Things to do in Springfield

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Springfield which includes a city
Photo provided by Springfield CVB - www.visit-springfieldillinois.com
Photo provided by Springfield CVB - www.visit-springfieldillinois.com
Springfield which includes a city
Springfield showing a city
Photo provided by Springfield CVB - www.visit-springfieldillinois.com
Photo provided by Springfield CVB - www.visit-springfieldillinois.com

Springfield Attractions

Pull out a pen and a sheet of paper — now you're ready to start working out your to-do list for Springfield. This state capital has a wealth of sights and experiences that'll keep you on the move for days or even longer. Are you ready to discover the very best of them?

Learn what makes Springfield tick with the very best tours & day trips. Check out our top {1 fun activities in Springfield fun activities in Springfield}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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Recommended things to do in Springfield

Number of things to do
1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Springfield Self-Guided Walking Tour: $13
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Springfield

Free Things to Do in Springfield

They say the best things in life are free. Discover the following around Springfield:

Korean War Veteran National Museum & Library - Old or young, this place will stimulate your imagination and capture your mind.

Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site - If you're planning to explore the history of the region through its landmarks, include this one on your sightseeing schedule.

St. John's Hospital - If you want to see some of the more important or unique places in the community, it's worth visiting this place.

Adams Wildlife Sanctuary - Revitalize your mind, body and soul by spending some time in nature.

Things to Do in Springfield with Kids

Springfield has loads of close by fun things to do for you and your kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep everyone happy for hours.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Springfield? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Springfield

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

4.5/5(213 reviews)

Learn about one of the most revered presidents of the United States through museum artifacts and presidential papers.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Springfield featuring heritage architecture

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

4.5/5(214 reviews)

Come to this well-equipped facility to learn about Abraham Lincoln and to collect your ticket for one of the free tours that explore his carefully preserved home.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Illinois State Capitol showing heritage architecture, heritage elements and an administrative buidling

Illinois State Capitol

4.5/5(132 reviews)

Illinois State Capitol is just one of the places to see in Springfield, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's lively festivals and fascinating museums.

Illinois State Capitol
Lincoln\'s Tomb showing a cemetery

Lincoln's Tomb

5/5(157 reviews)

Pay your respects at the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and admire the magnificent monument that celebrates the life of the remarkable president.

Lincoln's Tomb
Illinois State Museum showing interior views

Illinois State Museum

4/5(35 reviews)

See ancient fossils, examine local Native American artworks and find out about Illinois’ rich heritage through natural history exhibits at this extensive museum.

Illinois State Museum
Front entry to the fabulous Dana-Thomas house. Built by Frank Lloyd Wright between 1902-04 for a local widow. The house has the largest number of FLW built furniture and art glass of any of his remaining properties. Tours are offered and we would highly recommend them as this house is special!

Dana-Thomas House

4.5/5(60 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Springfield with a stop at Dana-Thomas House. Experience the area's lively festivals and fascinating museums.

Dana-Thomas House
Old State Capitol which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and an administrative buidling

Old State Capitol

4.5/5(149 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Springfield with a stop at Old State Capitol. Discover the area's lively bars and its fascinating museums.

Old State Capitol
The grounds of this National Cemetery contain the remains of almost 800 Union soldiers, a large majority of them unknown by name. During the Civil War this was a large hospital which stayed open until 1866 to treat the wounded from the Civil War.

Camp Butler National Cemetery

4.5/5(29 reviews)

Enjoy a stop at Camp Butler National Cemetery, a landmark worth seeing in Springfield. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Camp Butler National Cemetery
Lincoln Depot featuring heritage elements

Lincoln Depot

4/5(57 reviews)

Stand on the site where Abraham Lincoln gave his famous Farewell Address and stepped on the train bound for Washington D.C. and his future as president.

Lincoln Depot

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Springfield

Old State Capitol which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and an administrative buidling

Downtown Springfield

4/5(301 area reviews)

See American history come to life at attractions dedicated to Abraham Lincoln, hop between varied bars and restaurants and celebrate the nostalgia of Route 66.

Downtown Springfield
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Springfield

Photo by Wesley Blackwell

Rochester

Frequently asked questions

Is Springfield worth visiting?
Whether you plan to experience the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in Springfield.
How do I spend a day in Springfield?
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and Illinois State Museum are two good places to start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Springfield while you’re there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Springfield?
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Springfield and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Springfield?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city attractions, such as Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Illinois State Museum and Knights Action. The average stay in Springfield is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your vacation, Lincoln isn’t far away.
Is Springfield a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city center, Springfield is a good destination to see on foot. Enjoy wandering between Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and Illinois State Museum. Then take a stroll through Downtown Springfield, located 0.2 miles from the center, and Southern View, which is roughly 3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Springfield with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what to do in Springfield with kids.
What to do in Springfield for adults?
There’s no shortage of things to do in Springfield, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Walnut Street Winery or Bank of Springfield Center.
Are there free things to do in Springfield?
In Springfield, Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It’s a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Springfield.