5 New Things in Springfield 2023 | Springfield, Illinois | Visit Springfield

  • April 19, 2023
  •      
  • Mike Riefler

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What's new and exciting 2023?

We have 5 fun and exciting new things ranging from new guided outdoor tours to a new Route 66 attractions and of course fun events & exhibits too! 

Check them out, plan your visit, we are excited to see you in Springfield in 2023! 

1. Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds: This experience will offer visitors a chance to walk Illinois Route 66 from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge and learn about communities and attractions along the way in microform. You won’t want to miss the newly installed Neon Sign Park, the Route History Green Book experience and the opportunity to snap a pic with a true Route 66 giant! Click here for more information

Oh...don't forget to take a pic and share with us by using @visitspringfield. We can't wait to see your experiences!

2. Slide Down 66: SLIDE DOWN 66! Soar down the 40' high, iconic Giant Slide on the historic IL State Fairgrounds. Just a short walk from the Route 66 Experience, you'll find the slide complete with the Route 66 shield. Slide Down 66 will be open Saturdays during the summer and during normal state fair hours.  Click here for hours of operation

3. Here I Have Lived, Home in Illinos: Home is more than a structure. It’s a feeling of belonging and finding a sense of self and community. This new exhibit at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum explores what home meant to some of Illinois most notable citizens.  Exhibit will be available March 23, 2023-January 21, 2024.  For more info, click here.

4. Growing Up X: VHS Tapes! Atari! Walkman!  If you recognize some of those things, you might be Gen Xer.  This new exhibit at the Illinois State Museum explores the toys, technologies, and cultural touchstones for anyone who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s.  The exhibit runs through September 3rd, 2023. For more info, click here.

5. History Comes Alive 14th Anniversary Summer Program - New in 2023: Returning for a 14th summer, Abraham & Mary Lincoln will lead a cast of characters on a trip back in time. Visit historic sites throughout the city and learn about their lives and friends in Springfield.  New this year, the Lincoln Troubadours will be serenading visitors at various locations this summer.  There are also new guided tours of the Growing Up X exhibit and beautiful Lincoln Memorial Gardens.  Check out our History Comes Alive page for more info. Also take advantage of the FREE shuttle to Lincoln New Salem State Park on Saturday mornings throughout the program.  Click here for reservations.

Not new in 2023, but now is the time to make plans for a weekend of food, fun and music in downtown Springfield!  The 22nd Anniversary International Route 66 Mother Road Festival roars into town September 22-24!  Registration now open, start your engine here!