Springfield, IL Area Information

Area Code 217: The Heart of Illinois

Area code 217 serves Central Illinois, covering a vast region that includes the state capital, Springfield, and surrounding areas. This area code is steeped in history and represents a significant portion of the Prairie State.

Coverage and History

Established in 1947 as one of the original North American area codes, 217 encompasses a large swath of Central Illinois. Key cities and towns within this area code include:

• Springfield (state capital)
• Champaign-Urbana
• Decatur
• Danville
• Quincy

The 217 area has retained its original boundaries, a testament to the region's stable population and efficient number assignment.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The 217 area code is closely associated with Abraham Lincoln, as it covers his hometown of Springfield. This connection makes the area code recognizable to history buffs and tourists alike. The region is home to numerous Lincoln-related sites, including:

• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
• Lincoln Home National Historic Site
• Lincoln Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery

Neighboring Area Codes

Central Illinois is surrounded by several other area codes:

• 309 (Western Illinois, including Peoria)
• 618 (Southern Illinois)
• 815/779 (Northern Illinois, excluding Chicago metro)

Phone Number Insights

In today's digital age, knowing the origin of a phone number can be crucial for personal and business communications. A 217 area code generally indicates a caller from Central Illinois, but it's always wise to verify unknown numbers. For a thorough reverse phone lookup, consider using Phone Detective. This tool can help you identify callers and protect yourself from potential scams or unwanted calls.

Education and Economy

The 217 area is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This university, along with other colleges in the region, contributes significantly to the area's economy and cultural life.

Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the 217 economy, with vast cornfields and soybean farms dotting the landscape. The region also has a diverse industrial base, particularly in cities like Decatur and Danville.

Natural Beauty and Recreation

Despite its reputation for prairie lands, the 217 area offers diverse natural attractions:

• Lake Shelbyville
• Allerton Park
• Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park

These sites provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and fishing to boating and camping.

Conclusion

The 217 area code represents a region rich in history, education, and natural beauty. Whether you're receiving a call from this area or planning a visit, understanding the significance of 217 can provide valuable context about Central Illinois.

For more information on phone numbers and area codes across the United States, explore our other state pages or use our phone number lookup tools. Stay informed and connected with Phone Detective, your reliable source for phone number information and security.