Two hundred miles south of Chicago is the Illinois state capital. A mild yet charming town, Springfield’s bread and butter tourist attractions mostly center on its most famous ex-resident and sixteenth president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Here, you can view Lincoln’s first place of employment, take a narrated tour of his home, and perhaps finish your trip by visiting his expansive tomb. All three spots provide interesting glimpses into the life of our nation’s most profound leader.

Besides Lincoln history, you can check out the majestic Illinois State Capitol building on 2nd Street or tour one of the many Frank Lloyd Wright original buildings that dot the outlying areas of town. The Dana-Thomas House and the Lawrence Memorial Library are well-preserved examples.