Two hundred miles south of Chicago and one hundred miles northeast of St Louis, is Springfield, Illinois. Springfield became the Illinois state capital in 1837 with the help of a young lawyer and politician named Abraham Lincoln. He lived in the city until he left to become the 16th President of the United States, in 1861. From that moment on, the city’s history and future have been inexorably tied to this most famous and beloved American citizen.

Not surprisingly, the city of Springfield is dotted with sites dedicated to his memory.  These include: the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, the Lincoln Tomb, the Old State Capitol State, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

On February 10, 2007 President Barack Obama announced his presidential candidacy in Springfield, standing on the grounds of the Old State Capitol.   Is there a more historically significant place in America today?

Springfield offers hundreds of exciting events throughout the year, including: the Old Capitol Art Fair in May, the International Carillon Festival in June, the Illinois State Fair in August and First Night Springfield on New Year’s Eve, just to name a few.

From one-of-a-kind antiques and gifts to the latest in fashion trends, Springfield offers something for everyone.From the upscale shopping at the Gables to Simon White Oaks Mall home to Macy's, Sears and Abercrombie & Fitch.