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Springfield, Illinois can be best identified for its most famous resident, President Abraham Lincoln. The town is where Lincoln, IL opted to pursue a career in law.
He also met his wife in Springfield, and they lived here together while serving as a member of the House of Representatives. It wasn’t until he became the 16th president of America that he left the city, upon cheers from thousands of its residents who saw him off.
Lincoln attractions are the heart and soul of the town, but there are other fun activities you can do in Springfield. Here’s a list that’ll pique your interests.
1.Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library
Constructing this library took four times the period it took for the Civil War. But upon completion, it quickly became the most revered attraction in the country. It primarily features interactive displays, a reproduction of the white house as it was in 1861, hi-tech exhibits and multimedia programs. It was designed by top scholars and the opening was graced by retired President George W. Bush and 25,000 individuals.
2.Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden
Works on this garden began on the 14th of 1936 when boy scouts and girl guides planted the first trees that are now matured oaks. Since then, Abraham Lincoln Memorial garden has been maintained by members of the community and volunteers who manage the 100-acre garden. It has six miles of walking trails where you’ll find wooden benches each bearing a different quote by Abraham Lincoln.
3.Abraham Lincoln’s New Salem
The house is located 20 miles northeast of the city. It is a recreation of the town where Lincoln spent his early adult life. In the village from1831 to 1837, Lincoln lived here doing different jobs like; rail-splitter, soldier, boatman, surveyor and he also owned a general store. The Salem offers tourists an opportunity to experience the countryside and interactive exhibits with many handmade objects that were created in a fashionable and ancient style.
4.Get to Compare the Illinois State Capitol Buildings
At the Old, State Capitol building is where Lincoln uttered the famous words, “A house divided against itself cannot stand…” before the Civil War. It represents a crucial part of American history. Retired President Barrack Obama also announced his candidacy at the Old State capitol in 2007. He would later return in August 2008 to announce his running mate, Joe Biden. When visiting, they won’t allow you inside this building, but you’re free to take photos.
Looks fancy? Wait until you see the new capitol building. The State Capitol is the most important piece of architecture in Illinois. It has a 405-foot glass dome which is on another level. As long as there is no session inside, you’re free to go in and look around. As you would expect, you’ll have to go through security clearance.
5.Eat at Augie’s Place
At Augie’s Front Burner you’ll enjoy tasty flat iron steak, potato risotto, and carrots-yeeeeees! Augie’s restaurant offers one of the best delicacies when in Springfield. A word of advice! Start with the cocktails. Thank me later!
6.Get to See Abraham Lincoln’s Actual House
The Lincoln home historic site is the house where the former president lived with his family for 17 years, before moving to the White House. You’ll be given a tour of the house and you’ll even see his bedroom and his kid’s rooms too. You’ll see the servant’s room, the kitchen, and the bathroom. When he bought the house, it was small but as he got more money, he improved it by adding more rooms and items. The house holds an important place in the history of the United States of America, just like the other important items.
7.Lincoln Tomb
The tomb is inside a concrete vault 10 feet underneath the interment hall. Abraham Lincoln rests here together with his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, and three of their four sons. Lincoln’s eldest son was interred at the Arlington national cemetery in Virginia. The tomb is visited daily by many people, including international tourists and has been a National Historic Landmark since 1960.
How Should International Visitors Prepare for a Visit To Springfield?
International travellers willing to experience what Springfield has to offer should get their documentation right. Why does this concern you? Read on
If coming from a country under the visa waiver program (VWP) you’ll need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) which exempts you from traveling to America with a visa. You can check ESTA application online. Ensure you submit your application 72 hours before you start your journey so that it can be approved on time.
Those coming from countries not listed under VWP must travel with a valid VISA and a valid passport. The passport requirements for the USA are very strict. Try and make sure you adhere to the country’s rules and guidelines regarding the two travel documents. Failure to do so means you’ll be put on a plane back to where you came from. And it will be too bad for you as you’ll not experience the rich history of Springfield, Illinois.
Where to Stay in Springfield, Illinois
The Double Tree by Hilton offers the best experience when you want to stay close to the city center. Why? It is located in the central part of the town, it has a Jacuzzi-which I don’t get into anyway. The rooms are huge, with a large welcome are and excellent breakfast is served. I’d advise you to book a room on the upper floors, the 10th floor is the best as it offers a wider view of the city.
The list of fun activities in Springfield, Illinois is endless. And the eateries and accommodation are in plenty, but just do your research and read recommendations given by previous visitors before booking your hotel.
Are You Ready To Plan A Trip to Springfield, Illinois?
Finally, whether you come from a VWP country or not, make sure that you have a valid passport. Why am I saying this? Your travel document is also an identification document. It serves two purposes, remember that. Its validity can be a reason for the immigration and customs officials denying you travel to America.
Have you been to Springfield, Illinois? How was your experience? Please share with us your thoughts in the comment section below.
Images Sources:
https://pixabay.com/photos/lincoln-grave-springfield-illinoy-1573601/
https://pixabay.com/photos/lincoln-tomb-springfield-illinois-342596/
https://pixabay.com/photos/springfield-illinois-usa-building-1648402/