April 1, 2015
Brought to you by Springfield, Illinois CVB this year to experience Abraham Lincoln’s life and legend. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is marking its 10th anniversary with special exhibits, programs and performances throughout 2015.
The city features numerous sites and attractions that provide insight into Lincoln as a man, husband, father and politician. These include the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech and the Lincoln Tomb, among many others.
Old Route 66 runs through the center of town. Travelers along the “Mother Road” often stop for an original “Cozy Dog” at the Cozy Dog Drive In, still operated by the same family that founded the business in the 1940s. A visit to the Route 66 Drive In Movie Theatre recalls nostalgic summer nights eating popcorn and watching a double feature on the big screen. South of town you’ll find “Brick 66,” a section of original brick road from 1931 nestled between two corn fields.
Springfield abounds with other interesting and unique things to do, including the Dana Thomas House, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces of the early Prairie Style, and featuring the most complete collection of original Wright furnishings and art glass. The Illinois State Museum tells the story of the state’s cultural and natural history with interactive displays, life-size dioramas and a gift shop full of the work of Illinois artists. The State Capitol building gives visitors an insider’s look at state politics in the beautiful Renaissance Revival/Second Empire style building topped with a 405 foot dome.
When you’re done touring, spend some time cooling off at Knight’s Action Park, a fully equipped water park with amusements, mini-golf, batting cages and lots more family fun. Or, spend your evening on a spooky ghost walk exploring the unusual and bizarre side of Abraham Lincoln’s Springfield.
The city that Abraham Lincoln loved has its fair share of quirky food traditions, original Route 66 treats and “as-seen-on-TV” curiosities that appeal to both adventurous eaters and those that crave down-home comfort food. So when you’re ready to dine, make sure to sample a “Horseshoe” sandwich, feast on a giant pancake at Charlie Parker’s Diner or visit the country’s oldest drive-up window at the Maid Rite.
Visit us in Always Legendary Springfield, Illinois for sites dedicated to the life of Abraham Lincoln, Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, the Illinois State Capitol and more. Visitors have a wide range of lodging options, from luxury full-service hotels to economy chains to quaint bed and breakfasts. Add in unique local dining, nightlife and recreation options and you’re on your way to one great getaway.
More information about the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum’s 10th anniversary can be found at Springfield Illinois and information about Self-Guided Tours.
