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Always Legendary Springfield, Illinois

AAA Staff Writer
AAA Staff Writer 2 Min Read
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Lincoln Presidential Museum in the evening Photo courtesy of Visit Springfield

Travel the iconic Route 66 to Springfield. From history to architecture and culinary delights to performing arts, it’s definitely a “more than one day” destination.

Step into the past and the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home 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 Mead, 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 peaceful experience. A woodland and prairie garden with over 5 miles of trails leads 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 Route 66 Experience; a new Mural and Wayside Exhibits Trail; 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.

Springfield is the place to be Sept. 26-28, 2025, when over 1,000 cars and 30,000 spectators roar into town for the 24th annual International Mother Road Festival! Enjoy cars, food, music, and fun for the whole family! Don’t miss Saturday’s burnout competition and Miss Mother Road contest.

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

Legendary Springfield, Illinois

Discover Springfield, Illinois: Lincoln history, Route 66, food & festivals

Explore Springfield, IL—where Route 66 history meets Lincoln heritage. Visit iconic sites, enjoy local food like the Cozy Dog and Horseshoe sandwich, and don’t miss the International Mother Road Festival!

Explore now!