Car Hire Abe Lincoln Capital Airport — Your Gateway to Lincoln’s Hometown
Touching down at Abe Lincoln Capital Airport puts you in the heart of Illinois, and honestly, you’ll want a set of wheels to properly explore this historic corner of the Midwest. Springfield isn’t the sort of place where you can rely on frequent public transport or walk everywhere — it’s a proper American city designed for drivers, with wide boulevards and attractions spread out across the area. Having your own car hire means you can pop into downtown Springfield for lunch, then head out to the Lincoln historical sites without watching the clock or waiting for a taxi.
What makes this region genuinely special is its deep connection to America’s 16th president. Abraham Lincoln called Springfield home for nearly two decades before heading to the White House, and the city has preserved that legacy beautifully. But beyond the history, you’ve got the rolling prairies of central Illinois, the remnants of Route 66, and some surprisingly lovely state parks within easy reach. A hire car gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace, whether you’re here for business, a history pilgrimage, or just passing through the Land of Lincoln.
Picking Up Your Rental Car at Abe Lincoln Capital Airport
The airport is refreshingly compact compared to major hubs, which works in your favour when collecting your car hire. The rental car counters are located in the terminal building near baggage reclaim — you won’t need to catch a shuttle bus or trek across a massive car park. Major providers including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National all operate from here, so you’ve got decent options for different budgets and vehicle types. The whole process from landing to driving away typically takes under 30 minutes, assuming your paperwork is in order.
Speaking of paperwork, make sure you’ve got your driving licence (both the photocard and paper counterpart if you’re visiting from the UK), your passport, and the credit card used for the booking. International visitors should consider bringing an International Driving Permit alongside their domestic licence — some companies require it, others don’t, but having one saves potential headaches. It’s also worth checking whether your travel insurance covers car hire excess, as the policies offered at the counter can be rather pricey compared to arranging cover beforehand.
One local quirk worth knowing: Illinois doesn’t have a front number plate requirement for rental cars from certain states, so don’t panic if you pick up a vehicle with only a rear plate. The fuel situation is straightforward — there’s a petrol station just outside the airport entrance on Capital Airport Drive, perfect for topping up before returning your vehicle. Most rentals come with a full-to-full fuel policy, which is typically the most budget-friendly option if you remember to refill before dropping off.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car
Lincoln Home National Historic Site (15 minutes, via W Jefferson Street) — This is the big one. The only home Lincoln ever owned has been beautifully preserved, and you can take a guided tour through the actual rooms where he lived with his family. The surrounding neighbourhood has been restored to its 1860s appearance. Book your tour tickets in advance during summer months, as they sell out daily.
Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery (20 minutes, via N Monument Avenue) — The final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary, and three of their sons. It’s a moving monument in a peaceful cemetery setting. The receiving vault where Lincoln’s body was initially held is also on site.
Illinois State Capitol (15 minutes, via W Jefferson Street) — The current state capitol building is actually the sixth one Illinois has had, and it’s a stunner with its massive dome. Free tours run weekdays, and the architecture rivals anything you’d find in Washington DC.
Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site (30 minutes, via IL-97 North) — A reconstructed village where Lincoln spent his early adulthood. It’s an open-air museum with original log buildings and costumed interpreters. A lovely drive through the countryside to get there, especially in autumn when the leaves turn.
Lake Springfield (25 minutes, via E Lake Shore Drive) — If you fancy a break from history, this reservoir offers boating, fishing, and some decent walking trails. There’s a golf course along the shore if that’s your thing, plus several picnic areas perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Tips for Driving in Illinois
Illinois drivers are generally courteous, though you’ll encounter the usual mix of speeds on the motorways. The speed limit on rural interstates is typically 70 mph (about 112 km/h), dropping to 55-65 mph near cities and towns. Watch for speed limit changes approaching Springfield proper — local police do enforce limits, particularly on the main routes into the city centre. Right turns on red are permitted unless specifically signed otherwise, but you must come to a complete stop first.
Toll roads aren’t a major concern in the Springfield area, unlike northern Illinois near Chicago. The Illinois Tollway system uses electronic collection, and if your rental car has a transponder, it’ll automatically charge your account. If not, you can usually pay online within a week of passing through. That said, you can easily explore Springfield and the surrounding region without hitting a single toll road, so don’t let that worry you.
Weather is the real consideration here. Illinois winters can be brutal, with snow and ice common from December through February. If you’re visiting in winter, check whether your rental includes winter tyres — they’re not always standard but make a significant difference. Summer brings thunderstorms, often popping up quickly in the afternoon. The flat terrain means roads can flood during heavy rain, so keep an eye on local weather reports. Spring and autumn are genuinely lovely times to drive here, with mild temperatures and scenic rural routes.
Parking in Springfield is refreshingly straightforward and affordable compared to major cities. Downtown has a mix of metered street parking and surface lots, with most meters free on evenings and weekends. The historical sites typically have their own free car parks. One thing to remember: Illinois law requires headlights on when using windscreen wipers, so switch them on during any rain, even in daylight.
Ready to hit the road? Use the search widget at the top of the page to compare car hire options at Abe Lincoln Capital Airport and find the perfect vehicle for your Illinois adventure.