Springfield, Illinois is a great place for couples to explore and enjoy. From romantic restaurants to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or just a weekend of fun and adventure, Springfield has something for you. From stunning natural settings to cultural attractions, here are some of the best things to do in Springfield IL for couples.
1. ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is an excellent place for couples to explore the life of one of the United States’ most well-known presidents.
This museum and library contain several exhibits dedicated to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, including Lincoln’s 1858 debates with Stephen Douglas, the story of the Lincoln-Douglas debates, the Lincoln-Douglas House, the Lincoln-Douglas Museum, the White House of the Confederacy, the Ford’s Theatre, the Lincoln Tomb and War Memorials, and much more.
Visitors can also view a replica of the White House and the presidential library contains over 12 million documents.
There is also a theater that shows movies and an interactive theater that features educational programs. This museum is an excellent place for couples to learn more about Abraham Lincoln’s life and the history of the United States.
2. DANA-THOMAS HOUSE
The Dana-Thomas House is a historic house museum in Springfield, Illinois, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902 for socialite Susan Lawrence Dana.
The house is a prime example of Wright’s Prairie School style of architecture and is one of the best preserved of his early works. Take a tour of the house with your special someone and explore the beautiful details that make this house an architectural masterpiece.
Enjoy the stunning stained glass windows, geometric designs, and the natural light that Wright incorporated into the design. After the tour, take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens or take a look at the Wright-designed furniture and furnishings that fill the house.
3. LINCOLN HOME NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Couples can take a romantic stroll through the Lincoln Home National Historic Site together. This site is the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned. Visitors can explore the four blocks of the neighborhood where the Lincolns lived and get an up-close look at the beautiful Greek Revival-style home in which the family lived. The visitors center provides an audio tour and a self-guided tour of the interior of the home and the neighborhood.
4. ILLINOIS STATE CAPITOL
The Illinois State Capitol is a great place for couples in Springfield to visit. Located in the heart of the city, the Capitol Building offers a unique view of the city from the top of its iconic dome. Inside, visitors can explore the four-story rotunda, which houses artwork from all over the state, and take in the grand staircase, marble floors, and other ornate architectural features.
With a guided tour, visitors can explore the legislators’ chambers and learn about the history and government of the state. The building also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from educational programs to musical performances, making it a great way to spend an outing together.
5. LINCOLN MEMORIAL GARDEN
The Lincoln Memorial Garden is a beautiful outdoor destination located in Springfield, Illinois. The Garden was created to honor the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore the Garden and take in the stunning views of the surrounding environment.
Couples can take a romantic walk along the winding pathways, stopping to admire the various sculptures and monuments dedicated to Lincoln. They can also enjoy a picnic at the park, or take a boat ride on the lake. The Garden also hosts special events throughout the year, like the annual Civil War reenactment, which makes for a great date night.
6. WASHINGTON PARK BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Washington Park Botanical Gardens in Springfield, IL is the perfect place for couples to explore and enjoy. The gardens feature a variety of flora, fauna, and other natural wonders to admire.
Couples can stroll through the lush green gardens, stopping to admire the native plants, birds, and other wildlife. The gardens also have a variety of sculptures and artwork to enjoy. During the spring and summer, the gardens are especially beautiful, with the trees in bloom and the vibrant colors of the flowers.
The Washington Park Botanical Gardens is a great place for couples to spend an afternoon in the beauty of nature.
7. LINCOLN TOMB & WAR MEMORIALS
Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials is a great place for couples to visit in Springfield IL. It is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. The memorials honor the fallen heroes of the Civil War.
The grounds of the memorial offer a peaceful place to reflect and pay respect to the fallen soldiers. It is also a great place to take a romantic stroll and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
8. WASHINGTON PARK
Washington Park is a public park located in the heart of Springfield, Illinois. It offers a variety of activities for couples to enjoy, including walking trails, a lake for fishing, a playground, picnic areas, and a gazebo. In addition, the park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as live music, free movie nights, and a farmers market. For a romantic evening, couples can take a stroll through the park, have a picnic, or watch the sunset from the gazebo.
9. THE BOS CENTER
The BoS Center is a multi-purpose arena located in Springfield, Illinois, that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, sporting events, and trade shows. It features a high-quality sound system, a large seating area, and up-to-date technology. The BoS Center is the perfect destination for couples looking for an entertaining evening in Springfield.
Attend a concert, watch a sporting event, or take a stroll around the arena to explore the many shops, restaurants, and concession stands. Afterward, take in a show at the nearby theatres or enjoy a romantic evening out at one of the area’s many fine dining establishments.
10. KOREAN WAR NATIONAL MUSEUM
Located in downtown Springfield, the Korean War National Museum is a great place for couples to visit. The museum features an interactive exhibit that highlights the stories of veterans and civilians during the Korean War. There are also displays of the culture and history of the Korean peninsula.
The museum also features a theater where couples can watch documentaries and films about the Korean War. After the museum, couples can explore the nearby Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum or the Illinois State Museum.
11. SPRINGFIELD SKATELAND
Skateland in Springfield, IL is a great place for couples to visit. The rink offers a variety of activities, including roller skating, laser tag, bowling, and an arcade. The rink also hosts parties, fundraisers, and other special events. There is a snack bar and a lounge area with a full bar and karaoke. Skateland is an affordable, fun, and unique way to spend time together.
12. TOMMYHAWKS AXE HOUSE
Tommyhawks Axe House is a great place for couples to go in Springfield IL. This venue offers axe throwing, where couples will be able to compete against each other in a fun and friendly atmosphere. The venue also has a full bar and restaurant, where couples can enjoy drinks, appetizers, and meals. They also offer special events and packages, such as date nights, corporate events, and more. This is a great place for couples to have a fun night out in Springfield IL.
13. PICKWICK AND CHERRY
Pickwick and Cherry is a romantic destination for couples in Springfield, IL. Located in the historic district of the city, Pickwick and Cherry offer a unique experience for couples looking to get away and enjoy some quality time together. The restaurant offers a range of American fare, craft beer, and a selection of wines, all served in a cozy atmosphere.
The venue also hosts live music on a regular basis, which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy drinks and a great meal while listening to some tunes. For a romantic night out, Pickwick and Cherry is the ideal spot.
14. TEA BAR & BITES
Tea Bar & Bites is located in downtown Springfield and it offers a variety of tea-rifying experiences for couples. This unique spot provides an intimate setting, perfect for a romantic evening out.
Enjoy challenging each other with some trivia questions or share your love story while enjoying specialty teas, made with custom infusions according to your preferences. Add some delectable snacks like whoopie pies or signature macarons to sweeten up the experience.
15. ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE CINEMA
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, located in Springfield, IL, is the perfect option for couples eager to watch a great film together. Their unique themed nights and an extensive menu of food and drinks that you can order from your seat during each movie showings make any night memorable for couples. Once the credits roll feels free to hang out at their bar afterward where craft beers, as well as classic cocktails, are served.
16. ASKINOSIE
Visit Askinosie Chocolate Factory: Located in Springfield, this artisan chocolate factory offers amazing treats and a tour of their facility to learn all about the history, process, and passion that goes into every one of their delicious products. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, join an exclusive private tasting with chocolatier Shawn Askinosie for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
17. 66 DRIVE-IN
The 66 Drive-In is a fun, classic date night experience located in Springfield, IL. The drive-in theater has double features on the big screen each night with great concessions to snack on plus an arcade and mini golf area. This makes for the perfect evening out for couples who want something unique and special. Whether you’re watching new blockbuster hits or a classic movie from decades ago this outdoor movie theater can be enjoyed at any time of year.
18. THE JUANITA K. HAMMONS HALL
The Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, located in Springfield, IL, is a landmark venue for family-friendly entertainment and performances suitable for couples. The 900-seat theater has hosted events ranging from Broadway plays to dance recitals to popular recording artists including Kenny Rogers and Ray Charles.
The facility also showcases other performing arts such as ballets and symphonies while incorporating educational programs into its many activities like lectureships through the university’s Artist Series sponsored by MSU’s College of Arts & Letters each year featuring nationally acclaimed performers offering insight into their respective fields of study.
There are auditorium tours that can be organized or one may take an audio tour when they visit the hall in order to get a behind-the-scenes experience of this historic building.
19. BLUE ROOM COMEDY CLUB
Blue Room Comedy Club offers a wide variety of comedy acts for couples to enjoy. With an array of both nationally renowned and local comedians performing, the Blue Room is sure to have something that will make your night fun and entertaining. The club also has late evening shows with food served until midnight or later so you can bring snacks and drinks when you come.
20. JORDAN VALLEY ICE PACK
The Jordan Valley Ice Pack is an outdoor ice skating rink located in Springfield, Illinois. It offers several activities for couples looking to enjoy a day together. The rink provides fun and challenging ice skating, perfect for first-timers and experienced skaters alike.
Those who prefer a less athletic activity can take a lap around the rink before heading inside to sit by the fire and sip hot chocolate. Couples can also purchase ice skates from the onsite Skate Shop and check out films at their outdoor movie theatre.
Other activities offered include broomball, curling, hockey training sessions for all skill levels, and power skating clinics for figure skaters looking to improve technique or coordination. Jordan Valley Ice Pack is open daily throughout winter months as well as offering Minnesota North Stars & Chicago Wolves Hockey Camps in July/August each summer.
21. PAINTING WITH A TWIST
Painting with a Twist is the perfect activity for couples looking to explore their creative sides. The guided instruction will make it easy for everyone, even if they have never painted before. You can take your pick of canvas sizes and pre-sketched scenes or come up with something entirely on your own.
At the end of the night, you’ll have created beautiful memories and matching artwork that you can hang in your home together.
22. HISTORIC LANDERS THEATER
The Landers Theater is the perfect stop for couples in Springfield, Illinois. With a fantastic variety of live events, it truly provides something for everyone. From local or touring Broadway musicals and plays to comedy acts and concerts boasting popular mainstream music artists from around the globe, a night out at this theater always promises an unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking for an even more unique event to add some flare to your romantic evening out in town check out one of Landers Theaters’ occasional silent films with live bands providing accompaniment.
23. FIREHOUSE POTTERY
The facility allows couples to explore their creativity together with two-hour weekend workshops designed specifically for couples. During the classes, participants learn the basics of wheel throwing and hand-building pottery while enjoying snacks provided by Firehouse Pottery onsite cafe.
Couples can also create lasting memories at Firehouse’s Paint & Sip event series where they decorate 2-5 pieces of medium-sized pottery using various glazing techniques while sipping their favorite beverages (BYOB).
For even more adventure-seeking couples, there’s Artist Outpost Art Gallery which boasts over 50 regional artists selling everything from jewelry to leather goods featuring local talent from Central Illinois.
24. SWING RIGHT GOLF
Swing Right Golf offers couples a unique golfing experience. Located in Springfield, IL, Swing Right provides a space specialized to best hone the skill of hitting shots straight and accurately. Their instructors provide lessons tailored to individual goals and needs using popular drills such as lag putting practice and full swing analysis.
The facility also provides chipping areas with different target objectives, perfect for those moments when time is limited or on shorter days between rounds. For those not into instruction they offer Couples-Package deals that includes range balls, golf clubs (if needed) plus green fees at Champion Links – making it much easier for any couple looking spend quality time together while enjoying some friendly competition on the links.
25. WONDERS OF WILDLIFE
Wonders of Wildlife is a great place for couples to visit in Springfield IL. This wildlife museum and aquarium offers guests the chance to explore more than 1.5 million gallons of aquariums with fish from around the world, have close encounters with exotic reptiles and animals, or even take a guided tour.
Wonders of Wildlife also features an arboretum-style path highlighting native plant life and forests as well as educational classes on animal care. Couples can enjoy bug-catching activities, and interactive virtual ‘petting’ sessions, and discover fascinating facts about different species throughout the galleries better understand our environment through films shown in their 4D theater as well various other educational programs available at this amazing attraction.
26. VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY
Vantage Rooftop Lounge & Conservatory is an upscale rooftop lounge located in the trendy and vibrant downtown area of Springfield, Illinois. With stunning views of the city skyline, a delicious selection of cocktails and wines along with light snacks and tapas it’s ideal for couples looking for an intimate evening out.
The contemporary decor creates a cozy yet elegant atmosphere that encourages conversation among guests. For those feeling adventurous, Vantage also offers live music events throughout the week that range from jazz to singer/songwriter concerts making it a great option if you’re searching for something unique to do in Springfield as well as gather with friends or your special someone.
27. MILLSAP FARMS
Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities such as picking their own strawberries or cutting flowers from the farm’s gardens. Additionally, there are plenty of low-key events to choose from like wine-tasting classes or bonfires with s’mores.
For something more relaxing, spend some time at the farm’s restaurant which features sandwiches among other classic comfort foods as well things like house-made smoked sausages. Randomly drive out to explore the surrounding area for sites like historic downtown buildings and ruins that tell stories still unsolved today.
28. BEAR CREEK WINERY
Bear Creek Winery offers an array of activities to enjoy together. The location features access to vineyards and wineries that couples can visit as they sip on the award-winning wines crafted right there.
At the Tasting Room & Wood Fire Grill, people can sample different wines while trying out delicious cuisine prepared with local ingredients. Nightly events held at the winery include live music, tarot readings, trivia night, and more.
Couples who wish to stay overnight are welcome at one of Bear Creek’s beautiful guest suites where you’ll find comfortable amenities like private bathrooms, fireplaces & patios for evenings spent under a starry sky. With its picturesque vines forming romantic backdrops all around; the Bear Creek wine experience promises truly magical moments for couples celebrating love themselves or someone special.
29. MIZUMOTO JAPANESE STROLL GARDEN
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is a perfect spot for couples looking for something special to do in Springfield, IL. The garden consists of six and a half acres that showcase traditional Japanese garden elements such as streams, ponds, bridges, and islands.
Couples can slow down their pace while walking along the stone pathways winding around lush shrubs, trees, and flowers set in harmony with each other to create an idyllic landscape popular in Japan centuries ago.
There are also several pavilions located at various spots throughout the park which provide plenty of shaded areas featuring benches or picnic tables where they can take time out from strolling to sit back together relax side by side or even have a romantic picnic lunch together if desired.
30. SEQUIOTA PARK
Located on the southern end of Lake Springfield and surrounded by lush woodlands, it offers plenty of opportunities for nature lovers. From walking among the tall trees to fishing or kayaking around scenic lakeside coves and swimming docks there is something here perfect for any couple looking to get away from their everyday hustle and bustle.
Additionally, SeQUiota Park has an expansive network of multi-use soft surface trails that are ideal for both biking and hiking together as you take in all this park has beauty-wise while also spending quality time with your partner outdoors.
Conclusion
Springfield IL has many exciting places and activities for couples to enjoy. With its vibrant downtown area full of restaurants, galleries, cafes, and shops — it’s a great place to visit year-round. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or looking into local attractions during your honeymoon trip — Springfield IL gives couples plenty of reasons to take advantage of together time.
