Springfield, Illinois is Abraham Lincoln’s Second Home – Top Tourist Attractions

Discover the historic home where Abraham Lincoln and his family once lived!

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site isn’t just Lincoln’s residence—it’s an entire preserved 19th-century neighborhood that offers a glimpse into America’s past. Alongside Lincoln’s home, several other historical buildings in the area have been restored and are open to visitors. Walking through this district feels like stepping back in time to the Midwestern United States of the 1800s. During Lincoln’s presidential campaign, large crowds gathered in front of his house, creating a lively atmosphere. Standing there today, you can almost imagine the excitement of that era.

Access to Lincoln’s home is available through guided tours, which can be booked at the Visitor Center upon arrival. Since it’s a popular attraction, it’s recommended to reserve your spot as soon as you get there. The tour is conducted in English, for tourist visitors.

At the Visitor Center, you can also watch a free informational video about Lincoln’s life and visit the souvenir shop for unique keepsakes. If you have time before your tour, this is a great way to make the most of your visit.

2. Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site

Pay your respects at the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln.

Just a short distance from Lincoln’s home, you’ll find Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials, where the former president is buried. The cemetery surrounding Lincoln’s tomb is a serene and picturesque place, home to many other historical graves and even friendly squirrels, making it both a historical site and a peaceful retreat for locals.

At the deepest part of the cemetery stands a tall white monument, where Lincoln is entombed. Visitors are welcome to enter and pay their respects. Photography is allowed, so you can capture this historic landmark as a memento of your visit.

Due to security concerns, Lincoln’s remains were relocated deep underground within a reinforced concrete structure, creating the present-day tomb.

In front of the monument, you’ll notice a large bronze bust of Lincoln, with its nose shining bright. Legend has it that rubbing Lincoln’s nose brings good luck—a tradition that many visitors continue today.

If you’re visiting Lincoln’s home, be sure to include a stop at his tomb for a complete historical experience.

3. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit attraction in Springfield, offering one of the world's largest collections of books and exhibits about Lincoln. This site provides an immersive experience into the life and legacy of one of America's most revered presidents.

Inside the museum, exhibits are divided into two sections: Lincoln’s life before and after becoming president. The displays, including life-sized figures and intricately designed buildings, tell Lincoln's story in a visually compelling way.

While schools primarily teach about Lincoln’s great achievements, this museum reveals the struggles, criticisms, and pressures he faced throughout his presidency. There is also a vast collection of satirical cartoons about Lincoln, offering a deeper perspective on his leadership. Visiting this museum is a unique and invaluable experience that you can only get in Springfield.

If you plan to explore Lincoln-related sites in Springfield, stopping by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum will enhance your understanding and appreciation of his legacy.

4. Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site

Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site is the only surviving law office where Abraham Lincoln practiced with his partner, William Herndon. This site is an essential stop for history enthusiasts exploring Lincoln’s connections to Springfield.

Lincoln operated multiple law offices, but this is the only one that remains today. His office was on the third floor, while the first floor housed a small general store and a post office. The second floor contained a judge’s chambers and administrative offices. Directly across the street were the State Capitol and the Supreme Court, making this an ideal location for a lawyer of Lincoln’s caliber.

Visiting this historic site allows you to imagine Lincoln and Herndon passionately tackling legal cases and advocating for justice in Springfield. Interestingly, William Herndon later wrote a biography about Lincoln, providing firsthand insights into his life and career.

5. Old State Capitol State Historic Site

The Old State Capitol State Historic Site is a beautifully preserved building with a refined and elegant atmosphere. It is historically significant as the place where Abraham Lincoln conducted his political activities before becoming President.

Inside, a grand staircase greets visitors, giving the interior an even more majestic impression than its exterior. You can also explore the offices where Lincoln once worked, allowing you to imagine his presence in this very space.

This site is also known as the place where Lincoln announced his candidacy for the presidency, making it a landmark of great historical importance in American history.

If you're visiting the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, consider stopping by the Old State Capitol as well—it will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Lincoln’s legacy.

6. Illinois State Capitol

Located in Springfield, the Illinois State Capitol is a must-visit destination that attracts many tourists. More than just a government building, this Capitol is an impressive architectural landmark worth exploring!

The grand columns at the front make it look like a palace, and naturally, a statue of Abraham Lincoln stands in front of the building—a testament to Springfield’s deep connection with Lincoln.

Upon entry, visitors must pass through a security check, and while the first two floors can be explored freely, access to the upper floors (up to the fourth floor) is available through guided tours.

Inside, you'll find magnificent sculptures, marble details, and vibrantly colored stonework, creating a luxurious ambiance. A stunning chandelier hangs from the ceiling, and the dome’s intricate design is a sight to behold. Statues of Lincoln and other historical figures are also displayed throughout the Capitol.

The Illinois State Capitol is a landmark best explored at a leisurely pace, so plan your visit accordingly. The building is open until 5:00 PM, so be sure to allow enough time for your tour.

7. Dana-Thomas House

The Dana-Thomas House in Springfield is a stunning architectural gem designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright in the Prairie School style. Today, it stands as a must-visit tourist attraction for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Visitors can explore the Dana-Thomas House through guided tours, which operate on a donation-based system instead of fixed admission fees. The interior design reflects influences from both Japanese and Chinese aesthetics, adding to its unique appeal. Additionally, there are hidden features like a bowling alley and a recreation room, which are exclusively accessible to tour participants.

Please note that photography inside the house is strictly prohibited. While tours are conducted in English only, they offer a fascinating insight into the home’s history and design.

If you're looking for an engaging and culturally enriching experience, the Dana-Thomas House is a must-visit landmark in Springfield!

8. Union Station

Built in 1898, Union Station served as a train station until 1971. Today, it stands as a historic landmark in downtown Springfield, located directly across the street from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum.

At the front of the station, you'll find a statue of Abraham Lincoln, making this location a significant site for history enthusiasts.

Union Station gained additional fame when it was featured in the 2013 Steven Spielberg film "Lincoln." The building’s interior was used for various film scenes, and visitors can now view costumes and props from the movie inside the station. For film buffs and history lovers, this is an exclusive attraction that brings cinematic history to life.

Experience the iconic moments of "Lincoln" at Union Station, a must-visit spot in Springfield’s historic district!

◎ Summary

It’s clear that the highlight of any Springfield tour is retracing the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln and immersing yourself in his legacy.

Through this journey, Lincoln transforms from a mere figure in history books into a real person who once walked these streets and called Springfield home. Visiting these historic sites will give you a deeper appreciation of his life and impact.

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Springfield, Illinois is Abraham Lincoln’s Second Home – Top Tourist Attractions