Springfield, Illinois is a great place to visit with kids!
There are plenty of fun things to do in the city and the surrounding areas.
In this blog post, we will discuss 12 of our favorite activities for families.
From exploring nature to visiting museums, Springfield has something for everyone!
#1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Springfield, IL.
And it’s no wonder why – the museum does an excellent job of bringing Lincoln’s life and times to life. Visitors can explore a replica of Lincoln’s home, see artifacts from his life, and even watch a re-enactment of his assassination.
The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to take kids. They can explore a life-size replica of the Lincoln-Douglas debates, try on abolitionist clothes, and sit in a replica of Lincoln’s presidential carriage.
Best of all, admission to the museum is free for kids under 18. So if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your children, be sure to add the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to your list.
#2. AMF Strike ‘N Spare Lanes
When it comes to family fun, Springfield, IL has a lot to offer. One great option is AMF Strike ‘N Spare Lanes, a local bowling alley with a family-friendly atmosphere.
The facility features 24 lanes, a full-service bar and grill, and an arcade area with classic games like Pac-Man and air hockey. Strike ‘N Spare is also open late on Friday and Saturday nights, making it a great option for a night out with friends or family.
Best of all, the lane prices are very reasonable, making it a great option for families on a budget. So next time you’re looking for something fun to do in Springfield, be sure to check out AMF Strike ‘N Spare Lanes.
#3. Dana Thomas House
Dana Thomas House is a must-see for anyone visiting Springfield with kids. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the house is a masterpiece of early twentieth-century architecture.
Kids will love touring the house and seeing all the unique features, from the stained glass windows to the grand staircase. And be sure to check out the gift shop before you leave!
Dana Thomas House is just one of many fun things to do in Springfield with kids. Other attractions include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Illinois State Fairgrounds, and Knight’s Action Park.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Springfield!
#4. Ergadoozy
Springfield, IL is home to a variety of fun activities for kids of all ages. One of the most popular attractions is Ergadoozy, a family-friendly indoor play place.
Ergadoozy features a large main play area with slides, climbing features, and a ball pit. There is also a smaller toddler area with softer play equipment.
In addition to the main play areas, Ergadoozy also has an arcade, a cafe, and a party room. Families can spend hours exploring all that Ergadoozy has to offer.
Admission is reasonable, and there are discounts available for large groups. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids or a place to host a birthday party, Ergadoozy is sure to please.
#5. Henson Robinson Zoo
The Henson Robinson Zoo is a great place to take kids in Springfield, IL. There are lots of different animals to see, including lions, tigers, bears, and more.
The zoo also has a variety of educational programs, such as animal demonstrations and keeper talks. In addition, the zoo has a playground and picnic areas, making it a perfect place to spend a day with the family.
Best of all, admission to the Henson Robinson Zoo is free. So whether you’re looking for a fun activity or a way to learn about wildlife, the Henson Robinson Zoo is definitely worth a visit.
#6. Illinois State Museum
Founded in 1877, the Illinois State Museum is the state’s oldest museum. It is also one of the largest museums in the country, with more than 12 million artifacts in its collection.
The museum covers a wide range of topics, from the history of Illinois to the state’s natural resources. And with interactive exhibits and a planetarium, there is something for everyone.
For kids, the museum offers a variety of hands-on activities. They can dig for fossils in the “Dinosphere” or explore the “Fantastic Worlds” exhibit.
And on Saturdays, the museum offers special programs just for kids. With so much to see and do, the Illinois State Museum is a great place to take kids of all ages.
#7. King Pin Lanes
When it comes to family fun, there’s no place quite like King Pin Lanes in Springfield, IL. The perfect spot for a birthday party or just a weekend outing, King Pin Lanes offers something for everyone.
The facility features 24 bowling lanes, an arcade area with over 50 games, and a full-service restaurant. There’s also a pro shop where you can purchase all the latest bowling gear.
And if you’re looking for a little friendly competition, you can sign up for one of the many leagues that King Pin Lanes offers. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or just getting started, you’re sure to have a great time at King Pin Lanes.
#8. Knight’s Action Park
Knight’s Action Park is a great place to take the kids in Springfield, IL. With its go-karts, miniature golf, batting cages, and arcade, there’s something for everyone.
The go-karts are especially popular with the kids. They can choose from single or double karts, and there’s even a track for the little ones. The arcade is also a hit with the kids, with its wide selection of games.
And if the weather is nice, the park’s water play area is a great way to cool off. So whether you’re looking for somewhere to take the kids for an afternoon of fun or you’re looking for a place to host a birthday party, Knight’s Action Park is a great choice.
#9. Lincoln Home
Today, the Lincoln Home is a National Historic Site that includes the twelve-block neighborhood where Lincoln and his family lived for seventeen years.
Visitors can take a ranger-led tour of the Lincoln Home, which includes the living room where Abraham Lincoln read to his children and the bedroom where he slept during the last months of his life.
The tour also covers the history of Springfield’s African American community, as many of Lincoln’s neighbors were free blacks who had settled in Illinois in search of a better life.
Outside of the home, visitors can explore the neighborhood streets, which have been restored to their appearance during Lincoln’s time. The Visitor Center features exhibits on Lincoln’s life and work, as well as on the Civil War.
There is also a film on Lincoln’s life that is shown in the Center’s theater. The Lincoln Home is a great place to learn about one of America’s most important presidents and to get a sense of what life was like in the nineteenth century.
#10. Lincoln Tomb
When visiting Springfield, IL with kids, be sure to add the Lincoln Tomb to your itinerary. The Tomb is a monument dedicated to the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, and his family.
Visitors can tour the tomb, which features a marble statue of Lincoln and a Museum about his life. The Tomb is also surrounded by a beautiful park, making it the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
And best of all, admission is free. So if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for the whole family, be sure to check out the Lincoln Tomb.
#11. Old State Capitol
Looking for something fun and educational to do with the kids in Springfield, IL? Then be sure to check out the Old State Capitol! This iconic building has played a significant role in Illinois history, and it’s a great place to learn about the state’s past.
Plus, kids will love exploring all the different rooms and seeing all the interesting artifacts on display. And when you’re done touring the Capitol, be sure to take a walk around the surrounding area.
There are plenty of other historic buildings to see, and you can even visit Abraham Lincoln’s tomb. So whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out with the family, the Old State Capitol is definitely worth a visit.
#12. SCHEELS
Springfield, IL is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions. One of the most popular destinations is SCHEELS, an outdoor recreation and shopping complex that offers something for everyone.
SCHEELS features a large selection of retail stores, as well as a Ferris wheel, carousel, ropes course, and aquarium. The Complex also has a bowling alley, laser tag arena, and arcade.
In addition, SCHEELS regularly hosts special events, such as appearances by professional athletes and performances by national touring acts. With so much to see and do, SCHEELS is the perfect place to take the kids for a day of fun.