Located on historic Route 66, Springfield is the history-filled capital of Illinois.
Step into the past and the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home the Lincolns ever owned at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the official library and museum of the 16th U.S. president. Experience pivotal moments in Lincoln’s life and enjoy immersive displays and amazing shows that explore the human costs of slavery and war.
The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, designed by famed sculptor, Larkin Mean, is nestled in Oak Ridge Cemetery. At the entrance to the Tomb itself, there is a bronze bust of Mr. Lincoln where visitors from around the world have stopped to rub the nose of the statue for good luck.
Make a stop at the Lincoln Memorial Garden for a truly zen experience. A woodland and prairie garden with over 5 miles of trails lead you on a journey through the Illinois landscape Lincoln would have known. Located on the shores of Lake Springfield and designed byLandscape Architect, Jens Jensen. Be sure to visit the Garden’s Nature Center and Split Rail Gift Shop.
Historic Route 66 runs through Springfield and provides many unique stops, including Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill, Museum & Entertainment complex. This classic car restaurant offers a themed menu and delicious drinks among the backdrop of the Route 66 & Motor Museum. While there, snap a pic with the World’s Largest Outdoor Route 66 Shield!
For the first time in its 50-year history, visitors can soar down Route 66 on the 4-story, iconic giant slide at the IL State Fairgrounds on Saturdays, May-August. Just around the corner from the slide is the Route 66 Gate 2 Experience. Walk the entire Illinois Route 66 corridor in microform. Marvel at the Neon Sign Park with new and restored neon signs, a paved brick road, a 25’ tall, fiberglass Route 66 muffler man, a drive-in theater replica and interpretive signs highlighting each Route 66 community from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge.
The Cozy Dog Drive In is a traditional Route 66 diner that became a part of the history of The Mother Road, and the history of Springfield, when, in 1946, inventor Ed Waldmire introduced the “Cozy Dog” – the famous “hot dog on a stick.” The Waldmire family still makes this delicacy today. Inside the diner, located on Old Route 66 since 1949. Maldaner’s Restaurant is a creative American establishment with a focus on farm to table food. Established in 1884, Maldaner’s is the oldest continually operated restaurant in Springfield on Route 66.
Plan to relax at one of more than a dozen wineries and breweries in the area. These locally owned businesses offer the best in craft beer, wines and delicious noshes in beautiful settings, many with outdoor garden areas, live music and special events.
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