Why is planning a vacation so important?? We are happy you asked...did you know there is a whole day dedicated to 'Planning a Vacation?' This special day falls on the last Tuesday every January, and it's called 'National Plan For Vacation Day,' powered by US Travel Association. 

On January 25th Americans are encouraged to set aside some time to start planning how they want to use their vacation days in 2022. Planning is the key to ensuring you take your well deserved time off, travel and enjoy yourself! National Plan for Vacation Day takes on special significance this year. After almost two full years of living with the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans may feel burned out and are ready for a change in scenery. We totally understand that!

Keep in mind that planning a vacation doesn't mean that you should spend all your vacation days at one specific location. Nope, feel free to break them up into several small getaways throughout the year. Use them to clear your mind, relax, pamper yourself & explore! In Springfield we strongly encourage this outlook...as the best aspect of a vacation is the ability to refresh your mind, body & soul. Lucky for you, we have a vast collection of noteworthy and exceptional side excursions that will satisfy your personal tastes, pleasures, and sense of adventure! Experience unique, one-of-a-kind stops that you can't find anywhere else! 

A vacation is a time to reset and recharge your state of mind. Visit Springfield this year. We can make your planning as easy as possible! Let us you clear your mind, find a place to relax, show you somewhere new to explore, and expand your horizons at our world class attractions and historic sites. 

Take a journey back in time and explore Abraham Lincoln's Life & Legacy. Walk in his footsteps and see Springfield through his eyes. Explore more Abraham Lincoln sites than anywhere else in the world! Visit historic sites like Lincoln's New Salem, Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln Tomb, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and so much more!

Enjoy "Illinois Made" Springfield Makers; our local creators, artists, family-owned businesses, small-batch breweries, distilleries, foodies, and farmers that make Springfield thrive. Each "Springfield Maker" has a unique visitor experience for everyone to enjoy and learn more about their amazing business. On the same path of learning, you can experience Route 66 through Springfield's most legendary local entrepreneurs on the Living Legends tour!  Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of iconic Mother Road history at each location.  Your challenge? Try to catch each Living Legend in action and learn a bit about their story.

Relax & unwind over a cup of java at one of our local coffee houses or indulge in a glass of wine or craft beer at our wineries or breweries. Peruse locally owned shops, boutiques, and galleries with your friends! Springfield’s restaurant scene is a dream come true for foodies with flavors for all taste buds. Fine dining? Farm to table? Sushi? Mexican? Upscale pub? You name it, we've got it! 

In need of a little self care, then check out one of our amazing spas and get your pamper on. 

How about a little outdoor time? Our outdoor options are second to none. Cheer on a Lucky Horseshoes Baseball game, take a walk around Washington Park, enjoy a bike trail, fish in Lake Springfield, or take in the scenery at Lincoln Memorial Garden. We know you will enjoy these fun adventures, and more when you visit Springfield, Illinois.

Check out our suggested itineraries for more ideas here.