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Old State Capitol

1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701

Historic Sites

Within these walls a great man rose to prominence to become the 16th president of the United States. It was here Lincoln spoke the immortal words, “A house divided against itself cannot stand…” as the threat of a Civil War loomed.

The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. It is here that Lincoln practiced law, served as a legislator and gave his famed House Divided speech on slavery in 1858. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839-1876. The current State Capitol Building is the center of state government, where visitors can watch Illinois politics in action when the legislature is in session.

(The Old State Capitol is currently closed for rennovations)

More Information

Pricing information, how to find us, what's happening nearby....

Lincoln's Legacy of Giving Music Festival in Downtown Springfield

Downtown Springfield •  Jun 07 – Jun 08 @ 5PM

Join Springfield, Illinois and the surrounding community for one exciting party! With over 60 bands, 5 stages for live entertainment, family fun, games and…

Rees International Carillon Festival

Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon - Washington Park •  Jun 06 – Jun 09 @ 6PM

The International Carillon Festival, first held in 1962, is lauded as one of the world’s most important and prestigious carillon events. Join family and friends…

The Lincolns of Springfield at The Hoogland Center for the Arts

Hoogland Center for the Arts •  May 30 – Jun 09 @ 7PM

The love story we never knew, The Lincolns of Springfield, takes the stage at the Hoogland Center for the Arts

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WWII Illinois Veterans Memorial

Springfield

This memorial honors the 987,000 men and women from the State of Illinois who served our country during World War II.

Illinois State Military Museum

Rare artifacts, including the artificial leg of Mexican General Santa Anna, preserve and showcase the diverse military history of Illinois from its earliest citizen soldiers to…

Dana-Thomas House - Frank Lloyd Wright Design

Reputed to be one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s largest and most elaborate Prairie-style designs, the house has 35 rooms with more than 100 pieces of original…

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Old State Capitol

Groups can take an interpreter-conducted tour of the reconstructed Greek Revival style building or tour on their own. See the first floor rooms, government offices, two libraries, and more. Surprise students with surprising historical facts, like how Abraham Lincoln's final lying in state was at this very location on May 3-4, 1865!

supports classroom learning in: Social Studies.

topics covered: The Civil War, Presidents, Heritage.

The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois’ fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839 to 1876. The Greek Revival-style building is located in the center of a large landscaped yard surrounded by a replica of the original 1850s ornamental iron fence. In 1961 the building was designated a National Historic Landmark and in 1966 was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

contact info

Hrs: 9AM-5PM Daily.

HELPFUL LESSON PLAN(S)

Prepared by fieldtripdirectory.com.

Historic Site Lesson Plan

Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed; Boston’s Old State House, where the Boston Massacre and the American Revolution began; Washington D.C.’s National Mall, where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech; Virginia’s Jamestown settlement, the country’s first colony; Charleston’s Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired; New York’s Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants were introduced to their new home. All of these sites, significant to America’s history, can be visited, toured, and admired. While visiting one of the many historical sites around the country, consider the importance in preserving these sites.

Groups can take an interpreter-conducted tour of the reconstructed Greek Revival style building or tour on their own. See the first floor rooms, government offices, two libraries, and more. Surprise scouts with surprising historical facts, like how Abraham Lincoln's final lying in state was at this very location on May 3-4, 1865!

supports scout badges in: Social Studies.

Old State Capitol State Historic Site

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Old State Capitol State Historic Site, Springfield

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Springfield, Illinois

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The capital of Illinois, Springfield is a national place of pilgrimage for history buffs. This is where Abraham Lincoln lived and worked prior to his presidency, and where he and his wife are buried. Some of the attractions in Springfield associated with Lincoln are in the Central Springfield Historic District, including his house, lawyer's office, tomb, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library.

Other points of interest in Springfield are the Illinois State Museum and the Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. For outdoor attractions, the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon offers weekly concerts, and the Adams Wildlife Sanctuary is popular with birders and nature enthusiasts from across the state.

Whether you have a couple of days or just a couple of hours, have a read through our list to find the top things to do in Springfield.

See also: Where to Stay in Springfield

1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

2. lincoln home national historic site, 3. tour frank lloyd wright's dana-thomas house, 4. old state capitol, 5. washington park botanical garden, 6. state capitol, 7. illinois governor's mansion, 8. illinois state museum, 9. lincoln's tomb and war memorial state historic site at oak ridge cemetery, 10. thomas rees memorial carillon, 11. wander through adams wildlife sanctuary, 12. camp butler national cemetery, where to stay in springfield for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in springfield, illinois, springfield, il - climate chart.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is split between two buildings connected by a skywalk. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library is a public research facility that houses a collection of books, Civil War materials, manuscripts, Illinois newspapers, pictures, and maps. The Lincoln collection features more than 1,500 original signed Lincoln documents.

At the museum across the street, different exhibits range from a full-scale replica log cabin to a recreation of Ford's Theater, detailing the iconic moments of the President's life.

Address: 112 North Sixth Street, Springfield, Illinois

Official site: https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/

Lincoln Home National Historic Site is the location of the two-story home of Abraham Lincoln, and the only home he ever owned. Constructed in 1839, Abraham and Mary Lincoln lived here from 1844 until Mr. Lincoln's election to the presidency in 1861.

This 12-room, Greek revival home is a popular national attraction, and a ranger-led tour is the only way to see inside this historic residence. Available routinely throughout the day, guided tours are free, and tickets are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Address: 413 South Eighth Street, Springfield, Illinois

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/liho/index.htm

The Dana-Thomas House was built in 1902 by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It was one of his first major Prairie-style houses. This 12,000-square-foot home has 35 rooms and more than 250 art glass doors and windows, along with many other fine details.

Hour-long tours are available most days of the week, and while reservations aren't required, it's recommended to call ahead before your visit. Specialty two-hour tours can also be booked ahead of time, which provide more insight on the architecture and the man behind it all.

Address: 301 East Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, Illinois

The Old State Capitol was the center of Illinois government from 1839 to 1876. Abraham Lincoln served here as a state legislator, pleaded cases before the Supreme Court, and delivered his famous "House Divided" speech at this location.

Now on the National Register of Historic Places , the building was reconstructed to its original grandeur in the 1960s. Reconstructed rotundas, libraries, and the supreme courtroom are found within this historic capitol building, all giving a fascinating chance to jump back in time when Lincoln walked the halls.

Guided 30-minute tours are available, and visitors are encouraged to explore the rooms on their own. Reservations for the tour can be arranged in advance and are strongly recommended.

Address: South Sixth Street & East Adams Street, Springfield, Illinois

Washington Park Botanical Garden consists of a greenhouse area, as well as a conservatory that houses tropical plants. Some of the features on-site are a 5,000-plant rose garden, a scent and texture garden for the visually impaired, an iris garden, a perennial border, rockery, and outdoor cactus gardens.

This is an excellent place to visit year-round, with indoor and outdoor attractions. In the summer, the garden is a birding hot spot in town, as the colorful plants attract a wide variety of species. The botanical garden is also a venue for educational programs and events, as well as free guided tours for groups of 10 or more (call ahead to book).

Address: 1740 West Fayette Avenue, Springfield, Illinois

As the state of Illinois grew, so did the need for more space at the state capitol. As a result, the "old" state capitol was replaced with a new building, and the first legislative session was held here in 1877.

The Illinois State Capitol in Springfield is one of the tallest buildings in central Illinois and features an intricate design both inside and out. Visitors are encouraged to tour the State Capitol on their own during operating hours, and guided tours can be reserved ahead of time.

Address: 401 South Second Street, Springfield, Illinois

Dating from 1885, this historic mansion is one of the most interesting free things to do in Springfield. After your visit at the State Capitol, walk a few blocks and pop in here.

The mansion has been beautifully preserved and restored over the years and today is an excellent representation of décor and architecture from the turn of the century. The spiral staircase is one of the highlights of a visit.

Tours are available weekday afternoons and need to be booked in advance.

Official site: https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/GovernorsMansion

The Illinois State Museum in Springfield was founded in 1877 as a natural history museum. Today, the museum features nearly 100,000 square feet of space, with permanent and changing exhibits on art, anthropology, and natural history. There is also an emphasis on Native American heritage and the history of Illinois.

The three permanent exhibitions include At Home in the Heartland , detailing over 300 years of Illinois history; Changes: Dynamic Illinois Environments , an interactive exhibit of natural history of the region; and Peoples of the Past , an extensive area of dioramas detailing the rich Native American History of Illinois.

If you have children with you, they will enjoy the Mary Ann MacLean Play Museum . The play area is packed with fun, interactive science-based activities.

The Illinois State Museum is headquartered in Springfield with other branches across the state.

Address: 502 South Spring Street, Springfield

Official site: http://www.museum.state.il.us/

Oak Ridge Cemetery is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln ; his wife; and three of their children, Edward, William, and Thomas. Lincoln's Tomb State Historic Site is a 117-foot-tall granite tomb, built to allow space for other members of the Lincoln family as well, although they have chosen not to be buried here.

The interior of the memorial was constructed of marble and features a rotunda and burial room. Also located in the cemetery are memorials dedicated to Illinoisians who served their country from WWII to the Vietnam War.

Address: 1500 Monument Avenue, Springfield

The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon in Springfield is a 12-story tower located in Washington Park . The structure has three observation decks at different levels that allow visitors to get a close-up view of the 67 imported bells, as well as the beautiful surrounding green space.

The Carillon is also home to numerous community events, including the International Carillon Festival held each year since 1962. To hear original compositions and pop classics chiming from the bell tower, it's recommended to check out this community attraction when the weekly concerts are scheduled.

Official site: http://carillon-rees.org/

Owned and operated by the Illinois Audubon Society, the Margery Adams Wildlife Sanctuary is a 40-acre natural space close to the center of town. A good place to begin a visit is the historic Adams family home, built in the 1850s and now the state headquarters for the Audubon Society.

From here, it's easy to navigate the hiking trails that wind through the property, as well as the different habitats, including prairies, wetlands, and upper woodlands. Birders often flock to Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, as does anyone who appreciates time spent in nature.

Admission is free.

Address: 315 E Clear Lake Ave, Springfield, Illinois

Official site: https://illinoisaudubon.org/location/adams-wildlife-sanctuary/

Established in 1862, the cemetery at Camp Butler is all that remains of a once thriving Union training grounds, hospital, and prison for Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. Soldiers from both sides of the Civil War are buried on the site, and today, veterans from other American conflicts also find their final home at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

On the grounds is a circa 1908 Superintendents Lodge, as well as numerous memorials dedicated to soldiers and their sacrifice. Visitors are free to tour the grounds any day from 8am to sundown, and annual ceremonies take place on significant dates, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

Address: 5063 Camp Butler Road, Springfield, Illinois

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/national_cemeteries/illinois/camp_butler_national_cemetery.html

For easy access to Springfield's top attractions, the best place to stay is in the city center, preferably within walking distance of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. From here, it's a short stroll to most of the prime tourist sites, including the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Illinois State Museum, and the Old State Capitol. Here are some highly rated hotels in or near the city center:

Luxury Hotels:

• Springfield has no true luxury hotels, but the following properties are at the top end of the range and lie in the best locations. Only five minutes on foot to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel boasts one of the city's best locations for sightseeing and has an indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center.
• Right nearby, the pet-friendly Wyndham Springfield City Centre adds valet parking and two restaurants.
• The State House Inn - Trademark Collection by Wyndham , with a fitness center, friendly staff, and free breakfast, is only a few blocks away from the State Capitol.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• An easy five-minute stroll to the Presidential Museum and Library, the Carpenter Street Hotel offers free breakfast and parking.
• The rooms are fresh, comfortable, and modern at the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson , about a 10-minute drive from downtown. It has an indoor pool and fitness center, as well as a free breakfast.
• The pet-friendly Drury Inn & Suites Springfield , with free breakfast and dinner as well as an indoor pool and hot tub, is also a drive from downtown attractions, but many chain restaurants are nearby.

Budget Hotels:

• About two miles from downtown attractions, the recently constructed La Quinta Inn & Suites Springfield has free breakfast and an indoor pool.
• Also with an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast is the BEST WESTERN Clearlake Plaza , near the Interstate, a 10-minute drive from downtown attractions.
• Motel 6 Springfield offers clean rooms with wood laminate floors, as well as free parking and a seasonal outdoor pool. Pets are welcome at all these budget hotels.

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Old State Capitol

1 Old State Capitol Plaza (Cross Streets: Sixth and Adams) Springfield, IL 62701 217-785-7960 www2.illinois.gov/dnrhistoric/Experience/Sites/Central/Pages/Lincoln-Herndon.aspx

Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Old State Capitol played an important part in Abraham Lincoln's life. Not only did he visit frequently as a lawyer and politician, but also served here as an Illinois Congressman. It was in the Representatives Hall in 1858 that he delivered his famous "House Divided" speech. In 1865 the President's body lay in state here before interment in Oak Ridge Cemetery. The present building, reconstructed in the 1960s, is accessible via an underground route that begins in an attractive brick kiosk on the south side of the Old State Capitol. To request an escort into the building, ring the bell (labeled with a wheelchair symbol) at the foot of the south steps. The underground parking garage, entered on S. 6th St. between Adams and Washington, connects directly by elevator. Visitors can view the building on their own or take a 30-minute guided tour.

• 9am-5pm everyday, all year round
• Closed on the following days: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day
• Last tour begins 45 minutes before closing time
• Increase dollar amounts shown. Adults should be $5, children are $2.

Parking/Loading Zone

• Street parking
• Public Parking Garage Adams and Washington Sts.(underground)
• Note: Connects directly to Old State Capitol—elevator is to the right as one enters the building

Educational Programs

• Educational video on history and usage of the site
• History Comes Alive programming running from June to August

Features for People with Service Animals

• Location—Lawn surrounding building

Hearing >> Top of page navigation  

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Features for People with Hearing Loss

• Brochure with history of building
• Advance notice required

<< Info Vision >> Top of page navigation  

Features for People with Vision Loss

• Guiding/orientation during tour—on request
• Elevator has audible indicators
• Braille/Tactile Signage—elevator controls, hoistways, restrooms
• Interior Signage—large print, high contrast, non-glare
• No undetectable protruding objects in path of travel
• Note: Unenclosed staircases present an overhead hazard

<< Hearing Mobility >> Top of page navigation  

Accessible Entrance

• Location—Kiosk on Old State Capitol Plaza South
• Level entry
• Door has at least 32" clearance
• Threshold less than 1/2" beveled
• Automatic or push button door—kiosk
• Manual door—Capitol entrance from parking garage
• Note: Visitors must take the elevator to UL (Upper Level Parking), go down a ramp with rails on both sides, cross the parking garage, enter the building, turn right and take another elevator up to Level 4 (Ground floor of Old Capitol).

Assistive Equipment for Guests with Physical Disabilities

• Available from—Docent
• Interior Access
• Corridor/path of travel at least 36" wide
• From kiosk elevator to parking garage
• Door clearance at least 36"
• Elevator controls 54" or less
• Note: Car size slightly smaller than standard—51" x 69"

Accessible Facilities/Amenities

• Brochure rack
• Seating—bench with arms
• Drinking fountain
• Program room—level 2
• On accessible route
• Space to approach/view/maneuver
• Freestanding cases 36"-39" max.
• Items viewed from above, 36" to top of item/case
• Labels are viewable from seated position

Performance Space

• Note: In seasonable weather, the Old State Capitol lawn is used for events and performances

<< Vision Restroom >> Top of page navigation  

Accessible Public Restroom—Ambulatory Stall Only

• Men's and Women's
• Access symbol identifies facility
• Entry door at least 32" clearance
• Stall door at least 32" clearance
• Stall door swings out
• Ambulatory stall only—grab bars on both sides of raised toilet
• Faucet controls automatic or lever type
• Easy grasp/lever handle or none
• Note: No wheelchair stall available

<< Mobility Top of page navigation  

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Photo - Terence Farmer

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Illinois government almost named Chicago its capital in the 1870s, despite the progress in Springfield, but the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 put an end to such possibilities. Today, the capitol is filled with beautiful murals, paintings and statues, such as Illinois Welcoming the World .

Springfield

Capitol Information Desk - 217-782-2099

Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau - 800-545-7300 (Group guided tour reservations)

Map to the Capitol Building in Springfield Illinois Capitol Website

Images from the Capitol

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Comments from readers

We enjoyed ourselves at the Illinois State Capitol. The highlight was the tour stop in the galleries of the Senate and House chambers. Beautiful light fixtures and a very unique "Speaker's Gallery." The interior of the dome was spectacular!

-the McGregors

We went on a lobby day for my daughter's school, which happened to coincide with *a lot* of other high-profile groups, so it was very *busy* - might be a little too busy for little ones. As I'm only in the capitol for lobby day, I'm not sure if this building is ever quiet. Might need to call before you visit. BUT, when you do visit on a day where organizations are lobbying, there's going to be a rally right in the rotunda - rallies are always short and high energy. I think it's fun, and a great way to show school-age children how government and social groups work. You're also allowed to watch inside Senate galleries, which is also pretty exciting. We didn't get to see inside House chambers, but I'll post again if we get to see. Capitol staff also know about the Capitol Collection books! Great job, the Capitol Collection! Many thanks for starting this awesome hobby! :-)

a happy (and kind!) capitol traveler

The stamp for Illinois is located in Room 107.

© 2016 The Capitol Collection : 303-564-7570 : [email protected]

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Route 66 Association of Illinois

Where The Road Begins

Old State Capitol Reopens for Tours

As for the building’s historical significance to Route 66, it has been the centerpiece of the city’s annual Illinois Route 66 Mother Road Festival. Interestingly, North Sixth Street, an early alignment of Route 66, runs right by the building.

Read the complete story on The 66 News.

VISIT SPRINGFIELD LAUNCHES 2024 #SNAPSPRINGFIELD SUMMER PHOTO CONTEST