History Comes Alive

Meet the Lincolns at historic sites throughout the city and learn about their lives in Springfield. From historic portrayals at locations such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, to a Flag Lowering Ceremony at the Lincoln Tomb with the 114th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry Reactivated, visitors are invited to become a part of living history. Listen to Abraham deliver some of his most famous speeches, connect with Mary over tea at the Vachel Lindsay Home, and enjoy live music and an ice cream social with the two at Edwards Place.

New in 2022: Calling all foodies! Have you ever wondered what Mrs. Lincoln fed her hungry boys, or how the ethnic diversity played into the food of the Lincoln neighborhood, or what was served at Lincoln's Inaugural Dinner? Check out the new History Cooks Collection!

Each week the Lincoln Home has partnered with Lincoln Land Community College's Culinary School to feature a cooking demonstration inspired by the life and times of the Lincoln Neighborhood. Make sure to collect all of this season's recipe cards so you can make your own history cooks dish!

Springfield wasn't the only town Abraham Lincoln ever lived. This year reserve your spot on the free Saturday morning shuttle to Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site. The reconstructed pioneer village near Petersburg, IL is where Abraham spent his life as a young adult. Let us shuttle you back in time so you can explore this site on your own for a few hours every Saturday. Make your shuttle reservation now!

Since the time of Lincoln, Springfield has welcomed Route 66, witnessed events that prompted social change, and experienced artistic and cultural development. This season, join the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for one of their free Walk, Hike and Bike Tours or reserve your spot on a Springfield Walks tour. Reserve your Walk, Hike, Bike Tour! Book your Springfield Walks Tour!

Get your kicks on Route 66 with a guided Ace Sign Company Sign Museum tour. Listen to concerts at one of the largest Carillon's in the world: the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, and the Levitt AMP concert series. Enjoy the live music during Artist on the Plaza. Explore the trails with a guide at one of Springfield's premier outdoor destinations, Lincoln Memorial Garden. Have one of a kind experiences at the Springfield & Central IL African American History Museum and the Illinois State Museum. Celebrate the birthday of Lincoln's former General President, Ulysses S. Grant, at the Illinois State Military Museum, and encounter Illinois soldiers throughout history.

It is these encounters, and more, that bring history to life!