Old State Capitol State Historic Site

"It had been many years since I had last toured the Old State Capitol, and it hadn't changed much. It is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, so several chambers were closed to public viewing, including the Senate Chamber. The rest of the building is still as full of antique furniture and historic artifacts, though, and considering that admission is free, it would be a mistake to skip the old capitol on a tour of Springfield or Lincoln historic sites."

"We had a great time here at the old Capitol. We enjoyed the self guided tour and listening to the Lincoln Troubadours sing in the rotunda area and in the old house chamber. This statehouse was not used very long, but Lincoln was in here when he was alive. It was also the last place he lay in state before they closed the coffin and buried him and his son Willie in the Springfield cemetery. We enjoyed the Underground Railroad display and stories in the old Supreme Court Chambers. This place is kind of big and you can schedule at least an hour to see everything. As of June 2025 it's open Thursday through Saturday."

"A must-see for history lovers! The Old State Capitol is beautifully restored and offers a glimpse into 19th-century politics. It’s most famous as the place where Abraham Lincoln gave his “House Divided” speech. Admission is free, and there are friendly staff members available to answer questions. A quick but meaningful stop in downtown Springfield."

"Beautiful renovation! I loved the history and attention to detail of the restoration. There is so much history in this building and surrounding area and when you visit you can truly feel the spirit of all that has happened there."

"The most memorable part of our visit to the Old State Capitol was standing in the very room where Abraham Lincoln delivered his iconic “House Divided” speech. Much like touring his home, there’s something deeply moving about walking in the footsteps of such a monumental figure in American history. Being in the place where his political career began brings the past to life in a powerful and unforgettable way. The building itself is a beautiful example of mid-19th-century architecture, and its presence in the heart of Springfield creates an impressive backdrop. A quick online search describes the Capitol’s architecture and surrounding grounds as ideal for a romantic stroll—and in many ways, the setting does feel steeped in history and charm. That said, during both of our visits—two years apart—we noticed individuals experiencing homelessness gathered near prominent features like the Lincoln family statue in front of the building. While we recognize this is an issue faced by many cities, it does affect the overall vibe and may not fully align with the picturesque experience promoted online. Inside, the building houses numerous artifacts with historical significance, but the exhibit layout felt disorganized. Although a friendly guide at the entrance provided a brief introduction, there was no formal tour offered. Many displays were unlabeled or lacked context, leaving visitors to piece things together by reading small placards throughout the rooms. As a result, the experience felt more like a self-directed wander than an intentional, immersive journey through history. This wouldn’t have been as disappointing if the exhibits followed a clearer timeline or narrative structure, or if there had been more interpretive signage to guide the visitor through the experience. A thoughtfully designed, guided tour—or even a self-guided option with more historical framing—would add significant value. If staffing is a problem, an online audio tour via app using your own headphones would be helpful. Of all the former capitol buildings we’ve toured, this was unfortunately one of the least engaging. However, the opportunity to stand where Lincoln once stood still made the visit worthwhile for any history enthusiast or Lincoln fan."