I suppose when one thinks about it, it isn't hard to understand why Springfield is overlooked by many as a weekend getaway hotspot. It doesn't have beautiful lakefront sunsets or cruises like Michigan City or Lake Geneva, or bluffs and foothills like Galena, the Rock River Vally, and Brown County. But, Springfield still gets sold short; as it turns out, its a wonderful place to spend a weekend.

Besides the many historic sites focused on Abraham Lincoln, Springfield offers plenty for the general weekend getaway-er. The Springfield Renaissance Hotel is one of the finest lodgings in the Midwest, and that includes those on Michigan Avenue (its also an incredible bargain, especially on the weekends).

The town itself has managed to escape the in-your-face commercialism you'd find at Carlsbad Caverns and Niagra Falls; you won't find a rubber tomohawk shop on every corner, nor will you have to pay a $2.50 "Lincoln Tax" for a can of coke.

Like everything else in this quaint town, the landmarks of Illinois' most famous citizen are easily accessible and line-free. And with virtually all the historic and government buildings free of charge, Springfield can be a lot cheaper than other weekend getaways.

The Lincoln sites are spaced closely together, which is a perk. And the block of Eighth Street between Capitol Avenue and Jackson Street is closed to car traffic (a very nice feature), and comes complete with gaslights and wooden sidewalks.

A good place to stop first is the Lincoln Home Visitors Center; here you can pick up tickets for the tour of Lincoln's home, which is only a block away. Don't dawdle too long on your way there; the tickets are free, but are dispensed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Lincoln Home Visitors Center is at 426 South Seventh Street, 8:30 - 5:00 (with extended summer hours). Their number is (217) 492-4241, ext. 221.

After the Lincoln Home Tour (which is sure to impress you, and make you happy with your tax dollars at work) you may want to tour the Old State Capitol. Its fully refurnished and restored to duplicate Mr. Lincoln's legislative years. The Old State Capitol is located at the Downtown Mall, on the corner of Adams and Washington, and is open March through October from 9:00 to 5:00, November through February from 9:00 to 4:00; (217) 785-7961.

If you'd like something a little more up-to-date, you could visit the newer State Capitol (which was built in 1868). It houses the current Illinois state legislature and constitutional offices. It is located at Second Street and Capitol Avenue, is free, and is open to visitors Monday through Friday, 8:00 - 4:00; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 - 3:00. Call (217) 782-2099.

Next to the capitol is the Illinois State Museum (Spring and Edward Streets; 217-782-7386). Its emphasis is on Illinois' history, geology, and anthropology. You'll also find photography and decorative arts, miniatures, and a mastodon skeleton (the highlight). There's a "hands on" discovery room for the kids, but this is a museum primarily for the history-minded. While definitely a worthwhile spot to visit, the Science and Industry Museum it 'aint. The Illinois State Museum is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 - 5:00; Sunday, noon - 5:00, and is free.

Another of Springfield's popular stopping points is Lincoln's Tomb. Inside are Mr. Lincoln himself (of course), his wife, and three of their four sons (the fourth, Robert Todd Lincoln, is buried at Arlington National Cemetary). The tomb (technically the Lincoln Tomb State Historical Site) is only a ten minute drive from downtown, at Oak Ridge Cemetary. The entrance is at 1500 North Monument Avenue, or at North Walnut Street. The monument is open daily, March through October, 9:00 - 5:00, and November through February, 9:00 - 4:00. This is also free; call (217) 782-2717 for more information.

There are a plethora of other things to see and do in Springfield; there's definitely something for everyone. In the summer you may want to visit Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site. This is near Petersburg, about 20 miles northwest of Springfield on Highway 97. Lincoln lived here for six pivotal years of his young life. About two dozen buildings have been restored to thier 1830's grandeur. It is open from March through October, 9:00 - 5:00; 8:00 - 11:00 during the winter. Call (217) 632-4000. New Salem also boasts an outdoor amphitheatre, where you can catch the local Theatre in the Park performances. For information and reservations, call (217) 632-5440.

Also of local interest are:

The Governor's Mansion, Fifth and Jackson Streets, (217) 782-6450 or (217) 789-6950.
The Lincoln Memorial Garden & Nature Center, 2301 East Lake Drive, (217) 529-1111.
Washington Park Botanical Gardens, (217) 753-6228.
Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 East Lake Drive, (217) 753-6217.

Springfield also has nine public golf courses and plenty of antique shops (sans inflated prices). Obviously this quiet little town has more than its fair share to offer the weekend adventurer than most state capitols. Take advantage of this great town soon!

Directions

Take I-55 south to Springfield (about 200 miles). Its basically a straight shot south, through Bloomington/Normal, and there you are. Have fun!