History Comes Alive
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Thu, Jun 04 – Sat, Aug 08, 2026 • 9:00am - 5:00pm
1 South Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701
This summer, History Comes Alive returns for its 17th season as Abraham and Mary Lincoln lead a cast of characters on a trip back in time.
Meet the Lincolns at historic sites throughout the city and learn about their lives in Springfield. From historic portrayals at locations such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, to a Flag Lowering Ceremony at the Lincoln Tomb with the 114th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry Reactivated, visitors are invited to become a part of living history. Listen to Abraham deliver some of his most famous speeches and enjoy live music and an ice cream social with the Abe & Mary at Edwards Place.
Calling all foodies! History Cooks is back! Enjoy a live cooking demonstration by local chefs as they share about some of the Springfield's most famous fooderies over the past 100+ years.
Experience the rich history of our downtown sites and attractions with our free historic site trolley service! Our hop-on, hop-off air-conditioned trolley is the perfect way to explore most of our major attractions.
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President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
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