Hotels in Springfield, Illinois

Springfield Introduction

Illinois’s storied capital Springfield was the springboard that launched the stellar career of one of America’s most influential presidents—Abraham Lincoln moved to the city as a young lawyer in 1837 and began his ascent to the White House. This historic city also played a significant role in the American Civil War, became an important hub on the expanding railroad, and made a fortune from coal mining. Today’s visitors can enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, a wealth of heritage landmarks, popular family attractions, and beautiful parks, and the compact downtown area is perfectly designed for exploring on foot.

Hotels in Springfield

Thanks to its popularity as a vacation destination, hotels in Springfield cater for all tastes and pockets. For families on a budget, there’s a wide choice of cheap Springfield hotels with great amenities that provide tried-and-tested value. If you’re looking for something a little more romantic, try one of the charming boutique hotels dotted throughout the historic center. Alternatively, enjoy life’s little luxuries with a spacious suite in a well-appointed highway inn—especially convenient for visitors arriving with their own transportation. Book early to take advantage of flexible rates and benefit from the best Springfield hotel deals.

Where to stay

Many visitors gravitate naturally to downtown Springfield, which offers easy access to the city’s attractions. If you’re following the Lincoln trail, you’ll find all the main sites within walking distance of the center, allowing you to soak up the relaxing ambience of this small state capital on foot. Further south, the student quarter of Toronto, home to the University of Illinois at Springfield, has a more bohemian vibe, boasting friendly bars and cafés as well as the prestigious Sangamon Auditorium performing arts center. You’ll also be close to Henson Robinson Zoo and Lake Springfield, a popular spot for fishing.

Things to see

Learn about Lincoln’s strong connections with Springfield at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, a 4-block district surrounding the home where he raised his family and was first elected to the House of Representatives. Here, you can visit the law office where he practiced for over a decade, as well as the Lincoln Depot, where he made his farewell address before leaving for Washington D.C., and the elegant mausoleum that marks his final resting place. The Old State Capitol, a fine example of Greek Revival architecture, was chosen by Barack Obama to announce his own presidential candidacy in 2007, almost 150 years after that of Lincoln. Other buildings of architectural interest include the Dana-Thomas House, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous “Prairie” houses. Springfield’s quirkier claims to fame include the invention of the corn dog on a stick and playing home to the first drive-through eatery in the USA.

How to get to Springfield

Even Springfield’s airport pays tribute to its most famous resident—domestic flights arrive at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, around 3 miles northwest of downtown. Rental cars are available at the terminal. Springfield is also served by stops on the Amtrak and Greyhound national networks, while Interstate 55 provides speedy road access and Route 66 passes close by on its journey from Chicago to California. Public travel in Springfield itself is delivered by a comprehensive bus service operated by Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD). Downtown is a pedestrian-friendly zone, with a series of cycle trails linking outlying districts to the center.