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Shedd Aquarium

Old State Capitol

1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701

Historic Sites

Within these walls a great man rose to prominence to become the 16th president of the United States. It was here Lincoln spoke the immortal words, “A house divided against itself cannot stand…” as the threat of a Civil War loomed.

The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. It is here that Lincoln practiced law, served as a legislator and gave his famed House Divided speech on slavery in 1858. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839-1876. The current State Capitol Building is the center of state government, where visitors can watch Illinois politics in action when the legislature is in session.

(The Old State Capitol is currently closed for rennovations)

What's happening nearby...

Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season

The Nelson Center •  Sep 20 – Apr 05 @ 6:30PM

Catch all the action of the 2024-2025 Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season!

Read more about Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season

Pretty Woman The Musical at UIS Performing Arts Center

Feb 21 @ 7:30PM

Pretty Woman The Musical takes the stage at UIS Performing Arts Center on February 21st, 2025!

Read more about Pretty Woman The Musical at UIS Performing Arts Center

Michal Dawson Connor: Echoes of the Spirit, Sacred Melodies of the Heart at The Hoogland

The Hoogland Center for the Arts •  Feb 28 @ 7PM

Michal Dawson Connor performs at The Hoogland Center for the Arts February 28th.

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