#SonOfJae watching the Olympics in our room.
By Jae-Ha Kim
jaehakim.com
August 23, 2016
My husband and kiddo had never visited Abraham Lincoln’s home. The last time I was there was for my 8th grade school field trip. So, we took a road trip to Springfield, Ill., and had a lot of fun exploring and finding great places to eat. We could’ve driven back home, but that would’ve made for a loooongggg and not as fun trip. So we booked a room at this Residence Inn.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve gotten more snooty about hotels and, to be honest, I wasn’t expecting much. I figured this hotel would have a motel feel to it. And I would’ve been happy as long as it was clean. But it was nice. Not Four Seasons nice, but nice, nonetheless. Our room at the Residence Inn Springfield South could’ve gone for boutique prices it were located in downtown Chicago. But, part of what you pay for in a hotel is the location.
Our room had comfortable beds, a sitting area (which was handy to eat our carryout dinners) and came with free parking. There’s also a basketball court outside, which my son and husband took advantage of. The hotel also has a cozy fire pit outside, but since we have only visited Springfield during the summer, we had no desire to sit outside in the heat.
That’s where the indoor pool came in handy. There’s nothing like taking a cool dip after a day of sightseeing.
As for the complimentary breakfast bar, I’d post a photo of the biscuits and gravy that I enjoyed, but I wolfed mine down before I could take a decent photo. 😋
Just the facts: Residence Inn by Marriott Springfield South, 2915 Stanford Ave, Springfield, IL 62703 (217-527-1100). We were surprised that during the summer, it’s more expensive to stay here than the grander the Guest House at Graceland. But, we didn’t pay. Instead, used 15,000 of our Marriott Bonvoy points for the room.
Photo credit: DM for jaehakim.com
What to do: Besides all the sightseeing to visit the Capitol and see where Abraham Lincoln lived, check out the Cozy Dog Drive In (on Route 66), supposedly the first eatery to serve corn dogs on a stick. It’s wonderfully kitschy and you just have to take a second to relish (hyuck hyuck) the moment.
Where to eat: We ordered carryout from Happy Sushi and enjoyed the gyoza, sashimi and teriyaki meals. Delicious!
From their website:
Enjoy the conveniences of home at the Residence Inn Springfield South, one of the area’s most modern extended stay hotels. Whether you’re joining us for a night, a week, or an extended stay, we’ll make you feel welcome with our outstanding service. Stretch out in your spacious suite, which offers a full kitchen, and let us do your grocery shopping for you while you’re here. Additional perks in your suite include pillowtop mattresses, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and pullout sofas. Begin your morning here in Springfield with a free hot breakfast, and be sure to join us Mondays through Wednesdays for our evening social. If you’re in town to work, we offer a business center, as well as a small boardroom venue. We also make it easy to stay in shape during your extended hotel stay, thanks to an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and a Sport Court. Finally, our prime location places the State Capitol, the Dana-Thomas House, and more within your reach. Plan your visit to Springfield today!
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