walking into the tomb chamber and seeing Lincoln’s final resting place was surprisingly moving. It’s a peaceful, well-kept site, and a must-see for anyone following Lincoln’s journey in Springfield.
6. Fantastic Route 66 Attractions
Springfield sits along the legendary Route 66, making it a great stop for road trip lovers. The city is home to classic Route 66 diners, neon signs, and quirky roadside attractions, including the Cozy Dog Drive-In, where the corn dog was invented. There’s also the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, one of the last of its kind, perfect for a nostalgic movie night.
I loved the retro vibe at Motorheads Bar & Grill, a Route 66-themed restaurant filled with memorabilia from the highway’s golden era. If you’re into vintage Americana, Springfield offers plenty of fun stops to celebrate this iconic road. Even if you’re not driving Route 66, it’s worth exploring these historic spots.
7. Washington Park – A Green Escape in the City
If you need a break from history, Washington Park is Springfield’s best spot for relaxing, walking, and enjoying nature. It has scenic trails, a beautiful botanical garden, a peaceful lagoon, and a giant carillon tower that hosts live concerts in the summer.
I visited in spring, when the flowers were in full bloom, and it was a perfect escape from sightseeing. The park is also a great spot for a picnic or just enjoying a quiet moment away from downtown. If you’re looking for a scenic break, this is the place to go.
8. The Dana-Thomas House – A Frank Lloyd Wright Masterpiece
Springfield is home to one of the best-preserved Frank Lloyd Wright houses in the country—the Dana-Thomas House. Built in 1902, it’s a stunning example of Prairie-style architecture, featuring custom-designed furniture, beautiful stained glass, and an innovative open-floor design.
I took the guided tour, and it was incredible to see how every detail was carefully planned by Wright. Even if you’re not an architecture buff, it’s worth a visit just to experience the artistry of this historic home. For a deeper look into Wright’s genius, this is a must-see.
9. The Illinois State Museum – A Hidden Gem
The Illinois State Museum is an underrated attraction, covering everything from prehistoric fossils and Native American history to Illinois’ role in shaping America. It’s interactive and family-friendly, with exhibits that bring history to life through dioramas, hands-on activities, and life-size animal displays.
I was surprised at how much there was to see, from giant mastodon skeletons to a fascinating look at how people lived in Illinois over the centuries. It’s also free, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
10. Fun Seasonal Events and Festivals
Springfield hosts some fantastic festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from history and food to art and music. Some of the best include:
- Illinois State Fair (August) – A massive Midwestern fair with carnival rides, live music, livestock shows, and deep-fried everything.
- Lincoln’s Festival on Route 66 (July) – A mix of Lincoln-themed events, vintage cars, and Route 66 nostalgia.
- Old Capitol Art Fair (May) – A weekend-long event showcasing local and national artists in downtown Springfield.
I happened to visit during the Illinois State Fair, and it was a blast—think fried food, roller coasters, and live country music. If you can time your trip around one of these events, it adds a whole new layer of fun to your visit.
Cons – Things to Consider When Visiting Springfield
1. Limited Public Transport Makes Getting Around Difficult
Springfield is not a very walkable city, and its public transport options are limited, making it tricky for visitors without a car. The local bus system, the Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD), does exist, but the routes are designed more for residents than tourists. Buses don’t run late at night or frequently enough to be convenient, especially if you’re trying to visit attractions outside of downtown.
When I visited, I quickly realised that getting around without a car was a hassle. I relied on Uber and Lyft, which worked well but added up quickly, especially when visiting places like Lincoln’s Tomb and Washington Park. If you’re flying into Springfield and planning to explore beyond downtown, renting a car is highly recommended. Otherwise, you might find yourself stuck waiting longer than expected for a ride.
2. The Nightlife Scene is Pretty Quiet
If you love exciting nightlife, late-night entertainment, or a buzzing bar scene, Springfield might leave you wanting more. While there are some great local bars and breweries, the city tends to wind down early, especially on weekdays. Most places close by 10 or 11 PM, and beyond a few spots near the downtown area, options for live music, comedy shows, or clubs are limited.
I went out for drinks one evening at Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery, which had a great atmosphere and delicious local beers, but by 10:30 PM, it was already starting to clear out. The Alamo is one of the more well-known late-night spots, but even that doesn’t compare to the nightlife you’d find in bigger cities like Chicago or St. Louis. If you’re visiting Springfield with friends and hoping for a lively night out, be prepared for a more laid-back scene.
3. The Weather Can Be Extreme – Hot Summers and Freezing Winters
Springfield experiences harsh Midwestern weather, with hot, humid summers and freezing, snowy winters. If you visit in July or August, expect temperatures to climb into the 90s°F (30s°C) with high humidity, making outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable. On the flip side, winters can be brutally cold, with ice storms, strong winds, and snowfall.
I visited in late summer, and even though I love warm weather, the humidity was intense. Walking around Lincoln’s historic sites was a sweaty experience, and I found myself constantly looking for shade. Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the best times to visit when the weather is mild and comfortable. If you do visit in summer, bring sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and plan your outdoor activities for the morning or evening to avoid the worst of the heat.
4. There’s Not a Ton to Do for More Than a Few Days
Springfield is an amazing place for history lovers, but it’s not packed with tourist attractions, so some visitors may find they’ve seen everything in just a couple of days. Outside of the Lincoln sites, Route 66 attractions, and a few museums, there aren’t as many things to keep you entertained compared to bigger cities.
I spent three days in Springfield, and by the end of my trip, I felt like I had covered just about everything. The city is perfect for a weekend getaway, but if you’re planning a longer visit, you might want to combine it with a trip to St. Louis (1.5 hours away) or Chicago (3 hours away) for a more varied itinerary. If you’re expecting a long list of major attractions, Springfield might not have enough to fill an entire week.
5. Some Areas Feel a Bit Run-Down
While downtown Springfield and the historic sites are well-maintained and charming, some parts of the city feel outdated and in need of revitalisation. There are empty storefronts, abandoned buildings, and areas that haven’t seen much investment in years, particularly outside of the main tourist zones.
I noticed this while driving through some of the outer neighbourhoods—one street would be lively and full of character, while the next had boarded-up buildings and little activity. It doesn’t make Springfield unsafe, but if you’re expecting a polished, modern cityscape, you might be a little disappointed. The good news? The city has been working on redevelopment projects, so in a few years, some of these areas might look completely different.
Conclusion
So, is Springfield worth visiting? Absolutely! Whether you’re interested in American history, Route 66 nostalgia, or just a laid-back Midwest getaway, Springfield offers something for every traveller. Highlights like the Lincoln Museum, Old State Capitol, and Illinois State Fair make it a destination worth exploring. While it may not have the glitz of Chicago or St. Louis, Springfield’s rich heritage, friendly atmosphere, and small-town charm make it a rewarding stop. If you’re a history lover or road trip enthusiast, start planning your Springfield adventure today!