• Meet the Team
  • Work with Us
  • Czech Republic
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Scandinavia
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Budget Travel
  • Work & Travel
  • The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
  • Travel Resources
  • How to Travel on $10/day

Home » North America » Springfield

17 Of Our FAVOURITE Things to Do in Springfield (Missouri)

Springfield, MO is the perfect all-American city! This Route 66 icon feels like a small town, but it has all of the thrills and exciting attractions that big cities have to offer. From beautiful natural landmarks to proud American heritage sites, there are plenty of things to do in Springfield, MO.

If you are planning a trip to Springfield, Missouri, then check out our complete guide on some of the best things to do here. From essential attractions to unique experiences and X, there is something here for everyone to enjoy!

places to do homework in springfield mo

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Top Things to Do in Springfield, Missouri

Unusual things to do in springfield, missouri, things to do in springfield at night, where to stay in springfield, romantic things to do in springfield, missouri, best free things to do in springfield, best things to do in springfield with kids, day trips from springfield, 3 day springfield itinerary, faq on things to do in springfield, missouri, final thoughts.

Looking for the most unmissable things to do in Springfield (Missouri)? Here are some of the cities must-see landmarks and attractions for any traveler to enjoy.

1. Witness History at the Pythian Castle

Pythian Castle

The Pythian Castle dates back to 1913 – making it an important historic site in Springfield. Also known as the Pythian Home of Missouri, the building was developed by the Knights of Pythias. Today, the building is open to the public as a cultural arts and events facility. 

As this is such a landmark site in the city, learning about the history behind the building is one of the most popular things to do in Springfield. Guided tours are available of the castle for those wanting to discover its interesting past! 

2. Marvel at the Fantastic Caverns

Fantastic Caverns

For one of the most spectacular natural sights in Missouri, be sure to check out the Fantastic Caverns. These caves really do live up to their name, as you will be in awe throughout your time spent inside them! 

With dramatic rocks at all kinds of angles, this really is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Springfield. To take the experience to the next level, a tram ride is available throughout the cavern. This is pulled along by a Jeep while you marvel at the breathtaking surroundings. 

The caves also have a pretty fascinating history behind them. Some users of the caves include speakeasies during prohibition and 1950’s live music venues! 

springfield

If you are visiting Springfield, then the Downtown area is the best place to stay. This is where all of the best restaurants, bars, shopping, and city attractions can be found.

  • The Discovery Center of Springfield
  • Founders Park
  • The many excellent restaurants found on Walnut Street

3. Hike the Beautiful State Parks

State Parks

One of the absolute best Springfield, MO attractions is the plentiful natural surrounding the city. When visiting, be sure to check out the stunning hiking trails around this destination. 

One of the most popular routes starts in the stunning State Park of Ha Ha Tonka. This park includes magnificent natural landscapes, caves, cliffs, and even castle ruins! If you want to truly experience the outdoor beauty of the Ozarks, then this is one of the best places to go. 

4. Enjoy the Peace at the Botanical Gardens

Springfield day activities

Visiting the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Gardens is one of the most essential things to do in Springfield for those that love nature! The 113-acre gardens are incredibly well looked after. There are a number of different themed gardens here that are just beautiful to explore. 

Spend some time walking along the garden trails and appreciating the natural surroundings. This is one of the most peaceful and scenic places to visit within the city. This is also the ideal picnic location! 

5. Take a Winery Tour

Winery Tour

Taking a tour of a local winery has got to be one of the most enjoyable activities in Springfield, MO. This is a great way to experience the beautiful Ozark surroundings of the city, as well as taste some delicious wines!

The Bear Creek Winery is a fantastic attraction in Springfield, MO. Here you can sample some of the state’s finest wines , as well as taste a variety of local produce. The winery is surrounded by some of the best nature views in Springfield!

6. Explore Route 66

Route 66

One of the things that Springfield is most famous for is being the birthplace of the iconic Route 66 highway. As this is such a landmark road, exploring Route 66 is one of the most fun things to do in Springfield, MO. 

Start at the Springfield Visitor Center where you can gather all kinds of valuable information on the area. If you have a car, take a drive down this highway and witness some of the awesome Americana and well-known sites along the way. 

For those interested in this highway, Route 66 Car Museum is a great place to check out! 

places to do homework in springfield mo

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Looking for unique things to do in Springfield? Here are some excellent picks for those wanting to see the original side of this city. 

7. Scavenger Hunt Your Way Through Downtown Springfield

Scavenger Hunt

There are a couple of ways that you can see downtown Springfield, MO. One of the most exciting though has got to be through a scavenger hunt! This allows you to wander through the central part of the city, passing the major buildings and sights, collecting various clues. 

This is one of the best things to do in downtown Springfield for those after a fun way of seeing the city! Not only is it entertaining, but you will also get to know Springfield a whole lot better. 

8. Bear Witness  to the World’s Largest Fork

Worlds Largest Fork

Yes, the largest fork in the world really is one of the most popular attractions in Springfield! This may sound crazy, but standing next to a 35-foot tall fork is actually a really impressive sight to behold! 

This unique attraction is tucked away behind an ad agency. The 11-ton sculpture may not be your typical kind of artwork, but it sure is fun to visit! Seeing the giant fork is definitely one of the best artsy things to do in Springfield. 

9. Pay Tribute to the War Veterans

Springfield National Cemetery

The Springfield National Cemetery was created in 1867 as a place to commemorate Civil War Confederate Soldiers. Many of these soldiers were lost during the famous battle of Wilson’s Creek. Since its opening, the cemetery has become a resting place for all US war veterans. 

While visiting a cemetery may not be the first thought of things to do in Springfield, the place is wonderfully peaceful and cared for. This is an important landmark in the city and a uniquely beautiful place to visit. 

Safety in Springfield, Missouri

Staying safe while visiting Springfield, Missouri is pretty easy to do! 

This is definitely one of the safer destinations to visit in the US – as it is a fairly quiet and peaceful city. Exercise regular caution as you would in any US destination by keeping an eye on your belongings, pockets, and being careful if walking around at night. 

Although Springfield has fairly low crime levels, it is still a great idea to get travel insurance when visiting new places. Read our  tips for traveling safely  before you fly and always get travel insurance. Check out our roundup of  the best travel insurance .

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Springfield may be a beautiful city to visit during daylight, but the fun continues into the night! Here are some great nightlife activities to enjoy in Springfield.

10. Catch a Show at the Historic Landers Theatre

red and black theater seats

The Landers Theatre dates back to 1909 – making it the second oldest civic theatre in Missouri! This historic destination has been operating as a theatre or movie theatre since opening. Today it is one of the best places in Springfield to watch a captivating performance. 

Between the quality shows that are on offer here and the historical value of the venue, this is one of the best things to do in Springfield city center! 

11. Pedal Your Way Between Bars

Pedal Your Way Between Bars

There are plenty of great bars around downtown Springfield, and one of the best ways to access them is with a trolley bike! You can arrange to pedal a trolley bike (that can hold up to 14 people) between the best bars in the city.

This is a kind of variation on the classic pub crawl, and it will be sure to provide plenty of fun! 

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Springfield.

Best Airbnb in Springfield –  Modern Ozark Home

Modern Ozark Home

This trendy bungalow can be all yours for your trip to Springfield! This clean and stylish house (complete with a saltwater aquarium and rose garden) is perfectly located around downtown Springfield. The excellent value makes it a wise accommodation choice for any travelers! 

Best Hotel in Springfield –  The Q Hotel & Suites

The Q Hotel and Suites

Looking for an excellent hotel that still offers great value? The Q is the answer! This hotel is super comfortable and found in the ideal downtown location. Expect quality amenities, clean spacious rooms, and superior service here. 

For more accommodation inspo, check out our Airbnbs in Missouri post!

Looking for the best things to do in Springfield for couples? Here are some great romantic activities that are bound to help set sparks flying.

12. Stroll Down the Frisco Highline Trail

Frisco Highline Trail

The Frisco Highline Trail passes through 35 miles of some of the most scenic Ozark landscape available. This easy trail is well-loved by walkers, joggers, and cyclists in Springfield. Taking a walk along here with your partner is one of the best things to do in Springfield in summer. 

The winding trail is the perfect way to get some fresh air and escape the buzz of the city. 

13. Spend a Day in Sequiota Park

Sequiota Park

The beautiful Sequiota Park is one of the most romantic places in Springfield. Whether you choose to enjoy a picnic on the lawns or take a walk through the forests and pathways, this is a great place to spend a sunny day. 

There is a small lake where you can feed the geese while you are here. There is also a great restaurant, the Galloway Grill, within easy walking distance – perfect for a romantic dinner. 

If you’re traveling the United States on a shoestring budget, it’s important to watch every cent. There are plenty of budget-friendly activities in Springfield that everyone can enjoy, here’s a few of our favorites. 

14. Enjoy the Exhibits at the Springfield Art Museum

Springfield Art Museum

The Springfield Art Museum boasts some world-class art in an unassuming setting. This is actually the city’s oldest cultural institution, with amazing works from around America and beyond. 

The museum is completely free to explore, with a wide variety of displays on offer. This is one of the best indoor things to do in Springfield – especially if you are an art fanatic! 

15. Learn About the Battle of Springfield

Battle of Springfield

A famous civil war battle took place in Springfield in 1863. If you are looking for one of the best historical things to do in Springfield, MO, then you can trace this battleground and learn about the events that took place here. 

There are 12 markers placed around the downtown area where the battle took place. You can start at Park Central Square, and follow the trail of markers down to the Great Southern Bank, up South Robertson Avenue, and back to the square where you started. Follow these markers to discover the interesting events that happened there in the past, and to get a greater understanding of the city today. 

If you are looking for things to do in Springfield with kids, then you are in luck! There are plenty of child-friendly activities to be enjoyed here. 

16. Enjoy Learning at the Discovery Center of Springfield

Discovery Center

This science center offers some of the best activities for kids in Springfield, as well as adults! Everyone can enjoy this large, interactive museum – a place that is just as informative as it is fun. 

From dinosaurs to giant eyeballs and a highwire bike, the exhibitions here are truly exciting. The Discovery Center of Springfield can easily be enjoyed by absolutely everyone. 

17. Visit the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Wildlife National Museum

Springfield has some excellent museums on offer, and this is certainly one of the best. The Wonders of Wildlife Museum is a not for profit educational attraction that is focused on conservation. Kids and adults can learn all about wildlife, as well as nature preservation.

No expense or expression of detail has been spared here, with gigantic dioramas, taxidermies and the aquarium considered among the best in the United States.

This large scale fully-immersive wildlife attraction is one of the best things to do in Springfield indoors!

Springfield may be an awesome destination itself, but it is also a great base for further adventures! Here are some day trips that you can enjoy in the area. 

Hike Through the Devil’s Den State Park

Devils Den State Park

For those looking for a beautiful outdoor adventure, consider taking a day trip to the Devil’s Den State Park in Arkansas. The untouched landscapes here make for an unforgettable hiking experience!

You can spend a day walking slowly past the incredible views and unique geological features in the park. This is one of the best ways to really explore the Ozarks. End the day off at the Saddlebock Brewery barn where you can enjoy some well-deserved beers!

Take a Zipline Tour in Branson

Branson 2

Branson is close enough to Springfield to visit for a day trip. With all of the stunning mountains, valleys, and forests in the area – a zipline tour is an ultimate activity!

You could spend a day zooming between the treetops and witnessing some of the most incredible views in the area. Once the thrills of flying are over and you have the time, spend a night or two staying in Branson before heading back to Springfield to make the most of the area.

grayl geopress filter bottle

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Wondering what to do in Springfield, MO over 3 days? This is the perfect amount of time to experience all that this city has to offer. Here is how you could spend 3 days in Springfield. 

Day 1 – Exploring Downtown

exploring in springfield

Start your first day off at the Springfield Art Museum where you can witness some of the best art in the state. After this, head over to the Nathanael Greene Botanical Gardens for some fresh air. Now you can head over the impressive Discovery Centre of Learning – stopping at the giant fork along the way! 

End your day off pedaling through town, stopping off at the best bars and restaurants in the area! 

Day 2 – Getting Outdoors

Now it’s time to see some of the natural beauty around Springfield. Start the day off on a tour through the Fantastic Caverns. After this, you could stop into the Route 66 Car Museum to learn more about the famous highway. Now it’s time for some wine tasting at the beautiful Bear Creek Winery. 

Fantastic Caverns 2

After a long day outdoors, head back into town where you could enjoy a show at the Landers Theatre. 

Day 3 – Time For a Day Trip

Now that you have experienced some of the best sights around Springfield, why not take a day trip a little further? Consider going on a hike through the Devil’s Den State Park.

Branson

Otherwise, Ziplining in Branson is a brilliant way to spend the day! 

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Springfield, Missouri

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

places to do homework in springfield mo

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Springfield, Missouri.

What are some unique things to do in Springfield?

Going on a city scavenger hunt is one of the most unique things to do in Springfield. You can also check out the giant fork sculpture!

What is the best thing to do in Springfield with kids?

The Discovery Center of Springfield is great for the whole family with loads of interesting exhibitions.

Are there any great day trips to do around Springfield?

Spending a day in Devils Den Statepark is a great daytrip spent outdoors exploring the best of the Ozarks.

What is the best way to spend a day in Springfield?

Start at the Springfield Art Museum or the Nathanael Greene Botanical Gardens. Check out the giant fork scupture and then grab a bite to eat somewhere nice!

Springfield feels like a quiet small town, but there is so much to do in this exciting destination! The beautiful Ozark surrounds are an absolute dream for any nature lover. Inside the city, there are plenty of historic and cultural attractions to keep anyone busy. 

From food to local wines, art, and impressive caverns, Springfield has it all. Spending some time in the heart of Route 66 is a great idea for any kind of traveler!

places to do homework in springfield mo

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Dawn Greer

Share or save this post

promotional sidebar image for booking.com

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Protect Your Trip »

20 fun things to do in springfield, missouri.

Known as the Queen City of the Ozarks, Route 66 originates here in the third-largest city in the state.

20 Top Things to Do in Springfield, MO

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Courtesy of the Springfield, Missouri Convention & Visitors Bureau

From a car museum that features award-winning vehicles to an actual castle, Springfield offers many things to do and places to explore.

Reigning over Missouri with plenty of Americana, Springfield is an ideal destination for Midwestern road trips, and it is the birthplace of famous subjects from Chuck Berry to Maya Angelou. Springfield is considered the Gateway to the Ozarks, and there is a lot to do at the region's natural attractions, like at Lake of the Ozarks State Park.

If you haven't heard much about the Ozarks, Missouri is known as the Cave State, which means it's even well suited to people living under a rock. Puns aside, many caves here are accessible to those with mobility issues, even featuring the nation's first drive-through cave.

There are also plenty of places that bring nature indoors, for example, the taxidermy and water features found at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World; the sporting goods chain was founded here in Springfield.

Springfield is a quintessential American city, famous as the origin of U.S. Highway 66. The city's history even extends to the Civil War, and you can sense the war's impact through museums and monuments; five Black servicemen, known as buffalo soldiers, are buried here.

Local history reaches beyond roads and wars, with hotels, a zoo and even a castle, which were all built in the early 20th century. Springfield is a winning destination for families and kids , with animals, aquariums and plenty of interactive museums. Or, sports fans can appreciate the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame or catch a baseball game at Hammons Field.

Whatever brings you to the "Show-Me State," we're ready to show you around Missouri with our list of the best things to do in and around Springfield.

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium bills itself as the largest immersive wildlife attraction in the world. To its credit, Springfield's museum and aquarium complex houses the Midwest's only sea turtle rehabilitation center, a full replica of President Theodore Roosevelt's North Dakota cabin and the opportunity to dive into the sharks and groupers tank wearing a specialized helmet while the fish feed. The complex classifies its collections as aquarium, wildlife or special exhibits. Johnny Morris, who the complex is named after, is the founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops and an American billionaire.

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily (closes at 7 p.m. Sunday). General admission tickets vary in price but are generally about $40 for adults and $25 for children, with discounts for locals. Additional passes that bundle families or other nearby attractions for a discounted rate are also available. Recent visitors to the museum and aquarium were impressed by the quality of the displays and suggested putting aside several hours to visit.

Address: 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO 65807

Catch a Game at Hammons Field

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

The Springfield Cardinals is the city's Minor League Baseball team, and visitors can catch a game April through October at Hammons Field. The 8,000-seat stadium opened in 2004 as the home of the Springfield Cardinals, a Minor League Baseball team, as well as the Missouri State Bears collegiate team. The Cardinals play 70 home games each season as part of the Texas League.

Fans should reserve tickets online in advance to ensure they get good seats. The Cardinals Kids Club is free to any child 12 and under and includes a certificate for their first Cardinals game, as well as two general admission tickets to three preselected games.

Address: 955 E. Trafficway St., Springfield, MO 65802

Route 66 Car Museum

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Courtesy of the Route 66 Car Museum

U.S. Highway 66, known as Route 66, has been immortalized in song and holds a place in the American psyche of the wide, open road. Approximately 317 miles of the highway pass through Missouri, with Springfield considered the birthplace of Route 66. After being decommissioned as a highway, Route 66 was designated a National Scenic Byway.

The Route 66 Car Museum pays homage to automobile culture with classic models and rare finds from 1907 through 2005. Perhaps the most impressive fact is that it's an entirely private collection. Kids might enjoy seeing cars featured in classic films, like "Ghostbusters" and "Transformers."

It takes an hour or two to tour the museum, which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission starts at $15, while admission is $5 for kids 10 and under and $13 for seniors and veterans. Free parking is available on-site.

Address: 1634 W. College St., Springfield, MO 65806

Pythian Castle

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Courtesy of Pythian Castle

Springfield seems an unlikely place for a castle, let alone knights, but Pythian Castle stands in defiance of most travelers' expectations. The Knights of Pythias, an organization similar to the Freemasons, built the castle in 1913 as an orphanage and retirement home. After the U.S. entered WWII, the government used the castle to house prisoners of war and to rehabilitate U.S. troops.

It's no wonder then that today, with more than 100 years of history, the castle attracts varied visitors. History buffs looking to learn more, amateur ghost hunters embarking on a ghost tour or overnight paranormal investigation, and thrill-seekers searching to be entertained by one of the castle's escape rooms or murder mystery dinners all enjoy Pythian Castle.

Prices vary depending on the tour you select, as well as add-ons ranging from a quick escape room or other games.

Address: 1451 E. Pythian St., Springfield MO 65802

Check Out Branson

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Getty Images

Sure, you came to Springfield, but nearby Branson, Missouri — about 45 miles south of Springfield — has more than enough to offer a thrilling daytrip in the Ozarks. Silver Dollar City is a highly acclaimed theme park modeled after the 1880s; WonderWorks is a peculiar attraction that looks like an upside-down house and is filled with interactive puzzles and experiments. Visit the Titanic Museum — with a real iceberg — to learn the history of its passengers and follow it with Dolly Parton's Stampede, a wild rodeo dinner show. Or head to Gettin' Basted, which claims to have its own style of Ozarks barbecue. Then, there are Branson's three lakes, which provide numerous hiking, biking and boating activities.

Smallin Civil War Cave

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Missouri is known as the Cave State, with more than 6,400 caves to its credit. Smallin Cave's history spans before the Civil War, and the cave has been designated as a Historic District. It's one of Missouri's more accessible caves, and the basic tour is just a half-mile, has no stairs and can accommodate those in wheelchairs. These hourlong guided tours are perfect for families. More adventurous groups where everyone is age 12 and older can book a two-hour expedition wading through water lit only by headlamps. During the fall, Civil War lantern tours are conducted around a campfire and include a Southern meal, storytelling and a trip through the cave by lantern light.

Address: 3575 North Smallin Road, Ozark, MO 65721

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden at the Springfield Botanical Garden

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Courtesy of Springfield-Greene County Park Board

Located within the Springfield Botanical Garden, the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is 7.5 acres with a koi lake, a tea house and traditional-style Japanese garden landscaping. Admission to the garden is $4 for adults and $2 for children. Recent visitors have commented that the garden's serenity and beauty justify the small entrance fee. Kids enjoy the water features and the bullfrogs who call the lake home. The Japanese garden is closed seasonally, November through March.

Address: 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO 65807

Fantastic Caverns

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Courtesy of Fantastic Caverns

The Fantastic Caverns, self-described as America's ride-through cave, were discovered by an Ozarks farmer named John Knox in 1862, who kept the caves a secret throughout the Civil War. The caverns were first explored about five years later by a dozen all-female volunteers, whose names can still be seen carved on the cavern walls.

Ride-through tours have been operating since 1962 and are taken on Jeep-drawn trams that preserve the integrity of the caves. An hourlong tour takes riders through stalactites and other formations made over thousands of years. Fantastic Caverns is open from 8 a.m. to dusk, daily, and tickets cost $30 per adult and $17 per child — children under 5 are free with a parent.

Address: 4872 N. Farm Road, Springfield, MO 65803

Head to Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

If you're spending enough time in Springfield, it's worth a daytrip out to Lake of the Ozarks State Park, the largest state park in Missouri, about 90 miles northeast of downtown Springfield. Locals love to get outside, and you can follow suit along with one of the state's largest lakes with 89 miles of shoreline by swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, cycling or camping to your heart's content. Year-round accommodations on-site include cabins and yurts. Admission to the park is free, but rent a canoe, kayak or even a horse to make the day extra memorable. Pets on a leash are allowed. It wouldn't be Missouri if there weren't at least one cave — Ozark Caverns offers regular tours.

Address: 403 Highway 134, Kaiser, MO 65047

Springfield Art Museum

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

The Springfield Art Museum's permanent collection started in 1928, making it the city's oldest cultural institution. The museum has since grown to include nearly 10,000 objects in its permanent collection, with roughly four rotating exhibitions at any time. The museum's outdoor grounds also showcase large sculptures for anyone visiting during warm weather. Visitors are welcome free of charge (donations welcome) and can expect a variety of globally-sourced collections, from pottery to printmaking. A Family Art Lab offers hands-on interaction, while a Book Nook invites a place to unwind.

The museum is open every day but Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Address: 1111 E. Brookside Drive, Springfield, MO 65807

History Museum on the Square

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Located on Route 66, History Museum on the Square offers interactive exhibits, including a nostalgic homage to what else but Route 66. Past visitors say that the museum is one of the best along Route 66 because of its multiple floors and varied offerings. Other galleries include exhibits on the Native American experience in and around Springfield and the effect of the Civil War on the city. A recent special showcase focuses on the impact of farming in the local Missouri community.

The museum costs $16 per adult with discounts for children, military and seniors. The History Museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Address: 154 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806

Hotel Vandivort

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Built as a Masonic Temple in 1906, the modern-day Hotel Vandivort provides boutique accommodations that draw from the property's history in Springfield. The hotel also includes one newer building, though vintage and industrial touches (think, local artwork and artisan metalwork and woodwork) are felt throughout the entire property. The hotel's rooftop lounge and conservatory, Vantage, provides a stunning lookout where travelers can grab a cocktail. Meanwhile, The Order serves dinner and weekend brunch in an upscale atmosphere.

Hotel Vandivort is a great home base to explore downtown, with many visitors praising its central location in Springfield. The hotel's eateries welcome visitors who aren't staying on-site — though as one of the best hotels in Springfield , you might want to consider it.

Address: 305 East Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806

Visit the Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

The original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World location offers more gear than you could wrap your head around, but also The National Archery Hall of Fame, a cafe themed after Ernest Hemingway and a conservation education center called the Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility School. It's a 500,000-square-foot space that attracts roughly 4 million guests each year with its hunter- and angler-centric interpretations of conservationism.

Past travelers say that this Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World location is a spectacle worth witnessing, claiming that there is truly something for everyone in the gargantuan store. Outdoor World is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, closing one hour early on Sunday. The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum is located on-site, and the previously mentioned Wonders of Wildlife complex is adjacent.

Address: 1 Bass Pro Drive, Springfield, MO 65807

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

Sports fans visiting Springfield need to tick this Hall of Fame off their lists; more than 4,000 items of Missouri sports memorabilia line the walls honoring exceptional athletes. Meanwhile, interactive exhibits welcome fans to participate in the action, allowing visitors to bat against an MLB pitcher, race against friends on a NASCAR track and more.

The facility hosts various events throughout the year, including celebrity golf tournaments at the adjacent Highland Springs Country Club and luncheons for sports enthusiasts. The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (reduced hours Sunday), and admission is $5 with discounts for kids, seniors and families.

Address: 3861 E. Stan Musial Drive, Springfield, MO 65809

Springfield National Cemetery

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Cemeteries have long drawn tourists for their historical significance and peaceful surroundings. Springfield's National Cemetery was created as a resting place for Union soldiers during the Civil War, including five buffalo soldiers, African American soldiers who served during the Civil War. Today the cemetery's 18 acres, once known as Kickapoo Prairie, are peppered with gravestones from veterans of various wars, as well as memorials to the Revolutionary War and those who died in the Pearl Harbor attack. The cemetery is open for visitation from dawn to dusk.

Address: 1702 E. Seminole St., Springfield, MO 65804

Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

The 113-acre Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park should be near the top of anyone's list of things to do in Springfield. The park is home to the Springfield Botanical Gardens; a native butterfly house, open seasonally from April through October; Lake Drummond; and the aforementioned Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden. The area was originally two parks, with the original Nathanael Greene Park named after a prominent Civil War general. The park was expanded and renamed after a donation from the C.M. Close family.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the park to explore dozens of themed gardens, along with the 1860s era Grey/Campbell farmstead and the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center. The park's events calendar includes regularly programmed activities like an orchid show, a garden walk hosted by a master gardener and seasonal festivals.

Discovery Center of Springfield

Recent visitors describe the Discovery Center as a hidden gem. The nonprofit science center aims to reinforce STEM education through entertaining and interactive displays. Three floors mean there are plenty of exhibits to choose between, as the options run the gamut from "Myth or Fact: Vaccine," which explains how vaccines work, to "Discover Exoplanets," where visitors can build their own solar systems. More youth-focused exhibits include "Minecraft Adventure," based on the popular video game and sure to be a hit. Exhibits rotate, so be sure to check what the Discover Center is offering before you visit. The Discovery Center costs $8 for children 3 to 15 and $12 for anyone 16 and older (discounts for seniors and military). It's open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday through Sunday.

Address: 438 E. St. Louis St., Springfield, MO 65806

Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

It might sound unconventional to include a city's visitor center on a list of things to do, but Springfield's visitor center earns praise from recent travelers for its comprehensive offerings. Open Monday through Friday, the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center provides walk-ins with information on the area and its attractions and, of course, plenty of stories about the historic Route 66. Free parking is available for visitors just west of the entrance. Anyone looking for a nifty souvenir can also peruse the visitor center's small selection of Springfield-themed merchandise.

Address: 815 E. St. Louis St., Springfield, MO 65806

Dickerson Park Zoo

Top things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Bring the family to meet more than 450 different animals from all around the globe while you're visiting Springfield. The Dickerson Park Zoo has been in operation for nearly a century, founded in 1923. Since 1986, the zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is part of a number of conservation efforts. A roughly 1-mile trail takes visitors by most of the animal enclosures, which include lions, tigers and bears. Take the opportunity to feed a giraffe for an additional $4.

There is a playground as well as a miniature train on-site — weather permitting, the train runs March through October for $2 per passenger aged 2 and older (younger children ride free). Admission to the zoo is $16 for adults or $11 for kids 3 to 12. The zoo is open daily, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through October and until 4 p.m. other months (closed if there is snow or ice).

Address: 1401 W. Norton Road, Springfield, MO 65803

1984 Arcade

Whether you were born in the '80s, grew up playing arcade games or just have nostalgia for the era, Springfield's 1984 Arcade is worth a stop. The arcade is like something out of a time capsule, featuring roughly about 70 video games from the 1980s and more than 15 pinball machines.

Visitors will be sure to appreciate the throwback pricing: admission to 1984 Arcade costs $10 per person and includes unlimited video games, with patrons free to come and go as they please. Pinball games cost a quarter to 50 cents. Fun events and kids-play-free nights add to the neighborhood arcade's charm. The 1984 Arcade is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4 to 11 p.m.

Address: 400 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Branson Shows
  • The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago
  • The Top Romantic Getaways in Illinois
  • The Top Things to Do in Arkansas
  • The Top Things to Do in Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Midwest Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 10 best snowmobile tours in colorado.

John Rodwan Feb. 23, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Feb. 23, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Best Stonehenge Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon and Ann Henson Feb. 23, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Best Antelope Canyon Tours

John Rodwan and Marisa Méndez Feb. 23, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Best Iceland Tours

John Rodwan Feb. 22, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Feb. 20, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Best Clear Stadium Bags

Rachael Hood Feb. 16, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

Top Compression Socks for Travel

Megan Johnson Feb. 16, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Best Packable Jackets

Amanda Norcross Feb. 16, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

Top Things to Do in Arizona

Lyn Mettler and Sharael Kolberg Feb. 16, 2024

places to do homework in springfield mo

20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Springfield (Missouri)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 22, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Things To Do In Springfield

If you wonder what to do for fun as you travel through the southwest part of Missouri, you can find a variety of things to do in Springfield.

Nestled in the Ozark hills, close to Missouri’s popular entertainment city of Branson , Springfield offers many things to see, do and buy that reflect the Ozark area’s penchant for outdoor sports and backwoods entertainment.

Attractions are numerous, but here are 20 of the best things to do in Springfield for fun and entertainment.

Table of Contents

1. Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center

Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center

CJ Hanevy / Shutterstock

A great first stop for visitors of Springfield is the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center , where you can obtain guides, maps, driving directions and anything else you will need to plan the time you have in the Springfield.

You can read about the many attractions in Springfield and in the surrounding areas.

You can also learn what the current, fun-filled events and activities are, which you won’t want to miss.

The center’s staff members are experts who will be happy to answer all of your questions.

Address:  815 E St Louis St, Springfield, MO 65806, USA

2. Fantastic Caverns

Fantastic Caverns

Near Springfield, Missouri is the infamous Fantastic Caverns , a natural rock formation and tourist attraction that sits near Springfield.

Seat yourself in a tram and watch a Jeep pull you up, around, and all the way through these spectacular caves.

If you wonder how cold it is in the caves, you can rest assured that they remain at around 60 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

Just like some of the other sites around Springfield, this site has an interesting back story.

Fantastic Caverns housed a hidden speakeasy during the days of prohibition.

In the 1950s, it hosted music events.

Address:  4872 N Farm Rd 125, Springfield, MO 65803, USA

3. Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Wonders of Wildlife

Wonders of Wildlife

Also called Wonders of Wildlife , this Springfield, Missouri non-profit educational facility opened its doors in 2017.

With 350,000 square feet of space, Wonders of Wildlife is the largest wildlife and fish attraction in the world.

Exhibits in the wildlife part of the building feature taxidermized animals positioned in spaces that represent their natural habitats.

Artwork, films, historic artifacts, and some occasional special exhibits can also be found in the wildlife part of the building.

On the aquarium side is a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium where 35,000 fish, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds live.

Themes such as the Amazon rain forest, a Louisiana swamp, an Ozark forest, and an ocean shipwreck showcase the marine animals.

Address:  500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807, USA

4. Hammons Field

Hammons Field

Ted PAGEL / Shutterstock

Located in downtown Springfield, Missouri is Hammons Field , which is home to the Springfield Cardinals baseball team.

The facility seats 8,000 visitors and features 28 box suites plus lounges for VIPs.

It also has bar and balcony areas.

Its two baseball-specific outbuildings make this stadium unique.

The larger of the two outbuildings is an indoor baseball practice facility that has astroturf grass and contains batting cages and a small diamond for drills.

This stadium has one of the largest JumboTrons and electronic scoreboards in the country.

Hammons Field is regarded as one of the most striking looking stadiums that was ever built for a minor league team.

Perhaps that is due to its owner/operator and fellow Missouri team, the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Springfield Cardinals is the Double-A Texas League affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, which is an 11-time World Champion team.

The St. Louis Cardinals team also owns and operates seven other Texas League teams.

Address:  955 E Trafficway St, Springfield, MO 65802, USA

Planning to visit Kansas City soon? Check out our list of things to do in Kansas City !

5. Dickerson Park Zoo

Dickerson Park Zoo

Dickerson Park Zoo

Always a hit with children and a nice thing to do on a weekend, zoos are one of the best ways for families to get some fun, cheap entertainment.

Dickerson Park Zoo is a well-maintained facility that cares for over 500 animals and 160 different species.

Springfield’s Dickerson Park Zoo was created to educate the public and to encourage people to conserve wildlife and nature.

The zoo had a rough beginning and nearly closed its doors in 1975.

Sufficient funds came in, though, and residents responded to the zoo’s outreach community conservation programs.

Today, Springfield, Missouri has a zoo that it is proud of.

One of the zoo’s current in-house conservation projects is the Species Survival Plan, which benefits cheetahs, maned wolves, and Asian elephants.

Come support the local zoo.

Address:  1401 W Norton Rd, Springfield, MO 65803, USA

6. Pythian Castle

Pythian Castle

JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

This Gothic masterpiece was transferred to the military at a later date.

Still a beautiful building and one of the city’s much-loved tourist attractions, Pythian Castle is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is open to the public.

Cuddle up with your near and dear at this one, because rumor has it that the castle’s former residents haunt the building.

Take the 1.5-hour Night Ghost Tour of Pythian Castle and see who you meet.

“Ghost tools” are available to rent.

The tour guide divulges the details of the castle’s dark history, tells ghost stories, and warns guests where the spirits are usually sighted, such as in the ballroom.

Whether or not you see any ghosts, people who have taken the ghost tour report that the tour is entertaining.

Tours are limited to 15 people.

Address:  1451 E Pythian St, Springfield, MO 65802, USA

7. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Brandon B / Shutterstock

During the Civil War, the first major battle that was fought west of the Mississippi River was fought on August 10, 1861 at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek .

This battle is also referred to as the First Battle of Springfield, even though the battlefield is closer to Republic, Missouri than to Springfield.

This battlefield has been well-preserved since that bloody day.

Today it is a “park” and a quick and easy weekday and weekend tourist attraction that sees more than 200,000 visitors every year.

A 4.9-mile paved road runs through the battlefield, which enables tourists to take a self-paced auto tour.

There are eight points of interest along the road where significant things happened during the battle.

Signs in those eight places explain what took place there.

Visitors can opt to get out of their vehicles and walk the trails through the battlefield or ride through the area on horseback.

A Civil War Museum was also built in the park.

This museum displays artifacts from the bloody Battle of Wilson’s Creek and educates the public about the events that took place during the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.

This includes the death of Nathaniel Lyon, who was the first Union general killed in the Civil War.

Address:  6424 W Farm Rd 182, Republic, MO 65738, USA

8. Springfield Conservation Nature Center

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

Michael J. Munster / Shutterstock

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located in the southeast part of Springfield and provides great weekend fun for nature lovers.

The center preserves and protects 79 acres of prairies, glades, forests, woodlands, the animals that live there, and Lake Springfield.

Visiting this area is a great way to see Missouri in its natural state.

This area is open to the public for recreational use.

People boat and swim at the lake and hike the area’s three-plus miles of hiking trails.

The displays and exhibits located on the trails educate hikers and provide reference information.

Tour groups enjoy free guided tours if they are booked in advance.

In the winter, the center holds Eagle Days.

In the spring, they hold Native Plant Sales and Seminars.

Insect-O-Rama is held every August, and a Halloween event is held every October.

Address:  4601 S Nature Center Way, Springfield, MO 65804, USA

Traveling to St. Louis? You’ll love our list detailing the best things to do in St. Louis !

9. Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in Springfield celebrates the achievements of former Missouri athletes.

Visitors can view the more than 4,000 memorabilia items that are displayed on the building’s two floors.

There is a Hall of Fame and a Legends Walk of Fame.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Len Dawson and St. Louis Cardinals baseball player Stan Musial are inductees to the Hall of Fame.

The Legends Walk of Fame contains busts and statues of famous athletes.

Sports fans will have the best time participating in the interactive exhibits, which allow participants to throw football passes, bat against a Major League Baseball pitcher, race in a NASCAR simulator, and to do other such activities.

Address:  3861 E Stan Musial Dr, Springfield, MO 65809, USA

10. Discovery Center of Springfield

Discovery Center of Springfield

Walter L White / Shutterstock

The Discovery Center of Springfield has been one of the most popular indoor attractions for visitors of Springfield, Missouri since it was built in 1988.

Kids learn best when they are involved in fun activities, so educational exhibits here were designed with human interaction features.

Kid-friendly attractions like this one in Springfield will have your kids saying Springfield, Missouri is one of their favorite places to visit.

Indoor activities here keep visitors of all ages entertained for hours on rainy days.

Address:  438 E St Louis St, Springfield, MO 65806, USA

11. The Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

Bass Pro Shops

The Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is among the most popular of the Springfield attractions.

This 500,000 square-foot complex was the first Bass Pro Shop in the United States.

Many Bass Pro Shops stores exist throughout the United States and Canada, but the Springfield, Missouri store remains the largest store.

The Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is an outdoor sportsman’s retail mecca.

You can see the best fishing, boating, hunting, camping, and cooking equipment around or shop for quality outdoor/sport clothing, shoes and nature-themed gifts.

Points of interest are the TRACKER boat showroom, a firing range, waterfalls, aquariums, and the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum.

When you need to sit down and take a break, there is a place you can buy some refreshments.

If you are looking for stuff to do in Springfield on a weekend, the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World will fill many hours.

This complex is a must-see when you visit the city.

It remains one of the most loved of the free things to do in Springfield.

Address:  1935 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807, USA

12. The Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks

Air & Military Museum of The Ozarks

Air & Military Museum of The Ozarks

If you are interested in Ozark-area vintage military equipment and memorabilia, one of the best places to visit is the Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks .

This Springfield museum has larger items on display, such as Army trucks and jeeps, a T-33 jet aircraft, and a Cobra helicopter, in addition to the more than 5,000 smaller items.

The hands-on area of the museum allows visitors to type on an old Teletype machine.

With the help of a flight simulator, one can experience what it was like to fly a Cobra helicopter.

Young boys with fathers in the military will be proud to receive their very own personalized dog tag, like dad wears.

Address:  2305 E Kearney St, Springfield, MO 65803, USA

Planning a road trip around Missouri? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Branson  & things to do in Missouri !

13. Springfield Botanical Gardens

Mizumoto Garden Waterway

Granger Meador / flickr

Across the street from the Horton Smith Golf Course in Springfield, Missouri is the Springfield Botanical Gardens .

At 114-acres, this park is quite large.

Within the park is the lovely Botanical Center, to which 12,700 square feet of space were devoted.

The park’s gardens and arboretum serve as a learning resource for the University of Missouri students, being used as a plant laboratory and outdoor classroom.

This area was also created for the enjoyment of other gardeners, nature lovers, and for people of all ages.

Children, university students, and others visit the Dr. Bill Roston Butterfly House to observe the various stages that butterflies go through during their lives.

Couples stroll through the stunningly beautiful and romantic Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden.

Around Lake Drummond are 2.8 miles of trails that are used by bikers, walkers, and joggers.

The park is truly one of the more peaceful Springfield attractions.

Address:  2400 S Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO 65807, USA

14. Mother’s Brewing Company

Mother's Brewing Company

Mother’s Brewing Company

The identity of the mother who inspired the name of this locally-owned brewery remains a mystery, but the craft beers that are made at this Springfield, Missouri brewery are legendary.

South Grant Street in downtown Springfield is the place for beer-lovers to be on an occasional Saturday afternoon.

That is when Mother’s Brewing Company becomes one of the tourist attractions and allows the public to watch the production, bottling and distribution of their beers and to participate in a beer tasting session.

Beers made there include Towhead and Three Blind Mice, seasonal beers Spring Batch, Winter Grind, Oktoberfest, and some other popular beers.

Mind you, this is just one of many things to do downtown Springfield.

Address:  215 S Grant Ave, Springfield, MO 65806, USA

15. Springfield Art Museum

Springfield Art Museum

Springfield Art Museum

Among the best free places to visit in Springfield, Missouri is the Springfield Art Museum , where people can view various interesting exhibits.

For a small fee, whole families can take art classes and get involved in the many other indoor activities that the museum hosts.

Getting involved in the various activities is cheap, fun, and educational.

The museum had its beginnings in the private sector.

In 1926, Deborah D. Weisel and a small group of women started an Art Study Club.

The club was incorporated in 1928 as the Springfield Art Museum, after which time the women took their exhibits on the road to major cities around the country.

They deeded their museum to the city of Springfield in 1946.

Exhibits are no longer taken all over the country.

But in the spirit of the museum’s founders, the museum is dedicated to documenting the cultural heritage of southwest Missouri, preserving the area’s cultural treasures, and educating people.

On the museum’s website, the museum encourages the public to “enjoy, learn and create” at the Springfield Art Museum.

To “enjoy” their museum means to admire the exhibits.

One can now view the large number of past exhibits online as well.

The public can also take advantage of the museum’s fundraising events and rent out part of the facility.

Address:  1111 E Brookside Dr, Springfield, MO 65807, USA

16. Springfield National Cemetery

Springfield National Cemetery

The soldiers who died in the Battle of Wilson’s Creek in 1861 were interred in Republic, Missouri.

Many of them had been Springfield residents, but Civil War soldiers were buried wherever they fell.

By 1876, the Republic, Missouri cemetery had a critical need to remove the many remains of Civil War soldiers that they had.

Cemeteries in Pea Ridge, Carthage, Newtonia, Forsyth, and Springfield also needed to create space.

These cemeteries wanted the Civil War bodies they had reinterred together in one large Civil War cemetery somewhere in Springfield.

In response, the city of Springfield, Missouri established The Springfield National Cemetery , expanding and uniting the city’s separate Union and Confederate cemeteries.

Of the 1,514 Union soldiers now buried there, 719 are unidentified, as are most of the 566 Confederate soldiers.

Each of the two sections still has the original monuments and memorial stones.

The Battle of Wilson’s Creek, which was fought near Republic, Missouri, is sometimes referred to as the First Battle of Springfield because many of Springfield’s residents fought in that battle.

To add insult to the injury of not being interred at home, the Confederates won this battle.

The Second Battle of Springfield was fought two years later, when Confederate troops attempted to take the Union army’s supplies that were stored inside the city of Springfield.

Confederates also wanted to take advantage of Springfield’s high ground.

This second battle was more savage than most battles because Confederate troops went house-to-house in the southern part of Springfield and burned down the homes.

But the Union army prevailed in the second battle.

Springfield acknowledges all of its heroic, fallen young men at the Springfield National Cemetery and in different sites throughout the city.

Address:  1702 E Seminole St, Springfield, MO 65804, USA

17. Gillioz Theatre

Gillioz Theatre

Steve Lagreca / Shutterstock

When a bridge builder built the Gillioz Theatre in Springfield, Missouri back in 1926, he built it out of, well…steel and concrete.

Wood was only used for doors, door frames, and handrails.

Having named it with Queen’s-English spelling, the theater opened its doors with a seating limit of 1300 people per show.

Many silent movies and some live shows were shown there in the early years.

Decades later, Elvis Presley watched a movie there before performing elsewhere in the city.

Today, the Gillioz Theatre mostly hosts music events, but Springfield’s oldest theater can boast that it still has the original 1926 pipe organ.

Address:  325 Park Central E, Springfield, MO 65806, USA

Visiting other parts of Missouri? Why not check out some of the things to do in Columbia, MO ?

18. Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park

Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park

Al Turner / flickr

In our modern age of cell phones and laptops, kids often don’t get exposure to farm life or see where our food actually comes from.

The Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park provides a fun way to educate kids about agriculture.

The park covers 207 acres of land.

Teaching is done through the park’s recreational resources that are in the form of demonstration gardens and crops, 20 acres of native pasturelands and prairie, a scenic creek (Wilson’s Creek), a milking and animal barn, and a farm-themed children’s playground.

If you have kids and you want to find fun things to do in Springfield on a sunny day, let them learn about agriculture the best way possible, short of having a farm.

Take them to the Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park.

Address:  3825 W Farm Rd 146, Springfield, MO 65807, USA

19. Relics Antique Mall

Relics Antique Mall

Relics Antique Mall

No trip to the Ozarks would be complete without visiting an antique mall.

Springfield’s Relics Antique Mall is the largest antique mall in Missouri.

You will find furniture, home décor, jewelry, clothing, arts and crafts, and other antiques and vintage collectibles within this Springfield mall’s 90,000 square feet of space and in the Mt. Vernon location.

The mall’s tea room is fashioned in old-world style.

Sip some tea or coffee and enjoy the freshly made cuisine.

Get the latest information about the mall’s antique-related events that it hosts from time to time throughout the year.

Address:  2015 Battlefield Rd, Springfield, MO 65807, USA

20. Sequiota Park

Sequiota Park

Sequiota Park

For a free place to get physically active, enjoy the outdoors, and have picnics in one of the most beautiful places in USA , you will want to visit this stunningly beautiful, picturesque wonder of nature that is located in the south part of Springfield.

The Sequiota Park has caves, a big iconic rock, a walking trail, a lake you can fish in, a picnic pavilion, and a playground for the kids.

Additionally, the park hosts various events.

Address:  3500 S Lone Pine Ave, Springfield, MO 65804, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To Springfield

Fun things to do in Springfield abound.

Whatever your age, budget or interests, you will find activities in Springfield, Missouri and the surrounding area that will educate, delight, and lift your spirits.

The Ozarks offer visitors caves, cliffs, lakes, wildlife, marine life, and other natural resources, which makes the area’s outdoor sports and nature-related attractions the go-to places for serious nature lovers.

Also prevalent is the area’s somewhat hillbilly culture, which long ago brought about delicious home-style food, bluegrass music, unique handmade back-hills musical instruments, and various other works of art.

Antique and vintage items are also abundant.

Springfield embraces this heritage and pays tribute to its fallen Civil War heroes.

But it also a progressive, forward-thinking city that contains many colleges and offers cultural forms of entertainment.

  • Springfield
  • Rainy Day Activities

Indoor Activities in Springfield, MO

  • TripBuzz found 23 things to do indoors in the Springfield area. From Discovery Center of Springfield to Mother's Brewing Company, Springfield offers a variety of rainy day activities and other fun things to do indoors — including 18 indoor attractions with ratings over 90%.
  • There are 25 different types of things to do inside in or near Springfield, Missouri. Some of the most popular types of these activities include: Bowling, Movie Theaters, Convention Centers and Arcades.
  • There are 18 indoor activities in Springfield, and 5 indoor attractions in nearby cities within 25 miles, including: Nixa and Ozark.

Discovery Center of Springfield

Mother's brewing company, springfield art museum, the springfield expo center, ozark empire fairgrounds, missouri sports hall of fame, battlefield lanes, enterprise park lanes, lighthouse lanes, sunshine lanes.

PlanetWare.com

12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Springfield, MO

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 24, 2023

Author Brad Lane visited Springfield as part of an extensive trip through Missouri for PlanetWare.

Springfield is an hour north of Branson in southwest Missouri . It's home to Missouri State University and notable tourist attractions. It also has an adventurous nature thanks to nearby Ozark landscapes. And as the Birthplace of Route 66 , Springfield also makes for a great road trip destination.

Nathanael Greene Memorial Park, Springfield, Missouri

A fantastic underground voyage or a glimpse at Civil War history are just a few favorite things to do in Springfield. You will also find a national aquarium, sprawling botanical centers, and one of the best car collections in the entire state of Missouri. And these family-fun activities are only a sample of the sightseeing opportunities throughout town.

Whether it's the resident students, community members, or wildlife from the Dickerson Park Zoo, everyone in Springfield seems to be happy to meet you. The city has a Midwest charm represented by these smiling faces and a visitor appeal that feels like traveling home.

For ideas on the best places to visit, see our list of the top attractions and things to do in Springfield, Missouri.

1. Fantastic Caverns

2. springfield botanical gardens at nathanael greene/close memorial park, 3. wonders of wildlife national museum and aquarium, 4. wilson's creek national battlefield, 5. mizumoto japanese stroll garden, 6. springfield art museum, 7. hammons field, 8. the discovery center of springfield, 9. dickerson park zoo, 10. springfield conservation nature center, 11. route 66 car museum, 12. pythian castle, springfield, mo - climate chart.

Fantastic Caverns

Located less than 10 miles north of downtown, Fantastic Caverns exemplifies the karst landscape that defines much of the Missouri underground. The caverns have a fragile backdrop of ancient features, and the only way to tour the fascinating underground landscape is on a 55-minute jeep-drawn tram ride.

This engaging jeep-drawn tram ride makes Fantastic Caverns America's only ride-through cave system. It also provides a great way for anyone to enjoy the caves. The well-informed guides leading the expeditions help shed some light on the underground features.

Fantastic Caverns truly lives up to its name. Some of the cave features on a tour include columns, soda straws, and cave bacon. Because of its underground nature, Fantastic Caverns remains at a comfortable 60 degrees Fahrenheit all year long.

Address: 872 N Farm Road 125, Springfield, Missouri

Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park is a popular spot for natural attractions and things to do outdoors. It provides more than 100 acres of manicured space to play, picnic, and partake in some botanical beauty.

One of the biggest draws to Nathanael Greene is the Springfield Botanical Gardens . This natural space features 21 different garden beds, hundreds of varieties of flowers, and the Dr. Bill Roston Native Butterfly House .

Lake Drummond is also within Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park and provides a great backdrop for a picnic or open space activities. The on-site Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is also a great place to visit to add some tranquility to the day.

Address: 2400 S Scenic Avenue, Springfield, Missouri

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

The Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium features more than one-and-a-half million gallons of water, hosting thousands of live fish. The museum also features massive ocean environments, historic boating vessels, and underwater tunnels to admire some river monsters. The massive facility is next to the almost equally massive original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World .

Alongside the endless aquariums, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum also displays an extensive collection of 4-D wildlife dioramas. These intricate displays range from the African savanna to the Arctic tundra. Each diorama features incredible attention to detail and added effects, like noise and lighting, to immerse visitors in the experience.

The location of the museum, connected to the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, is no coincidence. With a passion for conservation, the founder and owner of Bass Pro Shops, Johnny Morris, is a Springfield native who strived to bring Wonders of Wildlife to his home community. Most families make a day trip out of visiting the neighboring facilities.

Address: 500 W Sunshine Street, Springfield, Missouri

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield is the site of the second major battle of the Civil War . Back in 1861, the seemingly silent landscape surrounding this National Battlefield, now operated by the National Park Service, was violently disturbed as Union and Confederate soldiers clashed to gain control of the state.

In current times, visitors to this preserved natural and historic space tour the different significant landmarks and follow the story of the battle as it took place. Along the 4.9-mile paved tour road that circles the area, eight interpretive sites provide parking spots and hiking trails to follow. The auto tour includes a stop at the Ray House, which stands as the only remaining domicile after the battle.

Even more information about the bloody battle is found within the on-site Visitor Center. It's open seven days a week and features detailed exhibits, a Civil War research library, and a 30-minute film. The National Battlefield is closed during major holidays.

Address: 6424 W Farm Road 182, Republic, Missouri

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden provides an extra tranquil setting that lends to a certain peace of mind. This serene place to visit is connected to Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park on the southwest side of the city.

Mizumoto features traditional Japanese garden landscaping spread over seven acres. Some of the most popular features include a meditation garden, moon bridge, and a large koi lake complete with stepping stones . Other features of the garden include a traditional teahouse and an aesthetic Zig-Zag Bridge.

Easy on the eyes and good for the spirit, the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is the perfect place to bring a book, bring a date, or simply take a moment from the day to be mindful of one's surroundings. Admission to the Mizumoto Japanese Garden is four dollars for adults, which helps maintain this most relaxing tourist attraction.

Address: 2400 S Scenic Ave, Springfield, Missouri

Springfield Art Museum

The Springfield Art Museum is the city's oldest cultural institution. It's dedicated to documenting and displaying significant cultural works from southwest Missouri and abroad and encourages visitors to enrich their cultural perspectives.

The primary focus of the Springfield Art Museum is American art, with permanent and rotating collections. Exhibits and displays cover everything from watercolors to printmaking. Currently, the museum's permanent collection comprises over 10,000 works of art. Docent-led tours of the galleries are available.

As a bonus to any visit, the outdoor Sculpture Garden at the Springfield Art Museum encourages exploration of the grounds. The Springfield Art Museum also brings the community closer together with art classes for teens and adults.

Address: 1111 E. Brookside Drive, Springfield, Missouri

Hammons Field

Nothing quite defines the summer season in Springfield like attending a Springfield Cardinals baseball game at Hammons Field . The baseball stadium is near the downtown district and the Missouri State University campus. And it hosts the minor-league Springfield Cardinals throughout the spring and summer, providing a great cultural outlet to appreciate America's pastime.

While some seats at Hammons Field might be more expensive than others, there are no bad seats in the house. This is many thanks to the extra-large scoreboard and modern facilities of this award-winning minor league baseball stadium.

Different theme nights at the stadium include $1 hot dog nights, Freedom Week with fireworks, and collaborations with the Dickerson Park Zoo. Several exciting and family-friendly crowd events also occur between each inning. This fun lineup spans the entire season, offering great things to do at night throughout the spring and summer. Don't forget to bring your glove for the opportunity to catch a foul ball.

Address: 955 E Trafficway Street, Springfield, Missouri

The Discovery Center of Springfield

The Discovery Center of Springfield is a one-stop shop for hands-on educational opportunities. Kids of all ages find something fun to learn about at this family-fun facility on the east edge of downtown. But with hundreds of moving exhibits and experiential displays, adults also tend to have fun while visiting.

This signature Springfield tourist attraction is open six days a week and closed on Mondays. Plan to spend at least half the day wandering the many rooms and exhibits spread across three floors (elevators are available). The Discovery Center also puts on after-hour events and educational programming.

Address: 438 E St. Louis St., Springfield, Missouri

Spoonbill at the Dickerson Park Zoo

Dickerson Park Zoo provides much more than just viewing opportunities of its resident animals. With a focus on conservation and community engagement and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the zoo plays active roles in various conservation programs around the world. Dickerson Park also provides a local animal hospital and rehabilitation services.

As part of its mission to conserve wildlife, the Dickerson Park Zoo strives to draw a connection between the community and the animals. A few of the residents at the Dickerson Park Zoo include western diamondback rattlesnakes, black swans, and a North American black bear. Other animals of interest include Asian elephants, spider monkeys, and a Malayan tiger.

The Dickerson Park Zoo also features different zoo events and summer camps throughout the year. The facility also hosts daily " Animal RendeZoos " where you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, or reptiles.

Address: 1401 W Norton Road, Springfield, Missouri

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

Southeast of the city center, the Springfield Conservation Nature Center (CNC) features over 80 acres of Ozark landscapes to explore. Alongside three miles of hiking trails , this city-owned facility also features a visitor center stacked with interpretive exhibits . The visitor center also houses a 150-seat auditorium for special programs and events.

Springfield CNC is day-use only , and the facility features ample parking for buses and RVs. Several programs take place at the nature center, including guided naturalist hikes. Running and jogging on the trails at Springfield CNC is only allowed during specific posted times of the day.

Address: 4601 S Nature Center Way, Springfield, Missouri

Route 66 Car Museum

The Route 66 Car Museum is a privately-owned collection of cars that can't be missed, located directly west of the downtown district. The collection ranges from the Brass Era of automobiles to classic movie and television rides. Never under one roof will you find such a wide variety of vehicles.

The Route 66 Car Museum features more than 70 cars, trucks, and Batmobiles on display . Among its varied inventory are also Jaguars, a prize-winning German Horch, and the same truck that starred in the 1940 film adaptation of The Grapes of Wrath .

Car lover or not, the Route 66 Car Museum is an impressive place to visit. There is something guaranteed to catch your eye among the exhibits. The museum is open seven days a week between 9am and 5pm, except major holidays.

Address: 1634 W College Street, Springfield, Missouri

Pythian Castle

This unique castle, a few blocks east of downtown, stands out thanks to its noble design. The Pythian Castle dates to the early 1900s and was constructed by the Knights of Pythian as an orphanage. The U.S. Government utilized the fortress-like building for half a century, and today, it's a top tourist attraction with several types of tours available.

Ghost tours, history tours, and Murder Mystery parties comprise the Pythian Castle event calendar. Tours occur throughout the day and into the night, as do the special events throughout the year. The only way to see the castle grounds is through a tour or scheduled visit.

Address: 1451 E Pythian Street, Springfield, Missouri

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

image

Other Cities in Missouri : Springfield embodies the perfect balance of culture and community of a mid-size city. Just an hour away, Branson has a similar vibe, with a constant live music soundtrack. The university city of Columbia also shares the same appeal three hours to the north. For guides on Missouri's most populous cities, check out our articles on St. Louis and Kansas City .

image

Visiting Lake of the Ozarks : The stunning Lake of the Ozarks is less than 90 miles from Springfield. This water-rich environment offers numerous activities to explore. For some of the best places to pitch a tent or park an RV at Lake of the Ozarks, check out our article on the best campgrounds at Lake of the Ozarks . For some upscale accommodations, our guide to the top resorts at Lake of the Ozarks features many excellent places to stay.

instagram logo

More on Missouri

Missouri Travel Guide

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Budget Savvy Travelers

BREAKING FREE WITHOUT BREAKING THE BUDGET

Home » 18 Things to Do in Springfield Missouri and Best Route 66 Attractions

18 Things to Do in Springfield Missouri and Best Route 66 Attractions

places to do homework in springfield mo

Springfield, Missouri is considered the Birthplace of Route 66. In April 1926, Springfield businessman Cyrus Avery proposed that the Chicago-to-Los Angeles two-lane highway be officially called U.S. 66. This legendary designation took place at the Colonial Hotel via telegram.

Since then, Missouri’s third-largest city has become a great destination to explore for families, couples, and friends. This is partly because Springfield offers small-town charms but big-city amenities. Also known as the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” Springfield serves as a gateway to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Table of Contents

Select a section or scroll down to view all

18 Things to Do in Springfield Springfield’s Best Craft Beer Scene Best Route 66 Attractions to Explore Best Accommodations by Budget

18 things to do in springfield missouri.

Below are the best things to do in Springfield, Missouri.

1. Tour the Fantastic Caverns

Discovered in 1862 by a local farmer’s dog, Fantastic Caverns offers a ride-through cave experience. As a result, this makes for a great rainy-day activity. Moreover, the Jeep-drawn tram tour lasts approximately 55 minutes and drives along a path left behind by an ancient underground river.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Also, dogs are welcome on all tours at no additional charge. Lastly, all paying guests receive a free group photo, which makes for a nice memory of the excursion!

Beer Lovers Must Take This Tour : Ozark Craft Beverage – Brewery Tour

2. See the Pythian Castle

The Pythian Castle was built in 1913 by the fraternal organization and secret society of the Knights of Pythias. It was used as a retirement home for disadvantaged members and their widows and children. Later, it was owned by the U.S. Military to entertain and rehabilitate injured soldiers.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Today, it is privately owned and used for special events, history tours, murder mystery dinners, and ghost tours. The castle was featured on two paranormal television shows. Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, tours are by appointment only. 

Best Tours : History Tour of Pythian Castle  or brave visitors should try the Night Ghost Tour of Pythian Castle .

3. See Park Central Square

The majority of special events occur in Park Central Square . Therefore, it’s a popular central meeting place in downtown Springfield. For example, visitors can enjoy classic car shows, food festivals, and the annual Birthplace of Route 66 Festival.

places to do homework in springfield mo

The square offers public art sculptures and water features. In particular, look for the large bronze book with inscriptions of the city’s history, it’s an interesting find.

Also, there are many local coffee shops nearby like The Coffee Ethnic, Mudhouse Coffee, and Hurt’s Donut Company . Also, the square hosts the Wild Bill Hickok Gunfight Marker and the History Museum on the Square .

4. Stand in the Same Spot as Wild Bill Hickok at the Gunfight Marker

While in Springfield’s Park Central Square, be on the lookout for a brass circle embedded in the ground. It serves as America’s first Wild West shootout.

places to do homework in springfield mo

On July 21, 1865, James “Wild Bill” Hickok and Davis “Little Dave” Tutt faced off and fired 1865 heavy revolvers from a distance of 225 feet. Tutt missed. However, Hickok steadied his right wrist with his left hand and shot Tutt killing him almost instantly as the bullet passed through. Tutt’s crime? Showing off Hickok’s pocket watch that he had given him earlier to pay off a gambling debt.

Subsequently, two embedded brass disks lie in the square. Specifically, one marks where Hickok fired and the other where Tutt fell. Lastly, there’s a plaque on the southwest corner of the square with more information.

5. Visit the History Museum on the Square

Located on Route 66 in a restored historic Park Central Square building, the History Museum on the Square shares the history of Springfield and the surrounding region.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Six permanent galleries tell the stories of the significant events and people of Springfield. In short, the interactive exhibits feature the stories of Springfield’s founders, the Mother Road, the Civil War in the area, and regional Native American culture. As a result, USA Today awarded the museum “Best New Attraction in 2020” by USA Today.

6. See the World’s Largest Fork

One of Springfield’s best roadside attractions is the World’s Largest Fork . The 35-foot tall, 11-ton fork previously stood in front of a Mexican restaurant, but when the restaurant closed a local business claimed it to place in front of their office building.

places to do homework in springfield mo

The fork can be hard to spot because it is located behind the building. It’s one of the best photo opportunities in the city.

7. Tour the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum

Named after the company’s founder, the Johnny Morris Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is an educational conservation-themed attraction affiliated with Bass Pro Shops. As a result, it’s located adjacent to the Springfield Bass Pro Shops National headquarters.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Most guests spend about three to four hours exploring 1.5 miles of exhibits. However, an entire day can be spent on the Bass Pro Shops campus. Moreover, the attraction celebrates people who hunt, fish and act as stewards of the land and water. As a result, many tourists claim that the museum’s aquarium is a highlight of their time in Springfield.

8. Shop at the Original Bass Pro Shop

The original Bass Pro Shop is the number one tourist destination in Missouri, attracting four million visitors a year. Not only is the Springfield location the very first, but it is also the largest in the country.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Touring Bass Pro Shops is another great rainy-day activity.  In this case, numerous free activities are offered—organized children’s events, live animal exhibits, and an aquarium.

places to do homework in springfield mo

On the main floor, there is a coffee shop overlooking an indoor gator pond. Other attractions are the NRA Museum and the National Archery Hall of Fame . Guests typically explore the massive outdoor retailer for about two to three hours, sometimes more if they are outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Fuel Up at Hurts Donuts

Hurts Donuts considers itself the rebel of all donut makers. The specialty donut shop chain claims that their donuts break all the rules with amped-up flavors and crazy concoctions. There are over 70 varieties to choose from.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Check out their Facebook page for daily specials and the day’s available flavors. The shop is open 24/7. Favorites include the Cookie Monster donut for its originality and the Maple Bacon topped with real bacon. They also offer gluten-free-ish donuts and cinnamon rolls that sell out quickly.

10. Shop Relics Missouri’s Largest Antique Mall

Relics is Missouri’s Largest Antique Mall . Locals and tourists spend time here browsing the stalls and looking for that perfect buy. Relics are divided into two sections, the Antique Section and the Fun Flea Market section.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Relics also offers an event center and tea room for light lunches, beverages, and desserts. The menu offers chicken salad sandwiches, quiche, and pies. Prices for the merchandise are often described as on the high side.

11. Enjoy A Stage Show At Landers Theatre

Constructed in 1909, the Landers Theatre is the second oldest and largest civic theater operating in Missouri.  It has been continuously in use as a live theatre or movie theater since its opening day.

places to do homework in springfield mo

It became the 35th facility to acquire sound technology in 1928. This historic piece of Springfield was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

12. Remember The War Veterans at Springfield National Cemetery

Established in 1867 as a place for initially inter-Civil War Union soldiers, many of whom died at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Springfield National Cemetery lends its name to National Avenue in Springfield, which was formerly passed by the cemetery before the southern expansion of the city decades ago.

13. Get Outdoors on the Frisco Highline Trail

This up-and-back 35-mile trail offers locals and tourists the opportunity to get some fresh air while exploring Springfield. The route follows the Old Railway through the Ozarks from Springfield to Bolivar, Missouri.

places to do homework in springfield mo

The super-flat path is suited best for bikers, runners, and joggers. The trail is open year-round and welcomes dogs. Locals enjoy the section from Walnut Grove to Bolivar. The bridges are concentrated along this part of the trail—there are 16 bridges in all. Additionally, the Williard section offers some nearby dining options.

places to do homework in springfield mo

14. Venture to Missouri Spirits

Missouri Spirits is the first distillery in Missouri and Springfield’s only whiskey bar. The distillery uses only locally grown ingredients and Missouri barrels. Their signature drink is their renowned bourbon whiskey placed in white oak cases and aged for a minimum of two years. It finishes at a whopping 80 percent proof.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Missouri Spirits also produce corn whiskey and vodka. The downtown establishment offers a full cocktail/tasting lounge and restaurant featuring appetizers, sliders, and popular pulled pork.

15. Visit the Battlefield of the Civil War’s Second Largest Battle

The Battle of Wilson’s Creek, sometimes also called the Battle of Springfield, was the first major military engagement to place west of the Mississippi River in the Civil War. Although on paper Missouri was a neutral state, the state’s pro-South governor was secretly collaborating with Confederate troops.

places to do homework in springfield mo

During a visit to Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield , guests can visit the museum located in the Visitors Center, explore the interpretive battlefield, and hike around the property. The park offers a 4.9-mile tour on a paved road accessible by car, foot, or bicycle. There are eight stops along the route with interpretive stops at significant battlefield points.

Five walking trails are available off the tour road. They vary in length from ¼ mile to ¾ mile. A longer, 7-mile hiking trail is also onsite. The visitor center can assist with maps and supply additional information. Parking is available at the Visitor Center and each of the eight informative stops. The National Park Service has the answers to many frequently asked questions about the battle.

16. Take a Selfie in the Hotel Vandivort Bathroom

Head downstairs to the lower-level public restrooms in the Hotel Vandivort to take advantage of a local social media opportunity. The hotel designers had no idea that the mirrors installed in Hotel Vandivort would create such a sensation. This is because the mirrors project the perfect lighting so that everyone looks like they have been perfectly airbrushed and ready for their photoshoot.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Don’t feel funny stopping in to check out the experience. Hotel Staff often welcome guests and will show you the way. Also, be sure to document your glamor shot using #HotelVandivortBathroomSelfie on Instagram.

17. Pedal and Drink Around Downtown Springfield

places to do homework in springfield mo

When the weather is right, why not consider a Trolley Bike Tour ? This 14-passenger quadricycle allows friends to “drink and pedal” their way around Springfield.

places to do homework in springfield mo

The tour lasts around two hours and offers LED lighting and an epic sound system. Just know, Trolley Bike only supplies the conductor and the bike. Therefore, you need at least 10 people to organize the BYOB. Details are on their website.

18. Enjoy Springfield’s Best Craft Beer Scene

Springfield’s craft beer scene is slowly gaining traction. In the last few years, there has been a surge in new, local breweries. The best Springfield, Missouri craft breweries include:

Springfield Brewing Company

For over 20 years, Springfield Brewing Company has focused on bringing quality traditional English, German, and American-style ales and lagers.

places to do homework in springfield mo

They offer updated pub grub in a lofty brick building, with happy hour specials, beer flights, and outside space. The name pays homage to the KICK radio station which once was housed in the building.

4 By 4 Brewing Company

A laidback community brewery offering games, great beer, and extra-friendly staff. It’s located across the street from Sequiota Park. Many come to enjoy a pint or flight after exercising on the Galloway Trail. Free popcorn is available and a pizza food truck is nearby.

Tie and Timber Beer Co.

This microbrewery stands out from the crowd with its live music events. They specialize in unique beer blends and flavors. The industrial tasting room welcomes kids and dogs and has games to play while drinking. There are lots of summer music events and outdoor patio space.

Mother’s Brewing Company

Locals love the Mother’s Brewing Company’s massive outdoor space and party vibe. It also offers one of the best breakfasts in town. In the summer, visitors enjoy yard games, picnic tables, and a stage for live music.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Dogs are welcome. Mother’s offers seasonal beer and generous free tastings. Saturday tours are free but are first-come-first-serve. Mother’s is a Springfield favorite and a brewery that sits on the original Route 66.

Great Escape Beer Works

Great Escape Beer Works offers a relaxed place to enjoy local beer in an outdoorsy environment. The brewery has two outdoor patios, one on each floor. It’s close to 4 By 4 Brewing Company so many craft beer lovers pair the two together.

Show-Me Brewing

Beer lovers curious about home brewing can learn about the process, purchase homebrewing supplies, and take advantage of the brew on-premise service. A selection of high-quality beer is also available on tap at Show-Me Brewing .

White River Brewing Co.

A small-batch brewery specializing in traditional European Beer, specifically British, German, and Belgium flavors. Also, White River Brewing Co. offers a large indoor bar, an outdoor patio, and free popcorn for snacking.

Hold Fast Brewing

Opened in a decommissioned fire station and owned by two sisters, Hold Fast is known to have one of the best outside spaces of all the Springfield breweries.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Bricktown Brewing

Bricktown Brewpub restaurant chain offers tasty pub grub and huge portions. For example, fans love fried avocados, sea salt caramel fries, burgers, and cauliflower crust pizza. However, beer is not brewed on-site. Lastly, Happy Hour prices run from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close on Monday through Friday.

Boat Town Brewing

Super-small brewery located in the woods on the original Route 66. Also, Boat Town Brewing has a Missouri wine menu which is a nice bonus if you’re not a beer lover. Also, across from their Beer Garden is The Boondocks Woodfired Kitchen featuring smoked meats and made-from-scratch pizza. Limited opening hours; afternoons from Thursday to Sunday only.

417 Taphouse

417 Taphouse has a full kitchen and the only self-serve draft beer system. For this reason, 417 Taphouse is known as a college dive bar with lots of cheap fried food and drink specials.

Patton Alley Pub

This divey pub is located in downtown Springfield with weekly live music events, unique craft beer, and happy hour specials. Particularly, Patton Alley Pub grub features appetizers, platters, pizzas, sandwiches, and wings.

Prehistoric Brewing Company

Prehistoric Brewing Company is Springfield’s newest brewpub and features affordable flights.

Best Route 66 Attractions to Explore

Springfield Missouri is considered one of the best cities to explore Route 66 attractions along the route. Below are the best Route 66 attractions to explore.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Red’s Giant Hamburg

A Route 66 Ditty: “Making mistakes is better than faking perfections.” Speaking of mistakes, Owner Sheldon “Red” Chaney misjudged the height necessary for his diner’s sign. So what was supposed to read “hamburger’ was iconically shortened to “Hamburg.”

places to do homework in springfield mo

The original Route 66 diner opened after WWII and was knocked down in the 90s. However, the sign remains in The Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park, which eventually will hold a sculpture, motor court, and retro gas station. Last year, a bigger replica of the diner was opened in Springfield, Missouri, the birthplace of Route 66.

The new Red’s Giant Hamburg opened in August 2019 and serves up some delicious hamburgers.

The Historic Gillioz Theatre

Making memories since 1926, the historic Gillioz Theatre is the region’s top event destination, combining architectural intimacy with artistic excellence.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven

Elvis stayed here! Our pilgrimage along Route 66 has taken us to many unique places including the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven . Located in Springfield, M.O., this vintage Route 66 motor court was formerly known as the Rail Haven Motel. A beautiful replica of the classic neon sign now sits on the property.

In 1956, Elvis performed at the Shrine Mosque and was supposed to stay at the luxurious Kentwood Arms Hotel. However, he ended up getting into a heated argument with his band members after the show and ended up walking down the street until he stumbled upon the Rail Haven Motel.

Rail Haven Sign Sprinfield MO

He checked in and stayed in room No. 409 , now named the Elvis Suite. As a result, it’s the priciest suite at the motel, furnished with a pink Cadillac-themed bed and Elvis photos. Therefore, we highly recommend adding this stop to your Route 66 itinerary!

Steak ‘n Shake

The Steak ‘n Shake restaurant along Route 66 was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. Above all, make sure to visit at nighttime when the red and white neon lights impressively illuminate the intersection.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center

The Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center is a  great place to start your adventure and find inspiration for your visit.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Further, the center provides maps, guides, driving directions, and loads of information on all the fun things to see, do, and experience in and around the Springfield area.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Anton’s Coffee Shop

After 45 years in business, Anton’s Coffee Shop recently closed in March 2020.  Also, be sure to visit and take a picture of the sign and peek into the windows before it’s demolished or renovated.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Best Accommodations by Budget

There are plenty of accommodations for any budget in and around Springfield. Prices will generally be less around I-44 and more expensive the closer to the downtown area. Below are the best places to stay on any budget.

Budget : Days Inn by Wyndham Battlefield Rd / Hwy 65 Mid-Range : Hotel Vandivort Luxury : TownePlace Suites Springfield Best Route 66 Experience : Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven

It’s easy to see that this little slice of Ozark Mountain Country would make a great vacation destination. Especially, after seeing all of the things to do in Springfield, Missouri. At the same time, we would also encourage you to explore the nearby large lakes and beautiful streams. For this reason, this area of Missouri offers visitors a wide variety of water recreation.

In conclusion, it’s here in the heart of the nation that you’ll find affordable prices, hospitable people, and everything else that you’d expect from middle America.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
  • ← Top Beaches in the Indian Ocean >> 7 Stunning Places Not to Miss!
  • 4 Tips for Traveling Alone for the First Time | How to Plan a Solo Trip →

Similar Posts

places to do homework in springfield mo

10 Best Things to Do in Minsk Belarus | Most Gripping Countries to Visit!

places to do homework in springfield mo

5 Top Travel Packing Tips for Easy Travel

places to do homework in springfield mo

Indulge in a Quaint AU Spot with a Daylesford Luxury Accommodation

One thought on “ 18 things to do in springfield missouri and best route 66 attractions ”.

You did all my favorite things!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

  • TRAVEL ARTICLES
  • BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
  • GREAT BRITAIN
  • MASSACHUSETTS
  • NORTH CAROLINA
  • PENNSYLVANIA
  • SOUTH CAROLINA
  • PHILIPPINES
  • SAUDI ARABIA
  • UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
  • REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
  • SOUTH AFRICA
  • AMERICAN SAMOA
  • COOK ISLANDS
  • NEW ZEALAND
  • DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
  • PUERTO RICO
  • TIPS, TRICKS, AND BUDGET-SAVVINESS
  • FIRST 6 MONTHS
  • MONTHS 7-10
  • MONTHS 11-15
  • MONTHS 16-18
  • MONTHS 19-24
  • PROJECTED ROUTE
  • LATEST VLOGS
  • EPISODE 1-5: BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
  • EPISODE 6: URUGUAY
  • EPISODE 7: ANTARCTICA
  • EPISODE 8: PATAGONIA
  • EPISODE 9: SOUTH AMERICAN WINE COUNTRY
  • EPISODE 10: THE COOK ISLANDS
  • EPISODE 11: NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA
  • EPISODE 12: INDIA
  • EPISODE 13: BORNEO
  • EPISODE 14: THAILAND
  • SPONSORED CONTENT
  • WHY DID WE QUIT OUR JOBS TO TRAVEL?
  • OUR PAST TRAVELS
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

12 Things To Do In Vibrant Springfield, Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

  • Destinations
  • United States

places to do homework in springfield mo

Springfield is a treasure trove of outdoor activities and cultural delights. Nestled in America’s heartland, this vibrant southwestern Missouri city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and modern attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or art lover, these are the best things to do in vibrant Springfield, Missouri.

Original Bass Pro Shops

1. Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

The original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Springfield is affectionately nicknamed the “Granddaddy of All Outdoor Stores.” Attracting 4 million families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts to its 500,000-square-foot venue each year, it has everything you need for fishing, boating, hunting, and camping. 

But the Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is about more than shopping — it’s a destination. As you wander the store, you’ll encounter stunning waterfalls, impressive aquariums, and even the National Archery Hall of Fame.

Stingray petting at Wonders of Wildlife

2. Johnny Morris’ Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum And Aquarium

Located just north of the Bass Pro Shops, Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium celebrates those who funt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water. The 350,00-square-foot attraction with over 1.5 miles of trails is broken into two key sections: a museum of wildlife galleries that allows you to experience some of the planet’s most extreme wildlife habitats and an AZA-accredited aquarium featuring creatures from the world’s oceans, lakes, and streams.

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

3. Springfield Botanical Gardens

When you’re done hanging out with aquatic creatures, head to the Springfield Botanical Gardens . Located in Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park , this beautiful oasis of themed gardens showcases beautiful blooms ranging from irises and lilies to ornamental grasses and dwarf conifers.

Don’t miss the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden located in the northeast corner of the park. Established in partnership with Springfield’s sister city Isesaki, it transports visitors to Japan with its traditional landscaping, tranquil koi ponds, and ceremonial tea path. Wind your way through lush greenery, walk over the moon bridge, and just take a few moments to chill in the meditation garden before continuing to explore Springfield.

4. Pythian Castle

Another unique gem in Springfield is the Pythian Castle . This impressive historic landmark was built in 1913 as an orphanage, repurposed as a rehabilitation center for U.S. troops during World War II, and is now open to the public for guided history tours, ghost tours, murder mystery dinners, and more.

Pro Tip: Springfield is a fantastic day trip from Branson .

Exterior of the History Museum on the Square

5. History Museum On The Square

To dive further into Springfield’s fascinating history and understand its role in many significant events throughout American history, visit the History Museum on the Square . Within six permanent galleries, the museum’s interactive exhibits detail the first documented shootout in the Wild West, explain the city’s involvement in the Civil War, allow guests to experience an early 20th-century trolley car, and more.

One museum highlight is the Birthplace of Route 66 exhibit , which explores the origins and history of the iconic American highway. From vintage automobiles to interactive displays, the exhibit provides a fascinating glimpse into the birth of a cultural phenomenon.

6. Route 66 Car Museum

For more “Mother Road” fun, head to the Route 66 Car Museum . This unique museum showcases a collection of more than 75 classic, sports, and vintage cars allowing history lovers and car enthusiasts to walk through 100 years of automotive history. Beyond the beautifully restored classics from Route 66’s heyday, you can also see famous vehicles from your favorite films. Don’t miss the 1991 Ghostbusters Cadillac Wagon or the 1979 Gotham Cruiser.

Fantastic Caverns tram tour

7. Fantastic Caverns

In the north end of Springfield, Fantastic Caverns allows visitors to explore a vast underground cave via a guided tram tour. While there are undoubtedly many caverns to explore in the U.S., Fantastic Caverns is the only cavern in America to offer a completely ride-through tour. This makes it accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.

Aboard a Jeep-drawn tram, your hour-long tour will take you on a fascinating journey into the depths of the underground cave. As you travel through the cavern, your knowledgeable guide will highlight its unique features and share interesting facts. For example, the cave was a speakeasy during the Prohibition era and the cavern was the site of live music concerts during the 1950s and 1960s. 

Springfield Art Museum

8. Springfield Art Museum

The Springfield Art Museum is the city’s oldest cultural institution focused on appreciating and preserving art. It boasts a permanent collection of over 10,000 works of art, encompassing a wide range of styles, mediums, and time periods. After you’ve admired the paintings, photographs, and other masterpieces inside, head outdoors. The museum’s beautiful grounds are adorned with captivating large-scale sculptures, including Sun Target II , a well-known and loved Springfield landmark.

9. Sculpture Walk Springfield

To see more of Springfield’s collection of sculptures, take a self-guided tour of Sculpture Walk Springfield , designed to be a museum without walls and accessible to all. The collection rotates annually, but you can download a map of the current exhibition from the Sculpture Walk website or pick one up at the Springfield Art Museum or Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.

10. Missouri Sports Hall Of Fame

Sports fans will enjoy the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame , where the achievements of former Missouri athletes are celebrated and their legacies are honored. The museum contains an impressive collection of over 4,000 memorabilia items, including jerseys, trophies, and photographs. As you make your way through the exhibits, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the incredible feats of these athletes and their contributions to the world of sports.

11. Dickerson Park Zoo

With over 450 different animals from around the world, the Dickerson Park Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers of all ages. See majestic mountain lions, playful river otters, and other magnificent creatures in spacious, natural enclosures. You can also feed the giraffes and animals in the Outback Corral Petting Zoo for an additional fee.

12. Springfield’s Local Flavors

When exploring Springfield makes you hungry, here’s how to fuel up. Whether you’re excited to try the unique chicken dish that bears the city’s name or travel just south of town for a one-of-a-kind experience, you’re sure to delight your taste buds.

Springfield Cashew Chicken

While St. Louis is known for its cracker-crust pizza and Kansas City is famous for its barbecue , in southwestern Missouri, Springfield is home to a Chinese-inspired cashew chicken dish . It consists of deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a flavorful brown sauce and topped with cashews and chopped green onions, typically served over a bed of cooked rice. Try it at Cashew Chef, New Oriental Restaurant, or Bao Bao Chinese Bistro.

14 Mill Market

Located about 25 minutes south of Springfield in Nixa, 14 Mill Market is southwestern Missouri’s first food hall. With unique restaurant concepts that range from pizza to poke bowls, it’s a wonderful place to grab a bite, sip a drink, and relax.

Lambert’s Cafe

Also a short drive south of Springfield, Lambert’s Cafe is famous for its “throwed rolls,” served by lobbing them at patrons. The restaurant also serves comfort food mains like meatloaf, fried chicken, and roast beef accompanied by “pass-arounds.” These circulating side dishes — like fried potatoes, black-eyed peas, and fried okra — are passed out by servers at no additional charge.

Pro Tip: Want to experience more Show Me State cuisine? These are the ultimate stops on a foodie road trip through Missouri .

With its diverse attractions ranging from the awe-inspiring Fantastic Caverns to the historic Pythian Castle, Springfield offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Springfield’s charm and character will leave you longing for more Midwestern travels.

Image of Sage Scott

Bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time, Sage Scott is addicted to travel. From her nomadic upbringing in a military family to her personal and professional travels as an adult, Sage has visited all 50 states, lived abroad twice, and explored nearly 30 other countries.

Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage writes with a midlife traveler’s perspective from Kansas City — the Midwestern cowtown affectionately called the Paris of the Plains and the undisputed Barbecue Capital of the World — and is always in search of new experiences whether in her hometown or halfway around the world.

Things to Do in Springfield, MO - Springfield Attractions

Things to do in springfield, explore popular experiences, tours in and around springfield.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Night Ghost Tour of Pythian Castle in Springfield Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

Ozark Craft Beverage - Brewery Tour

places to do homework in springfield mo

1 Hour of Axe Throwing Knives and More

places to do homework in springfield mo

History Tour of Pythian Castle in Springfield Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Haygoods: Branson's Most Popular Show

places to do homework in springfield mo

Awareness Tour

places to do homework in springfield mo

Legends in Concert Branson Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

Branson Murder Mystery- Branson's Original #1 Murder Mystery

places to do homework in springfield mo

Titanic Museum Branson Admission Ticket

places to do homework in springfield mo

Escape Reality Branson Magic Dinner Show

Top attractions in springfield.

places to do homework in springfield mo

What travelers are saying

daniel f

  • Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
  • Fantastic Caverns
  • Springfield Cardinals
  • Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
  • Springfield Conservation Nature Center
  • Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

Springfield Attractions Information

PHOTOGRAPHY

join my free moms community on facebook

Join my free moms community  on facebook.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Have a look around the blog and make sure to contact me ASAP! Let's get your session date on my calendar, and let's create memories that you'll remember for a lifetime.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Top 21 Educational and Fun Attractions in Springfield MO

parents holding baby boy in field captured by Springfield MO family photographer Jessica Kennedy of The XO Photography

Whether you are a homeschooling family looking for a great local field trip or just want a fun family outing that is fun with a good opportunity for your kids to learn a few new fun, this list is for you. These top attractions in Springfield, MO , are educational but can be fun for the whole family!

As a homeschool mom and Springfield MO family photographer, I’m always looking for opportunities to get out of the house but still have a place for the kids to learn fun facts that they wouldn’t otherwise have.  These top 21 attractions in Springfield, MO , were very interesting to learn about, and my kids had so much fun!

Top 21 Education and Fun Attractions in Springfield MO:

family cuddling during Springfield Mo family portraits

1. Wonders Of Wildlife

Wonders of Wildlife is such a fun way to learn about animals, wildlife worldwide, and their habitats.  They offer a hands-on experience to see thousands of animals with interactive educational opportunities to learn about each of them. We go here weekly and learn so many new things every time we go!

2. Fantastic Caverns

Fantastic Caverns is an excellent way to learn about our local caves, the animals that live in them, and their history.  Fantastic Caverns is fun because you can ride in a Jeep as the tour guide teaches your whole family all about what’s around you and can even answer questions!  In the end, there is a fun gift shop that takes a souvenir home to remember this fun adventure.

3. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield offers a unique experience to learn about the Civil War while still exploring the outdoors.  They have a variety of walking trails across the battlefield and an indoor museum to learn even more.

family smiling in field captured by Springfield

4. Dickerson Park Zoo

Dickerson Park Zoo is a great way to learn about many unique animals worldwide. They even offer a way to feed some of them as well!

5. Springfield Art Museum

Springfield Art Museum is perfect for the artist in your family. It offers hundreds of beautiful art pieces from local arts for you to learn from. In the end, they even have a little play area for the kids to play at.

6. Pythian Castle

“ Pythian Castle was originally built in 1913 as an orphanage by the Knights of Pythias. Later, it was owned by the U.S. Military. This certified haunted castle is a must-see. ”.  They host historical tours throughout the day to learn, but they also offer ghost tours, escape rooms, murder mystery dinners, and more that can be fun!  I went on a ghost tour a few years ago. It was a blast!  They talked about the history of the castle and taught about the history of the ghost.

family cuddling in field enjoying family portraits in Springfield MO

7. Discovery Center Of Springfield

Discovery Center of Springfield is one of my favorite attractions in Springfield, MO, to visit with my kids.  There is so much to learn!  Between tornados, shadows, space, gravity, dinosaurs, and SO much more, there are new things to discover around every corner.

8. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is “The oldest attraction at the Springfield Botanical Gardens, the 7.5 acres, Mizumoto Japanese Stroll garden was created in 1985 and includes a large koi lake, moon bridge, meditation garden, tea house, and traditional Japanese garden landscaping.”  It is a perfect place to learn about nature, local animals, and landscaping.  It is an ideal quiet location to bring a book, coloring books and spend some time together relaxing in nature.

9. Rutledge Wilson Farm Park

Rutledge Wilson Farm Park is our favorite park!  It not only includes a playset for the kids to play at, but there are also farm animals to learn about and pet, walking trails, a pond, and more!  Your family can spend hours here having fun learning about each farm animal, what they eat, how they live, and what life is like on a farm—looking for more fun parks to know about?  Check out the Top 7 Best Parks in Springfield, MO , to see what they have to offer.

family portrait of family cuddling in bed in photography studio in Springfield MO

10. Lake Springfield Park and Boathouse

 Lake Springfield is the perfect place to learn about lake life, the history of Lake Springfield and how it is used for our water, how dams are made, fish, and so much more!  It offers a variety of walking trails throughout the large park for you to walk, run, play while answering all of your kid’s questions about the ins and outs of Lake Springfield.  They also offer kayak and canoe rentals if your family enjoys taking your adventures out on the water.

11. Art and Military Museum- Ozarks

The Art and Military Museum- Ozarks is fascinating to learn about our military history.  “Established in 1989, the museum consisted of only one showcase. Growth has been steady, and we’ve acquired over 5,000 pieces of military history. Our projects include vintage aircraft shows at the Springfield/Branson Regional Airport, restoration of vintage military equipment, and Museum School, a true history and science program for young students. Last year over three hundred students took part in this program.” http://www.ammomuseum.com 

12. Route 66 Car Museum

“Route 66 Car Museum is a privately owned car collection located along the famed and historic Route 66… Ranging from early brass era cars to vehicles used in cinema such as the Gotham Roadster, this collection is sure to have a vehicle for every museum goer’s taste.”  This museum is a fun way to learn about the history of route 66 and the historic cars they have on display.

family cuddling in field during Springfield MO family photographer The XO Photography

13. NRA National Sporting Arms Museum

The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum is located inside Bass Pro Shops.  “The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum celebrates the history of hunting, conservation, and freedom. Those who visit the museum can trace the development and evolution of hunting arms in America from pre-colonial times to the present. Museum-goers can expect to see nearly a thousand historically significant firearms.” The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum offers a unique history lesson on hunting, conservation, freedom, and the history of many types of guns.

14. Railroad Historical Museum

“The Railroad Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving the Frisco and other railroad histories. The museum is located at Grant Beach Park, inside four antique train cars… All cars are connected and may be walked through. The museum has artifacts, equipment, photos, paintings, videos, and much more from St. Louis – San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad and other Railroads. There are many hands-on activities for kids and adults.”  Railroad Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the old history Frisco railroad, antique trains, and more!

15. Missouri Sports Hall Of Fame

Missouri Sports Hall Of Fame is a great place to learn about athletes, coaches, teams, and more.  “The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame welcomes you to celebrate the careers of.. sports role models and relive the greatest moments in Missouri sports history. Find your favorite player, coach, or team on our site, or come to the museum where we have 4,000 items of sports memorabilia and hands-on exhibits. You can feel the speed as you race in the NASCAR simulator, hit your home run in the batter’s box against a Major League Baseball pitcher, or throw the winning touchdown pass in our football exhibit.”

Springfield Mo family photographer The XO Photography captures family smiling in field

16. Springfield Cardinals

Springfield Cardinals games are one of the highlights of our summer.  Gather up your family and learn about the great game of baseball while watching a Springfield Cardinals game.  Even families who are not all that into baseball can have a blast in the atmosphere and entertainment they provide throughout the game.  I didn’t understand the game for years that I would go but still had so much fun being part of all the raving fans and fun activities they provide for families.

17. Springfield Conservation Nature Center

Springfield Conservation Nature Center is a great place to learn about nature, animals, and the local habitats we have here in the Ozarks.  Head over to their guest building. They have the coolest backpacks you can rent with magnifying glasses, animal calls, paper, and pencils to create nature art and more as you walk the paths through the conservation.

18. Frisco Highline Trail

 Frisco Highline Trail is a perfect place to go on a family scavenger hunt and enjoy the fresh air.  Create a list of fun outdoor things to look for and scout to discover all of the scenery the beautiful outdoors has to offer. You can also learn about fitness or a new skill.  Learn to ride a bike, roller skate, skip, jump, and run. There are so many great things for your family to have fun and learn.

Springfield MO family photographer captures family cuddling on bed in photography studio

19. Dog Park

Dog parks are a great way to educate on animal safety and learn a new skill of bonding and teaching your furry friend new tricks.  Here is the top dog park in Springfield, MO .

20. Fitness Centers

Family Fitness Centers are an excellent place for kids to learn about fitness and learn new skills to increase their mobility, flexibility, motor skills, and stamina.  Whether it’s learning to rock climb, play basketball, swim, run, and more, there is always something to learn at Family Fitness Centers.  Here are a few of my favorite fitness center in Springfield MO and the amenities each of them include.

21. Swimming Holes In Springfield, MO

Visiting local creeks in Springfield, MO is a great place to learn about creek habitats, animals, plants, trees, and other wildlife that live in and around them.  It is also a great place to learn and practice swimming!  Here is a list of our top swimming holes in Springfield, MO for your family to enjoy. 

These top 21 educational and fun attractions in Springfield MO are so much fun for the whole family and an excellent opportunity for your family to learn unique information about our local city as well as the world near and far.

Looking for a photographer in Springfield MO ?

family smiling cuddling toddler in family photography studio in Springfield MO

Hello! I am Jessica, a maternity, newborn, and family photographer in Springfield, MO. I help with everything from finding the perfect location, and outfits, to planning, preparation, and more! I even have a client closet you are welcome to borrow from.

Ultimate List of Things To Do In Springfield MO Top Toddler Activities in Springfield MO Best Date Night Ideas In Springfield MO

Featured Categories

places to do homework in springfield mo

Design by Kyle Goldie

newborn baby girl held by parents  by Springfield MO newborn photographer The XO Photography

[email protected]

Serving • Springfield, MO , Kansas City, Joplin, Branson , liberty, columbia, & the lovely State of Missouri

family snuggling in bed enjoying their family photography in Springfield MO by The XO Photography

Maternity • Newborn • Family

Adventure Filled Life Logo

20+ Fun Things To Do In Springfield, MO

places to do homework in springfield mo

Springfield, Missouri is one of those places that is easy to overlook until you actually visit – and then you realize how much there is to do in the city! It might be a small city, but Springfield, MO puts a heavy focus on Science, Nature, and History. This is great news for prospective visitors!

Springfield is located in Southwestern Missouri between St. Louis, Missouri, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. In fact, if you take highway 44 you can reach either of these cities in roughly 3 hours.

One of the major reasons for visiting or living in Springfield, which 170,000 people call home, is its natural beauty. The city sits in the middle of the Ozark mountain range which is one of the most stunning places to hike in the USA. There is no shortage of hiking opportunities, some of which will be covered below, so remember to pack some sturdy shoes and a camera when visiting Springfield Missouri!

Visiting Springfield, Mo doesn’t have to break the back. In fact, it can be quite affordable! Check out our Cheapest Places to Visit in 2020 if you want more inspiration.

1 – Wonders of Life National Museum and Aquarium

things to do in Springfield MO - Wonders of Life

This massive aquarium and conservation center is the highlight of Springfield, MO. It sits in a massive 350,000-square-foot building and contains a mile of footpaths and walkways. With 1.5 million gallons of aquarium space, this will be great for any lover of fish and sea life. While the aquarium is probably the largest attraction, the museum part of Wonders of Life should not be underestimated. They have assembled a gargantuan collection of wild animals that is one of the largest in the world. Check out everything from snakes and birds to African big game animals .

The admission to Wonders of Life can be a bit pricey but does offer a lot to visitors of Springfield. However, there is more if you are ready to drop some serious cash on an unforgettable experience. For $120 you will get the chance to dive with sharks during their feeding time. It’s not for people who are easily frightened, but it is certainly an unforgettable experience!

Hours: 10am – 7pm Price: Adults $46 / Children $18 / Pricing schedule varies per day

2 – Nathanael Greene / Close Memorial Park

Nathanael Greene / Close Memorial Park

This beautifully landscaped park covers a sizeable spot in Southwestern Springfield. It is complete with Gardens, Hiking Trails, and a lake. Take a walk or bike ride here and take in the landscaped beauty. The flower gardens change in look and color throughout the year as the various flowers bloom in a cycle. This map offers a great look at the types of flowers you can expect to see each month.

Every visitor to Nathanael Greene Park should know about one of the more unique things about this attraction. Local artists will hide painted rocks around the park for others to find. If you look closely you might be lucky enough to find one. This would make an awesome souvenir from Springfield, MO. Or, better yet, you can choose to hide the rock in a new spot for the next person to find!

Hours: 6:15am – 9pm Price: Free

3 – Fantastic Caverns

DJT_7129

These caverns were discovered by a local dog way back in the 1860s. That’s right, a local dog discovered this ancient cave system. The cave system wasn’t explored initially due to fear of the Civil War soldiers using it to their advantage. Visitors are lucky to have the chance to see the fully explored cave system in modern convenience.

Tours are actually led via a tram system which takes you on a 55-minute tour of fantastic caverns. The tram tour means family members of any age will be able to join! One last selling point is that Fantastic Caverns stays a steady 60° year-round. It’s a great way to cool off in the summer.

Hours: 8am – Dusk Price: Adult $26 / Children $17 / Under 5-years-old = Free

4 – Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

CANNON at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

This location, which was where the battle for Wilson’s Creek was fought, is an important part of Missouri and Civil War history. The struggle between Union soldiers and the Missouri militia occurred on August 10th, 1861. The 1,700-acre park, located just Southwest of Springfield, is dedicated to the 2,500 soldiers who died during the battle.

The Wilson’s Creek Civil War Museum which is located on-site contains many relics and stories that curious history lovers will appreciate. Best of all this museum is included with your standard park admission. There is no need to buy a separate ticket!

Hours: 8am – 5pm Cost: $10 Single Admission / $20 Car (includes admission for all passengers)

5 – Ozark Park Trail

Ozark park is located in Ozark City and near Freemont Hills, a popular suburb in Springfield. The trail covers 2.2 miles and gives the feeling of being in nature – even though the city is just minutes away.

This trail is well-paved and at a fairly level grade. As such it is more of an easy hike and is suitable for any fitness level. It’s perfect for a quick stop in the morning or afternoon when you need to get some exercise in! There are harder and more challenging trails around Springfield, MO but this one works best for visitors on a tight schedule.

6 – Pythian Castle

pythian castle

Pythian Castle is one of the top sights in Springfield Missouri and has a unique history. It was first constructed in 1913 by the Knights of Pythias, a secret fraternal organization founded during the civil war. Members of the Knights of Pythias have included Presidents of the United States and members of the Rockafeller family.

Today, the castle is privately owned and offers a range of tours. Visitors can choose from options including history tours, mystery tours, and even ghost tours. Naturally, the ghost tours occur in the middle of the night – so don’t plan on taking young children!

Hours: Check for info Cost: History tours start at $9 / Other tours come with a higher cost.

7 – Dickerson Park Zoo

Rafael y Flaco

The Dickerson Park Zoo is conveniently located next to the Ozark County Fairgrounds. You’ve probably visited many zoos in the past and might even think this is just another zoo . However, there are a number of reasons why Dickerson Park Zoo is a bit different from other zoo experiences. Visitors can see 160 different species of animals and learn about each animal as well. Many of the animals can be experienced up close and personal. Take the flock of resident peacocks for example. They roam freely around the zoo as if they own it all!

Another cool feature is the giraffe enclosure. There are a number of giraffes housed here and guests have the ability to watch them run and play. If you come during feeding time you will be able to watch them eat and even feed them if you wish! Bags of giraffe food cost $4 and helps support the zoo.

The Dickerson Zoo also supports numerous conservation efforts around the world including helping elephants in Sri Lanka, Flamingos in Chile, and Rhinos in Kenya. Not all zoos are the same so this is great to see!

Hours: 9am – 5pm (shorter hours in the winter) Cost: Adults $15 / Children $10

8 – Springfield Conservation Nature Center

20081014-IMG_2149

This is the place to go if you’re looking for hiking trails around Springfield MO. Take a walk on routes that range from 20-minutes to a couple of hours. There is a range of wildlife that can be seen here such as deer, birds, and squirrels as well. Some of the trails can be more difficult due to the incline/decline of the trail. Take this into account if you have trouble with physical exertion. Experience the natural beauty of Missouri in this oasis in the city.

Hours: 8am – 5pm Cost: Free

9 – Discovery Center of Springfield

Cultural Center

The Discovery Center of Springfield offers a hands-on museum experience in the heart of Springfield. It’s a fun place to visit for kids and families and can easily take up a free day or afternoon. Children will have lots of fun playing with the range of mechanical contraptions and science experiments at the Discovery Center.

They offer a number of events like Night at the Museum which is a unique experience for younger visitors. Check here for the full event schedule.

One thing to note, your admission is valid for the entire day. This means that you will be able to leave for lunch and come back in the afternoon. This might not sound like much but it is super useful if you need to exit the building for any reason!

Hours: 9am – 5pm Price: $12 Adults / $8 Children

10 – Missouri Institute of Natural Science

Museum Of Natural History

This is one of the best free things to do in Springfield! The Missouri Institute of Natural Science includes a museum with numerous plants and animal exhibits, outdoor hiking, and fossil hunting. Speaking of fossils, the largest known triceratops is on display at the museum. Its head has yet to be found, but based on the skeleton it is around 30% larger than other specimens known. If you’re looking for something free to do in Springfield this is hard to beat!

The Missouri Institute of Natural Science is also home to the oldest cave in North America. Unfortunately, it is currently closed to visitors. We can only wait and hope that it reopens in the near future.

Something that you might find interesting is the events held at the Institute of Natural Science. Visitors can book a birthday party , yoga session, or another special event here. Birthday parties include a guided fossil hunt and dinosaur-themed cake.

Hours: 9am – 4:30pm Cost: Free (donations welcomed)

11 – Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

Mizumoto Garden Waterway

The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden covers 7 acres of the Springfield Botanical Garden. It is the result of a partnership with their sister city Isesaki, Japan. Take a walk around the paths which lead through Zen Gardens, Cherry Trees, and Koi Pond in true Japanese style. Bags of Koi food are available at the front desk for $1 if you want to give the koi a treat.

The gardens are expertly manicured to the point of perfection and the dedication to detail truly shows. It is only open seasonally between April – October, so check the dates of your travel before planning a visit.

Events at the garden include an annual Japanese-themed Fall Festival. Be sure to check this out if you visit Springfield in the Fall!

Hours: 10am – 7pm Cost: Adults $4 / Children Free

12 – Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park

Late Night Down at the Ranch

This 200-acre park located in western Springfield is a great example of how green spaces like this can bring the community together.

At the farm, visitors can experience and learn about some of the important aspects of farm life. These include cow milking, crop exhibitions, and getting an up-close look at the barn animals. There is a range of animals to see in the barn such as cows, pigs, and horses. One nice touch is the classroom setup that teachers are able to use when conducting field trips to the farm.

From March to October, the farm is open to prospective anglers who are welcome to fish in the large, well-stocked lake. This is great for both children who are just starting out, and adults who don’t want to leave the city to catch some nice fish. Pole rentals cost $5 and if you bring your own pole the cost drops to $1.5. Note that this is catch-and-release fishing so you won’t need a fishing license. This is a good chance to hook some largemouth bass!

Hours: 9am – 5pm Cost: Free (some special events require a fee)

13 – Sequiota Park

places to do homework in springfield mo

Sequiota Park is another great place to go if you’re looking to see some of Missouri’s natural beauty. Sequiota sits along Galloway Creek and is a good spot for hikers. Hiking here is a serene experience, even if the trails are relatively short. The way the park is situated gives the feeling of being surrounded by nature. So much so that you will forget that you’re still in the middle of Springfield MO!

There are some caves located here that add to the Ozark feel. It should be noted that the caves are closed to visitors in an effort to protect the endangered bats that live in these caves. If you visit the park you will surely see the caves, but remember to do any looking from the outside.

The main feature of Sequiota Park is the large lake that covers a good section of the park grounds. This lake has been a state fish hatchery for the past 100 years and has been a popular weekend destination for Springfield residents for even longer!

Hours: 5am – 11pm

14 – Birthplace of Route 66

Birthplace of the Mother Road. Getting our kicks on Route 66! #missouri #havegearwilltravel

If you’re a history nerd you will love visiting this small park and historical site in Springfield. The “Main Street of America” was officially created when highway officials met here in Springfield, MO to officially christen the monumental stretch of highway known now as Route 66.

There is a great deal of pride in the city’s history and they hold an annual festival which is aptly called “The Birthplace of Route 66 Festival”. You are in for a real treat if you happen to visit during the festival. Springfield puts on a major show complete with a parade, live music throughout the weekend, and races. And, of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a classic car show! Check out the event schedule for a full look at the annual festivities.

15 – Springfield Art Museum

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Springfield Art Museum (@sgfmuseum) on Jul 21, 2019 at 7:16am PDT

This is the oldest public museum in the city and it offers free admission to the public! What’s not to love about that?

For a venue offering free entry, the Springfield Art Museum has a lot to offer. Their collections include over 10,000 pieces of art that have been acquired by the museum since opening in 1928. Originally the museum focused on contemporary American art. But as the collection grew it began to expand into foreign art of various ages and styles.

In addition to the permanent displays, there are numerous special exhibits each year which you can check out here .

The museum also hosts events in Springfield periodically so it’s good to keep an eye out when you’re in town.

Hours: 10am – 6pm (closed on Mondays) Cost: Free

16 – Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center

Photo by Aaron J. Scott - Grow Your Community Garden

The Springfield Botanical Gardens is located next to the Japanese Zen Garden so they both can easily be visited on the same afternoon. This is easily one of the best parks in Springfield! There certainly is a lot to do here. Spend time walking around the footpaths, checking out the various themed gardens, and relaxing in the shade while you take in the surrounding beauty.

Did you know: The Springfield Botanical Center is home to Missouri’s only butterfly house? The Dr. Bill Roston Native Butterfly House is the place to go if you want to see native butterflies and moths in their various stages of the life cycle. The only downside is that the Butterfly House is only open from May to September each year.

17 – SkyZone Trampoline Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sky Zone (@skyzone) on May 24, 2019 at 12:12pm PDT

This is a great way to spend the day for visitors with children. They can spend a few hours jumping around on the trampolines. It can be a great exercise for kids while parents can relax in the air-conditioned building during the hot Springfield summer. Of course, if you’re a fun-loving adult you are welcome to put your socks on and have some fun as well!

In addition to trampolines, there are also foam ball pits, dodgeball games, and regular fitness classes. There are frequent activities that can be found online like glow-in-the-dark events after dark. Socks for Skyzone cost $3 and can be purchased at the ticket counter.

Hours: 12pm – 7pm Cost: 60 minutes $14 / 90 minutes $17 / 120 minutes $22

18 – Getaway Golf

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @getawaygolf on Apr 2, 2019 at 2:22pm PDT

Getaway Golf is another fun outing that works for both kids and adults. Springfield has you covered if you’re looking to get a mini-golf session in!

For $10.50 you will be able to play through your choice of two 18-hole courses. Some of the highlights include a recreation of the Golden Gate Bridge and St. Louis Arch. Once you’re done, head to the Dairy Queen next door and grab some ice cream.

Price: Adults $10.50 / Children $8.50

19 – Route 66 Car Museum

DSCN5968

Located not far from the Birthplace of Route 66 is this stunning car museum. The location is quite fitting as the collection is comprised of roughly 80 classic and antique cars. This is the best collection of cars you will find in Springfield MO!

The Route 66 Car Museum has fully restored classics dating back to the 1800s, as well as numerous drool-inducing sports cars. Of course, no car collection would be complete without an outrageous batmobile to steal the show! This is the best way for any car enthusiast to spend their day.

Check the official website for a $5-off coupon .

Hours: 9am – 5pm Cost: $15 Adult / $5 Children

20 – Relics Antique Mall

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Relics Antique Mall (@relicsantiquemall) on May 9, 2019 at 10:43am PDT

Did you know that the largest antique mall in Missouri is located in Springfield? It’s a perfect stop for anyone interested in doing some bargain hunting while in town. Springfield has a long history dating back to the city’s founding in 1829. So you can imagine the types of things that end up for sale here!

Once you’re tired out from shopping take a seat at the cafe and have a delicious cup of tea or coffee. The Relics Tea Room offers drinks for those looking to relax for a bit.

If you’re looking for events in Springfield you might want to check out the Relics Event Schedule . They host a lot of happenings in the area. What treasures are you taking home from this Springfield Missouri antique mall?

Hours: 10am – 6pm

Bonus – World’s Largest Fork

The World's Largest Fork

No road trip is complete without weird roadside attractions to lure in travelers for a quick stop. Springfield, MO is home to its own roadside attraction – The World’s Largest Fork. At 35-feet tall I don’t think anyone else will be challenging this claim either. It is located in front of the headquarters of the Food Network, a perfectly suitable location. If you’re passing by it makes for a good photo opportunity but don’t expect much to do around the fork. There are a few restaurants in the area but not much in the way of attractions.

What are your favorite things to do in Springfield MO?

What do you think of these things to do in Springfield, MO? Are there any that you are excited to see? I think the highlight of Springfield is the Wonders of Life Aquarium and the Nathanael Green Park. These are great places to visit for people of all ages and make great stops for couples or families with children. They can easily take an entire day of sightseeing and are two must-do activities in Springfield Missouri.

Let us know in the comments what you’ve seen already!

20 Things to do in Springfield MO

Similar Posts

Exciting Adventure Travel Destinations for 2022

Exciting Adventure Travel Destinations for 2022

Adventure Travel Destinations For Every Region The new year fast approaching means we need to prepare for another year of fun and adventure! While 2021 was not a great year for travel, there are many adventure travel…

10+ Fun Things To Do In Taipei During A Layover

10+ Fun Things To Do In Taipei During A Layover

Do you have a layover in Taiwan with some extra time before your departing flight? If you think spending the day at the airport is a complete waste of time then you are one-hundred percent correct. There are so many fun and affordable things to do in Taipei during a layover!

20+ Fun Things To See And Do In Branson, MO

20+ Fun Things To See And Do In Branson, MO

Is Branson, Missouri good for kids? Thankfully, Branson Missouri is incredibly kid-friendly. With numerous theme parks, zoos, and other attractions designed for younger visitors, there are plenty of things to do in Branson, MO. In fact,…

Explore the 7 Best Beaches in Taiwan

Explore the 7 Best Beaches in Taiwan

If you’re looking for some of the best beaches in Taiwan, look no further than these seven sandy destinations. As an island nation, Taiwan has numerous beaches to explore with plenty of chances to engage in sunbathing, snorkeling, surfing, and other beach activities!

20+ Fun Things To Do In Columbia, MO

20+ Fun Things To Do In Columbia, MO

Columbia, Missouri is a hip college town with much more to offer than just a university. There are actually quite a number of attractions that draw visitors to the city. Located centrally between Kansas City and St. Louis, it is worth a stop on any road trip across the state. Bookmark this list of things to do in Columbia Mo and pull it up on your next trip across Highway 70!

The Best Free Things To Do In Los Angeles

The Best Free Things To Do In Los Angeles

If you’re like me, you are probably tired of the high cost of living in Los Angeles. There seems to be a glut of high-priced food and entertainment with new options popping up around the year….

One Comment

The fountains in Jordan Valley Park, outdoor Sculpture Walk, C-Street (Commercial), History Museum on the Square are a few more things worth the time in Springfield.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top Things to Do in Springfield, MO

Places to visit in springfield, explore popular experiences, tours in and around springfield.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Night Ghost Tour of Pythian Castle in Springfield Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

Ozark Craft Beverage - Brewery Tour

places to do homework in springfield mo

1 Hour of Axe Throwing Knives and More

places to do homework in springfield mo

History Tour of Pythian Castle in Springfield Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

The Haygoods: Branson's Most Popular Show

places to do homework in springfield mo

Awareness Tour

places to do homework in springfield mo

Legends in Concert Branson Missouri

places to do homework in springfield mo

Branson Murder Mystery- Branson's Original #1 Murder Mystery

places to do homework in springfield mo

Titanic Museum Branson Admission Ticket

places to do homework in springfield mo

Escape Reality Branson Magic Dinner Show

Top attractions in springfield.

places to do homework in springfield mo

What travellers are saying

daniel f

  • Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
  • Fantastic Caverns
  • Springfield Cardinals
  • Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
  • Springfield Conservation Nature Center
  • Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

Springfield Attractions Information

Wherever I May Roam - Travel Blog

What to Do in Springfield, MO: Cool Attractions, Great Eats, and Route 66

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on Published: November 7, 2023  - Last updated: November 10, 2023

What to Do in Springfield, MO: Cool Attractions, Great Eats, and Route 66

Springfield, Missouri, might not be your typical must-visit destination, but this city has plenty of amazing things to offer that are definitely worth your time and money. Known as the “Birthplace of Route 66,” Springfield is situated in the southwestern part of Missouri. It is the perfect destination for families, adventure seekers, and anyone else who wants to experience historic Route 66. Here is what to do in Springfield, MO, that I always enjoy – including where to play, eat, and stay.

what-to-do-in-springfield-mo-mural

Excellent Springfield Restaurants

Springfield, Missouri , has some tremendous locally-owned restaurants and higher-end chains. You’ll find a bit of everything, from chef-inspired creations to gourmet burgers, upscale brunch items, and classic favorites. Here are my faves, in alphabetical order.

The Aviary  offers a delectable selection of creative crepes and classic favorites. The decor perfectly balances homey and chic, with an inviting vibe. Don’t miss the mashed sweet potatoes or the refreshing Italian cream sodas in peach and raspberry flavors. 

Indulge in the unforgettable savory Crepe Lorraine, featuring Applewood smoked bacon, spinach, and mornay sauce. For a sweet treat, savor the bananas foster, reminiscent of a slice of New Orleans. Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM.

aviary-cafe-brunch-crepes

Bambino’s Cafe on Delmar

A blog reader recommended I visit  Bambino’s on Delmar , and I’m so glad I took her advice. This charming little eatery was cute as can be, and I had a friendly waitress taking care of me. I chose the Momma pasta dish, which came with a great salad and fresh bread in a perfect little lunch portion. 

The food was delicious and I enjoyed the restaurant’s atmosphere.

bambinos-cafe-pasta-dish

Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes

With three locations,  Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes  has been voted as “Best Burgers and Fries” in Missouri, so I had to see if it lived up to the hype. I was disappointed that I was dining alone, as all of the appetizers sounded heavenly, but I could only eat so much. I had to remember why I came here…to try this award-winning burger. 

Let me tell you, picking one out of the long list of tantalizing burger creations is hard. I had to enlist the help of my server, who helped me narrow down to the Bleus Brothers with avocado, candied bacon, lettuce, onion, bleu cheese, and truffle mayo.

I love that they use double 4 oz patties rather than a huge single patty. Burgers come cooked medium-well unless you specify otherwise. This was one really good, juicy, and tasty burger.

Burgers come a la carte, but you can add a variety of sides (a variety of fries and sweet potato fries) or habanero cheese curds. Shake creations, both alcoholic and non, range from Purple Haze and The Boss to Strawberry Fields Forever and Sugar Daddy.

black-sheep-burgers

Bruno’s Italian Restaurant

Welcome to Bruno’s Italian Restaurant , where you can indulge in authentic cuisine amidst a historical ambiance. Start with our delightful Beef Carpaccio and sheer perfection Tomato Bruschetta. Chef Bruno and his team will craft a lovely dinner for you, featuring cannelloni with béchamel sauce, spinach & ricotta gnocchi with sage cream, and linguine with clams in white wine.

The popular pizzas won’t disappoint either. Bruno’s is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

brunos-springfield-tomato-bruschetta

Casper’s Diner

Try  Casper’s Diner , a classic diner on Springfield’s Route 66 , serving burgers, chili, and fries for over 110 years. I sampled it all and will say that the Big Weener (a foot-long dog covered in Casper’s chili and cheese) is exceptional. 

The cozy, 30-seat hut boasts nostalgic decor and is worth a visit even if you’re not hungry. Closed on Sundays, Casper’s offers the finest fast food classics…and Kool-Aid.

caspers-retro-springfield-eatery

Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe

Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe offers a delectable breakfast or early lunch. The menu features healthy options like the Hippy Omelet (avocado, walnuts, hummus) or Gailey’s Stuffed Oatmeal. Indulge in the Freedom Waffle (berries, eggs, pork), the Breakfast Bomb (bacon, sausage, hash browns, biscuit crumbles, cheese) with hollandaise or sausage gravy, and the unique Breakfast Mac & Cheese.

Experience the delight of this decadent creation at Gailey’s.

gaileys-breakfast-cafe

At Hotel Vandivort,  The Order  is a modern restaurant that serves breakfast, dinner, and weekend brunch. Try the perfectly cooked Shakshuka for brunch. The Vandivort-style Cashew Chicken and Wagyu Smash Burger with tomato jam and white cheddar are excellent choices for dinner.

Don’t miss out on their signature cocktails, which are both Instagram-worthy and delicious.

Fantastic Caverns: A Top Springfield Attraction

Be sure to check out  Fantastic Caverns , Missouri’s unique caving system. Hop on a jeep-drawn tram for a 55-minute tour through America’s only drive-through cave. Marvel at the stunning stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, and draperies as you leisurely glide through the cozy 60-degree Fahrenheit temperature cavern.

Located north of Springfield, Fantastic Caverns is a must-see natural wonder. 

fantastic-caverns

Route 66 Car Museum

Experience the Route 66 Car Museum , featuring over 65 unique cars from various decades, including film and movie, classics, brass era, and sports cars. Discover the iconic 1991 Ghostbusters Cadillac wagon, the 1926 Hudson Speedster from the “Grapes of Wrath” movie, and Batman’s Gotham Cruiser.

route-66-car-museum-classics

There’s a car for everyone to adore with Rolls Royce, Packard, Horch, Delorean, Ford Model T, Studebaker, and more. Adult tickets are $15 each; parking is free. Tour buses are welcome. Route 66 Car Museum is open seven days a week, from 9 to 5.

batman-mobile-springfield

Dickerson Park Zoo

This was my first time visiting the year-round Dickerson Park Zoo , and what a nice treat it was. This walkable zoo, an accredited member institution of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, has a good variety of animals and exciting exhibits.

Animals you’ll encounter at this Springfield attraction are wolves, monkeys, kangaroos, bears, elephants, tigers, and giraffes, among others. Giraffe feedings are 10 AM to 4 PM daily from March through October. Guests can rent strollers, ECVs, and manual wheelchairs. Admission is $17 for adults and $12 for children ages 3 to 12.

The Dickerson Park Zoo also has special events and exhibits yearly to educate visitors and highlight specific animals.

dickerson-park-zoo

Need more Missouri travels? How about exploring the fantastic museums and world-class attractions of St. Louis ? Read more in this post.

Bass Pro Shop

Discover the outdoors like never before at the  Grandaddy Bass Pro Shop , offering 500,000 sq-ft. With the largest selection of gear, apparel, and gifts all in one place, they have everything you need to embrace the beauty of the outdoors. Dive into a world of waterfalls, aquariums, and even a firing range. 

Explore the Tracker boat showroom and satisfy your hunger at Hemingway’s Blue Water Café. Don’t miss the chance to browse the extensive collection of outdoor gear and visit the NRA Museum and Archery Hall of Fame.

bass-pro-shop-outdoor-world

Bass Pro Shops has everything from men’s, women’s, and kids’ clothing departments to areas dedicated to hunting, fishing, camping, boating, shooting, and outdoor rec. Need a hunting or fishing license? They’ve got you covered. You can also have a fantastic meal at  Hemingway’s Blue Water Cafe . Or, you can grab a slice of fudge and a tasty coffee drink from a quick-serve spot. 

But that’s not all! Adjacent to the main store, you’ll find the Bass Pro Shops Catalog Outlet, where you can score deep discounts on various items. Other things that make this store unique are the rifle and pistol range, gunsmith, gun library, boat center and service, off-road vehicles, and archery range.

Take in the life-like wildlife mounts around the picturesque cascading waterfalls.

If you need mobility assistance, Bass Pro Shops offer motorized and standard wheelchairs for customer use.

original-bass-pro-shop-springfield

History on the Square

While in the area, drop by the  History Museum on the Square  for a stroll down memory lane back to the Birthplace of Route 66 heyday and how things appeared during that time. Favorite exhibits were fast food dining options, gas station attendant uniforms and way of life, and everybody’s favorite Wild Bill Hickok and the Wild West stories and lore. 

museum-on-the-square-springfield

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Experience one of Springfield’s standout features, Johnny Morris’s Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium . Adjacent to Bass Pro Shop, this extraordinary attraction focuses on conservation education and showcases crystal-clear aquariums with a diverse array of taxidermied animals from around the globe.

The displays feature state-of-the-art 4D dioramas that seem to transport you to the native lands these animals originally came from, through sight, smell, and sound.

The aquarium houses 1.5 million gallons of water and over 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds. Visitors can walk through underwater tunnels where sharks and rays swim overhead.

arch-at-wonders-of-wildlife

Spend a full day immersing yourself in the offerings of both attractions. Tickets are around $35-$50 for adults (much more expensive on weekends), and half that for kids. Expect to spend at least four hours exploring this amazing museum and aquarium.

Pro Tip : The museum recommends that you start your visit at the Wildlife Galleries (from inside Bass Pro Shops), and then take the natural flow into the aquarium for the best experience.

wonders-of-wildlife-aquarium-springfield

Golden Girl Rum Club

In Springfield, the  Golden Girl Rum Club  opened in 2016, is a vibrant spot in Park Central Square. This tropical-inspired bar offers a wide selection of premium rum drinks and cocktails. Alongside the appealing tikis and classic libations, the venue also sports adorable cups and mugs with vibrant bendy straws. 

The Golden Girl Rum Club delivers a tropical party vibe that truly captivates.

golden-girl-rum-club-tiki-drinks

Other Route 66 Attractions

Springfield is a stop along the historic Route 66, an iconic road trip every traveler needs to experience at least once. Here, you’ll find several Route 66 attractions worth checking out, such as the Route 66 Car Museum, the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park, and the Route 66 Steak ‘n Shake.

You can stroll down memory lane and learn about the history of the iconic highway.

Grab a delicious lunch at the very first  Steak ‘n Shake . Indulge in fresh-to-order burgers, fries, and milkshakes at this popular hamburger chain. The location is adorned with Route 66 pictures and memorabilia, creating the perfect opportunity for epic nighttime photos.

original-steak-and-shake-route-66

Mother’s Brewery

Established in 2011,  Mother’s Brewing Company  has a cool taproom with a fabulous outdoor patio. I was a fan of the Imperial Grind Coffee stout and the Strawberry Ginger Gose. It is one cool place to hang out, and all beer fans should visit!

mothers-brewing-company-taproom

Odds & Ends

Springfield will surprise you with its big offerings. A few that I’ve yet to do are the World’s Largest Fork, the Springfield Botanical Garden at Nathanael Green/Close Memorial Park, Van Gogh’s Eeterie, Rockwood Motor Court, and St. George’s Donuts.

I did, however, get to feast on some tasty Hurt’s Donuts (and score a pup cup for my pooch) and Askinosie Chocolates .

hurts-donuts

Where to Stay in Springfield

During my Springfield visit, the  Holiday Inn Express & Suites Springfield -Medical District was a great home away from home. The lobby is welcoming and warm, and the rooms are spacious with triple-sheeted bedding, comfy beds, and stylish furnishings. The complimentary hot breakfast was top-notch and a big money saver. Wifi and parking are also included. 

Other perks of staying here are the laundry facilities, 24/7 coffee and tea, a gift shop, and a heated indoor pool.

holiday-inn-express-springfield

Once a Masonic temple,  Hotel Vandivort  is a boutique luxury hotel with a stunning rooftop bar. This Silver Weed-certified property is committed to environmental protection and emphasizes local buying and usage. It draws people from all over. 

Even if you’re not a hotel guest, drop by and experience its undeniable beauty. With a public bar and restaurant, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

lobby-at-hotel-vandivort

For a delightful historical and cultural experience, choose the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven Motel . Located on the iconic Route 66, this charming and nostalgic motel (established in 1938) is perfect for capturing stunning Route 66 photos. It offers comfortable accommodations with modern conveniences.

rail-haven-motel-springfield

Thanks to Visit Springfield for arranging and hosting some my travel. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased. 

Read about more of our Missouri travels:

5 Things to Love about St Louis

A Dozen Things to Do in Columbia

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sandy N Vyjay

Thursday 28th of February 2019

This is a perfect itinerary for Springfield. Have read and heard a lot about Route 66 and this seems to be an opportunity to experience a part of history. I was really intrigued by the tram ride through the caves, sounds like a fascinating experience. The other activity that appeals to us is a visit to the Car Museum. And of course, your culinary recommendations are spot on.

Astrid Vinje

Great itinerary for visiting Springfield. The Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium looks awesome. My kids would totally love that. My kids would love the Fantastic Caverns too!

MelodyPittman

Friday 1st of March 2019

Awesome! The museums are both fascinating and the pictures turn out so much better than most aquariums (or all). ;) Thanks for reading.

I'm looking for new cities to visit in the US for a quick weekend trip. Springfield looks super fun and a great stop in Missouri. I'm probably most impressed by the caves, how stunning!

Wonderful! Make sure to go to Bentonville (Arkansas) if you are in Springfield. It is not far and another fun town to see.

Kevin | Caffeinated Excursions

What a cool post about a place I'd never really considered visiting before! The food looks so great, and I'd absolutely try both of the breweries you mentioned; that flight from Mother's looks so good!

The beer was spectacular! I love it when a place you don't expect to be wowed by does just that. ;) Thanks for reading.

This looks like power packed itinerary covering everything possible a traveler is interested in. The caves look beautiful, the fishes are stunning and the museum super interesting. It would certainly be a rocking weekend in Springfield!

Dang Travelers

  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • TRAVEL TIPS
  • AUSTRALIA & SOUTH PACIFIC
  • BRITISH COLUMBIA
  • CONNECTICUT
  • MASSACHUSETTS
  • MISSISSIPPI
  • NEW HAMPSHIRE
  • NORTH CAROLINA
  • NORTH DAKOTA
  • PENNSYLVANIA
  • RHODE ISLAND
  • SOUTH CAROLINA
  • SOUTH DAKOTA
  • VAN CAMPING
  • WORK WITH US

13 Fabulous Things to Do in Springfield MO

Here are the best things to do in springfield mo.

Springfield is often recognized as the birthplace of Route 66, the two-lane ribbon highway that eventually became known as the iconic “Mother Road.”

On April 30, 1926, at the Colonial Hotel via telegram, Springfield businessman John T. Woodruff and Oklahoma businessman Cyrus Avery first proposed U.S. 66 as the name of the new Chicago-to-Los Angeles highway hence the “birthplace” designation.

A Route 66 road trip is what led us to Springfield, Missouri, but we immediately figured out there are heaps more to discover in the state’s third-largest city.

Another Fun Missouri Adventure: Cool and Unique Mark Twain Attractions in Hannibal

1. Explore Route 66, America’s Main Street

It’s why we are here so of course, the number one thing we recommend is going to be about Route 66!

The timeline history of Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri.

Start your day of exploration at the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center (815 E St. Louis Street) to pick up information on the area, free souvenirs like the postcard and wooden nickel we received, maps, and tips from the helpful staff. Open Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 PM.

The center is chock-full of history and many photo opportunities. And don’t forget to tag your pictures with #LoveSpringfield!

The Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center is one of the things to do in Springfield, MO for free that has a few fun photo ops like this 1950s style diner setup.

Next, check out the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven at 203 S Glenstone Avenue. The motel has been welcoming travelers for over 80 years and has made the National List of Historic Places.

Even if you are not sleeping over, make sure to stop by and take a look around.

If you’re traveling through St. Louis, make sure to check out my other article, The Best Things to Do in St. Louis 

The Rail Haven Motel is one of the nostalgic and historic places to stay on Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri.

Another interesting pit stop is the Route 66 Car Museum.

With over 70 American and European cars in the collection, the museum houses seven Jaguars, two Rolls Royce cars,  and a couple of Brass-Era cars that predate 1910.  

The Route 66 Car Museum is one of the interesting things to do in Springfield MO.

Inside the garage, you’ll also discover several celebrity and famous cars used in cinema like the truck from the movie “Grapes of Wrath” starring Henry Fonda.

The 1926 Hudson speedster transformed for John Steinbeck’s adaptation was discovered 69 years later and restored to its full period racer glory. The almost-century-old truck has less than 8,000 original miles on it. 

READ NEXT: OTHER MUST-SEE ROUTE 66 ATTRACTIONS

The Hudson truck used in the "Grapes of Wrath" movie with Henry Fonda. One of the must-see Route 66 attractions in Springfield Missouri.

Where: 1634 W College Street

2. Visit the ORIGINAL Bass Pro Shop

Even if Bass Pro isn’t your thing, this megastore is worth a visit. Coined the “Granddaddy of All Outdoor Stores,” it is HUMUNGOUS at 500,000 square feet.

You can spend hours shopping the astounding assortment of outdoor gear, browsing the precise details of every display, looking for wildlife such as gators and fish, eating lunch or dinner at Hemingway’s Blue Water Café, grabbing a coffee and piece of fudge, or visiting both of the free museums inside.

Johnny Morris is a genius when it comes to anything he puts together so I was not surprised that I enjoyed walking through both museums.

The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum displays the progression of sporting arms throughout the years. It also has a few guns once owned by famous people such as Jesse James and Annie Oakley, totally fitting in with our “heading-out-West” theme of the road trip.

The Archery Hall of Fame was an entertaining stroll as well that takes a historical glimpse into the archery world in the United States.

Missouri Route 66

RELATED: THINGS TO DO IN SPRINGFIELD, IL

Where: 1935 S Cambell Avenue

3. Toast to the Craft Beer Craze at Local Breweries

The craft beer boom has hit the Ozarks with Springfield home to multiple local breweries. 

One of the oldest, Springfield Brewing Company has been around for twenty years and focuses on true to traditional English, German, and American style ales and lagers. The food is a major draw as well.

We had a local tell us it’s the best breakfast place around. Breakfast at a brewery? Okay, table for two, please!

Mother’s Brewing Company , another local favorite, is on the path of where the original Route 66 meandered. They not only have a taproom for sampling but an awesome outdoor patio with a stage, picnic tables and bean bags as well.

Another brewery found along Springfield’s Route 66 is Lost Signal Brewing Company. They opened up in a building that once housed the KICK radio station, hence the name, and is now a popular hangout for beer and barbecue. Update: Unfortunately, Lost Signal is permanently closed.

Things to do in Springfield, Missouri

UPDATE: Since our visit, there have been a few additions to the beer scene: 4 By 4 Brewery, Tie & Timber Beer Co., Hold Fast Brewing, and Prehistoric Brewing Company. If you get a chance to visit before us, let us know in the comments below!

4. Explore One of the Most Immersive Conservation Attractions in the World

Next door to Bass Pro National Headquarters, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is another Johnny Morris masterpiece.

Home to a 1.5 million gallon aquarium with 35,000 fish, birds, mammals, and reptiles and a museum filled with wildlife galleries, artwork, dioramas, and special collections, the Wonders of Wildlife will keep you entertained all day long. 

We took a detour from our Branson trip with our nephews to explore “America’s best new attraction” and even after five hours, the kids did not want to leave. There are so many interesting and interactive displays.

It is a do-not-miss on our list for things to do in Springfield, MO with kids. 

Springfield has many awesome things to do including the Wonders of Wildlife Aquarium and Museum.

How far is Branson from Springfield MO? It’s under an hour’s drive between the two cities. It’s a straight shot south on US-65. 

Read our other article next if you are planning a trip there: Fun Things to do in Branson, MO

Where: 500 W Sunshine Street

5. Learn about the Second Major Battle of the Civil War

The Battle at Wilson’s Creek in 1861 was not only the second major battle of the Civil War but the first major one west of the Mississippi River.

Watch a well-done 27-minute film about the battle and tour the museum at the Visitor Center, then drive the 5-mile loop to see where it all unfolded.

Make sure to walk the short trail to the Ray House where you can see the actual Civil War-era house that eventually turned into a makeshift hospital for the wounded and dying.

Civil War Places to Visit in Missouri.

Where: 6424 W Farm Road 182

6. Stand Next to the World’s Largest Fork

Holy fork! At a whopping 35 feet tall and 11 tons, the world’s largest fork is a fun stop.

It’s a little off the beaten path, behind an ad agency, not readily visible from the street but worth the detour if you like quirky stops like me.

There are many other exciting things to do in Springfield Missouri so keep on reading! 

Things to do in Springfield, MO for free includes a visit to the World's Largest Fork.

Where: 2215 W. Chesterfield Street

7. Tour the Only Ride-Through Cave in North America

Besides  Fantastic Caverns  being the only ride-through cave in North America, it’s also only one in four in the world. A Jeep-drawn tram takes you into the depths of an Ozark cave originally discovered by a farmer back in 1862.

He kept it a secret for years and it wasn’t explored until 1867 when twelve women answered his newspaper ad “seeking explorers.” We saw the women’s names etched into the rock along with beautiful formations and untouched chambers on our tour.

Top best things to do in Springfield MO with kids includes Fantastic Caverns, the only drive-through cave in the United States.

Where: 4872 N Farm Road 125

8. Pedal and Drink your way Around Downtown

It’s a party on wheels with  417 Pedal Tours ! One of the fun things to do downtown Springfield, MO is pedaling around on an illuminated open-air 14-passenger quadricycle. 

We began and ended our night at Lost Signal Brewery but stopped at a few establishments in between. My cheeks hurt at the end of our two-hour extravaganza from laughing and smiling so much.

UPDATE: The Trolley Bike is now 417 Pedal Tours and will reopen in 2021.

Missouri Route 66

9. Eat a Wild and Crazy Donut

Hurts Donuts  has many locations now but first gained momentum in downtown Springfield circa 1999. I have never seen so many over-the-top donut creations!

From cereal-themed like Fruit Loop killer to candy-themed like Twix toppings, there are so many options it’ll make your head spin.

Then there are the basic you-know-they-will-taste-good donuts like S’mores, Nutella, Oreo Cheesecake, German Chocolate, and Cookies ‘n Cream. Oh and let’s not forget the shakes where they grind up a donut with ice cream and plant one on top around your straw. Oh the joy…

Hurts Donuts is one of the cheap things to do in Springfield, MO today.

Where: 320 Park Central W

10. Take the BEST Selfie Ever

Apparently, Springfield’s Hotel Vandivort , a luxury boutique hotel, is THE place to be for selfies.

To be exact, the bathroom at the Hotel Vandivort is the place to be. I thought the people who told us this were pulling our leg too, but nope it’s the real deal. There is even a hashtag designated for such an event, #HotelVandivortBathroomSelfie.

When we walked into the upscale and swanky hotel, I felt I needed to immediately go full-on incognito mode, but the grinning hotel staff just pointed us in the right direction. It’s something with the lighting that supposedly transforms us into our better selves.

I have to admit we were impressed with the results. We took this after an 8-hour day of exploring Springfield (for me that was) including being on the bike tour for an hour pedaling up hills and down streets so I’ll take it!

Missouri Route 66

Where: 305 E Walnut Street

11. Shop at Missouri’s Largest Antique Mall

We are not typically antique shoppers, but we noticed many of them along Route 66 and decided to see what they were all about. So why not stop at Missouri’s largest one? The  Relics Antique Mall  is lined with booths full of antiques and one-of-a-kind collectibles.

We had a snack break in the adorable tea room with their specialty Apricot Mango Tea and a slice of Lemon Berry Mascarpone Cake that was absolutely marvelous!

Shipping in Springfield, MO should include a stop at Relics, Missouri's largest antique malls.

Where: 2015 W Battlefield Road

12. Feed a Friendly Giraffe at Dickerson Park Zoo

One of the most unique things to do in Springfield, MO is getting to experience the giant giraffes up close at Dickerson Park Zoo.

The giraffe deck at Dickerson Park Zoo is one of the most unique things to do in Springfield, MO.

The zoo itself is a pleasure to walk through – beautifully landscaped walkways, flowing waterfalls, and intimate exhibits that make the animals easy to spot. 

The Dickerson Park Zoo is one of the fantastic things to do in Springfield, MO with kids. It's the perfect-sized zoo for a fun family day.

It’s the perfect-sized zoo: not too big and not too small. Plan to spend about two to three hours on your visit.

There are a variety of critters sectioned off by geographic region and an Express Train that’ll take you around the property for a nominal fee. 

Dickerson Park Zoo is one of the family-friendly things to do in Springfield MO.

The standout feature is the feeding station at the giraffe deck. You get face-to-face with the world’s tallest land mammal.

You don’t necessarily have to pay extra for the feed to get close to them, but it does make the meeting extra special if you do!

Note: The deck is open from 10 am to 4 pm and closed from November through February.

The Dickerson Park Zoo is one of the fantastic things to do in Springfield, MO with kids. It's the perfect-sized zoo for a fun family day.

Where: 1401 W Norton Road

13. Springfield History Museum on the Square

One of the newly restored attractions in Springfield is the History Museum right on Route 66.

As soon as you walk in the door, you are taken back in time through the significant events of the city.

The best new attraction in Springfield, Missouri is the History Museum on the Square.

From the Native American tribes that were first on the scene to Missouri’s official statehood and the Civil War, the exhibits display important artifacts and photographs of Springfield’s rich history. 

One of the new things to do in Springfield, Missouri is the History Museum located right on Route 66 in the town square.

Did you know the first recorded shootout of the Old West happened in Springfield? And one of the culprits was Wild Bill Hickok!

The quick-draw duel occurred right outside in the square in front of the museum. Though I’m sure it looks way different compared to 1865.

The Springfield History Museum on the Square explores the rich history of the city including being home to one of the first recorded Old West shootouts that took place between Wild Bill Hickok and Davis Tutt in 1865.

Our favorite exhibit is the Birthplace of Route 66, where you have photo ops galore. It has all sorts of memorabilia from the most popular road in the United States including replica neon signs, paintings, and a 66-foot long timeline with favorite stops by state. 

We spent 50 days exploring the Mother Road, read here for all our recommended Must-See Route 66 Attractions.

The Route 66 exhibit at the Springfield History Museum on the Square.

Where: 154 Park Central Square

Where to Stay in Springfield

This family-friendly hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool.

It is rated superb, is in a central location, and has free parking. 

If you are looking to book a hotel with a full kitchen, take a look at this hotel with an indoor pool.

It is close to the Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium which is a must-do on your visit!

Disclosure: The hotel links included in this article are affiliate links, if you book through any we will receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Don’t forget to sign up below to be the first to know when a new post comes out so you can follow along on our adventures! What other Springfield MO attractions do you recommend?

Do Us a Favor? Pin for Later!

places to do homework in springfield mo

  • About Author
  • Latest Posts

Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

Latest posts from Angela

  • The Best Restaurants in Celebration, Florida - January 15, 2024
  • Restaurants Open for Christmas Dinner in Orlando - November 4, 2023
  • Where to Find The Best Chicago Christmas Lights This Year - October 28, 2023

15 Responses

I have never heard of Springfield Missouri before but it looks like such a fun place to visit. There also seems to be lots to do and see there as well, I especially like the Pedal and Drink your way Around Downtown my kind of activity. I done a similar thing in London in a custom and it was a whole lot of fun.

I love antiques so I would definitely visit the Relics Mall, plus who would say no to that Lemon Berry Mascarpone Cake ? 🙂 Do you realise how hungry you are going to make everyone with those donuts!! My gosh. Too tempting! Loved the ride through cave. Too unique!!

You had me at the great breweries…and then you tell me about the giant fork, donuts and a trolley bike? Springfield sounds fab!

Dang Travelers

It’s a fun city for sure!

Who knew that Missouri was the birthplace of Route 66 and home of the first BassPro shop? Road trips through the US are fun because there are quirky things all over the place. Why not put a giant fork in the ground? Love it.

Missouri really is an underrated state, it has a lot of natural beauty, outdoor activities and who wouldn’t want to go looking for a giant fork?!

Is it very bad that in Italy when we think of Springfield the first thing we think of is Homer Simpson? 😀 We’ve toured only a part of Route 66 and we’d definitely love to stop by at Springfield next time we go to the US! I’m sure hubby would especially appreciate the craft beers!

HAHA I totally get it! There are so many Springfields in the US, I’m not surprised the Simpsons picked that name for a city.

Lara Dunning

There are so many things on this list I want to do! Beer, donuts, history, drive-thru cave! Makes me realize how much there is to explore in the US!

I must admit, I’ve never really thought of heading to Springfield, Missouri, but you make it sound inviting. I especially need to have a bathroom selfie…no kidding.

now we talking my language. This must have been such a epic road trip! I would love to do this… I have book marked your page to remind me that it is something I would love to see. The places look amazing. Like Lara said, Beer, Donuts and history… what more could you ask for. Love the pics!

Punita Malhotra

I am not leaving out Fantastic Caverns, the ride-through cave, as it is one of the four worldwide That story about the twelve women in response to his ad “seeking explorers” is so interesting.

Sandy N Vyjay

Springfield is indeed a melange of experiences. Route 66 is, of course, an iconic experience that we would love to experience.The history of the Civil war is a fascinating chapter of Springfield. Of course the Donuts area another irresistible element of Springfield.

Love your recommendations (as a native Springfieldian :)! Please come back to visit our fun town and check out the new History Museum on the Square! One of the major exhibits is for Route 66! Tons of interactive displays and an opportunity to try your hand at shooting Dave Tutt from the distance that Wild Bill Hickok did in the 1860’s in the hands on shooting gallery!

Things just get better and better here in Springfield! Come see us again!

That sounds amazing and we had no idea the museum opened so thank you! Springfield really has a lot going for it.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

fdg logo

  • Last Updated On
  • October 28, 2023

17 Fun Things to Do in Springfield, MO with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Alexandra Nelson

Springfield is the third-largest city in the state of Missouri and the county seat of Greene County.

Springfield’s nickname is “Queen City of the Ozarks” as well as “The 417” after the area code for the city.

It is also known as the “Birthplace of Route 66”.

The city’s name origin is unknown, but it is widely assumed that it was named after Springfield, Massachusetts, by migrants from that area.

Check out this list of fun things to do in Springfield, MO with kids to know why this city is named the Queen City of the Ozarks!

1. Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

500 W Sunshine Street Springfield, MO 65807 (888) 222-6060

The Johnny Morris Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, often known as Wonders of Wildlife, is a non-profit educational conservation-themed attraction located in Springfield, Missouri.

It is the largest immersive wildlife attraction in the world.

Why We Recommend This Kid Friendly Activity

Immerse yourselves in an experience under the sea and so much more in one of the best things to do in Springfield with kids.

Your kids will be in awe at the wildlife galleries where you’ll find exhibits about animal life on land.

You don’t want to leave until you’ve explored a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium adventure showcasing 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds and a wildlife museum offering a tour of the wildest places on earth.

Other special exhibits would be considered one of the coolest attractions for kids and other exhibiting partners that would be fun for teens.

Recommended Ages

This aquarium is perfect for everyone of all ages.

Children under the age of four are free.

2. Fantastic Caverns

fantastic caverns

4872 N Farm Road 125 Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 833-2010

Fantastic Caverns was discovered in 1862 by an Ozarks farmer – or more precisely, by his dog, who crawled through a small entrance in a hillside.

It wasn’t until five years later that the first exploration took place: twelve women from Springfield, answering a newspaper ad seeking explorers, ventured into the cave.

Their names remain on a cave wall today.

Fantastic Caverns, just northwest of Springfield, Missouri, is one of more than 7,300 documented caves that dot the Missouri landscape, and more are still being discovered.

Visit this place if you want to know why Missouri is known as “The Cave State”.

Caves will always be one of the go-to places to take kids in Springfield, especially one as fascinating as this.

Your family will get to tour an incredible cave on a red jeep and wagon and not only learn more about the cave but enjoy the stunning natural architecture inside.

Children that are 6-12 years old have a discount, and toddlers that are five years old and under are free with a parent.

Related: Best Things to Do in Springfield, MO

3. Springfield Cardinals

springfield cardinals

955 E Trafficway St. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 863-0395

The Springfield Cardinals are an American professional baseball team based in Springfield, Missouri.

They compete in Minor League Baseball (MiLB) as a member of the Double-A Central’s North Division.

The team is owned by the 11-time Major League Baseball (MLB) World Champion St. Louis Cardinals, for which it has been the Double-A affiliate since its founding in 2005.

Since its inception, the club’s home venue has been Hammons Field.

Here’s one of the most fun family activities in Springfield that you can find.

It’s a great family bonding experience to cheer for your favorite teams and enjoy good food and good times.

If you have a baseball fan in your gang, this place has a seat for you.

Kids aged three and under do not require an admission ticket.

Kids without tickets will need to sit on their parents’ laps if in a seated section of the stadium.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tru By Hilton Springfield Downtown

4. Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

2400 S Scenic Ave. Springfield, MO 65807 (417) 891-1515

Nathanael Greene / Close Memorial Park, one of the Park Board’s premier locations for all things “green thumb,” is home to the new Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center.

The 113-acre park is home to several gardens that are cared for by volunteers.

Here’s a cheap family-fun you could try out this weekend if you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or simply to admire the beauty of nature.

The beautiful landscape emphasizes the stunning green that your family won’t be able to help but admire.

The park also features the Dr. Bill Roston Butterfly House, The Gray-Campbell Farmstead, Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens, and the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden.

Everyone of all ages is welcome and given a general admission.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Springfield South

5. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

mizumoto japanese stroll garden

2400 S Scenic Ave Springfield, MO 65807 (417) 891-1515

The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is the oldest attraction in the Springfield Botanical Gardens and was established in 1985 and spans 7.5 acres.

It features a huge koi lake, a moon bridge, meditation garden, tea house, and traditional Japanese garden design.

Here’s something you could visit with a baby.

It’s a place where everyone in the family can enjoy a peaceful stroll and some quiet.

It’s a great way to admire the culture of Japan in the garden’s stunning landscape and architecture.

This park is for everyone to enjoy.

Kids that are three years old and below have free admissions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express and Suites Springfield Medical District, an IHG Hotel

Also See: Kids Activities: St. Louis Things to Do in Branson for Kids

6. The Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks

the air and military museum of the ozarks

2305 E Kearney St. Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 864-7997

The Air and Military Museum had only one exhibit when it opened in 1989 and since then they’ve steadily grown and now have over 5,000 items of military history.

If you’re looking for stuff to do with kids near you that involve aircraft and the likes, this is the museum you’d want to take your loved ones to.

It’s perfect for plane enthusiasts in your gang.

A few endeavors you’ll encounter there are old aircraft shows at the Springfield/Branson Regional Airport, restoration of vintage military equipment, and Museum School, a true history and science curriculum for young pupils.

This museum is recommended for everyone to experience.

Kids that are ages 5 and younger may enter for free.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springfield North

7. Discovery Center of Springfield

discovery center of springfield

438 St. Louis Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 862-9910

Discovery Center of Springfield (DCS) was the idea of the Junior League of Springfield.

Partnered with Greene County Medical Society Alliance, it became incorporated in 1991.

Once the planning and development were completed, DCS broke ground in Fall 2004 with a grand opening in September of 2006.

DCS currently houses 50,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space.

Exhibits and programs currently in place interweave a broad array of hard sciences, technology, math, health, environment, and more.

Make learning fun in one of the best kids activities in Springfield, MO, that your young ones will love.

Your kids will not only learn more about science, math, and other important topics, they’ll also be enjoying a hands-on experience that they’ll remember until they’re older.

This center is available for both kids and adults of all ages to explore with general admission.

Toddlers that are three years old and below have free admission.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Springfield I-44

Also See: Things to Do in Kansas City with Kids Things for Kids to Do in Columbia

8. Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts

Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts

525 S John Q Hammons Pkwy. Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 836-7678

The Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts began in the 1960s and has a capacity of 2,220 people.

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra, the MSU Department of Music, and the MSU Department of Theatre and Dance all perform at the venue.

Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts was named in honor of Mrs. Juanita K. Hammons, an enthusiastic supporter of the arts and wife of developer and philanthropist John Q. Hammons.

Taking your kids to their first theater play might be one of the best things to do in Springfield with toddlers.

It’s best and a great opportunity for everyone in the family to immerse themselves in captivating stories and dance on stage for memories they’ll keep for years.

The facility hosts a mix of touring Broadway companies, children’s musicals, classical recitals, and individual performances throughout the year.

For most shows, children 2 and under are free if the child sits on the adult’s lap.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Vīb Best Western Springfield

Related: Best Restaurants in Springfield, MO

9. History Museum on the Square

history museum on the square

154 Park Central Square. Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 831-1976

History Museum on the Square is a local museum exploring the area’s history with a range of permanent & temporary exhibitions.

Since first opening its doors back in 1976, The History Museum on the Square has had a few homes around Springfield, including a space in the Old City Hall building.

Go experience the rich history of Springfield in this museum that combines technology with captivating stories.

Their six permanent galleries recount the stories of major events in Springfield and offer distinct and intentional dialogues about things, people, and history–dialogues that will stimulate studies of particular features of Springfield, Greene County, and its people.

Innovative technologies are used to unite a large and diverse collection of objects, photos, and “voices of history” that will fascinate your kids.

This museum is free for children ages three and under.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Oasis Hotel & Conv. Center, Ascend Hotel Collection

10. Lake Springfield Park

lake springfield park

5324 S Kissick Avenue Springfield, MO 65804 (417) 891-1550

Lake Springfield Park offers 153 acres of rolling parkland, featuring trails, woods, bluffs, and more than a mile of shoreline along with beautiful Lake Springfield.

Lake Springfield was created in 1957 with the construction of a dam on the James River.

In the case of finding what to do in Springfield with kids, it would never be a boring time at this park.

Not every activity here is paid for, and you’ll actually find quite a lot of free kid-friendly things to do in this park.

There’s a wide array of things to do here like boat rentals to explore the James River Water Trail, fishing, having a picnic at the hilltop pavilion, kayaking, or exploring wildlife.

Your toddlers and kids will love exploring and experiencing some deer, turkey, or waterfowl around the area.

This park is generally enjoyed by anyone of all ages.

For boat rentals, kids are required to be at least three years old and sitting on a parent’s lap to ride.

Most activities like kayaking, the Crighton Shuttle Service, and Float and Hike, have an age limit of at least eight years old to participate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn South – Springfield

11. 1984 Video Arcade

1984 video arcade

400 S Jefferson Ave. Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 831-3665

1984 is an arcade game area that was established on July 7, 2005, and owned by Devin Durham.

It is filled with a mix of classic arcade games from the 1980s and ‘70s, as well as several pinball machines.

Take your gang to a blast back in time at this classic retro game that will knock you for a loop.

The retro games here may be enjoyed unlimited times except for the pinball.

It’s something everyone in the family would love, not just the adults as a throwback to their childhoods, but to the younger kids as well.

There’s something for everyone here.

Kids that are fifteen years and younger are required to have an adult with them.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield

12. Dickerson Park Zoo

dickerson park zoo

1401 W Norton Rd Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 833-1570

Dickerson Park Zoo was founded in 1923 and developed its association of zoos and aquariums accreditation in 1986.

Today, the zoo is also an animal hospital and wildlife rehab for animals around the area.

There was never a moment in history when visiting a zoo wasn’t one of the most fun things to do in Springfield, MO with kids.

Developing respect and love for nature and wildlife starts at a young age, and is never too late for anyone.

This zoo will not only astound your kids with its different species of animals but will also develop a heart of love and care in them for all wildlife.

It’s a family-bonding experience that you’ll want to keep for a lifetime.

Kids that are thirteen years old and above have general admission.

Children ages 3-12 have a discount, as well as seniors.

Toddlers that are ages three and below have free admissions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Springfield Airport

13. Springfield Art Museum

Springfield Art Museum

1111 E Brookside Dr Springfield, MO 65807 (417) 837-5700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Springfield Art Museum is located on East Brookside Drive.

With a focus on American and global art, this museum offers a rich experience for families, all without an admission fee.

There are plenty of creative indoor kids activities Springfield, Missouri has to offer.

One of the best places to find them is in Springfield Art Museum.

It offers interactive exhibits that keep kids engaged while they learn. 

From hands-on art stations to family-friendly events, there’s always something happening here. 

Parents will love the educational aspect, as the museum often features exhibits that tie into school curricula. 

It’s free, making it a top choice in your list of kid friendly things to do in Springfield.

That’s right, you can introduce your kids to the world of art without breaking the bank.

This museum is a hit with kids aged 5 and up. 

While younger kids can enjoy the interactive exhibits, older kids and teens will appreciate the more complex artworks and historical context.

14. Pythian Castle

pythian castle

1451 E Pythian St Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 865-1464 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Get ready for chills and thrills at Pythian Castle, Springfield’s haunted historic site. 

Known for its eerie past, the castle offers a mix of tours, escape rooms, and even murder mysteries.

Forget the typical Springfield kids activities.

Here at Pythian Castle, kids will be captivated by the escape rooms, designed to challenge their problem-solving skills in a fun, spooky setting.

Interactive tours offer a blend of history and mystery, making learning incredibly engaging. 

Parents can opt for the historical tours that delve into the castle’s intriguing past. Special events, especially around Halloween, add an extra layer of excitement. 

And before you leave, make sure to visit the gift shop for some unique, spooky keepsakes.

If your family is looking for thrilling and fun things to do in Springfield for kids, Pythian Castle is a must-visit.

This experience is best suited for kids aged 10 and up. 

The haunted themes and complex puzzles in the escape rooms make them more appropriate for older kids and teens.

15. Springfield Conservation Nature Center

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

4601 S Nature Center Way Springfield, MO 65804 (417) 888-4237 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Springfield Conservation Nature Center is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. 

Covering 79 acres, this nature haven offers a plethora of activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and educational tours, both self-guided and professionally led.

If you’re on the hunt for relaxing things to do with kids, Springfield Conservation Nature Center is the answer.

This nature center is a playground for budding naturalists. 

Kids can explore a variety of trails, each offering a unique view of local flora and fauna. 

The guided tours are not only educational but also interactive, making it a fun learning experience for the whole family. 

Parents will appreciate the well-designed educational displays and the opportunity for some peaceful bird-watching.

The center is fantastic for kids of all ages. 

The easier trails and animal-spotting activities are perfect for younger kids, while older children can engage more deeply with the educational exhibits and guided tours.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Springfield South Hwy 65

16. Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park

Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park

3825 W Farm Rd 146 Springfield, MO 65807 (417) 837-5949 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park is more than just a park; it’s an educational journey into the world of agriculture. 

Located in Springfield, Kansas, this community farm offers a wide range of activities, from animal barns to farm-themed playgrounds and educational programs.

Searching for educational “things to do with kids near me” on Google while in Springfield?

Kids can roll up their sleeves and get a real taste of farm life here at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park. 

Whether it’s milking cows, learning about crops, or playing on the farm-themed playground, there’s no end to the fun. 

Parents can relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the prairie and pasturelands.

Seasonal events like hayrides and pumpkin patches make it a year-round destination. 

The farm also offers a variety of educational programs that are both fun and informative, perfect for a family day out.

This farm park is ideal for kids aged 3 to 12. 

Activities are designed to cater to different age groups, making it a versatile destination for families with kids of varying ages.

17. Route 66 Car Museum

Route 66 Car Museum

1634 W College St Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 459-2452 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Rev up your engines for the Route 66 Car Museum, a haven for car enthusiasts. 

Located in Springfield, this museum showcases an extensive collection of classic and sports cars from America and Europe, along with a well-stocked gift shop for memorabilia.

If your kids can’t get enough of cars, this museum is the place to be. 

The collection ranges from vintage classics to modern sports cars, offering a comprehensive look at automotive history. 

Interactive displays make the experience engaging for younger visitors, while parents will be equally impressed by the rare and unique models on display. 

The gift shop offers a range of car-themed merchandise, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

If you’re on the hunt for more fun things to do in Springfield, MO, this museum is a great place to visit.

This is best enjoyed by kids aged 6 and up. 

While the younger ones will be fascinated by the shiny, colorful cars, older kids and teens will appreciate the technical and historical aspects of the exhibits.

Springfield Kids Activities: 17 Family Things to Do for 2024

fun things to do in springfield mo with kids

  • Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
  • Fantastic Caverns
  • Springfield Cardinals
  • Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
  • Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
  • The Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks
  • Discovery Center of Springfield
  • Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts
  • History Museum on the Square
  • Lake Springfield Park
  • 1984 Video Arcade
  • Dickerson Park Zoo
  • Springfield Art Museum
  • Pythian Castle
  • Springfield Conservation Nature Center
  • Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park
  • Route 66 Car Museum

17 Fun Things to Do in Springfield, MO with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Get our Newsletters

Get the magazine.

  • Subscribe to 417 Magazine
  • Subscribe to Biz 417
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Renew Your Subscription
  • Professional Gift Subscriptions
  • Where to Buy It
  • Manage Your Subscription

February 2024

  • People Pics
  • Directories
  • Events & Promos
  • Current Issue
  • Dropdown Item

None

February 2024

  • Issue Archive
  • Contact 417
  • Work with 417
  • Custom Plaques

Biz 417

Build Your Best Night Out

From date nights and girls nights out to family weekends and dinner excursions, we’ve missed spending time together, and we’re daydreaming about the incredible excursions awaiting us post-isolation. Make the most of your outings with these itineraries.

By Claire Porter

Group of friends with drinks on the patio at Team Taco in Springfield MO

If you’ve spent your time in isolation counting down the days until you can reunite with your friends, go out with your partner or just have a genuine, close moment of human interaction, well, we’re right there with you. When we can finally visit our favorite restaurants, sidle up to our favorite bars and join the crowds at our favorite places, we want to have a game plan for making the most of our first nights together. So, when that time comes and we meet again, these six agendas can help you revisit all your favorites and maybe see our pretty little city in a new light by lining up everything to do, eat, drink and see for your best night out.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Grab Drinks on Springfield's Best Scenic Patios

Sunny days and warm nights call for a little breath of fresh air on Springfield’s most scenic outdoor patios. Gather a few friends or buddy up with your boo for an evening spent entirely outdoors.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Best Activities for the Competitive at Heart

Feeling a little feisty? Channel that energy into friendly competition. Depending on your audaciousness—and how many willing cohorts you can corral—tackle all three feats of mind, body and appetite in one night, or pick and choose your favorites.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Best Spicy Food in Springfield

Dive into one or all of these dishes—arranged in order of increasing spiciness—for a night that goes from mild to hot, hot, hot. Add a little extra spice to your life with salsa lessons.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Enjoy a Night Downtown While You Root for the Springfield Cardinals

Tired of striking out with your boring usual plans? Take advantage of a Springfield Cardinals’ game and plan a slugger-centric night on the town.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Take a Self-Guided Tour To Springfield's Craft Breweries

Springfield has its fair share of craft breweries, so why not go on a one-day brewery hop? To ensure the ultimate safety and legality for you and your crew, be sure to have a designated driver who can safely escort you from hop to hop.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Enjoy a Girls Day in Ozark With Plenty of Shopping, Food and Drinks

Just a hop, skip and a jump south of Springfield lies the perfect location for a daylong outing. Grab the gal pals and plan a full day that turns into a girls night out—don’t days tend to do that when in great company?—all centered on downtown Ozark.

Sign Up for Datebook

Get our free guide to the best local events happening this week when you sign up for our Datebook newsletter.

Business Listings:

Explore related articles.

Great Escape Beer Works in Springfield MO

We Are #417Strong

Breweries and bars are open for limited business and curbside to-go.

With the May 7 amendments made to the Springfield-Greene County Road to Recovery Phase 1 order, local breweries and bars are once again...

vindaloo curry

Dive into one or all of these dishes—arranged in order of increasing spiciness—for a night that goes from mild to hot, hot, hot. Add a...

glass of beer in grass by woman's lawn chair at mother's brewery springfield mo

Southwest Missouri's Best Craft Breweries

Beer is flowing like water here in Springfield thanks to the craft breweries popping up all over southwest Missouri. Each brewery offers a...

Couple lounging in bed at Hotel Vandivort in Springfield, MO

Plan a Staycation and Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown

10 ways to be a tourist in Springfield, Branson or Joplin, Missouri. We've found the best places to stay, the best restaurants to try and...

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Couple walking through The Springfield Conservation Nature Center

10+ Scenic Spots In Springfield, Missouri

If you’re looking for the best and most beautiful spots in Springfield, Missouri, the locals know the city best. We did a poll on our Instagram account asking locals what their favorite scenic spots are in Springfield. This is what they chose:

Nathanael Greene Park

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Katie Daniel (@kmaritza)

The 113-acre Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park is home to Springfield Botanical Gardens, consistently rated as one of Springfield's top attractions. The botanical gardens features dozens of themed gardens, including hosta, daylilies, Asiatic lilies, iris, peonies, roses, dwarf conifers, ornamental grasses, native plants and more. The park also includes the Roston Native Butterfly House open from April-October, the Gray-Campbell Farmstead (oldest cabin in Springfield), the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, and Lake Drummond. The park connects to South Creek Greenway and includes several other paved walking trails. Located across the road from Horton Smith Golf Course. Start your tour at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, where you will find restrooms, gift shop and friendly staff.

Address:  2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO 65807

Vantage Rooftop Lounge

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by LoveSpringfield (@lovespringfield)

For an elegant night on the town, Vantage Rooftop Lounge & Conservatory is Springfield's newest rooftop bar. Opened in 2019, it offers a spectacular view of downtown from atop V2, the expansion of Hotel Vandivort. With beautiful European Art Deco style and live greenery inside and a mix of soft seating outside, including private cabanas, the Vantage is sure to become a favorite for locals and travelers alike.

Address:  260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, MO 65806

Jordan Valley Park

Jordan Valley Park is adjacent to Jordan Valley Ice Park, Hammons Field and the Creamery, home of the Springfield Regional Arts Council. A 12-acre green oasis in an urban area, Jordan Valley includes jumping fountains, a shaded picnic area, walking trail, outdoor amphitheater, unique children's play features, the K-Man interactive sculpture and five pieces from the Springfield Sculpture Walk. The park provides a beautiful view of downtown’s urban amenities mixed with the beauty of the park.

Address:  635 E. Trafficway St., Springfield, MO 65802

Lake Springfield

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by The Park Board (@theparkboard)

Lake Springfield Park offers 153 acres of rolling parkland, featuring trails, woods, bluffs and more than a mile of shoreline along Lake Springfield. The park has several scenic hiking trails, including the Greater Ozark Audubon Trail, the James River Greenway and the Lake Springfield Park Trail. Hikers can take a quick walk up the trails to see a bluff view of the Lake.

Address:  2312 E. Lake Springfield Park Rd., Springfield, MO 65804

Fellows Lake

Fellows Lake is an 860-acre lake created in 1955 by the impoundment of the Little Sac River. Visitors can kayak and boat the beautiful lake scenery while fishing for bass, crappie, walleye, and muskie. Next to Fellows Lake includes an alluring open field with a breathtaking view of the lakefront.

Address:  4208 E. Farm Rd. 66, Springfield, MO 65803

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Fought on August 10, 1861, the Battle of Wilson's Creek was a pivotal battle in Missouri and the second major battle of the Civil War. When the smoke cleared, more than 2,500 Union and Confederate soldiers were killed, wounded or missing in five hours of intense fighting. The visitor center features a new 27-minute film, a museum and changing exhibits. A five-mile self-guided tour road allows visitors to explore the battlefield at their own pace. Walking trails lead to various battle sites, including Bloody Hill, the Historic John Ray House, and the Edwards Cabin. Locals love walking the grounds to explore the history of the battlefield and the serene walking trials.

Address:  6424 W. Farm Rd. 182, Republic, MO 65738

Nature Center

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Josh Mattix (@jedloomis)

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center provides free conservation educational activities for all ages. Indoors, enjoy nature exhibits, attend programs, purchase hunting and fishing permits, browse through a nature-related gift shop and pick up free conservation brochures. Outdoors, explore three miles of peaceful hiking trails through a variety of natural communities.

Address:  4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield, MO 65804

Valley Water Mill

Valley Water Mill Park features a 17-acre lake with fishing access and a variety of terrains from wetlands to a spring-fed stream to glades and forests. A 2 1/2-mile walking trail loops the site and is a great place to catch a morning sunrise.

Address:  2450 E. Valley Water Mill Rd., Springfield, MO 65803 

Black & Blueberry Farm

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Fine Art Wedding Photographer (@mariannalimon)

Fifteen minutes outside of Springfield, Black and Blueberry Farm is tucked on the outskirts of Rogersville, Missouri. Between the months of May-July, visitors to the farm can pick their own blueberries and their own lavender from the farm. The lavender field a breath of fresh air and an one of a kind scene in the Ozarks.

Address:  5313 S. Farm Rd. 241, Rogersville, MO 65742

Lost Hill Park

A 60-acre natural resource area just north of Springfield along the South Dry Sac River, with unique natural features including caves, bluffs and arches, as well as forest and prairie. 

The name “ Lost Hill ” refers to a raised area that once overlooked the South Dry Sac River — until the river changed course, leaving a hill surrounded by a floodplain. The park is also a trailhead for the Fulbright Spring Greenway. 

Address:  4705 N. Farm Rd. 151, Springfield, MO 65803

Beyond Springfield

Dogwood canyon.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Dogwood Canyon Nature Park (@dogwood_canyon)

About an hour from Springfield sits  Dogwood Canyon Nature Park , a 10,000-acre paradise full of adventures and beautiful waterfalls. Guests can walk or bike the four-mile trail or take a variety of tours such as Segway and tram tours. Anglers can also take self-guided or guided fishing tours to catch all the rainbow trout they possibly can while enjoying the scenery stretching across the entire park.

Address:  2038 State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681

Top of the Rock

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Top of the Rock (@topoftherockmo)

Top of the Rock boasts a Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf course, an Arnold Palmer practice facility, a Tom Watson Himalayas putting course, and a signature restaurant and pro shop housed in a relocated 150-year-old barn from Arnold Palmer's hometown. Top of the Rock is also home to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, a world-class restaurant that transports guests back to a time when American bison roamed the plains, an all-American inspired wine cellar, and a wedding chapel set on the hillside with spectacular sunset views of Table Rock Lake

Address:  150 Top of the Rock Rd, Ridgedale, MO 65739

More Resources

Discovery Center Springfield, Missouri

Springfield Guide

Order a free Springfield Guide or check out the digital version.

Hiking

E-Newsletter Sign-Up

Get bi-weekly updates to your inbox to keep up with Springfield.

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Itineraries

Visit our itineraries page to plan your trip according to your interests.

Places To Stay

Places To Stay

Madison Yohn

Madison Yohn

Enewsletter Image

Contact Information

Toll-Free: (800) 678-8767 Phone: (417) 881-5300

Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center 815 E. Saint Louis St., Suite 100 Springfield, MO 65806

  • About the CVB
  • Advertise With Us
  • News About the CVB
  • Privacy Policy

Greene County White Logo

© 2024 Springfield Missouri Convention & Visitors Bureau. All Rights Reserved.

places to do homework in springfield mo

Petitioners on the rise: What are the regulations when it comes to asking for signatures

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - It’s election season, and you’ve probably seen many people trying to get signatures for various petitions.

They stand outside of businesses to get your attention. Some are more persistent than others. Some of you are wondering if they’re breaking rules or even misleading people to get a signature.

They’re asking for signatures on four issues: abortion rights, sports gambling, taxing a casino, and an increase to the minimum wage. But some believe they’re bending the truth to get your attention and signature. So we got on the phone with Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft to get answers.

“When you have signature gatherers that are misleading people about what’s going on, I think that is very detrimental to the process,” said Secretary Ashcroft.

These people try to accumulate thousands of signatures. If they get enough John and Jane Hancocks for their issue, it’s all sent to the Secretary of State’s Office for verification.

They can operate on public property like libraries. They do need permission from property owners to work on private property and need to leave if they’re asked. It’s what Doug Greer and his wife say they saw while running errands.

“My wife and I were walking into T.J. Maxx, and we see petitioners occasionally around that shopping center,” said Greer. “But this time, there were six in front of us; it was intimidating to walk through them to get to the store. And so that bothered me.”

Doug and his wife are former educators. So, it piqued his interest when the people asked if he would sign to increase teacher pay.

“I said, ‘What’s the petition for?’ and they said this is to give teachers more money,” said Greer. “And I said, ‘Is this sports betting?’ And they go, ‘Well, yes, a sports betting, but that money’s gonna help teachers. I told them I thought that was misleading. I thought that they should be forward as to what the purpose of the petition was.”

After speaking with Mr. Greer and Secretary Ashcroft, we decided to see if the petitioners are following the rules.

The bill they’re referencing is to legalize sports gambling, in it, it says money would go to Missouri Education. But there is NO guarantee that it’ll increase teacher pay. Secretary Ashcroft says it’s for this reason you should do your homework

“I always recommend to everyone that may or may not want to sign one of these if they’re considering it,” said Secretary Ashcroft. “They need to read the actual text of either the constitutional amendment or the statutory changes. That’s the only way you know for sure what you are signing or declining to sign on.”

Secretary Ashcroft says these petitioners must have the bill they’re referencing with them. So, ask them if you can read it. If you believe petitioners are breaking the law, report it to the secretary of state and to KY3.

To report a correction or typo, please email [email protected]

Copyright 2024 KY3. All rights reserved.

Dennis Kingston

Arkansas man arrested in connection to 2004 Fulton County death

Deadly shooting in the 200 Block of East Erie

Police identify 2 killed in morning shooting incident in Springfield, Mo.; 2 suspects charged

An AT&T retail location is shown in Willow Grove, Pa., Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024. A number of...

AT&T says this is what caused the nationwide network outage

Lower to middle 70s Sunday afternoon

FIRST ALERT WEATHER: Mild Sunday & near records early next week

Not all shots are the same. Those considering should do their homework.

On Your Side Investigation: Know this about popular weight loss injections

Latest news.

Springfield community leaders join in an act against violence.

New multicultural event to curb gun violence in Springfield, Mo.

Laclede County and City of Lebanon, Mo. celebrate 175 years since the area was settled

Laclede County and City of Lebanon, Mo. celebrate 175 year anniversary

places to do homework in springfield mo

Belmont beats Missouri

FILE -Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy watches players warm up for an...

Eric Beiniemy expected to join UCLA as associate head coach, offensive coordinator, AP sources say

IMAGES

  1. Best 15 Places To Do Homework And Study Near Your Home

    places to do homework in springfield mo

  2. 12 Fun Things to Do in Springfield, MO with Kids (for 2023)

    places to do homework in springfield mo

  3. Best 15 Places To Do Homework And Study Near Your Home

    places to do homework in springfield mo

  4. 15 Best Places to Do Homework for Students

    places to do homework in springfield mo

  5. homework 1

    places to do homework in springfield mo

  6. Best 15 Places To Do Homework And Study Near Your Home

    places to do homework in springfield mo

COMMENTS

  1. 17 UNIQUE Things to Do in Springfield [in 2024]

    The winery is surrounded by some of the best nature views in Springfield! 6. Explore Route 66. The iconic highway has been the jumping-off point for some of America's most iconic journeys and tales. One of the things that Springfield is most famous for is being the birthplace of the iconic Route 66 highway.

  2. TOP 10 BEST Places to Study in Springfield, MO

    1. Library Center 4.4 (17 reviews) Libraries Gift Shops $ This is a placeholder "The Library Center is a great facility. They have nice spaces to sit and study, a huge children's..." more 2. The Potter's House 4.7 (23 reviews) Coffee & Tea $ This is a placeholder "I really really love this place.

  3. 20 Top Things to Do in Springfield, Missouri

    Travel 20 Fun Things to Do in Springfield, Missouri Known as the Queen City of the Ozarks, Route 66 originates here in the third-largest city in the state. By Brittany Chrusciel | March 17,...

  4. Things to Do

    Springfield is home to many fun attractions, museums, restaurants, and shopping districts.

  5. 20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Springfield (Missouri)

    Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium Wonders of Wildlife Also called Wonders of Wildlife, this Springfield, Missouri non-profit educational facility opened its doors in 2017. With 350,000 square feet of space, Wonders of Wildlife is the largest wildlife and fish attraction in the world.

  6. 20 Indoor Activities To Do In Springfield This Winter

    AR Workshop. Photo courtesy of AR Workshop. If you love to DIY or make your own crafts, AR Workshop is for you. Choose from an array of projects such as wood signs, chunky blankets, and seasonal projects designed for spring, summer, fall, and winter. Weekly classes are scheduled with a new project planned for each day.

  7. 23 Indoor Activities in Springfield, MO

    5 ml 10 ml 25 ml 50 ml 100 ml Refine Your Search RESET 51 results) All (51) Entertainment & Shows (18) Amusement (10) Museums & Galleries (9) Food & Drink (5) Sights & Landmarks (4) Sports & Fitness (3) Services (1) Shopping (1) All (51) Theaters (9) Bowling (7) Movie Theaters (5) Specialty Museums (3) Winery/Vineyard (3) Convention Centers (2)

  8. 100+ Things To Do In Springfield

    6. Walk the Sculpture Walk in downtown Springfield 7. Go mural hunting around the city 8. Go bowling at Andy B's 9. Look at beautiful flowers at the Springfield Botanical Garden 10. Head to one of five farmers' markets in the city 11. See wild animals up close at Wild Animal Safari 12. Play vintage arcade games at 1984 13.

  9. 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Springfield, MO

    1. Fantastic Caverns 2. Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park 3. Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium 4. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield 5. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden 6. Springfield Art Museum 7. Hammons Field 8. The Discovery Center of Springfield 9. Dickerson Park Zoo 10.

  10. 35 Fun Things to Do in Springfield, Missouri

    Walk through Springfield National Cemetery. See fossils at the Missouri Institute of Natural Science. Go to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Spot wildlife at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. Find hidden treasures at Relics Antique Mall. Meet animals at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park.

  11. 18 Things to Do in Springfield Missouri and Best Route 66 Attractions

    3. See Park Central Square. The majority of special events occur in Park Central Square. Therefore, it's a popular central meeting place in downtown Springfield. For example, visitors can enjoy classic car shows, food festivals, and the annual Birthplace of Route 66 Festival.

  12. 10 Best Things to Do in Springfield, Missouri

    A popular weekend getaway in Missouri, history buffs can tour a historic castle while art lovers can browse artwork in the city's premier cultural institution, and if you're up for an adventure you can explore hidden caves. Catering to all types of travelers, these are the top things to do in Springfield, Missouri.

  13. 12 Things To Do In Vibrant Springfield, Missouri

    1. Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World The original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Springfield is affectionately nicknamed the "Granddaddy of All Outdoor Stores." Attracting 4 million families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts to its 500,000-square-foot venue each year, it has everything you need for fishing, boating, hunting, and camping.

  14. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Springfield

    Nestled close to the citified confines of Springfield, MO the Nature Center has numerous walking/hiking paths through…. 6. NRA National Sporting Arms Museum. 175. Speciality Museums. By dwm_SGF_1987. This museum has over 900 guns on display that represent guns that were used in the 1600s to current day. 7.

  15. Top 21 Educational and Fun Attractions in Springfield MO

    7. Discovery Center Of Springfield. Discovery Center of Springfield is one of my favorite attractions in Springfield, MO, to visit with my kids. There is so much to learn! Between tornados, shadows, space, gravity, dinosaurs, and SO much more, there are new things to discover around every corner. 8.

  16. 20+ Fun Things To Do In Springfield, MO

    5 - Ozark Park Trail. Ozark park is located in Ozark City and near Freemont Hills, a popular suburb in Springfield. The trail covers 2.2 miles and gives the feeling of being in nature - even though the city is just minutes away. This trail is well-paved and at a fairly level grade.

  17. Places to Visit in Springfield

    Nestled close to the citified confines of Springfield, MO the Nature Center has numerous walking/hiking paths through…. 6. NRA National Sporting Arms Museum. 175. Speciality Museums. By dwm_SGF_1987. This museum has over 900 guns on display that represent guns that were used in the 1600s to current day. 7.

  18. What to Do in Springfield, MO: Cool Attractions, Great Eats, and Route

    Here's a packed list of what to do in Springfield, MO, including unique museums, classic cars, historic Route 66, and great food. ... It is one cool place to hang out, and all beer fans should visit! Odds & Ends. Springfield will surprise you with its big offerings. A few that I've yet to do are the World's Largest Fork, the Springfield ...

  19. 13 Fabulous Things to Do in Springfield MO

    The timeline history of Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri from 1926 to 2006. Start your day of exploration at the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center (815 E St. Louis Street) to pick up information on the area, free souvenirs like the postcard and wooden nickel we received, maps, and tips from the helpful staff.Open Monday - Friday 8 AM - 5 PM.

  20. Visit These Fun & Quirky Locations Around Springfield

    Back Visit These Fun & Quirky Locations Around Springfield By Madison Yohn on Aug. 21, 2020 Springfield certainly has its oddities. If you're looking for something different, unique and a little quirky to do around the city, here are some of the quirkiest places to visit in Springfield, Missouri.

  21. 17 Fun Things to Do in Springfield, MO with Kids (for 2024)

    Things to Do in Branson for Kids. 6. The Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks. 2305 E Kearney St. Springfield, MO 65803. (417) 864-7997. The Air and Military Museum had only one exhibit when it opened in 1989 and since then they've steadily grown and now have over 5,000 items of military history.

  22. Build Your Best Night Out in Springfield, MO

    Just a hop, skip and a jump south of Springfield lies the perfect location for a daylong outing. Grab the gal pals and plan a full day that turns into a girls night out—don't days tend to do that when in great company?—all centered on downtown Ozark. Tags:

  23. 10+ Scenic Spots In Springfield, Missouri

    Jordan Valley Park View this post on Instagram A post shared by LoveSpringfield (@lovespringfield) Jordan Valley Park is adjacent to Jordan Valley Ice Park, Hammons Field and the Creamery, home of the Springfield Regional Arts Council.

  24. Petitioners on the rise: What are the regulations when it comes to

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - It's election season, and you've probably seen many people trying to get signatures for various petitions. They stand outside of businesses to get your attention. Some ...