Known as the “Birthplace of Route 66,” Springfield, Missouri offers visitors a mix of history, nature, and metropolitan attractions. Located in the Ozarks region of southwest Missouri, Springfield provides easy access to caves, lakes, hiking trails, and more. At the same time, you’ll find dining, shopping, entertainment, and nightlife comparable to much larger cities.
Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveler, Springfield has something for you. Read on for the top things to see and do during your time in the Queen City of the Ozarks.
Take a Walk Through History on Route 66
Route 66 passes right through Springfield’s downtown, giving you a front-row seat to the famous “Mother Road.” Springfield proudly claims the title “Birthplace of Route 66” since Missouri leaders met here in 1926 to begin plotting the Chicago-to-Los-Angeles highway.
Today, you can walk or drive along the route through Springfield. Stop to see the plaque marking the park where Route 66 commissioners launched the project. Just up the road lies the iconic 66 Drive-In Theatre, a vintage drive-in continuously operating since 1949. Grab a burger and catch a movie under the stars.
Marvel at Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Caverns offers a cool underground adventure in nearby Springfield. These caverns have provided shelter to humans for over 10,000 years. Native Americans mined flint from the caverns before eventually moving on.
In 1862, a farmer rediscovered the forgotten caverns. Today, a 55-minute jeep tour takes visitors through the fantastic natural chambers while a guide shares history and geology. Unique features include the giant 60-foot tall “Liberty Bell” stalactite weighing over 300 tons.
Explore Nature at Lake Springfield Park
Just 5 miles from downtown, Lake Springfield Park provides a scenic nature escape. The lake offers fishing year-round, with catches like catfish, crappie, bluegill, and bass. You can also rent pedal boats, kayaks, or canoes during summer.
On land, wander through the park’s hardwood forest and prairie. Five different hiking trails traverse a combined 9 miles past wetlands, streams, and limestone glades. The park also has a Frisbee golf course, archery range, and outdoor education center.
Shop and Dine on Historic Park Central Square
Originally farmland, Park Central Square now forms the heart of downtown Springfield. The restored square features a tree-lined walking path, lush lawn, and lighted fountain. Surrounding the square sit restaurants housed in Victorian buildings interspersed with murals and sculptures.
Park Central Square offers a mix of dining options from barbecue joints to upscale eateries. Many restaurants offer patio seating for people watching. You’ll also find boutiques, gift shops, and the Springfield Art Museum facing the square.
Tour the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
The flagship Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World provides an indoor wilderness exploration. Spanning over 400,000 square feet, exhibits let you experience swamps, forests, caves, and more. See massive aquariums filled with fish, turtles, sharks, and even alligators. You can also try your hand at bowling, test drive boats, or climb a rock wall.
Of course, the main draw lies in the incredible array of outdoor gear available. From hunting and fishing equipment to RVs and boats, you’ll find everything for outdoor adventure under one roof. Fishing enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the trout pond where you can fish for free.
Catch a Show at Hammons Hall
Culture vultures will love the performances at Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. This elegant theater in downtown Springfield hosts concerts, plays, ballet, and Broadway productions. Enjoy big names like strap on your cowboy boots for a little boot-scootin’ at Gilstrap Brothers Country Nightclub.
Kid-Friendly Attractions in Springfield
For families traveling with children, Springfield offers several attractions perfect for kids. Let them burn off energy at Dynamic Rock Gym indoor rock climbing center. At Jordan Valley Ice Park, kids can ice skate year-round.
Discovery Center of Springfield provides hands-on science fun with dinosaur exhibits, an Innovation Studio, and outdoor science park. At anime conventions and theater productions. The 2,200-seat venue features excellent acoustics and visuals.
Conclusion
Springfield earns its nickname as the “Queen City of the Ozarks” with its wealth of attractions. Nature lovers, history buffs, arts enthusiasts, and families can all find ways to fill their itinerary here. Route 66 sites, caverns, and lakes offer outdoor adventure in the Ozarks. Downtown serves up shopping, dining, and culture with a distinctly Springfield flavor.
Whether you’re road tripping along Route 66 or flying in for a weekend, Springfield provides the perfect home base to explore the Ozarks region. With this guide on hand, you’re ready to discover the top things to do in Missouri’s third largest city.
