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Free Things To Do in Springfield, IL

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free things to do in springfield

When planning a road trip or visiting any new place, it is a good idea to have an itinerary and budget in mind. If you’re thinking about visiting the state capitol of Illinois, there are a plethora of affordable things to do. Here are some of the free things to do in Springfield, Illinois. 

Free Things To Do in Springfield

Believe it or not, Springfield is a city rich in history and there is no shortage of budget-friendly things to do. Below are just a few of the free activities that you can take part in. Depending on the time of year you visit, there may also be a number of free festivals and other low-cost ways to spend the day. 

Oak Ridge Cemetery 

Oak Ridge Cemetery is where you can visit President Abraham Lincoln’s tomb. The rest of the cemetery also holds a number of historic tombstones and is hailed as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Springfield. Best of all, entry to the cemetery is free. However, you will want to call ahead to verify you can visit that day. 

Camp Butler National Cemetery 

Camp Butler National Cemetery is another historic stop when you are in Springfield. The grounds were initially established as an Army training camp and later became a Confederate prison. Many prisoners of war died there due to poor living conditions and spreading sickness in the establishment. It was later converted to a burial ground and is now the final resting place for many veterans. Visiting the cemetery is free, but you will want to call ahead to verify hours. 

Lincoln Memorial Garden Nature Center 

These gardens were constructed to honor President Lincoln. Throughout the gardens, there are more than five miles of trails to walk. Depending on the season you visit, you will see different flowers and trees blooming. You may also encounter different types of wildlife. There is no fee to enter the gardens, but you may consider giving a donation (or bring some money for the gift shop). 

Illinois State Capitol and the Old State Capitol Historic Site

free things to do in springfield

You can visit the Illinois State Capitol building during your visit to Springfield. During COVID-19, the inside of the building has been closed to the public. However, you can still tour the grounds free-of-charge. 

This is not where the Capitol was always located though. The building from the 1840s was restored and is now a beautiful place to visit. You can take a self-guided tour of the Old State Capitol Historic Site for free as well.  

Washington Park Botanical Gardens

Springfield is rich with gardens to explore. Washington Park Botanical Gardens are not something to miss while you are there. In the gardens, there are over 1,200 species of plants. You can also get guide books and handouts to help you identify different plants. Self-guided tours of the gardens are free and the gardens open at noon each day. 

Executive Mansion

You can visit the Executive Mansion in Springfield where the state’s governor has resided since the late 1800s. Visitors can tour the building and its grounds with a guide. However, no self-guided tours are permitted. Luckily, the tours are free-of-charge. 

Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Museum 

The Grand Army of the Republic was a fraternal group for Union soldiers from all divisions of the Army. It is now home to the GAR women’s auxiliary and the Women’s Relief Corps (WRC). Depending on the day you visit, you may get to experience some special events. Admission to the museum is free. 

Cheap Things To Do in Springfield (Under $20)

Of course, not everything on your trip to Springfield can be free. You should take the time to find some low-cost activities to add to your itinerary as well. Here are some to consider. 

Dana-Thomas House

Another place you can visit for free is the Dana-Thomas House. There is a $10 suggested donation, but you can get away without paying anything. The house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for Susan Lawrence Dana and it is 12,000 square feet with 35 rooms. It contains the largest collection of original Wright art glass and furniture. 

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Springfield has no shortage of historic sites to see. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is one to add to your itinerary. You will need to reserve tickets for a ranger-led tour, which is the only way to get into the home. While the tours are free, donations are recommended. 

Elijah Iles House 

There are a large number of historic homes in Springfield. The Elijah Iles House was built in 1837 and very little about it has changed since then. It was built by Iles himself, who is one of the four founders of the city of Springfield. There is a suggested donation of $3 per adult and $1.50 for kids. 

Route 66 Drive-In Theater 

free things to do in springfield

Springfield is home to the Route 66 Drive-In theater. You can look up what is playing and take the family to see a drive-in movie. Regular admission is $8 and kids get in for $5. It is a great budget-friendly thing to do in the area. 

Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant

If you’re interested in trying some local wine and food, Cooper’s Hawk is a great stop to make. Depending on the wine you are looking to try, you can get a bottle for a good price (under $25). It also has a number of tasty menu items at a reasonable price as well. 

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Another historic site you can visit is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. While there you will see a number of historic exhibits as well as live history and performances. You’ll also gain insight into Abraham Lincoln’s life there in Illinois. To visit, admission costs are $15 per adult. Discounts are available for students, veterans, and senior citizens. 

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5 Things I Don’t Spend Money On

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Do you consider yourself frugal? Well, I’ll let you in on a secret – I’m a personal finance writer, but I’m not exactly frugal. I like to buy relatively nice things, such as clothing, furniture, and more. But even as a spender, there are 5 tings I don’t ever spend money on.

 

1) Dryer Sheets

Dyer sheets are a complete pain! There is nothing worse than finding them stuck to your clean clothes. And, for something you simply throwaway after use, they are kind of a waste of money.

Instead of dryer sheets, I utilize these reusable dryer balls. Not only are they reusable, but they are natural. Plus, they actually dry your clothes more quickly, so you can save money on energy usage!

I could go on and on about the benefits of using dryer balls instead of dryer sheets. You just can’t beat the cost savings, plus they are easy to find in your laundry load versus dryer sheets.

 

2) Cooking Spray

Before I found an alternative to cooking spray, I felt like we were constantly buying more. I hated purchasing expensive cooking spray, plus it was super wasteful and bad for the environment! However, I liked the ease of use of a spray.

After reading some awesome reviews on Amazon, I bought this reusable oil sprayer. It’s super easy to use! All you have to do is fill it with your favorite type of oil, and the canister will disperse it as a spray.

 

3) Late Fees

Late fees are obviously a good expense to avoid! With late fees, you’re being charged simply because you forgot to pay something on time. They are easily avoidable if you put all of your bills on autopay.

Whether you choose to utilize autopay or manually track when your bills are due, avoiding late fees is a super easy way to save money.

 

4) Cleaning Products

Cleaning products are pricey, and are full of harmful chemicals. Not to mention, there are so many cleaning products on the market, resulting in a cluttered home!

Instead of buying cleaning products, I’ve found that a simple solution of white vinegar and water cleans nearly everything. For just a few cents, I can have enough cleaner to last a year. And if I’m cleaning something, like a bathtub, I’ll just throw in some baking soda and give it a good scrub. No need for harsh chemicals!

 

5) Manicures

I love having my nails done, but I never go to the salon. I don’t like to spend the time or money to go somewhere to get my nails done, when I could do it myself for a fraction of the cost. Instead, I bought a cheap at-home manicure kit to do my own nails at home.

After a little practice, it isn’t hard to be able to paint your own nails. And you don’t even need a fancy manicure set to get started. A decent nail file, drugstore nail polish, and a high-quality top coat can work wonders!

If you want to save more, try sign-up to these apps that will help you save.

AppFess and minimum:Best for:
Digit30-day free trial period. $5 per month Setting aside automatically
Acorns$1 per monthSpare change investing.
Qapital$3 membershipLetting you set rules to automate savings.

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Saving Goals For 2021

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saving goals

My saving goals for 2021 are radically different than in years past for obvious reasons–the global pandemic is forcing a lot of us to rethink our long-term plans with respect to saving money, getting a nest egg or maintaining one, and anticipating future financial problems.

Furloughs, layoffs, job loss…those were words we used a lot in 2020 and in the new year even with the promise of Coronavirus vaccinations and much more, it is entirely possible that we have NOT seen the true economic fallout from the last 12 months by a long shot.

Saving Goals = Making Certain Assumptions

Why do I say this? Because when you are planning your saving goals for the year ahead, you want to be able to assume certain things. When times are good, your local businesses staying in business depend on sales, advertising, partnerships, and more to survive and grow.

But the open-again, closed-again nature of the western world’s pandemic response means that some are treading financial water instead of thriving and the true extent of the damage might not be apparent until a business attempts to fully reopen and get back to business without the benefit of the same kind of cash flow, predictability in business, etc. of a “normal” year prior.

Layoffs, Furloughs, And The Damage Done

And that means a lot of us are in danger of losing our jobs when that damage is fully assessed. It would be pure speculation on my part to try to come up with a percentage of local businesses that might have to close once the damages are fully tallied.

So my saving goals for 2021 are more like “income diversity goals”. What I’d like to do is to maintain my current level of saving but in anticipation of a year that might be tight moneywise.

Anyone who works in the gig economy makes a smart move to have diverse income streams but in the current climate it’s no longer an option, really…even for those who think it is. You can’t afford to rely on one source of your income in a lot of cases because you simply don’t know what the future holds for your employer and subsequently for you.

So what’s my advice? This might be a very good year to assume that no gig or job is 100% stable. And instead of saving less, that actually means trying to save a bit MORE in anticipation that you might need to dip into your savings or contingency fund.

But short of that, here is my BEST advice:

While you are still employed and have a source of income coming in, it might be wise to consider planning ahead for later in the year when money could get tighter. What does this mean? Stocking up, slowly over time, essentials you might need to have at the exact moment when you are required to cut back on your spending instead of maintaining your current levels.

This means different things for different people. In my case, it means taking a bit of a financial bite NOW in anticipation of a major expense I’ll definitely have LATER–a laptop purchase is in my immediate future at the time of this writing because my current gear is older than five years and it’s at the end-of-support stages in a lot of cases.

So I’ll be cutting back on my usual indulgences (I can make coffee at home, thanks!) in favor of eating a bigger-than-usual expense now just in case I literally cannot make the same purchase again in six months due to a loss of income.

What this means for YOU is up to you. But it’s a good idea to plan and think this way just in case. Much of the time when I do this, I wind up laughing at myself later because there was no big emergency after all. But there have been a couple of cases where my prep did pay off, and I was seriously glad I did it.

Savings Apps to Try this 2021

AppFess and minimum:Best for:
Digit30-day free trial period. $5 per month Setting aside automatically
Acorns$1 per monthSpare change investing.
Qapital$3 membershipLetting you set rules to automate savings.

How I Find Designer Clothes for Less

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I will admit it: I’m a bit of a clothing snob.

For me, fashion is fun. And while I love a deal, I recently re-strategized my wardrobe. A few years ago, I looked in my closet and found I had a ton of stuff – and most of it, I didn’t really even like. I bought anything and everything if it was on super sale. Most of this stuff was low-quality and not even my style.

After I paid off my student loan debt, I made it a priority to revamp my wardrobe. Personally, I find I am most confident when I am dressed in clothing that fits well and I truly love. Plus, as I grew into more professional roles, I wanted my wardrobe to match. But while I was okay spending more for designer items that I truly loved, I certainly didn’t want to blow my entire budget on clothing. Here is how I find designer clothes for less.

 

Shop Consignment

 
My biggest secret to finding affordable designer clothing: shop consignment.

There are a ton of ways you can shop consignment! You can peruse local vintage or consignment shops, where you are sure to find some amazing finds. Or, if you are an online shopper like me, you can score designer threads on consignment sites like The RealReal and Poshmark.

Before you pull the trigger, make sure you understand what you’re buying to make sure it’s worth the cost. If you purchase an item online, the condition of the item should be fully disclosed, and you can always ask for additional photos if you are uncertain about the quality.

 

Get Cashback on Designer Clothes

 
Utilizing cashback is another amazing way to find designer clothes for less, especially if you combine it with all of these other tips.

One of my favorite cashback sites is Rakuten, which is a browser extension you can add to your favorite internet browser for free. While most of the cashback opportunities are available for online browsing, there are still some you can utilize in-store. The cashback amount varies, but you can expect to receive anywhere from 1 to 20 percent cashback.

The best thing about Rakuten is it will show you cashback opportunities as you browse shops online. If a company participates in Rakuten’s rebate program, you’ll automatically be notified. Within a day or two of your purchase, your cashback will be added to your Rakuten account.

The beauty of cashback is when you combine it with other offers. For instance, say you found a designer dress on consignment. The dress is usually $500, but since it’s consignment, you found it for $100. You also have a 5 percent cashback offer, so your $500 designer dress is now only $95. That’s a total win!

 

Save in Advance!

 
Last, but certainly not least, is to save in advance for a designer splurge. Designer items are nice, but they aren’t cheap, no matter how good of a deal finder you are. You never want to go into credit card debt over clothing. Always save in advance and pay cash for a designer item. Plus, it’s so much more meaningful to work hard to save for a splurge!

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Free Things To Do in Topeka

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free things to do in topeka

If you have been considering a trip to the Kansas state capital, you’re in luck! Visiting the city is actually a fairly budget-friendly vacation. Below are some seriously cheap and free things to do in Topeka, Kansas.

Free Things To Do in Topeka

When you begin planning a vacation or trip of any sort, it is a good idea to have an itinerary in mind. To save money, add some of these free things to do in Topeka to your plans.

Lake Shawnee

Lake Shawnee is often cited as one of the top tourist destinations in the state of Kansas. Each year, more than 1 million people visit the park for festivals, camping, and other activities. There are a number of trails to hike and gardens to visit as well. Admission to the park is free, however, campsites and other attractions will come at a cost.

Gage Park

Gage Park is another outdoor attraction you can visit while you are in Topeka. It is a 160-acre park filled with walking paths. There is also a dog park here if you are traveling with your furry friend. Gage Park is also conveniently located near many other attractions, including the Topeka Zoo, the Children’s Discovery Center, and more.

Ward-Meade Park

Ward-Meade Park is a popular place for many people to stay when they visit Topeka. The park is close to a lot of hotels and other accommodations. Additionally, you can tour botanical gardens, visit the Ward-Meade mansion, and see an 1800s village replica.

free things to do in topeka

Brown vs. Board of Education Historic Site

Currently, due to COVID-19, there are no visitors allowed to the Brown vs. Board of Education Historic Site. However, you can take a virtual tour on the government website. When the historic site opens back up though, admission is free. It is recommended that you call ahead and make a reservation if you have a group of 10 or more.

Mulvane Art Museum

Art lovers should add the Mulvane Art Museum to the list of things to do in Topeka. It is a free art gallery (though donations are recommended) and you can get a look at some of the unique pieces of artwork that have come from the Topeka area. Right now, there are only self-guided tours being allowed.

Ted Ensley Gardens

Ted Ensley Gardens are another beautiful one of the free things to do in Topeka. While donations are accepted, it doesn’t cost a dime to tour the gardens to see roses, perennials, water and rock gardens, and so much more.

Museum of the Kansas National Guard

You can also visit the Museum of the Kansas National Guard in Topeka free-of-charge. There are a number of exhibits displaying historical information about the state airmen and soldiers. The museum was completely constructed and is kept going with volunteer hours and donations.

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library

As always, I like to add the local public library to the list of free things to do any time you visit a new place. Oftentimes, the library will have local authors and artists on display. At the very least, you’ll get to poke around the local library.

Cheap Things To Do (Under $25)


Of course, not everything on your trip to Topeka can be free. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money either though. Here are a few more budget-friendly activities you may consider.

The Great Overland Station

This railroad station is a historic landmark and has been home to a number of weddings over the years. You can take a look around the station, and if you want to take a seat, you’ll see more than 100 freight trains pass through over the span of a day. There are some hands-on exhibits there as well, including a virtual exhibit that allows you to “drive” the train. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and military, and $2 for children.

Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

Families traveling with kids may want to add the Discovery Center to their itinerary. Admission for kids and adults is $9 and seniors get $1 off. However, the center is filled with activities that you could easily spend the better part of the day exploring, so you definitely get your money’s worth!

Kansas Museum of History

If you want to learn more about the state’s history while you’re there, consider adding the Kansas Museum of History to your plans as well. Admission is only $9 for a self-guided tour ($12 for guided tours). Children are admitted to the museum for just $3 ($6 for guided tours).

Combat Air Museum

The Topeka Combat Air Museum is a wonderful thing to visit while you are in the state capital. There are guided tours available upon request, but you will need to call ahead of time. Admission for children is $5 and adults are $7. Active duty military members can receive a discounted $5 admission as well.

free things to do in topeka

Evil Knievil Museum

Next up on the list is the Evil Knievil Museum. If you are a fan of the daredevil or his stunts, it is a must-see! General admission prices start at $15. Depending on what you want to include in your visit, ticket prices can be more expensive. However, it is a great stop if you’re traveling to Topeka.

Topeka Zoological Park

Topeka Zoo is actually home to the first indoor rainforest in the United States. It houses more than 250 animals and a number of interactive exhibits as well. Admission is fairly priced too with children two and under free, adults $7.75, seniors $6.75, and children (ages 3 to 12) $6.25.

Norseman Brewing Company

If you’re into scoping out the local brews, consider visiting Norseman Brewing Company. They have a number of brews available on tap. You can get beer tasters from their menu for just $2 apiece. They also have a full food menu with prices hovering between $8 and $11. There may also be a local BBQ truck outside (which visitors often rave about).

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Our No Cost Christmas for 2020

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Our No Cost Christmas for 2020 

I love Christmas; it has always been my favorite holiday since childhood. All the family, food, gifts, decorations, singing, and mild chaos define my fondest holiday memories. However, as we get older, the unadulterated joy of Christmas morning gets bogged down in the stresses of life. This year has been especially trying due to my personal finances. Since I have been living on an irregular income, my budget has shrunk significantly. With bills due and payments pending, the idea of Christmas shopping is not at the top of the list of things I look forward to doing. If you are also struggling to finance the holidays, consider having a ‘No Cost’ Christmas this year like my family.

The Reasoning behind a No Cost Christmas

It wasn’t until I moved abroad that I saw how diluted the meaning of Christmas had become. It is not a traditional holiday or a day that people widely celebrate in Southeast Asia. So, it is reasonable that their idea of Christmas comes from what they see in advertisements and TV. However, rather than focusing on the spirit of good will and the love of family, Christmas is all about Santa and the presents. As a teacher in a foreign country, it was my job to share my culture with my students. This includes important holidays. I tried to convey a more generous message by having them make thoughtful gifts or do things for their family and friends.

Returning to America made me realize the same loss is happening here. Over-commercialization has led to a focus on gift giving. The pressure of holiday shopping makes us forget what the holiday is supposed to be.  It is easy to lose the Christmas spirit by becoming too focused on what we want instead of how we spend it.

Having a ‘No Cost’ Christmas allows you to express yourself without putting a price tag on it. You must find creative ways to show loved ones that you care. This year I am using it as a chance to find something really special and unique to each person. It took a bit of time and thought. But, once I expanded my definition of what a gift could be, it became extremely simple.

Christmas Ideas That Don’t Cost a Thing

Acts of Kindness

One of the easiest things you can do for someone is an act of kindness or service. Perhaps you can surprise someone by completing a long overdue project. Or, you can finally get around to an idea you have put off for far too long. Another idea would be to finally try something new that your spouse or loved one has always wanted to do together. As for me, I have agreed to play a game I despise simply because I know it will bring a smile to my older brother’s face. Sometimes actions really do speak louder than words.

Up-gifting and Re-gifting

Another fun gift idea is to repurpose something that you already have into a new gift. If you no longer have use for the item, it may be a present your friend or family member would really appreciate. For example, I passed on some of my favorite books which I thought my nieces would enjoy as much as I did. I also used an old atlas to map out all the potential road trips we could take together in the future. Although I have gotten my use from these books, now they belong in someone else’s library. In my family, books are one gift that keeps on giving.

Create Memories Together

Some would argue that time is the most valuable gift you can give. There are plenty of holiday activities you can do with your loved ones. Get busy in the kitchen whipping up your holiday favorites or decorating festive cookies. You can even teach others how to make them for future dinners.

If you have any amount of creativity, there are dozens of Christmas crafts you can make and display in your home. You can also save money on overpriced greeting cards by making your own. This year, my family will be making our own ugly Christmas sweaters using all my mom’s old art supplies. Not only is it a great activity for the whole family, but you are making memories and things you will use and enjoy for years to come.

Gifts from the Heart

Lastly, you could find a sentimental family gift such as photos or recipes to pass on to the next generation. I truly cherish these meaningful mementoes and the people who gave them to me. They really are some of the best presents I have ever received. These types of gifts can also be a token of welcome to spouses or significant others who are spending Christmas with your family. A small gesture can be more valuable that any electronic or designer label.

Coming Together as a Family

During the Christmas holiday, I want to emphasize the importance of us coming together as a family. This year has tested all our resolve and even caused loud disputes at times. However, at the end of the day we are still family and love each other. And that is what Christmas is all about. With the turmoil and distress in the world, we need each other now more than ever. Having a ‘No Cost’ Christmas is the perfect opportunity to show it.

Though times are difficult and we cannot always be with the ones we love, we can still show we care. Make sure to spend time together, even if you cannot be there in person. If you are separated by distance or social distancing measures, you can still make an effort to include them in the holiday. Give those long-distance loved ones a call or chat via Facetime. I have spent many holidays on Skype with my family during dinners and other get-togethers. The true meaning of Christmas is spending time with those who mean the most and finding way to express how much you appreciate and love one another.

No Cost Christmas
Cheers to a No Cost Christmas

Time to Save Instead of Spend

Instead of spending this Christmas, try saving instead. Here are three of the best savings apps that will help you start saving this Christmas and the years to come.

AppFess and minimum:Best for:
Digit30-day free trial period. $5 per month Setting aside automatically
Acorns$1 per monthSpare change investing.
Qapital$3 membershipLetting you set rules to automate savings.

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