Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Illinois State Capitol

401 S. 2nd St, Springfield, IL 62701

Historic Sites

Watch Illinois politics in action, in this beautiful Renaissance Revival/Second Empire style building topped with a stunning 330-foot dome. Open daily for free tours.

The first legislative session was held here in 1877. The growth of the state had increased the need for more file storage and office space than the Old State Capitol allowed. Today it is the center of Illinois government. The building is topped with a 405-foot dome and is a convention of Renaissance Revival and Second Empire Style. Visitors can watch Illinois politics in action from balcony-level seating when the legislature is in session.

What's happening nearby...

History Comes Alive

Springfield, IL •  Jun 04 – Aug 08 @ 9AM

This summer, History Comes Alive returns for its 17th season as Abraham and Mary Lincoln lead a cast of characters on a trip back in time.

Read more about History Comes Alive

The 2026 Season at the Springfield Muni

The Springfield Muni •  May 29 – Aug 22 @ 8:30PM

Calling all theatre fans! The Springfield Muni returns with another exciting summer season!

Read more about The 2026 Season at the Springfield Muni

Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

Downtown Springfield-Corner of 4th & Adams St •  May 13 – Oct 31 @ 8AM

Visit Springfield's longest-running and most popular Farmers Market in beautiful downtown Springfield.

Read more about Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

You might also be interested...

Dana-Thomas House - Frank Lloyd Wright Design

Springfield

Reputed to be one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s largest and most elaborate Prairie-style designs, the house has 35 rooms with more than 100 pieces of original…

Read more about Dana-Thomas House - Frank Lloyd Wright Design

Lincoln Depot

Springfield

Restored 1852 train depot, from which President-Elect Abraham Lincoln departed for Washington D.C. on February 11, 1861. Lincoln gave one of his most memorable speeches from…

Read more about Lincoln Depot

WWII Illinois Veterans Memorial

Springfield

This memorial honors the 987,000 men and women from the State of Illinois who served our country during World War II.

Read more about WWII Illinois Veterans Memorial

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.