Springfield Illinois Adventure 5 Days Itinerary

Begin your second day with an exciting outdoor adventure by joining Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour. Although Starved Rock State Park is about an hour's drive from Springfield, it's well worth the trip for its stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations. The guided kayaking tour will allow you to explore the park's waterways while learning about its history and geology. Before heading out on your kayaking adventure, grab breakfast at Café Moxo, known for its hearty breakfast options and friendly service.

After returning from Starved Rock State Park, enjoy lunch at Incredibly Delicious, a charming bakery café located in a historic mansion. Their sandwiches and pastries are highly recommended. Spend your afternoon visiting Washington Park Botanical Garden back in Springfield. This beautiful garden features various themed gardens including rose gardens, perennial borders, and conservatories filled with exotic plants.

For dinner this evening, dine at Maldaner's Restaurant, one of Springfield's oldest restaurants offering classic American cuisine with modern twists. Following dinner, immerse yourself in an intriguing experience by participating in Springfield IL: Murder Mystery Detective Experience. This interactive event will have you solving clues and unraveling mysteries throughout downtown Springfield – a fun way to end your day!

Start Day 3 with breakfast at Wm Van's Coffee House, located in a beautifully restored historic building offering delicious coffee drinks along with pastries or light breakfast fare. Then set off on another self-guided adventure using Springfield: Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour. This tour allows you flexibility as it guides you through key historical sites around town including notable buildings associated with Abraham Lincoln’s era as well as other important landmarks.

For lunch today try out Darcy’s Pint, famous for their Horseshoe Sandwich – an iconic dish originating from Central Illinois consisting of thick-sliced toasted bread topped with meat (usually hamburger), French fries smothered under cheese sauce! Post-lunch head over towards Dana Thomas House designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright; take part in guided tours available here which provide insight into Wright’s architectural genius seen throughout this Prairie-style masterpiece.

Conclude Day 3 enjoying dinner at Norbanas Cafe & Wine Bar offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes paired perfectly alongside selections from their extensive wine list. Finish off evening sipping craft beers or cocktails within relaxed ambiance found inside local favorite bar called “The Barrel Head” where live music often performed creating vibrant yet cozy atmosphere perfect ending another memorable day exploring everything wonderful about city called “Springfield”

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Loukinens' on 4th, known for its delicious breakfast options and warm ambiance. Afterward, head to the Illinois State Museum. This museum offers a deep dive into the natural history, art, and cultural heritage of Illinois. It's a great way to understand the broader context of the state beyond just its Lincoln connections. Next, take a short drive to the Lincoln Memorial Garden. This beautiful garden was designed by Jens Jensen and features native plants that Lincoln would have known in his lifetime. It's a peaceful place for a morning walk and offers stunning views of Lake Springfield.

For lunch, visit Engrained Brewery & Restaurant, which offers farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Their craft beers are also worth trying. After lunch, head to the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon in Washington Park. This impressive bell tower offers regular concerts and provides panoramic views of Springfield from its observation deck. Following your visit to the carillon, explore Washington Park itself. The park is home to beautiful walking trails, gardens, and even a lagoon where you can rent paddle boats.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at American Harvest Eatery, known for its innovative American cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. After dinner, catch a show at the Hoogland Center for the Arts if there's one scheduled during your visit. This venue hosts a variety of performances ranging from theater productions to live music concerts. End your day with a nightcap at The Wine Cafe, where you can relax with a glass of wine or one of their signature cocktails in a cozy setting.

Springfield: Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour Start your final day with breakfast at Long Nine Junction, which is famous for its gourmet breakfast sandwiches and coffee. Afterward, embark on another self-guided walking tour using Springfield: Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour. This tour will take you through any remaining historical sites you might have missed earlier in your trip.

Dana Thomas House Guided Tours For lunch today try out Darcy’s Pint, famous for their Horseshoe Sandwich – an iconic dish originating from Central Illinois consisting of thick-sliced toasted bread topped with meat (usually hamburger), French fries smothered under cheese sauce! Post-lunch head over towards Dana Thomas House designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright; take part in guided tours available here which provide insight into Wright’s architectural genius seen throughout this Prairie-style masterpiece.

Norbanas Cafe Wine Bar Conclude Day 3 enjoying dinner at Norbanas Cafe & Wine Bar offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes paired perfectly alongside selections from their extensive wine list. Finish off evening sipping craft beers or cocktails within relaxed ambiance found inside local favorite bar called “The Barrel Head” where live music often performed creating vibrant yet cozy atmosphere perfect ending another memorable day exploring everything wonderful about city called “Springfield”