Planning a visit to the University of Illinois Springfield should feel easy and exciting. Whether you’re driving, flying or taking the train, you’ll find convenient transportation options and plenty of nearby accomodations ready to welcome you. As you explore Springfield, a capital city full of history, culture and great food, you’ll start to imagine what life at UIS could be like.
Arrive by plane
Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport is just over a 20-minute drive to UIS. Getting to and from Springfield is easy with carriers Allegiant, American Airlines and Breeze.
Arrive by train
Book Amtrak tickets early to SPI, and plan to arrive the night before Orientation if you're coming from Chicago. Orientation ends at 5 p.m., and the last train back to Chicago departs at 7:24 p.m.
Parking
Free guest parking is available in Parking Lot F. If you are attending Orientation, a parking pass will be emailed to the student a week before their Orientation date and should be printed and placed on the car dashboard.
Additional guest parking is available across campus for a fee. Pay kiosks are available in some lots, or you can pay via a mobile parking app. Parking lots are clearly labeled and all listed on our campus map.
Ground Transportation
Springfield has a variety of ground transportation including taxis, mass transit, Uber and Lyft.
Check out these Springfield resources for accessible transportation services:
- Easy Access Springfield lists hotels that offer shuttles with accessible capabilities and private transportation companies that are lift or ramp equipped.
- Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) also provides transportation to preregistered visitors.
Explore Springfield
Make the most of your trip to the capital city, and get to know the community UIS calls home. Check the Springfield calendar of events, explore some of our sites, enjoy local cuisine—including the famous horseshoe sandwich—and walk in Abe Lincoln’s footsteps.
Overnight Accommodations
Parents, family members and guests may need to make arrangements for overnight accommodations. The Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau has a listing of area hotels, campgrounds and Airbnbs. Many area hotels offer an exclusive UIS rate over the phone.
We look forward to welcoming you to UIS and Springfield!