Skip to main content
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!

Read more about Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season

Holiday Extravaganza at The Orr Building-Illinois State Fairgrounds

Illinois State Fairgrounds - Orr Building •  Nov 24 @ 9AM

Come join us for some unique holiday shopping and fun at the Orr Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds on Sunday November 24th.

Read more about Holiday Extravaganza at The Orr Building-Illinois State Fairgrounds

Joe Bonamassa at UIS Performing Arts Center

University of Illinois Performing Arts Center •  Nov 26 @ 8PM

Legendary guitarist Joe Bonamassa performs at the UIS Performing Arts Center November 26, 2024.

Read more about Joe Bonamassa at UIS Performing Arts Center

You might also be interested...

Governor's Mansion

Springfield

The Mansion serves as the official residence of the First Family, a working office for staff, a museum for visitors, and a venue for educational, professional,…

Read more about Governor's Mansion

Illinois State Military Museum

Springfield

Rare artifacts, including the artificial leg of Mexican General Santa Anna, preserve and showcase the diverse military history of Illinois from its earliest citizen soldiers to…

Read more about Illinois State Military Museum

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Springfield

The national historic site, run by the National Park Service, includes the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, as well as a four-block neighborhood that reveals…

Read more about Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.