Cozy Dog Drive-In An icon in Springfield is the Cozy Dog Drive-in, home of the original batter-covered hot dog on a stick. This landmark, located on historic Route 66, features a great collection of Route 66 memorabilia. Although corn dogs are popular at state fairs, you have to go to the Cozy Dog drive-in for […]
Capital City Visitor
About the cover artist
David Hinds This year’s cover, “Welcome to Springfield,” is by David Hinds of Springfield, winner of this year’s Capital City Visitor cover art contest, which drew more than 40 entries. Hinds and the other entrants will have their artwork on display at the Old State Capitol beginning April 24, and cash prizes were awarded to […]
Abe’s hometown
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is advised to check individual websites for up-to-date information and offerings Two centuries after his birth, Springfield’s best-known resident remains a revered icon, a leader who bore the weight of destiny to his untimely demise. Born in dire poverty and self-educated, Abraham Lincoln rose to lead our nation during its […]
Springfield’s museums and historic sites
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is advised to check individual websites for up-to-date information and offerings DOWNTOWN AREA Dana-Thomas House – A Frank Lloyd Wright design 301 E. Lawrence Ave. 217-782-6776 http://historicspringfield.dnr.illinois.gov/ Facebook.com/StateHistoricSitesOfSpringfieldIL Donations accepted A visit to Springfield is not complete without touring the magnificent Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Dana-Thomas House. The home contains the […]
Springfield Art Association
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is advised to check individual websites for up-to-date information and offerings The Springfield Art Association is at the heart of Springfield’s thriving arts and culture scene. Boasting two art galleries, an art school, a Lincoln-era historic house museum and a calendar packed with family-friendly events, there is always something to […]
Visual and performing arts
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, many performing arts venues have postponed or cancelled their regularly scheduled seasons. Check the individual websites for up-to-date performance information as well as virtual offerings. Performing arts Copper Coin Ballet Company 420 S. Sixth St. coppercoinballet@gmail.com coppercoinballet.org Reimagines the context and potential for dance in our community to create unique collaborations […]
The capital city
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is advised to check individual websites for up-to-date information and offerings Illinois State Capitol 401 S. Second St. 217-782-2099 Illinois boasts a stunning State Capitol, and in recent years the legislative chambers and multifloor west wing were magnificently restored. It is well worth visiting this National Historic Landmark. Construction began […]
What the locals do for fun
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is advised to check individual websites for up-to-date information and offerings Haven’t you seen enough sights? How about some fun? Take it from the locals – here are many ways to have a good time in the capital city that don’t involve learning anything at all. Just enjoy. FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT […]
Food and drinks
American 6th St. Café 214 S. Sixth St. 217-572-9500 3Sixteen Wine Bar 316 N. Main St., Chatham 217-697-8569 3sixteenwinebar.com Abe’s Hideout 2301 S. Dirksen Pkwy. 217-679-2044 abeshideouts.com Alexander’s Steak House 620 Bruns Ln. 217-793-0440 alexanderssteak.com Anchors Away 518 E. Capitol Ave. 217-679-0166 anchorsawayil.com Applebee’s Grill & Bar 2554 Sunrise Dr. 217-528-7021 3335 Veterans Pkwy. 217-698-0550 […]
Drink up
Microbreweries Anvil & Forge Brewing and Distillin 619 E. Washington St. (downtown) 217-679-1195 anvilandforge.com One of a burgeoning number of craft breweries in the capital city, Anvil & Forge opened in late 2018. The place has a no-nonsense vibe, with walls made from metal siding and reclaimed barn wood, a cement floor and a mix […]
Shopping/Retail
Antiques and Flea Markets Abe’s Old Hat Antiques & Country Store 111 N. Sixth St. 217-414-3320 Abe’s Tradin’ Post 2704 Peoria Rd. 217-753-2237 Barrel Antique Mall 5850 S. Sixth St. Rd. 217-585-1438 barrelantiquemall.com Hilda’s Antique Mall 14266 Frazee Rd., Divernon 217-628-9192 Lisa’s Antique Mall I-55 & Rte. 104, Divernon 217-628-1111 Merchant House 625 E. Monroe […]
This year’s big events
Event listings updated daily at illinoistimes.com MARCH Liturgical and sacred art exhibit Through April 25. Part of the Liturgical Sacred Art Festival. The juried exhibit includes ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, painting, photography and sculpture. It offers a unique opportunity to purchase original liturgical art. Admission is free. springfieldart.org. Edwards Place, Springfield Art […]
