Family Fun

Springfield's newest attraction is Southwind Park, an 80-acre, fully inclusive recreational facility on the city's south side. Opening in 2010, it will have a year-round activity center, a lake with a gazebo and fishing pier, sports fields, a boundless playground, 5 types of gardens, picnic shelters and a 2-1/2 mile paved urban trail. Kidzeum, the city's first children's museum, will also be located on the site. The city has several amusement parks and an indoor entertainment center with some activities that can be enjoyed by kids with physical disabilities. The State Fair, held each August, draws families from all over Illinois and beyond for 10 days of concerts, agricultural expos and competitions.