Located near the lake, Lincoln Memorial Garden and the Henson Robinson Zoo both offer a number of seasonal nature programs and special events. Because of its restricted motor size for boats, nearby Lake Sangchris offers a peaceful atmosphere for canoeing and fishing. More than 100 state and federal recreational areas are located in Illinois, many of them only a short drive from Springfield. St. Louis, an hour and a half to the southwest, and Chicago, about three and a half hours to the northeast, provide additional cultural and recreational opportunities. Lake Shelbyville in nearby Shelby County is a picturesque 11,000-acre clear water lake situated between rolling bluffs and dotted with several islands.
Educational opportunities are abundant in Springfield.
UIS offers a liberal arts education and emphasizes studies in political and public affairs and business and management. Starting in the fall of 2001, freshmen and sophomores will be admitted as part of the Capital Scholars Program. Various state universities offer extension courses in the city. The Springfield Public School District 186 has 23 elementary and five middle schools, and three senior high schools, a comprehensive special education program, and a modern cooperative vocational training center. The Roman Catholic parochial school system operates nine elementary schools and two secondary schools, both coeducational.