Illinois has so much to offer outside of visiting Chicago. Springfield,Illinois is not only the capital of Illinois but it’s also the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. I was born and raised in Springfield and I have do and gone to every place on this list...
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5
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Local Favorites
Outdoor Activities
I love this park for simply walking around or for family gatherings. The park does have cameras as well as a help center in case you need help with anything and there's fun learning activities throughout the entire park.
Southwind Park
The botanical gardens in Springfield is a must to see. It's one of my favorite places to go in the city besides the lake. I just recently went to their flower show and it was beautiful.
Washington Park Botanical Gardens
There are different areas of the lake that you can go to but Marine Point is my favorite. Some people choose to use that area for fishing but they do offer sailing as well as other water activities there.
Marine Point
The Springfield Farmers Market located downtown is the best way to support your local farmers. You can also find small businesses as well as cottage food stands that are worth while.
County Market
There are multiple trails located in Springfield. My favorite trail to walk on starts on Dirksen Parkway across from Faine's Auto Sale and it goes all the way to Rochester,IL.
Empire offers the option to have a Korean bbq lay out where you can grill your own food or you can watch someone else cook in front of you.
Empire Korean Steakhouse and Bar
Other Food & Drinks
Scooters is a locally owned coffee shop here in Springfield that I love. They get your order right every time and they are a company that prioritizes their customers.
Scooter's Coffee
Small cakes has been my favorite bakery in Springfield since I was younger. I love their cupcakes but they they also offer milkshakes, ice cream as well as customized cakes.
Smallcakes
I love love love their fried fish. I also like to get my fresh fish from them as well.
Carter's Fish Market
The Asian market has every Asian snack or candy you can think of. They also sell fresh produce that is really good.
