
Old Capitol Farmers Market
A vibrant downtown hub for fresh produce, artisan foods, and local crafts, fostering community connection and supporting local businesses.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best selection & vibrant atmosphere

Old Capitol Farmers Market
Best Time
Best selection & vibrant atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown hub for fresh produce, artisan foods, and local crafts, fostering community connection and supporting local businesses.
"This is one of my favorite farmers' markets, especially coming here early in the morning."

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Picks
Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out!
🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags
Stock up on goodies! You'll need plenty of bags for all the fresh finds.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Produce Galore
Various vendor stalls
Discover seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs directly from local farmers. Taste the difference of farm-fresh goodness.
Artisan Baked Goods
Incredibly Delicious Cakes, Amish baked goods stand
Indulge in delicious pastries, breads, and cakes from talented local bakers. Perfect with a coffee!
Unique Local Crafts & Goods
Various vendor stalls
Explore handmade crafts, local honey, freeze-dried treats, and more. Support small businesses and find unique treasures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Bring Your Bags (and a Cooler!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Picks
Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out!
🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags
Stock up on goodies! You'll need plenty of bags for all the fresh finds.
🧊 Don't Forget a Cooler
Keep your perishables fresh on the way home, especially on warmer days.
☕ Grab a Coffee & Pastry
Enjoy a treat from local vendors like Arrowhead Coffee or Incredibly Delicious Cakes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Picks
Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out!
🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags
Stock up on goodies! You'll need plenty of bags for all the fresh finds.
🧊 Don't Forget a Cooler
Keep your perishables fresh on the way home, especially on warmer days.
☕ Grab a Coffee & Pastry
Enjoy a treat from local vendors like Arrowhead Coffee or Incredibly Delicious Cakes.
🚶♀️ Great for People-Watching
Soak in the lively atmosphere and enjoy observing the community.
💰 Support Local Vendors
Your purchases directly benefit local farmers and small businesses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Capitol Farmers Market for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse selection of fresh produce, and delicious baked goods. Many appreciate the opportunity to support local vendors and enjoy the community feel. However, parking can be a significant challenge, and some shoppers note a preference for more produce stands over other types of vendors.
"Love the farmers market. I go down on my lunch on Saturdays. I usually buy from "For the LoVe of Snacks", freeze dried candy! I like to try different foods down there. It's jammed packed with lots of people and good vibes."
Heather Clemons
"It was a nice day. The stands were clearly marked. Everyone I delt with was delightful. The food I took home was perfect. The plants I brought home are even better. Thank You smalltown American farmers. No bathrooms. Parking sucks."
Coresta Andrew
"I have visited and lived in a few places around the country, and this is one of my favorite farmers' markets. I especially love coming here early in the morning when it's still cool, and there are still plenty of parking spots AND flowers available (both can go fast!).
Sometimes, I can stick around a little longer which means getting an oatmilk coffee from Arrowhead, a pastry or croissant from either Incredibly Delicious or the Amish baked goods stand, walking around to purchase various items, then relaxing outside Buzzbomb with a beer (or an alcohol free drink from The Wakery).
Be sure to bring a cooler to keep in your car for perishables so it's easier to relax and not worry about food spoiling.
It can be a great way to get your daily steps in too, and people watch!
It's even more important now, after the recent fire on Adams, to shop and support local."
NK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Capitol Farmers Market is located in downtown Springfield, Illinois, typically at the Old Capitol Plaza.
Parking can be challenging, especially on Saturdays. Street parking is available, but it fills up quickly. Some reviews mention that parking 'sucks,' so arriving early or considering nearby garages is advisable.
Information on specific public transportation routes is not readily available, but downtown Springfield is generally accessible by local bus services. Check with the Springfield Mass Transit District for routes and schedules.
Yes, if you live or are staying nearby, walking or biking is a great way to access the market and avoid parking hassles.
According to one review, there are no restrooms directly at the market. It's a good idea to plan accordingly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Old Capitol Farmers Market is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase from vendors.
The market is typically open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Hours can vary slightly by season, so it's always good to check their social media for the most current information.
The market season generally runs from May through October, with a winter market sometimes held indoors.
There is no admission fee to enter the Old Capitol Farmers Market. It's a community event open to everyone.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, many farmers markets have policies regarding pets. It's best to check the market's official guidelines or social media for their pet policy before bringing your furry friend.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You'll find a wide variety of local vendors, including farmers selling fresh produce, bakers offering delicious treats, artisans with handmade crafts, and specialty food producers.
Popular items include fresh berries, seasonal vegetables, artisan breads, cakes from Incredibly Delicious Cakes, and unique snacks like freeze-dried candy.
Many vendors accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases or if a vendor's card reader is down.
While not all vendors may be certified organic, many focus on sustainable and local farming practices. It's best to ask individual farmers about their growing methods.
You can often find vendors offering gluten-free, vegan, or other specialty items. Look for signs or ask vendors directly about their ingredients.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are options for eating at the market, with vendors offering prepared foods and treats. Some reviews mention relaxing with a drink from The Wakery or Buzzbomb.
You can find a range of food items, from fresh produce to baked goods, snacks, and specialty items. Some vendors offer ready-to-eat options.
Yes, vendors like Arrowhead Coffee are often present, offering coffee and other beverages.
Absolutely! The market is a prime spot to buy fresh produce, meats, and other ingredients for home cooking.
While specific seating areas aren't always highlighted, reviews suggest relaxing with a drink at nearby establishments like Buzzbomb, implying some public seating or nearby options.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, taking photos is generally welcome, especially to capture the vibrant atmosphere and local goods.
Early mornings, especially on Saturdays, offer good light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography.
Focus on colorful produce displays, bustling vendor interactions, and unique artisan products for great shots.
It's always polite to ask vendors if you plan to take close-up photos of them or their products, especially if you intend to share them widely.
A versatile lens that can handle both wider shots of the market scene and closer details of products is recommended. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Supporting Local: The Heart of the Market
By purchasing directly from farmers and artisans, you're not only getting fresh, high-quality goods but also contributing to the livelihoods of your neighbors. This direct connection fosters a sense of community and transparency, allowing shoppers to understand where their food comes from and how it's produced.
Whether it's fresh produce, baked goods, or handmade crafts, every purchase at the Old Capitol Farmers Market makes a difference. It's a tangible way to invest in your community and enjoy the fruits of local labor.
Navigating the Market: Tips from the Community
Don't forget to bring your reusable shopping bags! You'll likely find yourself filling them up with an abundance of fresh goods. For those purchasing perishable items like meats, cheeses, or delicate produce, bringing a cooler to keep in your car is a smart move to ensure everything stays fresh on your journey home.
Beyond the shopping, the market offers a vibrant atmosphere for people-watching and enjoying the community spirit. Some visitors even make a morning of it, grabbing coffee and pastries from local vendors before browsing.
Seasonal Delights and Vendor Variety
The market boasts a diverse range of vendors, ensuring there's something for everyone. While some shoppers specifically seek out produce, others are drawn to the artisan baked goods, unique crafts, and specialty food items. Popular vendors include those offering delicious cakes and pastries, as well as unique treats like freeze-dried candy.
This variety makes the market a dynamic destination, encouraging repeat visits to experience the changing seasons and discover new local businesses.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit