Leland Grove IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Leland Grove, Illinois.
1. Bill Shea's Gas Station Museum & Fulgenzi's Pizza & Pasta
HISTORIC ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
Bill Shea's Gas Station Museum was converted from a working Texaco and later Marathon station into a museum by owner Bill Shea and his wife. This Route 66 landmark preserves the history of the iconic American highway and showcases vintage gas station memorabilia. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at the adjoining Fulgenzi's Pizza & Pasta restaurant.
2. Old State Capitol Springfield
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield served as Illinois' fifth state capitol and was erected between 1837-40. The Greek Revival-style building has been meticulously restored and now functions as a museum dedicated to Illinois history. Visitors can explore the chambers where Abraham Lincoln once served as a legislator and delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech.
3. Illinois State Capitol
IMPRESSIVE GOVERNMENT ARCHITECTURE
The sixth Illinois State Capitol was built between 1868 and 1888 at a cost of $4,500,000. The building features a cruciform floor plan and reaches an impressive height of 81.70 meters. Visitors can tour this magnificent structure to see the ornate interiors, government chambers, and beautiful dome that dominates Springfield's skyline.
4. Lake Springfield Bridge
SCENIC PEDESTRIAN CROSSING
This bridge crosses Lake Springfield and runs parallel to the Iron Bridge located slightly to the east. Unlike the Iron Bridge, this crossing is dedicated exclusively for walking and biking, offering a peaceful pathway across the water. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Springfield while traversing this pedestrian-friendly structure.
5. Lincoln Home National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL FAMILY RESIDENCE
The Lincoln Home National Historic Site preserves the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned. This restored Greek Revival house is where Lincoln lived with his family for 17 years before becoming President of the United States. Visitors can take guided tours through the meticulously preserved rooms that provide insight into Lincoln's life before the presidency.
6. Lincoln Home National Historic Site Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO LINCOLN HISTORY
The Visitor Center serves as the starting point for tours of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Here, visitors can obtain tickets for guided tours, view exhibits about Lincoln's life in Springfield, and watch an orientation film. The center also houses a bookstore offering Lincoln-related literature and souvenirs for history enthusiasts.
7. Dana-Thomas House
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT MASTERPIECE
The Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site is one of the most complete and best-preserved examples of Frank Lloyd Wright's early Prairie style architecture. Commissioned in 1902 by wealthy Springfield socialite Susan Lawrence Dana, the house features over 450 pieces of original Wright-designed art glass and furniture. Visitors can marvel at the 35 rooms spread across 12,000 square feet of living space that showcase Wright's revolutionary design principles.
8. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
INTERACTIVE PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum offers a world-class experience featuring high-tech exhibits, interactive displays, and extraordinary artifacts. The museum uses immersive techniques to bring Lincoln's story to life, including full-scale dioramas of key moments in his life. Visitors can explore both the extensive research library and the engaging museum that together create one of the most visited presidential museums in the nation.
9. Route 34 Drive-in
NOSTALGIC OUTDOOR CINEMA
The Route 34 Drive-in offers a nostalgic movie-watching experience where visitors can enjoy films from the comfort of their vehicles. This classic American drive-in theater provides current releases with the charm of bygone days, complete with a concession stand selling traditional movie snacks. Families particularly appreciate the relaxed atmosphere that allows children to enjoy movies without the constraints of a traditional theater setting.
10. Sandwich Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Sandwich Opera House is a beautifully preserved historic theater dating back to the late 19th century. This cultural landmark hosts a variety of performances including concerts, plays, and community events in its elegant Victorian setting. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural beauty of the building and the diverse entertainment offerings that continue the venue's long tradition of bringing arts to the community.
11. Idle Hour Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING ENTERTAINMENT
Idle Hour Lanes provides family-friendly bowling entertainment for visitors of all ages and skill levels. The facility offers well-maintained lanes, rental equipment, and a snack bar serving casual fare perfect for enjoying between frames. Visitors can participate in open bowling sessions or join leagues for more competitive play in this community-centered recreational venue.
12. Indian Oaks Country Club
SCENIC GOLF EXPERIENCE
Indian Oaks Country Club offers golfers a picturesque course set amid the natural beauty of northern Illinois. The well-maintained fairways and greens provide both challenge and enjoyment for players of various skill levels throughout the season. Visitors can also enjoy the clubhouse amenities, including dining options that make this a complete recreational destination.
13. Shabbona Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Shabbona Lake State Park encompasses a 318-acre lake surrounded by natural areas perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and wildlife observation throughout the park's diverse ecosystems. The park's amenities include boat rentals, picnic areas, and campgrounds that make it an ideal destination for day trips or longer stays in nature.
14. Washington Park
HISTORIC URBAN GREENSPACE
Washington Park is one of Springfield's oldest and most beloved public spaces, featuring beautiful gardens, walking paths, and recreational facilities. The park houses the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, a 132-foot tall tower with 67 bells that regularly performs concerts for the public. Visitors can enjoy the botanical garden, rose garden, and various seasonal events that make this park a centerpiece of community life in Springfield.
15. Lincoln Memorial Garden
NATIVE WOODLAND TRIBUTE
Lincoln Memorial Garden is a 100-acre woodland and prairie garden designed by renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen to honor Abraham Lincoln. The garden features six miles of trails winding through native Illinois landscape plantings that Lincoln would have known during his lifetime. Visitors can explore the natural setting while reflecting on Lincoln's legacy, with each season offering different botanical highlights from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage.