Why Winter's Better In Springfield: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Springfield. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

Nelson Center Ice Rink – Indoor Ice Skating

Address: 1601 North 5th Street, Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 753-2800
Details: Nelson Center Ice Rink features two indoor rinks that are open to the public year-round and serve as the primary ice facility for central Illinois. The center offers public skating sessions, instructional programs and organized leagues for both hockey and figure skating at all skill levels. Visitors can check session availability and times by reviewing the public skate schedule on the Springfield Park District website.

Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery Springfield

Address: 500 South 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: (217) 670-0627
Details: Obed & Isaac’s is a downtown Springfield staple known for its on-site brewery, expansive beer garden and menu built around comfort classics and house-made specialties. Guests can dine indoors in a restored Italianate mansion or enjoy outdoor seating when weather allows. Brunch is served every Sunday. Current menus, beer offerings and hours are available on the restaurant’s website.

Union Square Park

Address: 500 East Madison Street, Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: (217) 558-8844
Details: Union Square Park is a compact downtown green space featuring walking paths, benches and statues honoring Abraham Lincoln. It provides a quiet place for a winter stroll and sits within walking distance of several historic attractions. While you’re here, you can purchase tickets for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum before or after visiting the park.

Malibu Jack's Springfield – Theme Park, Arcade Games & Restaurant

Address: 2501 Wabash Avenue, Springfield, IL 62704
Phone: (217) 280-4787
Details: Malibu Jack’s Springfield is a large indoor entertainment center offering go karts, laser tag, miniature golf, motion rides and a full arcade. The space is designed for all ages and works well for group outings and family days during colder months. A full list of attractions, passes and operating hours can be found on the website.

Lincoln Memorial Garden And Nature Center

Address: 2301 East Lake Shore Drive, Springfield, Illinois 62712
Phone: (217) 529-1111
Details: The Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center preserves a native Midwestern landscape similar to what Abraham Lincoln would have known, with more than six miles of trails winding through prairies, woodlands and wetlands. The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset, while the Nature Center operates on a limited weekly schedule. Visitors can find seasonal updates and programming details on the garden’s website.

Old State Capitol State – Historic Site

Address: 526 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: (217) 785-9363
Details: The Old State Capitol is a reconstructed version of Illinois’ former statehouse and a key site in the state’s political and civil rights history. Visitors can explore the building through guided or self-guided tours and learn about Abraham Lincoln’s time there, including his famous “House Divided” speech. The site is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, excluding select public holidays; see website for more information.

Illinois State Museum Springfield

Address: 502 South Spring Street, Springfield, IL 62706
Phone: (217) 782-7386
Details: The Illinois State Museum offers free admission and features exhibits focused on the natural history, culture and art of Illinois. The Springfield location includes three floors of rotating and permanent exhibits as well as the MacLean Play Museum for Children and an on-site museum shop. Current hours, exhibits and visitor information are listed on the museum’s website.

Amazing Xscapes – Escape Room

Address: 1650 Wabash Avenue, Suite C, Springfield, IL 62704
Phone: (217) 679-6396
Details: Amazing Xscapes combines immersive escape rooms with interactive elements inspired by video games and laser tag. The experience is recommended for ages 12 and up and works well for groups looking for a structured indoor challenge. Guests can explore available rooms and reserve a time slot by booking online.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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