Old State Capitol

To take a virtual tour of the Old State Capitol, click on the above image.

In the heart of our country stands the Old State Capitol, a reconstruction of Illinois' statehouse from 1840 to 1876. During the twentieth century's civil rights movement, its restorers faithfully recreated the building in which John Jones and Frances Gage worked to expand the meaning of freedom and Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous "House Divided" speech.

We invite you to see and experience the Old State Capitol by taking a guided or self-guided walk through the historic site. 

Staff will be on hand to answer your questions as you view the building. The site is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

If you have any questions or would like to make a reservation (which are accepted but not required) please call us at 217-785-9363 or email dnr.historicspringfield@illinois.gov

There is no charge for the tour, however, donations to support the historic site are appreciated. You can make a donation online or during your visit. 

You can enter the Old State Capitol from either the north (Washington Street) or the south (Adams Plaza). 

Our grounds are open for your enjoyment and include a beautiful strolling path and perennial gardens for you to enjoy. Guests are welcome to picnic or play on the grass. Numerous benches are located along the pathway.  Dogs are welcome on the grounds but not inside unless your pet is a registered service dog. Please clean up after your pet.

Restrooms and bottle-filling water stations are located on a lower level for your convenience. 

1. Our indoor capacity is 150 guests. 
   

2. Guests will be invited to use the hand sanitizing stations provided. 

3. Guests will not be permitted to touch any historic furniture, artwork or other artifacts in the building, regardless of sanitizer use.
   

4. An accessible entrance is located in the kiosk on the Adams Street Plaza. Inside the kiosk, take the elevator down to the upper level (UL button) of the parking garage, then travel across the garage to the building door and push the call button for entry. If you need assistance, please call 217-785-9363.

An hourly-rate underground parking garage is located beneath the Old State Capitol; entrance is on Sixth Street between Adams and Washington. The rate is $1.50/30 minutes. The garage is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Metered street parking may also be available; please note City of Springfield parking meters are enforced Monday-Friday. 

We welcome you to take photos and videos throughout the site, both indoors and outdoors. Please be respectful of the artifacts and other guests.

Justin Blandford, Superintendent
Office of Land Management, Historic Sites Division
dnr.historicspringfield@illinois.gov
217-524-3971

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StateHistoricSitesOfSpringfieldIl
• Instagram: @statehistoricsitesspringfield

We also encourage you to watch the introductory video below in advance of your visit.