Old City Farmers Market
1 / 16

Old Capitol Farmers Market

4.7
·328 reviews·Springfield, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Best selection & vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Old City Farmers Market

Old Capitol Farmers Market

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Best selection & vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(328 reviews)

"This is one of my favorite farmers' markets, especially coming here early in the morning."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fresh Produce Galore

Fresh Produce Galore

Various vendor stalls

Discover seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs directly from local farmers. Taste the difference of farm-fresh goodness.

TikTokReddit
Artisan Baked Goods

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!

TikTokInstagramReddit
Unique Local Crafts & Goods

Unique Local Crafts & Goods

Various vendor stalls

Explore handmade crafts, local honey, freeze-dried treats, and more. Support small businesses and find unique treasures.

TikTokReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Arrive early, especially on Saturdays, to snag the best produce and parking spots before they disappear. Weekday mornings can be less crowded if you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience. InstagramReddit

Bring Your Bags (and a Cooler!)

You'll want to stock up! Reusable bags are a must for all your fresh finds. For perishables, a cooler in your car is a game-changer to keep your haul fresh. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Best selection & vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Wednesday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, still great finds
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall mornings
Why
Seasonal bounty & crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Part 11 Giving back to the community vlog #pov #wholesome #farmersmarket #mypov #lonely
@povblur
325K likes • 1.5M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Picks

Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out! InstagramReddit

🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags

Stock up on goodies! You'll need plenty of bags for all the fresh finds. Reddit

Part 22 Farmers Market. Supporting and giving back to the local vendor community vlog. Homemade pumpkin bread #pov #farmersmarket #wholesome #pumpkin #bread
@povblur
41.4K likes • 326.4K views
It’s officially Old Capitol Farmers Market season🤭 Come visit us EVERY Wednesday and Saturday from 8AM-12:30PM🌟🌱 #downtownspringfield #farmersmarket #oldcapitolfarmersmarket
oldcapitolfarmersmarket
114 likes • 1.8K views

🧊 Don't Forget a Cooler

Keep your perishables fresh on the way home, especially on warmer days. Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee & Pastry

Enjoy a treat from local vendors like Arrowhead Coffee or Incredibly Delicious Cakes. Reddit

Why do some local businesses truly flourish? In this episode of The Bailey Byte, we head to the Old Capitol Farmers Market to chat with Patrick Groth, owner of Incredibly Delicious Cakes. He shares how people are their greatest resource, revealing the power of homegrown content and authentic community connection in building a successful business where we all thrive together.
lincolnslegends
14 likes • 802 views

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! InstagramReddit

🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags

Stock up on goodies! You'll need plenty of bags for all the fresh finds. Reddit

🧊 Don't Forget a Cooler

Keep your perishables fresh on the way home, especially on warmer days. Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee & Pastry

Enjoy a treat from local vendors like Arrowhead Coffee or Incredibly Delicious Cakes. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Great for People-Watching

Soak in the lively atmosphere and enjoy observing the community. Reddit

💰 Support Local Vendors

Your purchases directly benefit local farmers and small businesses. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(328 reviews)

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

Fresh, seasonal produce
Delicious baked goods
Supporting local vendors

What People Dislike

Difficult parking
Limited produce variety (for some)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Capitol Farmers Market is located in downtown Springfield, Illinois, typically at the Old Capitol Plaza. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

According to one review, there are no restrooms directly at the market. It's a good idea to plan accordingly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Old Capitol Farmers Market is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase from vendors. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

The market season generally runs from May through October, with a winter market sometimes held indoors. Instagram+2

There is no admission fee to enter the Old Capitol Farmers Market. It's a community event open to everyone. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

Popular items include fresh berries, seasonal vegetables, artisan breads, cakes from Incredibly Delicious Cakes, and unique snacks like freeze-dried candy. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

You can often find vendors offering gluten-free, vegan, or other specialty items. Look for signs or ask vendors directly about their ingredients. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

Yes, vendors like Arrowhead Coffee are often present, offering coffee and other beverages. Reddit

Absolutely! The market is a prime spot to buy fresh produce, meats, and other ingredients for home cooking. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, taking photos is generally welcome, especially to capture the vibrant atmosphere and local goods. TikTok+1

Early mornings, especially on Saturdays, offer good light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Reddit

Focus on colorful produce displays, bustling vendor interactions, and unique artisan products for great shots. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Capitol Farmers Market can be a fun outing for families. Kids often enjoy seeing the colorful fruits and vegetables, and there are usually vendors with kid-friendly treats like baked goods and unique snacks. TikTok It's a great opportunity to teach children about where food comes from and support local agriculture. Remember to bring snacks and drinks for the little ones, and consider a stroller or wagon for easier navigation through the crowds. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Farmers markets are excellent for budget-conscious travelers looking for fresh, affordable produce. While some specialty items might be pricier, staple fruits and vegetables are often competitively priced. TikTok Buying directly from farmers can sometimes mean better value than supermarket prices. TikTok Bringing your own bags and a cooler can also save money on disposable items and ensure your purchases stay fresh, reducing waste. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

If you're visiting Springfield for the day, the Old Capitol Farmers Market is a perfect stop to experience local flavor. Plan your visit for a Wednesday or Saturday morning to catch the market in full swing. Instagram Grab some fresh produce or local treats to enjoy during your trip or take home as souvenirs. Reddit Combine your market visit with other downtown Springfield attractions for a well-rounded day. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Supporting Local: The Heart of the Market

The Old Capitol Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy groceries; it's a vital hub for supporting the local economy. Many TikTok videos highlight the importance of buying local, emphasizing the economic ripple effect and community reinvestment that occurs when consumers choose local vendors. TikTokInstagram This sentiment is echoed in reviews, where shoppers express gratitude for 'smalltown American farmers' and the opportunity to 'shop and support local.' Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokReddit

Navigating the Market: Tips from the Community

Visiting the Old Capitol Farmers Market can be a delightful experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. Many visitors recommend arriving early, especially on Saturdays, to secure the best produce and parking spots before they're gone. InstagramReddit This also allows for a more relaxed shopping experience before the peak crowds arrive. Reddit

Don't forget to bring your reusable shopping bags! You'll likely find yourself filling them up with an abundance of fresh goods. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagramReddit

Seasonal Delights and Vendor Variety

The Old Capitol Farmers Market truly shines with its seasonal offerings. From vibrant spring berries and summer vegetables to the rich bounty of fall harvests, there's always something new to discover. TikTok TikTok videos often showcase the appeal of fall markets, highlighting the festive atmosphere and seasonal produce. TikTok

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. TikTokReddit Popular vendors include those offering delicious cakes and pastries, as well as unique treats like freeze-dried candy. TikTokReddit

This variety makes the market a dynamic destination, encouraging repeat visits to experience the changing seasons and discover new local businesses. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2