Where History Meets the Road

Travel the iconic Route 66 to Springfield. From history to architecture and culinary delights to performing arts, we are definitely “more than one day.”

Step into the past and the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home the Abraham Lincoln 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. Within the walls of this stunning granite monument is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, his wife, Mary and three of their four sons. At the entrance to the Tomb 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.

Historic Route 66 runs through Springfield and provides many unique stops, including Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Entertainment Complex, the Legends Neon Park at the Illinois State Fairgrounds Gate 2 Experience and so much more!

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.”

Jump on our new “Horseshoe Trail” and eat your way through the capital city, enjoying our unique, one-of-a-kind open face sandwich creation!

Grab our Explorer Passport with a collection of 26 sites, attractions and culinary treats not to be missed.

Relax and enjoy one of more than a dozen wineries and breweries in the Springfield area. These locally owned business offer the best in craft beer, wines and delicious noshes in beautiful settings, many with outdoor garden areas, live music and special events.

Regardless of your interests, Springfield has you covered with a variety of sites, attractions, culinary delights and a variety of accommodations to meet your travel needs.

History Has Never Been So Alive

This summer History Comes Alive returns for its 14th Season as Abraham and Mary Lincoln lead a cast of characters on a trip back in time! Meet the Lincolns at historic sites throughout the city and learn about their lives in Springfield. From historic portrayals at locations such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Lincoln Herndon Law Office Visitors Center, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to a Flag Lowering Ceremony at the Lincoln Tomb with the 114th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry Reactivated, visitors are invited to become a part of living history. Listen to Abraham deliver some of his most famous speeches at the Lincoln Depot, meet and greet both Mary Lincoln and General Ulysses S. Grant, and enjoy live music and an ice cream social at Edwards Place.

Calling all foodies! History Cooks is back! Have you ever wondered what Mrs. Lincoln fed her hungry boys, or how the ethnic diversity played into the food of the Lincoln neighborhood, or what was served at Lincoln’s Inaugural Dinner? Check out the new History Cooks collection! Each week the Lincoln Home has partnered with Lincoln Land Community College’s Culinary School to feature a cooking demonstration inspired by the life and times of the Lincoln Neighborhood. Make sure to collect all of this season’s recipe cards so you can make your own history cooks dish!

Springfield wasn’t the only town Abraham Lincoln ever lived. Reserve your spot on the free Saturday morning shuttle to Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site. The reconstructed pioneer village near Petersburg, IL is where Abraham spent his life as a young adult. Let us shuttle you back in time so you can explore this site on your own for a few hours every Saturday.

Visit https://www.visitspringfieldillinois.com/Landing/HistoryComesAlive.aspx to find the entire schedule. We’ll see you soon!

Southern Dozen – The South’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides

Answer the call of the Southern Dozen! Discover a curated series of motorcycle rides called the Southern Dozen beginning in Johnson City, Tennessee. These are rides worthy of even the most seasoned road warrior with heart-pumping curves, breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, local gems and nearby attractions. Explore the Original Southern Dozen or the Southern Dozen Signature Rides and see all that Johnson City, Tennessee and the surrounding region have to offer.

Saanen Goats at Emerald Farm in Greenwood, South Carolina

Is anything more cute than goats? We don’t think so. At Emerald Farm in Greenwood, South Carolina, these friendly goats help make soaps, lotions, and other goat’s milk products right on the farm. Saanen goats are known for their friendly disposition, giving kids and curious adults alike the chance for some great pets. Getting to pet and feed the goats is only one of the many attractions at Emerald Farm, however; guests can also spot free-roaming peacocks, ride a mysterious train through acres of lush farmland, go antiquing, or enjoy a large room filled with working model train tracks.

Emerald Farm is one of many family-friendly farms that South Carolina’s Old 96 District is proud to have in their region! Old 96 District covers the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick.

Click here to learn more about Emerald Farm and other local farms!

Southern Dozen – The South’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides

Southern Dozen – The South’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides

Answer the call of the Southern Dozen! Discover a curated series of motorcycle rides called the Southern Dozen beginning in Johnson City, Tennessee. These are rides worthy of even the most seasoned road warrior with heart-pumping curves, breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, local gems and nearby attractions. Explore the Original Southern Dozen or the Southern Dozen Signature Rides and see all that Johnson City, Tennessee and the surrounding region have to offer.

See the itinerary and start planning your next ride here.

The Southern Dozen—Photo of the Month

Southern Dozen – The South’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides

Answer the call of the Southern Dozen! Discover a curated series of motorcycle rides called the Southern Dozen beginning in Johnson City, Tennessee. These are rides worthy of even the most seasoned road warrior with heart-pumping curves, breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, local gems and nearby attractions. Explore the Original Southern Dozen or the Southern Dozen Signature Rides and see all that Johnson City, Tennessee and the surrounding region have to offer. Learn more and start planning your ride: southerndozen.com