Updates and what not.

Hey readers!

Well, have had some adventures with this blog already. This includes a hiatus because of tech problems, performances and of course going out and doing a good portion of the things I list. But don't worry, I have plenty to put on this site, I just have to find the time to do it.

Also, I'm going to go back and add click-able links to some of the pages so you don't have to cut and paste into the browser! Plus, more tips and adding "Date Worthy" to some of the pages. I know, you're welcome.

But keep reading and keep sending me ideas! I'm pretty sure this might go past 365.

#62 Bike Trails

What better work out (other than running) is there than biking? Springfield has a good amount of trails that will keep you moving and some are even away from traffic and more convenient for the bikers.

Want to learn more? http://www.visit-springfieldillinois.com/hpartners/hpartnerdetail.asp?id=552

#61 Go to a winery

Scattered all over Illinois are wineries that offer tours, samples and much more. Most are a very short drive from Springfield and make for a perfect day trip.

The Central Region offers the closet vineyards and wineries to Springfield.

Do anything from wine tasting, tour properties, attend concerts, have dinner, throw a party or sit in on a Murder Mystery Dinner.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Alcohol Friendly
Music Venues

Want to learn more? www.illinoiswine.com/

#60 Visit the Apple Barn

GET OUT OF TOWN!!!! (Sort of)

Located at 2290 E. Walnut in Chatham, IL this orchard offers freshly picked produces and goodies made with them.

They offer tours and apple picking when the season calls for it. There are food stuffs and activities during the summer, winter and fall.

The orchard is open from 9 A.M. - 6 P.M. from April until Christmas

Go for the apple butter and try and apple slushie!

Want to learn more? http://www.applebarn.net/

#59 Springfield Runners Club

Established in 1977 this is one of the oldest running clubs in the area. The club offers training and sponsors events for runners in and around the Springfield area.

Races include the Abe's Amble, Frostbite Festival and Lincoln Memorial Half Marathon.

Membership is only $15 for a year and gets you access to the newsletter, races, discounts, socials and more.

CHALLENGE: Join for a year and train for a race!

Want to learn more? http://srrc.net/

#58 Visit the Dana Thomas House

Located at 301 East Lawrence Avenue this was a masterpiece of renovation by Frank Lloyd Wright for the Lawrence family in 1904.

Explore the many floors and decorations of this house. Learn about the history of the family and everyday goings on of the home. Also, learn about the events thrown in the home. There's a little hidden secret to the house, but you have to go on the tour to find out what it is!

There are lots of stairs for the many levels so it's not exactly wheelchair accessible. The stairs aren't exactly a hike, but they would be inconvenient for someone in a cast or has walking problems. However, there is a virtual tour for those that can't walk the home in person.

There is a suggested donation of $5 for adults and $3 for children.

The house is open for tours Wednesday-Sunday from 9 A.M-4 P.M.

TIP: Take a restroom break before the tour. It takes about and hour to an hour and a half.

Kid Friendly
Small/Medium Group Friendly
Open Year Round

Want to learn more? http://www.dana-thomas.org/

#57 Get a Slice at Joe Gallina's

Located at 432 E. Monroe street this is a great place to grab a slice downtown.

It's been open for over 20 years. The pizza is served hot and fresh not too long after it's ordered. They feature and array of topping including anchovies!

Not only can you walk in but they deliver! Also, what else goes better with pizza than a great selection of beer or wine?

TIP: They are a little busy during the downtown lunch rush, but they have a great crowd during dinner. Also they have pretty good hours Monday - Thursday 10:30 A.M. - 11 P.M. and Friday and Saturday 11 A.M. to Midnight.

Kid Friendly
Family Friendly
Small/Medium Group Friendly

#56 Visit the Illinois State Museum, Springfield

Located at the corner of Spring and Edward streets, this museum is walking distance from the State Capitol Building.

Visit the main museum in Springfield to view art from in and around Illinois, natural history and interact in the children's area.

Admission is free!!!!! The hours are Monday - Saturday 8:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. and Sunday Noon-5:00 P.M

Kid Friendly
Medium/Large Group Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.museum.state.il.us/geninfo/

#55 Krekles

In the mood for something so simple and so spot on? I'm talking hand crafted burgers, fries, chili, ice cream, nothing fancy just awesome eats. You want to go to a Krekles!

The first Krekles was established in Decatur, IL in 1949. Springfield didn't get theirs until 1993. There are about 7 locations throughout Central Illinois.

You can either go inside order and have a seat or you can order outside the window and hang out outside.

TASK: Have a chocolate milkshake and dip your fries in it. (Oh come on just try it for me!)

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Want to learn more? http://krekels.weebly.com

SORRY!!!!!!

My computer has been busted for a little bit. When it's up and running I have a TON of post to put on! The fair is in town and I will not only blog about that but alternatives to the fair! See you soon and look out for those updates!!!!!

Where are the photos?

There has been little participation in the Lincoln Photo Challenge, so I'm extending it until August 15. That's one more week!

#54 Send A Postcard

When is the last time you sent something snail mail? There a plenty of people in our lives that would appreciate seeing something in the mailbox with their name on it.
Old Pen pals
Former College Roommates
Siblings
Friends and Family in the Military
Kid off at College
Parents
Relatives in general
Former Mentors


Send someone a Springfield post card. There are stores all around town that sell Springfield themed post cards.

Or better yet, make it yourself. Here is a great site I found that shows 3 different ways to make postcards. From PhotoJojo

3 Easy Ways to Make Postcards from Your Photos (And Brighten Someone’s Day)

Postcards are a lost art.

If you’re like most people, during your last trip you either: a) Dashed off a quick “Wish you were here” on a cheesy card you found at the airport, or b) bought a stack of beautiful cards but forgot all about them until you got home, or c) forgot about postcards altogether.

Hey, it’s okay. Vacations are stressful.

But who says that you can only send postcards when you’re away from home? You’ve got great photos, and it’s a simple task to turn them into postcards.

Take our advice: Spend 10 minutes today to scroll through your photos and pick three that make you smile. Print ‘em out, follow our instructions, and send off some beautiful just-thinking-of-you postcards. You’ll make the world a brighter place for a few of your favorite people.

3 Easy Ways to Make Postcards from Your PhotosÂ
www.photojojo.com/content/diy/postcards-from-your-photos/

These days, our mailboxes are more likely to be stuffed with junk mail and bills than anything we actually want. We all love getting mail (the real kind) and a picture postcard by surprise can really brighten a friend’s day. Here’s three simple ways to make postcards from your photos.

Method #1: Peel-and-Stick postcard backing

The folks over at The Vintage Postcard Shop make it easy for you to tell a friend you think they’re swell.

All you need is one of your dazzling 4×6 or 5×7 photographs, one of their peel-and-stick postcard backings, and a friend. In no time, you’ll have scrawled a witty message, slapped on a stamp, and made your friend’s day. Ta da!

These postcard backings are made from heavy stock, so they keep your photo stiff. They’ve also got a box for your stamp, lines for an address, and they’re photo-safe.

By the way, the backing is a tiny bit larger than necessary, so you don’t need to worry about getting your photos on perfectly straight–just trim off the excess and you’re good to go!

At just $4 for ten 4″x6″ backings, they’re a steal!

Method #2: Use nothing but a photo

Here’s the super quick, super simple, super cheap photo postcard trick:

1. Print your photo at 4×6
2. Turn it over
3. Slap on a stamp, jot down your message, and write your friend’s address, all where they would normally go on a postcard
4. Drop it in the mail!

Yep, that’s it!

Not many people know this, but there’s nothing fancy about the postcards you buy at the store–you don’t need a USPS blessing or special paper to make a postcard, just make it look like one!

(Now you’ve really got no excuse not to send a postcard today.)

We should note that while we’ve tried this trick a number of times, we’ve never sent a photo internationally without backing. Photos by themselves aren’t nearly as sturdy as postcards or photos with postcard backing, so if it’s crossing an ocean, we recommend using method #1.

[Update: Jill wrote in to tell us that she's received a trans-Pacific photo postcard using Method #2 ("wrinkled and a little dirty, but it arrived nonetheless.") See her photos for proof! Thanks Jill!]

Method #3: Let the Post Office do the work

We found a cool service on the post office website that lets you create a picture postcard online and have them send it for you. You never have to touch a stamp, a pen, or even your photo!

It’s easy. Go to the Premium Postcard website and scroll down to upload your image. Once you’ve done that, tap in a message, choose a font, and fill in your friend’s address. A day or two later, they’ll print it up and send it on its way.

While this method does make it incredibly quick to send a photo to a friend (you can even send the same photo and message to dozens of friends at once!) there’s something special about getting a handwritten postcard.

If you’re short on time but can print your own pics, try Method #2. But hey, a computer-printed postcard is still better than no postcard at all!

Not only would it be a fun little art and craft project, but it lets someone know you are thinking of them!

#53 Water Fight

It's been a pretty hot humid and muggy summer. Why not find the easiest way to cool down?

Grab the water hose, the balloons, the slip and slide swimsuits and water guns and have an old fashion water war!

If those are too boring here are some suggestions:

Sponge Toss Contest

Required: Large car sponges, large containers of water, receiving buckets, warm weather

Divide up into teams. You can have as many teams as you have equipment. Each team forms a line with teammates a little more than an arms length away from each other. At one end of the line is a large container of water with large sponges in it. The other end has a small bucket, which you could mark with a fill line where you want the finish point to be or just fill to the top. When signaled to start, teams are to race. The person at the large container is to throw a sponge to next teammate and that person to the next until it reaches the end of the line. The last person is to squeeze the sponge out and then run to the start of the line, dip the sponge in the large container and pass to next person. If sponge is dropped while being passed, it is to be thrown back to the start of the line and you are to continue again. After full rotation of line, meaning everyone has taken sponge out of large container and passed, the team with the most collected water is the winner.

Water Balloon Dodgeball

Required: Water ballons, 2 plastic tubs

Have at least 5 water balloons per player. Divide into 2 groups on opposite sides of a line with each side having their balloons in a plastic tub. If you are hit with a water balloon you are out (like dodgeball). Last one in wins.

Drip-Drip-Splash

Great for a hot day. Played the same as Duck-duck-goose, but instead of touching the heads of those not picked they have a little bit of water from a cup dropped on their head. The person picked gets the rest of the cup poured on their head.

Kid Friendly
Small-Large Group Friendly

#52 Fly A Plane

There are a number of flying schools in and around the Springfield area. Now when I say fly a plane I don't mean learning how to fly a multi passenger jet. I'm talking a small single engine plane.

First there is a flight physical, then written test and the actual flying portion.

Just imagine the bragging right you can have with a pilot license!

Want to learn more?: http://www.mcclellandaviation.com/FlightSchool.htm

#51 Lincoln Photo Challenge!

Here is the first photo challenge everyone!

I plan on having about 5 photo challenges within the 365. There's never an entry fee and you have to live in or within 45 miles of Springfield to enter and win. There will be prizes and they will have to do with Springfield and the theme of the contest.

These are the rules:
~10 Photos with "Lincoln" as you subject
~No NUDITY!!!!
~No obscenities
~Please submit your own photos and not ones that you have seen
~Effects are allowed but no retouches

To enter:
Submit photos via Flickr™, use your Yahoo!® ID to login to www.flickr.com. If you don't have an account, sign-up for free at www.flickr.com. Flickr™ and Yahoo!® are trademarks of Yahoo, Inc. After logging in, upload photos using the tools provided. If you aren't already a member of The Springfield 365 group on Flickr™( http://www.flickr.com/groups/spi365/), join by clicking "Join this Group?" on the group's homepage.

Browse to the image you want to submit, hit "Send to Group" and add images to Springfield 365 photo pool. Once added to the group, tag each photo with "LIN2010". If you don't upload your photo to Springfield 365 group on Flickr™, or do not tag your photo with a tag, it wont be considered for the challenge.

The best individual photo and best set will win a Springfield themed prize. And will also be featured on the blog!

The end date will be August 8 at midnight giving you all about week to take your best pics! The winners will be announced August 9 midnight

I think even I will get in on this and let everyone see my pictures!

#50 Go to a Sliders Game

The Springfield Sliders are a summer baseball team. Their home field is Robin Roberts Field at Lanphier Park.

This is a great setting to get the family or just to enjoy baseball locally without going all the way to St. Louis or Chicago.

Enjoy promotions, food, and pretty inexpensive ticket prices are more than enough to watch these homegrown games.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Kid Friendly
Beer Friendly
Music

Want to learn more? http://www.springfieldsliders.com/

#49 Find Lincolns Family Pew

The Lincoln family purchased a pew in the First Presbyterian Church. The church is located at 321 S. 7th St.

You can easily spot the pew with a number 20 on the side and flags.

There is also a guided tour of the church from June to September 10 am until 4 pm.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Older Kid Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.visit-springfieldillinois.com/hpartners/hpartnerdetail.asp?id=41

#48 Architectural Walking Tour

These tours happen every Wednesday from June to October.

This is a free tour!

The tour begins at 5:30 pm in front of Lincoln-Herndon Law Office located at Old State Capitol Plaza.

Observers take a 90 min. walking tour and learn interesting fact about some of Springfield's buildings.

Small/ Medium Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.downtownspringfield.org/tours.htm

#47 Springfield Walking tours

Get up close and personalt with historic Springfield by participating on one of these walking tours.
Tours that are offered are:

SPRINGFIELD WALKS TOURS

Lincoln's Ghost Walk: Legends and Lore

The Haunted Dead Walk

Weird, True and Scandalous Walk

Springfield's 1908 Race Riot Walk

Springfield Trilogy Talk

From the Springfield walks website

Want to learn more? http://www.springfieldwalks.com/

#46 Visit the Lauterbach Muffler Man

Another can't miss feature of the West side. Located not far from our friend "Pinkie" lives the Lauterbach Muffler Man.

Once upon a time this giant held a tire. Now he sports an American flag.

He had a mishap in 2006 when massive winds and tornadoes knocked his head right off his shoulders. Luckily, his head was found and now he sports Frankenstein like bolts coming out of his neck.

Task: Why do you pose with this jolly giant!

#45 Garage Sales

Want to spend a day exploring Springfield and finding treasures along the way? Well go to garage sale. Local papers feature sales every weekend during good weather.

If you don't want to scourer the paper looking for sales, then just drive around until you see signs. Watch out for neighborhood sales, then you can just park your care and walk around!

TIPS:
~Have small bills and change ready. Its not very convenient when you by a 50 cent Hummle and they have to break a $20.
~Start early during the day (8am ish) so you can get first picks.
~Hit sales late for the best deals (1 or 2 ish)
~Bring water, stay hydrated.
~Bring your own reusable bag

#44 Horseback Riding at Riverside Stables

Located at 2310 Chinchilla Lane, these stables offer boarding for horses and lessons.

Visitors can rent a horse and ride the trails. Sessions last for an hour and are by appointment only.

They also offer riding lessons. The lessons are even offered year round.

Kid Friendly
Small/Medium Group Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.riversidestable.com/index.html

#43 Star Gazing

Pick a great spot and just look up at the stars. As long as its a cloudless day and there isn't much light coming from buildings, it's not hard to see star in general.

You can go deeper and use a telescope to look for specific starts and constellations.

Different ones can be seen during different times of night and of the year.

Want to learn more? http://stardate.org/nightsky/

#42 Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices

Located at 6th and Adams Street, this is one of the last building Lincoln practiced law and later William Herndon.
Visit and explore the offices and watch an informative video!

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.state.il.us/hpa/hs/lincoln_herndon.htm

#41 Snow Cones

What better way to celebrate hot weather than a snow cone!

There are many little stands all around Springfield that are open for this seasonal treat. If you are lucky enough to live walking distance from one, GO!

Kid Friendly
Small Group Friendly

#40 Visit Union Station

Located at 212 N. 6th St (Also known as Union Square Park) this historic structure is practically a one stop shop for attractions in and around Springfield.

This was once the location of town's train station. It was also a predominate part of Springfield skyline with it's three story tall clock tower.

Within Union Square Park many events have been held including Civil War reenactments and parties.

Explore the interior and see the station that many frequented from the late 1800's to the 1970's.

Kid Friendly
Med/Large Group Friendly

Task: Enter and find a random activity to do within 50 miles of Springfield.

#39 Make a Vegetarian Vegan or Raw Food meal

Remember all that great stuff you got at the farmers market? Better yet, remember all those veggies that are just sitting in the fridge? Well lets put them to a healthy use! Create a vegetarian, vegan or raw food meal for yourself or your family.

Vegetarian:

Function: adj
1 : of or relating to vegetarians
2 : consisting wholly of vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, and sometimes eggs or dairy products vegetarian diet>
from dictionary.com

Recipes:
Double Tomato Bruscetta
Spicy Eggplant
Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan:

–noun
a vegetarian who omits all animal products from the diet.
from dictionary.com

Recipes:
Spinach Artichoke Hummus w/ Roasted Red Peppers
Guacamole
Vegan Cupcakes

Raw:

The raw food diet is a diet based on unprocessed and uncooked plant foods, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, sprouts, seeds, nuts, grains, beans, nuts, dried fruit, and seaweed.

Heating food above 116 degrees F is believed to destroy enzymes in food that can assist in the digestion and absorption of food. Cooking is also thought to diminish the nutritional value and "life force" of food.
from about.com

It's summer and it's pretty hot. There is no need to crank up the stove and make the kitchen hotter!

Recipes:
Raw Brownies
Veggie Casserole
Sunshine salad

Or look online for something you would like!!

Task: Make a vegan dish that other will like!

#38 Visit the Farmers Market

Located on Adams Street between 5th & 3rd Sts, the market features fresh local produce, baked goods, and more.
The market is open from May until October every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:00 am until 12:30 pm.
Bring your own bag for convenient carry. Most stands offer their own.

Kid Friendly
Small/Medium Group Friendly
Music Venue

Task: Buy products grown or made within 100 miles of Springfield.

Want to learn more? http://www.downtownspringfield.org/market.htm

#37 Chatham Sweetcorn Fest

Get Out of town! But not too far.

Located at Chatham Community Park S. Main St., Chatham, IL, this festival features food, kid's activities, demonstrations and more.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Kid Friendly
Alcohol Friendly
Music Venue

Task: Get some sweetcorn and watch the Cow Chip Throw!
Want to learn more? http://www.chathamjaycees.net/Sweetcorn.htm

#36 Visit the Lincoln Depot

Located at 10th & Monroe Streets, this is where Abe Lincoln boarded that faithful train and started his journey to Washington. This is also the spot where he gave his Farewell Address to friends and neighbors.

Many don't realize that visitors can go inside and tour the depot.

Small/Large Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Task: Go to the depot and take a Lincoln picture.
Want to learn more? http://www.visit-springfieldillinois.com/hpartners/hpartnerdetail.asp?id=38

# 35 Play Putt Putt/Mini Golf

Mini (Putt Putt Golf) is a a scaled down version of the real thing.
It's another great way to get out the house and move around a little.

Places that offer course are:

Knight's Action Park 1700 Recreation Drive
Boulder Creek Fun Park 2400 Hilton Head Drive
Putt Putt Golf Course 1717 Wabash Avenue
Glow Golf (inside White Oaks Mall)

Kid Friendly
Small/Medium Group Friendly
Date Friendly

Task: Try to finish with >36 strokes!

#34 Get Certified in CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is an important life saving skill. Learning and becoming certified in CPR is not as hard as it seems. Not only can one save a life but can prevent injury if properly trained.
Classes are offered at the Illinois Capital Area Chapter of the Red Cross, The YMCA, and more

Want to learn more?
http://www.il-redcross.org/geteducated/classes.html

#33 Vachel Linsay House

Located at 603 S. 5th St. this is the birthplace and home of Vachel Lindsay.
Lindsay was a poet and artist during the early 1900's. He is best know for poems suchs as "Lincoln Walk at Midnight" which tells of Lincolns ghostly return to his old neighborhood.
Tours are offered year round and guides inform about the life and times of Lindsay, his family and his untimely death.

Small Group Friendly

Task: Visit and learn a VL poem

Want to learn more? http://www.state.il.us/hpa/hs/vachel_lindsay.htm

#32 Find The Pink Elephant

No, you haven't had one too many

No, you aren't seeing things

Yes, that's exactly what you think it is!

There are some wonderful characters that live in and around Springfield. One of which is The Pink Elephant better known as "Pinkie". It's 12 feet tall, pink and holds a martini glass. You can't miss it!

Task: Find him and take a picture.

Here's a photo with me and Pinkie about 3 years ago!

* I've been asked for hint of where Pinkie lives. Try the west end of town. Pinkie has another friend you will be visiting soon not very far.

#31 Tast of Downtown Springfield

Located at 5th and Washington, this festival features downtown restaurant fares and local artisans.

The cost is $2 for adults and free for kids under 12 to enter and last from noon until mindnight.

Sample food, listen to music and fee kids activities.

This is another way to have a great time out doors and walk around Springfield's downtown

Small/ Medium Group Friendly
Music Venue
Kid Friendly
Pet Friendly

#30 Go Fishing!

Springfield is lucky enough to have a few bodies of water near by. (Lake Springfield and Sangamon River to name a couple)
In Illinois you are required to have a fishing license. A residential fishing license is about $20 (I'm rounding up for tax and convince fee purposes)
CWLP's website provides rules for fishing in the city limits. For example types of lines that can be used, what kind of fish are in the lake and so on.
But once all the legalities are in place, grab a pole, some bait, some mosquito repellent and have fun!

Small Group Friendly
Kid Friendly


Task: Try to catch a blue gill!

Want to learn more?
http://www.takemefishing.org/fishing/license/location/state/IL?gclid=CKy5o5it16ICFRAMDQodbj8Xvw

http://www.cwlp.com/Lake_Springfield/Water_sports/fishing/fishing.htm

http://www.cwlp.com/Lake_Springfield/Water_sports/fishing/fishing_rules.htm

#29 Washington Park

Located on the west end of Springfield, this 150 acre park contains:

12 tennis courts, paddle tennis courts, and a pro-shop. To the west is a large playground and a large pavilion with ADA accessible restrooms. Historic features within the park include the large, enclosed pavilion, a band pavilion and a lagoon on the park's east side. Toward the park's west side along the Jacksonville Branch Creek is a lower lagoon.
Source SPD website)

This park is great for runners, dog walkers, picnicers (hmmmm I don't think that's a real word), photographers, or to just stand around and feed the ducks!
One can host anything from birthday parties, graduation parties, weddings, or photo shoots on these grounds.

Kid Friendly
Pet Friendly
Medium/Large Group Friendly
Music Venue


Want to learn more? http://www.springfieldparks.org/parks/washington.asp

#28 The Muni

Located at 815 East Lake Drive, this is Springfield's outdoor theater and boast one of the largest community theaters in the Midwest.
Every summer it features about four productions for audiences to enjoy throughout season.
Seating is either reserved or lawn, however there isn't really a bad view of the stage.
If acting isn't your thing they gladly take volunteers for anything from makeup, costumes, lighting, even clean up.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.themuni.org/index.html

#27 Knights Action Park

Located at 1700 Knights Recreation Drive this is Springfield's own little amusement park. There's batting cages, bumper boats, wave pool, water slides and more.
Make sure you visit the golf range that's been open since 1952. It's open year round to practice that swing!
The park also has food available for purchase making KAP and all day experiences.
This is also a birthday venue if you want to have a party somewhere fun and exciting.

Kid Friendly
Medium/Large Group Friendly

Task:Spend the ENTIRE day at the park. Can you handle it?

Want to learn more? http://www.knightsactionpark.com/

#26 Open Mic Nights

Don't confuse this with Karaoke!
Singers and songwriters hit the stages in the bars, taverns and restaurants of Springfield, to show off their craft and get some constructive criticism from other musical movers and shakers in town.
Springfield has it's very own music scene sprinkled all over the town and it's surrounding areas. The best say to see examples of this are open mic nights.
These are evenings where artist play for the patrons. Some establishments that host open mic nights are Marley's (Monday nights) Norb Andy's (Monday nights) Bar None (Tuesday nights)
So ask your favorite watering hole if they host an open mic night, or stumbling in somewhere on a weeknight and be entertained.

#25 Watch The Fireworks... and then some

It's the 4th of July. I'm sure many of you have been cooking out, or cooking in, visiting relatives, going on tours with relatives that are visiting, or avoiding all of it all together!

If you want all the excitement of the 4th head downtown for the Capitol City Celebrations! Located downtown (2nd and Capitol, 5th and Capitol, 2nd and Monroe)the party kicks off at noon.
Kids, there are some free kids activities downtown that day. Grown ups eat, drink, be marry and keep it together long enough to watch firework later that night!

Firework start at about 9:30

Kid Friendly
Big Group Friendly
Alcohol Friendly
Music Venue

Want to learn more? http://www.springfieldjaycees.org/capitol.htm

#24 Head West Sub Stop

This place has 3 locations but they deliver. Good ingredient and large portions, these sub shops are worth a second look.
Their menu features something for meat eaters (Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef), to vegetarians (hummus loaded with veggies) and in between. They also Feature soups and salads.

Small/Med Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Try the sweet bread with your sandwich.

Want to learn more? http://www.myspace.com/headwestsubstop

#23 Lincoln Library

Located at 326 South 7th St (Main Branch)Lincoln Library system is home to many books for use in and around Springfield. But there aren't just books in the library. There's also audio and visual research aides.
The main branch also features conference rooms, classes and story time for children.
Don't forget to keep quiet :)

Small/Med. Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Task: (A) Get your very own Library Card. If you have one already, check out a book on a subject you know nothing about!

Want to learn more? http://www.lincolnlibrary.info/

#22 Lincolns Tomb

Located at Oak Ridge Cemetery, 1441 Monument Ave, this is the final resting place of Abe Lincoln and his family minus his son Robert.
The tomb is open for most of the year for tours and special events.
Take the guided tour and here about tomb structures and grave robbers.

Medium/ Large Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Task: Rub Lincoln's nose

Want to learn more? http://www.state.il.us/hpa/hs/lincoln_tomb.htm

#21 Juneteenth

A little history:

Abraham Lincoln issued the the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862. It was to go into effect January 1, 1863. Juneteenth commemorates June 18 and 19, 1865. June 18 was the day Union General Granger arrived in Galveston, TX to enforce the emancipation of its slaves. On June 19, 1865 it was proclaimed that the slaves were officially free.

The Juneteenth Celebration is located at Comer Cox Park every third Saturday of June. The run time for this event is about 11 am until about 8 pm. Festivities include a parade down M.L. King Drive, games, contest, and food.

Big Group Friendly

Task: Attend and pick up some literature about Juneteenth.

Want to learn more about Juneteenth? http://www.juneteenth.com/

Thanks for the support

I have had an overwhelming response to the article in the State Journal-Register by Dave Bakke
(http://www.sj-r.com/bakke/x148963579/Dave-Bakke-365-things-to-do-in-Springfield)

Since the article I have had dozens of emails with great ideas and things I didn't even know existed in Springfield and surrounding areas.

For the past few days I have been organizing everything everyone has sent to me and I want to put it all in this blog. My hope is that we reach past 365.

Soon I will be issuing challenges, so get your cameras ready! There will be one every season (Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring), one at the "end" and a few little ones in between. Prizes will be determined by how many people participate!

Thanks again for the support and send in your ideas no matter how big or small!

#20 Sangamon County Fair

Fair Season has begun!
*GET OUTTA TOWN! (But not too far!)

Located in New Berlin, IL ( Map http://www.sangcofair.com/Map.htm)a little less than 30 minutes away. The Sangamon County Fair is five days of concerts, rides, on site acts and Demolition Derby.

The Cost is about $15 for adults, $5 for the kids, $5 to park.

Big Group Friendly
Kid Friendly
Large Group Friendly
Alcohol Friendly (ID Strictly Enforced)

Task: Catch the Sangamon County Fair Queen Pageant.


Want to learn more? http://www.sangcofair.com/index.htm

#19 Cafe Brio

Located at 524 East Monroe Street this is a fusion restaurant that features an eclectic menu. The exterior is brightly colored compared to its surroundings so it's pretty hard to miss. It is a very intimate setting that's pretty good for afternoon meetings and dates later in the evenings. *A Tip: if you can't handle spicy food, ask if a dish is spicy before ordering. Some are surprisingly spicy.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Date Friendly
Alcohol Friendly

Task: Have one of their many flavors of margaritas.

#18 The Black Sheep Cafe

Located at 1320 S 11th this is an all ages music venue. The venue showcases PG 13 friendly bands on the weekends. Because they shows are for all ages, there is no alcohol served and no smoking allowed in the venue. Parents are even welcomed to come and hang out if worried about their children.

All Ages (teenager) Friendly
Music Venue
Medium/Large Group Friendly

Task: Go and enjoy the show!

Want to learn more? http://www.myspace.com/blacksheepcafe

#17 Leann's Parkway Cafe

Located at 2715 N. Dirksen Parkway this restaurant serves inexpensive comfort food such as meatloaf and open face roast beef. There is always a daily special and it's also a great place to find some real sweet tea.

Big Group Friendly
Kid Friendly

Task: Have The Ox. It's a pound of beef. Can you handle it?

Want to learn more? http://www.eatparkway.com/

#16 Stella Blue

Located on the 2nd floor of 221 South 5th Street, Stella Blue is a cocktail and martini bar with an energetic vibe. There is never a cover and usually a DJ spinning something everyone can enjoy. The bar has pretty knowledgeable bartenders and is one of the few places to go until 3 a.m.

This beautiful bar can also be used for private events.

Big Group Friendly
Bar Hop Friendly
Music Venue

Task: After climbing the steps enjoy one of the house cocktails

Want to learn more? http://www.sebastianshideout.com/food-index2.html

#15 Norb Andy's Tabarin

Located at 518 E. Capitol Ave., Norb's is not that new to Springfield. It was however closed for about three years. Before that the basement had lived many lives.

This is the only bar located on Capitol Avenue, but don't feel like you have to look for it. The door is always open and there is always music. Either regulars singing or open mic nights on Mondays.

Small/Medium Group Friendly
Bar Hop Friendly
Music Venue

Task: Have a pint!

Want to know more about the history? http://www.sj-r.com/news/x536353687/Few-changes-seen-in-new-Norb-Andys

*There will be construction going on all summer in front of Norb's. However it is still open and worth the walk through construction.

#14 Cafe Moxo

Located at 411 East Adams, Cafe Moxo is pretty new to downtown. This cafe features a breakfast, lunch and coffee menu. They also cater and have specialty baked goods.

Many of the sandwiches have fun names such as Cinco No Mayo and Shawnee.

Kid Friendly
Big Group Friendly

Task: Try to create your own sandwich.

#13 Remy's on Monroe

Located at 225 E Monroe St, this downtown Jazz and cocktail bar has the perfect after-work kick-back-and-relax atmosphere. The hand painted interior and low lights and laid back mood is a little different than most bars downtown.

Most weekends a live jazz artist or band is featured. Sometimes there is a cover but it less than most larger cities would charge for a night of great jazz!

The space can also be used for private parties and events.

Date/Small Group Friendly
Alcohol Friendly
Music Venue

Task: Have a martini and listen to some jazz!

Want to learn more? http://remysjazz.wordpress.com/about/

#12 Catie Girls

Located at 400 East Jefferson Street on the bottom floor of the St. Nicholas.

The inside is brightly colored and beautiful. Casual dining is an event here with all the amazing scenery.

This menu features so many different tastes, you will want to come back and try them all! They use local grown and cook seasonal. Some items can even be made without meat.

They also offer catering for events, create special occasion cakes, and cooking classes.

Medium Group Friendly
Alcohol Friendly
Kid Friendly

Want to learn more? http://www.caitiegirls.com/

#11 Visit the Phoenix Center

The Center is located at 109 E. Lawrence Avenue. It provides many services to the community such as Billy's House that caters to men and women who are HIV positive and homeless, also a clinic that provides free anonymous testing for STD's and HIV.

The Center also provides a haven for GLBTQ Youth to hang out and receive education on HIV and STD prevention.

The Center also throws events throughout the year.

Task: Go get tested!

Want to learn more? http://www.phoenixcenterspringfield.org/

#10 Brewhaus Bar

Brewhaus is located at 617 East Washington Street. This place is very laid back with music, free popcorn, an impressive list of beers and knowledgeable bar staff that can mix about anything. Little tip, if you don't know what you want to drink, there is a giant book behind the bar with tons of drink recipes.

Alcohol Friendly
Barhop Friendly
Big Group Friendly
Music Venue

Task: If you're a liquor drinker order a "Freds". If you are a beer drinker get a list close your eyes and pick!

Want to learn more? http://www.myspace.com/springfieldbrewhaus

#9 Abraham Lincoln Presidental Library and Musem

Located at 212 N. Sixth Street

This place is fairly new to Springfield and still pulls in a lot of people.

Tour the museum and view exhibits of Lincoln's humble beginnings, the political machine, the gossip about him and more. One of my favorite exhibits is something I like to call the "Hall of Haters". It features some of the many slanderous things that were said to and about Lincoln.

As for the Library, what do you want to know about Illinois? Well, its more than likely there. But these research materials are pretty valuable so, there are lots of rules and regulations to abide by.

TASK: Visit the Ghosts of the Library show at the museum .

Want to learn more? http://www.alplm.org/

#8 Nelson Center

The Nelson Center is located within Lincoln Park 1601 North 5th Street.

It houses the only ice rink within about 60 miles. Here you can see a Jr. Blues Hockey match or ice skate during open skate. They offer hockey programs for all ages.

For those of you that want to soak up some sun, the center also has a pool that is open during the summer and it's open to the public.

Family Friendly
Kid Friendly
Big Group Friendly
Beer Friendly (during Blues games)

TASK: Go ice skating!!! The rinks are open for free skate. Just go to the website for more details.

Want to learn more? http://www.springfieldparks.org/facilities/ice/nelsonicerinks.asp

#7 Carters Fish Market

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! And that's a big shout to all the moms and grandma's and dads that pose as moms and bonus moms and so on. For my Mother's Day blog, I would like to share a place that my mother, my grandmother and I like to eat.

Located at 1900 E. South Grand Ave, if you blink you will miss this shack that offers some of the best fried fish Springfield has to offer. Classics like walleye, catfish, carp, buffalo, all for the customers enjoyment.

The fish market however sells frozen and raw fish to it's customers.

Careful what time you go, there could be a line wrapped around the shack, but the food is worth it!

TASK: Well, finding it is task alone!

#6 Cafe Andia Mo

Located at 204 South Sixth Street, this small Springfield Cafe offers great breakfast items like omelets, pastries and lunch items like soups, sandwiches, and specialty pizza. My favorite thing about this place, they have gelato!

They also have a good variety of coffees and hot and cold teas.

I wouldn't recommend taking large groups, its a pretty intimate setting.

Beer Friendly
Small Setting
Music Venue

TASK: Go and have some gelato if you never had it or have a cup of coffee and people watch. (BONUS: how many Historical landmarks can you see out the window?)

Want to learn more? http://www.cafeandiamo.com

#5 The Hoogland Center for the Arts

The Hoogland is located at 420 S. 6th Street. This is more than just the place you go to see awesome productions. You can have meetings, small dinner gatherings, and art shows there too. It's a pretty up to date center of the arts.

Also, the more you go the more you learn about other awesome organizations and associations (more on those later)!


Kid Friendly
Family Friendly
Group Friendly
Music Venue
Artsy

TASK: See a show in 2 of the 3 theaters!

Want to learn more? http://www.scfta.org/

#4 Pizza Machine

Pizza Machine is located 107 W. Cook St. Inside the Vinegar Hill Mall. (more about that later). This is a big gutted-out-warehouse-looking thing that now houses the "World's Largest Pizza" . That would be 5 feet across or 60 inches.

No, really, I have seen this monster that you have to lower on to the table with a crane or something. It's huge! It's a party pizza of course and can realistically feed a lot of people.

Grown ups, don't be fooled by the interior. I know it looks like its for kids, but that upstairs makes it very easy to have grown-up time and still see the kiddies climb all over everything (AND THERE'S A BAR!).

Kid Friendly
Large Group Friendly
Music Venue

TASK: I wont make you eat a 5-foot-in-diameter pizza, but I will say try something you never had before! Go for a topping that you usually don't get on 1/4 of your pizza :)

Want to learn more? http://www.thepizzamachine.net/

#3 Route 66 Drive In

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!

The Route 66 Drive In is located on 1700 Recreation Drive, right next to Knights Action Park. For about $6.00 a person you can enjoy two fairly new and fairly awesome movies. Right after dusk the first movie begins, there is a brief intermission and then a second movie plays. There are technically four movies playing a night.

I honestly think it's one of the most amazing things in the world. Watching a double feature from your car! You can prop your feet up without worrying about an usher with a flashlight threatening to kick you out of Finding Nemo. My advice is that you bring a radio as oppose to using your car radio. They have jumper cables just in case your battery drains. Also blankets, it gets cold at night and you can cozy up!

Oh and please be considerate, they GIVE YOU TRASH BAGS!!!! Don't throw your junk on the ground. There are more Drive in Rules to live by on the website.

Kid Friendly
Large Group Friendly
Last Minuet Friendly
No PETS (sorry puppies!)

TASK: Grab 3 friends, blankets, and a boom box and sit out in front of your car at the Drive In!

Want to learn more? http://www.route66-drivein.com/index.html

#2 JP Kellys Pub

J.P. Kelly's Pub and Packaged Liquors is located downtown at the corner of 3rd & Adams. This bar opened in 2007 so it's fairly young. A very laid back with an old school feel. It's a great place to meet up with friends and start your night.

One of the highlights would have to be the build-your-own Bloody Mary bar on Saturday mornings. You can garnish your drink with so many items that it practically makes a salad on top of you drink!

Alcohol Friendly
Bar hop Friendly
Music Venue


TASK: Order an award winning "Naughty School Girl."