{"id":32182,"date":"2025-05-22T08:58:04","date_gmt":"2025-05-22T13:58:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thedinnerdetective.com\/springfield\/?p=32182"},"modified":"2025-05-29T06:42:33","modified_gmt":"2025-05-29T11:42:33","slug":"10-fun-unique-things-to-do-in-springfield-il","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thedinnerdetective.com\/springfield\/2025\/05\/22\/10-fun-unique-things-to-do-in-springfield-il\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Fun & Unique Things To Do in Springfield, IL"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
Planning a trip to Springfield or just looking for something new to do in your hometown? As the capital of Illinois and the Land of Lincoln, Springfield<\/strong> is packed with history, culture, outdoor adventure\u2014and even a side of mystery. Check out these 10 fun and unique things to do in Springfield, IL<\/strong>, including a dinner show where you can eat, laugh, and solve a murder in one unforgettable night!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t Step into history at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum<\/strong>, where immersive exhibits, life-size dioramas, and artifacts bring Lincoln\u2019s life and legacy to life. It\u2019s a must-see for history buffs and families alike.<\/p> Explore the beautifully restored Old State Capitol<\/strong>, where Lincoln once delivered speeches and argued court cases. Guided tours give insight into Illinois’ political history and the building\u2019s striking architecture.<\/p> Visit the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site<\/strong>. The surrounding neighborhood has been preserved as it was in the 1800s, offering a walk-through look at the life of a future president.<\/p> Located downtown, the Illinois State Museum<\/strong> features exhibits on the state\u2019s natural history, art, and anthropology. It\u2019s a great stop for kids and adults alike.<\/p> Relax and recharge in Washington Park<\/strong>, one of Springfield\u2019s most scenic spots. Visit the botanical garden and carillon, or just enjoy a walk, picnic, or bike ride through the tree-lined trails.<\/p> From musicals and plays to concerts and comedy, the Hoogland Center for the Arts<\/strong> is Springfield\u2019s cultural hub for live entertainment. Check their schedule for upcoming shows.<\/p> Springfield is a key stop along historic Route 66<\/strong>! Stop by the Route 66 Experience<\/strong> or grab a retro bite at the Cozy Dog Drive In<\/strong>, the birthplace of the corn dog on a stick.<\/p> Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Dana-Thomas House<\/strong> is a Prairie Style masterpiece filled with original furnishings and architectural details. Guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century design.<\/p> A true Illinois classic, the Horseshoe Sandwich<\/strong> is a must-try: an open-faced sandwich with meat, fries, and cheese sauce. You can find them all over town\u2014each spot adding their own twist.<\/p> Looking for unforgettable things to do in Springfield? The Dinner Detective is the nation\u2019s largest interactive murder mystery dinner show\u2014and it\u2019s right here in the Land of Lincoln! Enjoy a delicious multi-course meal as you solve a side-splitting whodunit where the killer could be anyone in the room\u2026 even your date.<\/p> Whether you’re planning a date night, birthday party, corporate team builder, or just a night out with friends, The Dinner Detective delivers laughs, thrills, and an experience like no other in Springfield.<\/p> Located at Maldaner\u2019s Restaurant, just minutes from downtown, this top-rated dinner show is one of the most fun group activities in Springfield.<\/p>1. \ud83d\udcda Tour the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum<\/strong><\/h3>
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2. \u2696\ufe0f Visit the Old State Capitol<\/strong><\/h3>
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3. \ud83c\udfa9 Wander through Lincoln\u2019s Home National Historic Site<\/strong><\/h3>
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4. \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Explore the Illinois State Museum<\/strong><\/h3>
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5. \ud83d\udeb6 Take a Stroll in Washington Park<\/strong><\/h3>
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6. \ud83c\udfad Catch a Show at the Hoogland Center for the Arts<\/strong><\/h3>
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7. \u26fd Snap a Photo at Route 66 Landmarks<\/strong><\/h3>
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8. \ud83c\udfe1 Visit the Dana-Thomas House<\/strong><\/h3>
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9. \ud83e\udd6a Sample Springfield\u2019s Famous Horseshoe Sandwich<\/strong><\/h3>
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10. \ud83d\udd0d The Dinner Detective in Springfield \u2013 A Hilarious Murder Mystery Dinner Show<\/strong><\/h3>