Showpig News
We enjoyed a jam-packed week at The Exposition in Indianapolis, and the Showpig.com crew is ready to do it again this week in Springfield, Illinois. Springfield may be known for being the capital of Illinois, but the last week of June it’s also the home of the Team Purebred National Junior Show and the Certified Pedigreed Swine and American Berkshire Association Summer Type Conferences. Show pig enthusiasts from all over the country will flock to central Illinois to take part in the festivities. If you’re heading to Springfield, we have some things to do beyond the barn.
Springfield is arguably the reason Illinois is dubbed the Land of Lincoln. If you’re a history buff, there are plenty of attractions dating back more than fourscore and seven years ago. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is one of the most popular local stops and is a great place to start a Lincoln learning tour. Follow it up with a stroll through the Lincoln Home before ending at the Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials to pay your respects to our 16th President.
If you’re still feeling nostalgic, but want to move out of the 1800s, visit Cozy Dog Drive In. Cozy Dog’s is a local legend, nestled on the historic Route 66. Enjoy a hotdog on a stick and pay homage to yesteryear with their collection of memorabilia and souvenirs.
If you love architecture and design, don’t miss one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most lavish structures – the Dana-Thomas House. Built for socialite Susan Lawrence Dana, it features more than 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture amid its vaulted dining room and gallery, which is one of the most photographed spaces in American architecture.
Keefner’s Restaurant is a locally-owned favorite that serves up classic Springfield flavor three times a day. It is also locals’ favorite spot to grab a horseshoe. Don’t know what a horseshoe is? Then, even more reason to head to Keefer’s and order one stat—you can thank us later.
If you want a drink with your horseshoe, head over to D’Arcy’s Pint. This Irish tavern offers authentic Irish fare alongside Midwestern favorites, including Illinois’ own horseshoes. Maybe while you’re there you will pick up a little luck of the Irish, just in time for show day.
Hickory River Smokehouse is the place to go to get good olde fashioned barbecue. Cuisine from this Springfield spot tastes a lot like Texas. Their tender, flavorful cuts are smoked for hours over hickory wood to make it some of the best in town.
While you may not think of Springfield as a place to get great seafood, but that’s only because you’ve never been to Chesapeake Seafood House. They’ve been serving up white tablecloth worthy seafood since 1983, in the old John McGredy mansion. Get to dinner early to take advantage of their early bird specials.
If you are looking for local brews and delicious food, look no further than Engrained Brewery & Restaurant. They are committed to farm to plate dishes. Owner, Brent Schwoerer, grew up on a farm and understands what it takes to raise high-quality products. Engrained Brewery & Restaurant is committed to sustainable, local, natural ingredients!
A mix of historic atmosphere, great food, and a brewery will get you Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery. Enjoy indoor dining in a beautifully preserved Italian mansion or have a meal with a view on the spacious outdoor patio. The fun doesn’t stop at dinner. Step over to the beer garden and find your favorite craft beer. Be sure to order the Scottish Eggs, recommended by Kevin Wendt!
Next up, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant! We love recommending this place when there is one in the area. The food and wine cannot be beaten!
Looking for authentic Mexican food in Springfield, Illinois? We recommend making your way to Xochimilco. From chips and salsa to fajitas, our team loves to make a stop here!
Don’t forget to stop by the Showpig.com booth to check out our latest apparel and promotions!