Old State Capitol Historic Site

The Old State Capitol (S 6th St & E Adams St) was actually the fifth in Illinois, though the first to be built in Springfield. Abraham Lincoln served as a legislator, tried cases, and met with well-wishers while running for president during his time in the Old State Capitol. The unique Greek revival-style of the building makes it a must-see for Springfield visitors. The building was dismantled and rebuilt in 1966, and then preserved as a historical site. At the Old State Capitol, relive Abraham Lincoln's "House Divided" speech, where he declared, "A house divided against itself, cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure, permanently, half slave and half free."

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The museum and library actually sit across the street from each other and are managed by the Illinois state government. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (212 N 6th St) uses immersive exhibits to tell Abraham Lincoln's story. Learn about the Gettysburg Address from a 31-foot-tall statue of Lincoln, or discover the significance behind the driving of the Golden Spike-the realization of President Lincoln's dream of a transcontinental railroad-through a working model railroad.

Abraham Lincoln's Tomb

The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site (1500 Monument Avenue) is the final resting place of President Abraham Lincoln, along with his wife Mary, and three of their four sons: Edward, William, and Thomas. The breathtaking tomb is brick encased in quincy granite, features a 72-square-foot base below a 117-foot-tall obelisk, and was designed by sculptor Larkin Mead. Visitors can stand within the tomb, surrounded by brass and marble, and read plaques with excerpts from Lincoln's farewell address to Springfield, the Gettysburg Address, and his Second Inaugural Address.