Free & Cheap Things to Do in Springfield

History & Culture

The only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, preserved exactly as it was when the Lincoln family left for Washington in 1861. Free guided tours take visitors through the restored 1850s rooms where Lincoln raised his family and prepared to become president. The surrounding four-block neighborhood is also preserved, offering a genuine glimpse of 19th-century Springfield.

Address: 426 S 7th St, Springfield, IL 62701

Tip: Free timed-entry tickets are required for the home tour — pick them up at the visitor center on arrival. The surrounding historic neighborhood is open to walk freely without tickets. Arrive early in summer as same-day tickets can sell out.

History & Culture

The premier Lincoln museum in the country, with immersive life-size exhibits, original manuscripts, artifacts, and theatrical special effects that bring the Lincoln story to life in a way few presidential museums can match. The Union Theatre shows two original productions — one on Lincoln's life and one on haunted Springfield — both included with admission.

Address: 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701

Tip: Budget at least 3 hours — the museum is far larger than it looks. The two included theatrical shows are highlights — check show times on arrival. Free admission offered on Lincoln's Birthday (Feb. 12) each year. The library half (separate building) is free and houses the original Lincoln documents.

History & Culture

One of Frank Lloyd Wright's greatest early Prairie Style masterpieces, built in 1902 and considered the best-preserved Wright home in the world. The house retains 35 of Wright's original art glass windows, 100 pieces of original white oak furniture, and three complete sets of light fixtures — all designed by Wright himself. Free guided tours are the only way to see the interior.

Address: 301 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield, IL 62703

Tip: Tours are by reservation only and capacity is limited — book ahead at the Illinois DNR website. Tours run Thursday–Sunday. The house is only a short walk from the Lincoln sites, making it easy to combine into a full day of Springfield history.