Explore America on the Ultimate Road Trip: Travel the Iconic Route 66
From history to architecture and culinary delights to performing arts, we are definitely “more than one day.”
Step into the past and the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned. At the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, marvel as you explore the world-class Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and take time to experience the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, designed by famed sculptor, Larkin Mean, and nestled in Oak Ridge Cemetery. 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.
June 4 – August 8
Enjoy our 17th Annual History Comes Alive live history experience. Meet Abraham Lincoln, take part as he delivers his most famous speeches in the original locations where he once spoke, and meet a whole cast of characters throughout the historic downtown sites. Enjoy the hop-on, hop-off free trolley service. Make a stop at the Lincoln Memorial Garden on the shores of Lake Springfield for a truly zen experience. A woodland and prairie garden with over five miles of trails leads you on a journey through the Illinois landscape Lincoln would have known.
Legendary Route 66
Historic Route 66 runs through Springfield and provides more than four dozen unique stops. New this summer, experience the Bob Waldmire and David Schwartz Exhibits at the Pharmacy Art Space, running through December 19, 2026. Stroll along the Route 66 Carpenter Park Alignment. Untouched for nearly 90 years, this original stretch of Route 66 is a hidden gem, not to be missed. Marvel at the Legends Neon Park at the Illinois State Fairgrounds Gate 2 Experience and the new Mural and Wayside Exhibits Trail!
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 “Horseshoe Trail” and eat your way through the capital city, enjoying our unique, one-of-a-kind open face sandwich creation!
Relax and enjoy one of more than a dozen wineries and breweries in the Springfield area. These locally owned businesses offer the best in craft beer, wines and delicious noshes in beautiful settings, many with outdoor garden areas, live music and special events.
100 years and going strong
Come celebrate the Centennial of Route 66 at the 25th Annual International Mother Road Festival, Sept. 25-27 in Springfield, IL! Three days of cars, music, nostalgia and family fun. Taking place in historic downtown Springfield, the event will bring together classic car enthusiasts and thousands of visitors from across the country to honour the legacy of America’s most iconic highway. Festivities include a classic car show, live music performances, a Friday night cruise, a 5K, the World Championship Cozy Dog Eating Contest and much more. Several celebrities will also join in activities throughout the weekend, including actor and comedian Chris Kattan, renowned custom car designer and builder Dave Kindig, and “My Classic Car” host Dennis Gage.
Regardless of your interests, Springfield has you covered with a host of sites, attractions, culinary delights and a variety of accommodations to meet your travel needs. visitspringfieldillinois.com
