Visit Springfield Illinois: ALWAY LEGENDARY Artwork

Outdoor Adventure Series

The Outdoor Adventure Series is an award-winning podcast produced by Fox Coaching, Inc. It celebrates individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and organizations that seek out and promote the exploration, conservation, stewardship, access, and enjoyment of the outdoors. We are also profoundly interested in the connection between Nature and mental Health.

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RADIO/PODCAST Excellence in Craft Awards from the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA):

2024 CONSERVATION or NATURE (Sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts)

Second Place: Protecting Coastlines and Waterways: Dr. Chad Nelsen on the Surfrider Foundation’s Mission.

2024 FAMILY PARTICIPATION/YOUTH OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Third Place: Jackie McGonigal – Artful Adventures: Kayaking, Painting, and Connecting with Nature at the Orange Beach Wind and Water Learning Center

2023 - FAMILY PARTICIPATION/YOUTH OUTDOOR EDUCATION
(Sponsored by Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation)

Second Place: Jeff Gray, Superintendent at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Third Place: Tracy Hajduk, National Education Coordinator for the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.

2022 CONSERVATION or NATURE
(Sponsored by Pew Charitable Trusts)

First Place: Kris Millgate, Outdoor Journalist
Third Place: Matthew Dickerson, Outdoor Enthusiast

2022 FAMILY PARTICIPATION/YOUTH OUTDOOR EDUCATION

(Sponsored by Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation)

First Place: Isabelle (Izzy) Edwards, Wildlife & Nature Photographer, Artist, and Conservationist

2022 OUTDOOR FUN & ADVENTURE

First Place: Travis Puglisi – Wandering Mojave Hiking Services

2022 PRESIDENT’S CHOICE AWARDS

Isabelle (Izzy) Edwards: Wildlife and Nature Photographer, Artist, and Conservationist

All Episodes

Outdoor Adventure Series

Visit Springfield Illinois: ALWAY LEGENDARY

December 23, 2025 • Howard A Fox, Scott Dahl • Episode 7075

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, we chat with Scott Dahl, the Director of Visit Springfield Illinois, to explore everything that makes Springfield a legendary destination for adventurers and history buffs alike. With 37 years in tourism and a deep love for his “heart of Illinois” hometown, Scott shares insights into Springfield’s vibrant tourism scene, the city’s rich Abraham Lincoln heritage, and its central role along historic Route 66.

From world-class museums and immersive historical sites to expansive bike trails and beautiful parks, Scott Dahl paints a picture of a community where history comes alive, and the outdoors are waiting to be explored. 2026 promises to be a monumental year for Springfield, with celebrations like the Route 66 Centennial, America’s 250th anniversary, and the grand opening of the new Shield Sports Park.

Howard and Scott dive into local culinary treats (including Springfield’s Signature Horseshoe Sandwich, tips for planning your visit, and the best ways to experience everything this legendary destination has to offer—and why Springfield Illinois should be at the top of your travel list this year and beyond!

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Route 66 and 2026 Highlights"

04:29 International Visitors Flock to historic Lincoln sites

07:47 "Escape to Nature Through Biking"

11:04 "Roving Ambassador of Tourism"

15:55 Preparing Springfield for Tourism Influx

17:17 "Saving the Sunrise Donut Sign"

21:44 "Springfield Tour and Website Insights"

25:35 "Discover Springfield: More Than Expected."

30:02 Tourism Ambassador Training Initiative

36:27 Springfield One-Day Itinerary

37:06 "Exploring Abraham Lincoln's Legacy."