Rees Memorial Carillon
1 / 10

Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon

5
ยท7 reviewsยทSpringfield, United States

Experience the enchanting melodies of one of the world's largest carillons, set amidst the beautiful Washington Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall afternoons

Beautiful colors and crisp air

CrowdMedium
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Rees Memorial Carillon

Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon

Best Time

Fall afternoons

Beautiful colors and crisp air

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the enchanting melodies of one of the world's largest carillons, set amidst the beautiful Washington Park.

5
(7 reviews)

"What an amazing place. The grounds are fantastic. And the music is outstanding!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Schedule First

Recitals and events vary. Always check the official website for performance times and special happenings. ๐Ÿ“…

Arrive Early for Events

Popular events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular can draw large crowds. Plan for parking and shuttle services. ๐Ÿš—

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

5 ยท 7 reviews

Type

Sports Activity Location

โ™ฟ Wheelchair accessible๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Daily Carillon Recitals

Daily Carillon Recitals

Carillon Tower

Experience the enchanting melodies played on one of the world's largest carillons. A truly unique auditory delight.

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Washington Park

Thousands of glowing, hand-carved pumpkins set to music create a magical fall tradition.

Annual Art Spectacular

Annual Art Spectacular

Washington Park

A vibrant festival showcasing juried fine art and crafts, accompanied by live music.

Washington Park Grounds

Washington Park Grounds

Surrounding the Carillon

Enjoy the beautiful park setting, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Check the Carillon's schedule for daily recitals and special events. Many visitors recommend attending during sunset for a magical ambiance, especially during the fall season. Be aware of potential crowds during popular events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular.

Understanding the Carillon's Unique Sound

The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon features 64 bells, making it one of the largest in the world. Its unique sound is produced by striking the bells with wooden levers. Visitors often express awe at hearing this instrument for the first time.

Best Times

When
Fall afternoons
Why
Beautiful colors and crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Magical light and music
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique festivals and concerts
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of my Navajo piano pieces was performed on a carillon today by @sneakstine_ #carillon #carillontok #navajo #dinรฉ #composer #nativetiktok
@connorchee
1.9K likes โ€ข 8.3K views

Check the Schedule First

Recitals and events vary. Always check the official website for performance times and special happenings. ๐Ÿ“…

Arrive Early for Events

Popular events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular can draw large crowds. Plan for parking and shuttle services. ๐Ÿš—

Carillon (A tower filled with 100 tons of bells) #carillon #tower #bell
@fdtevd
576 likes โ€ข 13.1K views
Get ready for one of the most magical fall traditions in Springfield IL, ๐“๐ก๐ž ๐‰๐š๐œ๐ค-๐Ž-๐‹๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐ง ๐’๐ฉ๐ž๐œ๐ญ๐š๐œ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐š๐ซ at the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon! ๐ŸŽƒโœจ ๐ŸŽถ Over 2,000 hand-carved pumpkins glowing to vibrant music in a family-friendly atmosphere ๐Ÿ‚ Delicious food + a spooktacular vibe you wonโ€™t want to miss ๐Ÿ—“๏ธ October 17 & 18 | 6:30โ€“9:30 PM And donโ€™t miss the Carve for the Carillon the weekend prior (10/...
illinoisfoodies
254 likes โ€ข 8.8K views

Enjoy the Park Setting

The Carillon is nestled in Washington Park. Take time to explore the beautiful grounds and botanical garden. ๐Ÿž๏ธ

Experience the Unique Sound

It's a one-of-a-kind instrument! Listen closely to the distinct tones of the bells. :musical_note:

Make sure to head out to the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon this weekend and check out the community's hand-carved jack-o-lanterns at the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular ๐ŸŽƒโœจ ๐Ÿ“… October 18th & 19th โฐ 6:30 - 9:30 PM ๐Ÿš— Remote parking and shuttle buses at Ashley HomeStore Outlet on Wabash and Chatham Rd Find ticket pricing and more on our website, ๐Ÿ”— in bio. #visitspringfield #springfieldil #pumpkincarving #...
visitspringfield
133 likes โ€ข 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Schedule First

Recitals and events vary. Always check the official website for performance times and special happenings. ๐Ÿ“…

Arrive Early for Events

Popular events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular can draw large crowds. Plan for parking and shuttle services. ๐Ÿš—

Enjoy the Park Setting

The Carillon is nestled in Washington Park. Take time to explore the beautiful grounds and botanical garden. ๐Ÿž๏ธ

Experience the Unique Sound

It's a one-of-a-kind instrument! Listen closely to the distinct tones of the bells. :musical_note:

Drone Views are Stunning

If you're into aerial photography, the Carillon offers incredible perspectives, especially at sunset. ๐Ÿ“ท

What Travellers Say

5
(7 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon for its outstanding music and beautiful park setting, describing it as uplifting and peaceful. Many are captivated by the unique sound of the carillon, especially during daily recitals. The surrounding grounds are noted for their beauty, particularly in the fall.

"9/2024 5* What an amazing place. The grounds are fantastic. And the music is outstanding! I have not been down to hear it in almost 20 years. Just as beautiful as I ever remembered. Thank you to Carlo van Ulft and all the other Carillonists that play each day. It is truly uplifting and peaceful at the same time."

Double B

"It was my first time hearing a Carillon. It was beautiful and in such a beautiful setting!"

Keeler Family

"Haven't been there in a few years as my health does not permit it. I always enjoyed going there in the fall to see all the beautiful colors."

Anita German

What People Like

Outstanding carillon music
Beautiful park grounds
Peaceful and uplifting atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited access to tower tours
Crowds during special events

Frequently Asked Questions

๐Ÿš‡ ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Getting There

The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon is located within Washington Park in Springfield, Illinois. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available, especially during non-event times. For specific events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, remote parking and shuttle services are often provided. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Washington Park. However, during major events, parking can become limited, and alternative arrangements like shuttle services might be in place. Instagram

Information on public transport options to Washington Park can be found on the Springfield transit authority's website. It's advisable to check routes and schedules in advance. Reddit

The grounds of Washington Park are generally accessible. For specific accessibility details regarding the Carillon tower itself, it's best to contact the venue directly. Reddit

The Carillon is located at 1740 W Fayette Ave, Springfield, IL 62704. Use your preferred GPS navigation system for the most direct route from your starting point. Reddit

๐ŸŽซ ๐ŸŽซ Tickets & Entry

General admission to the grounds and to hear the daily recitals is typically free. However, special ticketed events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular will require admission fees. Check the official website for event-specific ticketing. Instagram+1

The Carillon tower itself may have specific hours for tours or access, while the park is generally open during daylight hours. Daily recitals are scheduled, so it's best to consult the official schedule for precise times. Instagram

Most daily carillon concerts are free to attend. Special events, such as the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, will have associated ticket prices. Instagram

For popular ticketed events, advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better pricing. Information is usually available on the Carillon's official website. Instagram

Group ticket information and potential discounts for special events are typically detailed on the event's ticketing page or by contacting the venue directly. Instagram

๐ŸŽซ ๐ŸŽถ Onsite Experience

A carillon is a musical instrument consisting of at least 23 bronze bells played with a keyboard and pedals. The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon is one of the largest in the world, producing a powerful and unique sound. TikTokReddit

Daily recitals are a highlight, with performances often scheduled throughout the day. Special concerts and festivals also feature carillon music. It's essential to check the official schedule for exact times. Instagram+1

You can enjoy the music from various points within Washington Park. Many visitors find a spot on the lawn near the tower for an immersive experience. Reddit

Information on tower tours, if available, can usually be found on the official website or by contacting the Carillon directly. These tours offer a closer look at the instrument. Reddit

A wide variety of music is performed, from classical pieces to contemporary arrangements and even popular songs. Some performances feature original compositions. TikTokInstagram

๐Ÿ“ธ ๐Ÿ“ธ Photography

Sunset offers a particularly magical atmosphere, with beautiful lighting on the tower and park. Early mornings can also provide serene shots with fewer people. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to park regulations and FAA guidelines. It's crucial to check current rules before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

The Carillon tower itself, especially with the sun setting behind it, is a prime subject. The surrounding botanical gardens and park landscapes also offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other attendees and avoid flash photography that might disrupt performances. Reddit

Wide-angle shots capturing the entire tower and its surroundings, as well as close-ups of the bell details (if accessible), can be very effective. Aerial views also provide a unique perspective. Instagram

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Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon (2026) โ€“ Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide