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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...

Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

Downtown Springfield-Corner of 4th & Adams St •  May 15 – Oct 26 @ 8PM

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

Read more about Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

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

Zach Williams Revival Nights at the BOS Center

BOS Center •  Oct 11 @ 7PM

Zach Williams Revival Nights Tour comes to the BOS Center on Friday October 11th.

Read more about Zach Williams Revival Nights at the BOS Center

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