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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...

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!

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Henson Robinson Zoo •  Nov 29 – Dec 23 @ 5PM

The Henson Robinson Zoo lights up for the holidays on select days starting November 29th through December 23rd.

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Dual Piano Christmas at the Hoogland Center for the Arts

Hoogland Center for the Arts •  Dec 20 – Dec 22 @ 7PM

Dual Piano Christmas takes the stage at the Hoogland Center for the Arts December 20th through the 22nd!

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