You're Going to Love Springfield
Springfield, the state capital and home to Abraham Lincoln from 1837 until 1861, is the largest city in central Illinois and home to numerous historic sites. Located on Route 66, the city is firmly entrenched in Americana with landmarks such as the Route 66 Hotel and the iconic Cozy Dog Drive In. Springfield also hosts the annual Illinois State Fair, a perennial favorite, in August.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Springfield
1. Discover the History
Springfield is home to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site; the Lincoln Tomb; and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum; which features a handwritten draft of the Gettysburg Address; as well as the Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
2. The Food
A local favorite, the horseshoe, originated in Springfield. The sandwich features Texas toast, a hamburger, French fries, and its secret cheese sauce.
3. Action-Packed Fun
Knight's Action Park, the largest in the area, includes 7 waterslides and a 20,000 square foot wave pool, as well as batting cages, go karts, arcades, a golf driving range, and an 18-hole putt putt course.
4. The Arts
Springfield hosts many performing arts venues, including the Hoogland Center for the Arts, the Springfield Theatre Centre, the Springfield Ballet Company, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, and many more.
5. Non-Stop Nightlife
Springfield has an array of nightlife options, including live music at Boondocks Pub and The Curve Inn, and craft beers and games at Brewhaus and Craft Beer Bar.
When to Visit Springfield
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Springfield has a continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer is the best time to visit, with temperatures in the mid 70s.
How to Get to Springfield
Plane
Springfield's Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) connects to Chicago O'Hare and Dallas-Fort Worth. A taxi into town costs around $10.
Train
Amtrak provides daily service to Springfield from Chicago and St. Louis.
Car
Springfield is off I-55, 200 miles from Chicago and 100 miles from St. Louis.
Bus
Greyhound offers direct service to Springfield from Chicago.
Airlines serving Springfield
Where to stay in popular areas of Springfield
Most booked hotels in Springfield
How to Get Around Springfield
Public Transportation
The Sangamon Mass Transit District has 16 regular routes throughout the city.
Taxi
Springfield cab companies include Lincoln Yellow Cab and All American Taxi Company. Fares start at $2.23 with an additional $1.50 per mile.
Car
Springfield is an easy drive, and parking meters are free nights and weekends. Rental cars start at $29 a day.
Car rental agencies in Springfield
The Cost of Living in Springfield
Shopping Streets
The White Oaks Mall is the largest shopping center in central Illinois. Downtown features a selection of antique, thrift, and specialty shops.
Groceries and Other
County Market near the State House has a selection of staples and hot and cold deli take out. Food Fantasies features organic produce and healthy take out dishes. Springfield is more affordable than other US cities. A gallon of milk averages $2.92 and a loaf of bread is $2.00.
Where to Eat in Springfield
D'Arcy's Pint, an Irish Pub, serves horseshoe sandwiches, as well as corned beef and cabbage, and shepherd's pie. Entrees average $11. The Osaka Japanese Steakhouse, specializing in raw and cooked Japanese dishes, features a sushi bar and hibachi tables. Entrees average $18.