Springfield, Illinois: Big Flavors in a Small Town

Nothing beats the sights and smells of a small-town farmers market – the heady scent of fresh peaches and apples, or the irresistible crunch of just-picked pecans. Set in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Old Capitol Farmers Market is the ideal spot to discover Springfield’s grass-roots food culture. It’s an appetizing stroll as you wander through an ample area featuring local produce and meats, artisanal baked goods, gourmet cheese, fresh-cut flowers and more. Stock up on picnic supplies or road trip fare as you drop by booths that strike your fancy.

When it comes to coffee, what could be better than a freshly roasted and brewed cup of the good stuff? Brent and Kendra Biesdorfer, the husband and wife team behind Custom Cup Coffee, have built their coffee philosophy around this very notion. This fair trade micro-roastery and charming coffee haven strives to serve the freshest cup possible. Whether you seek drip, pour over or cold brew, coffee beans are always roasted in-house then ground upon order. A rotating selection of coffee flavors entices even the most finicky coffee aficionados. Sit down and savor a terrific cup of roasted coffee or grab a bag to-go.

Beyond the beauty of the Centennial Farmstead, you’ll discover a family-owned winery producing quality red and white wines right in rural Illinois. Five distinctive tasting areas (you can venture to the gazebo or plant yourself on the terrace) beckon visitors to a tranquil setting to sip and savor a glass of fruity Cabernet Franc or crisp Riesling. Of course, food and wine have always been the perfect pair. So it’s no surprise that the Danenberger Family Vineyards offers tours of the vineyards as well as exquisite, full-course pairing dinners.

Fly into O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway International Airport (MDW) in Chicago, Illinois, then rent a car and drive approximately three hours, or take the train at Union Station to Springfield.