This is another in a series of travel articles on historical sites dedicated to American presidents. Join us as we visit Springfield, Illinois to visit the sites of arguably America’s most well-known and popular president, Abraham Lincoln…
An Overview of Springfield’s Lincoln Sites
Located in central Illinois along Interstate 55, Springfield is home to three distinct sites associated with the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Anyone traveling on I-55 to Chicago or St. Louis should take at least half a day to explore Lincoln’s life and presidency and learn about the influence of him that he still feels today.
All three sites are located fairly close to each other in the general area of downtown Springfield. They are the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Lincoln House National Historic Site, and the Lincoln Tomb. Even if you only have a couple of hours to spend, you can easily see all three sites. Let’s take a closer look at each.
the museum and the library
Open for only a few years, the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a fascinating portrait of the life, political career, and current legacy of the president. Here you will find the most comprehensive collection of Lincoln artifacts and memorabilia anywhere. There is an introductory multimedia presentation that provides an overview and numerous permanent and temporary galleries depicting life during the Civil War and the many challenges during its administration.
The Museum also explores the presidency in general. Many exhibits rotate from other presidential libraries, so expect to see something different each time you visit.
lincoln’s house
About eight blocks from the museum is the small, two-story house where the family lived immediately before Lincoln became president in 1861. It is run by the National Park Service and tours are offered throughout the day. The house has been restored to its original appearance and some of the furnishings are original.
Tours are free, but you must obtain an admission ticket at the adjacent visitor center. Tours of the immediate historic neighborhood are also available, where you can literally walk in the footsteps of Lincoln when he lived here.
final resting place
After the longest funeral procession in American history, sooner or later the president was laid to rest in Springfield’s Oak Ridge Cemetery. The cemetery is about a mile from the center of town, and you’ll see the 117-foot-tall granite monument as you enter. The president is buried here along with many of his relatives.
Visitors from all over the world continually visit all three sites. While in Springfield, you should also visit the downtown business district with many unique and independent stores. Other sites worth visiting are also located downtown, including the Lincoln Law Office, the former Illinois capitol building, and the current capitol.
A great place for lunch is the popular Boone’s Uptown Grill, just a block from the current state capitol building. Try the famous horseshoe sandwich, a hearty mix of toast, ham, turkey, cheese and fries. It’s a Springfield original!
Summary
A visit to Springfield, Illinois to see the sites of Lincoln is an ideal trip for those interested in presidential and American history. The three main sites are within a mile of each other and can easily be visited in half a day. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy shopping in downtown Springfield and have lunch or dinner at one of the convenient independent restaurants.