Springfield, Illinois: History, Lincoln, and the Heart of Route 66
The Lincoln Tomb, the Presidential Library, and Historic Route 66 all converge in Springfield — making the Illinois capital one of the Midwest's most historically layered destinations.
Located on historic Route 66, Springfield is the history-filled capital of Illinois.
Step into the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home the Lincolns ever owned at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Immerse yourself at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the official library and museum of the 16th U.S. president.
The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, designed by famed sculptor, Larkin Mean, is nestled in Oak Ridge Cemetery. At the entrance 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 by landscape architect, Jens Jensen.
Historic Route 66 runs through Springfield and provides many unique stops, including Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill, Museum & Entertainment complex. While there, snap a pic with the World’s Largest Outdoor Route 66 Shield!
New in 2025, visit the exclusive Route 66 Art Exhibition: Celebrating the Iconic Artwork of Bob Waldmire Springfield Native, Nomadic Hippie, Gifted Artist, and Route 66 Icon. Immerse yourself in the legends creative expressions and awe-inspiring attention to detail, celebrating the nostalgia and culture of Route 66.
Walk the Carpenter Park Original Route 66 Pavement - Nestled beside the scenic Sangamon River, this quarter-mile stretch of road has remained untouched and overgrown for nearly 90 years. Visitors can leisurely stroll down this historic pathway, enjoying wayside signage that offers fascinating insights into the past while soaking in the breathtaking scenery and rich history of the area.
Reminisce at the restored Shea’s Gas Station and take time for a photo opportunity at one of the original stations on Route 66!
Experience the journey, local tragedy and resilience of the Black traveler along Route 66 through the Route History Metaverse Virtual Reality experience.
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, the 25rd Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival will be held September 24-27, 2026! Be amazed at the Friday night cruise into downtown, as over 2,000 cars parade through the city to kick off the event. Enjoy live entertainment, a burn-out contest, food vendors, music acts throughout the weekend and much more. The event is free to spectators.
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.
Make your first stop the Springfield Visitors Center, and let our travel ambassadors get you ready for an experience like no other. While there, grab our Explorer Passport with 26 sites, attractions and culinary delights so you don’t miss a thing!
To learn more and start planning your Abe-mazing trip, visit: www.visitspringfieldillinois.com
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