Dubbed the “Queen City of the Ozarks” Springfield, Missouri is Missouri’s 3rd largest city. I was traveling through the city while on a road trip so I thought I would share some of my favorites from passing through Springfield.
Let’s not waste any time and hop into my favorite things to do in Springfield Missouri:
Table of contents
Places to Eat and Drink in Springfield, MO
Here are some of my favorite places I found to eat and drink while in Springfield.
The Golden Girl Rum Club
If you’re looking for a place to have a fun cocktail the The Golden Girl Rum Club is a must-try.
My Picks: The Son of Banana Man off of the greatest hits menu was delicious. The Korean BBQ Nachos were delicious but the Spicy Daddy pizza stole my heart for favorite menu item.
The Golden Girl Rum Club on Google MapsCorner 21 Chinese Cuisine
By far one of the best Chinese meals I have ever had was at Corner 21 Chinese Cuisine. This unsuspecting building was recently featured in Feast Magazine and packs a punch when it comes to flavor. Don’t expect the usual Chinese-American dishes but authentic northeast region Chinese dishes.
My Picks: Some of my favorites on the menu were the Traditional Sweet & Sour Pork if you want something sweet. If you’re looking for something spicy the Szechuan Spicy Chicken has the perfect level of heat.
The Sandwich Scene on McDaniel
If you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a sandwich stop by The Sandwich Scene on McDaniel. The Sandwich Scene features a window to order from and a hefty sandwich menu.
My Picks: All of the sandwiches sound great but the Cubano was my favorite when visiting.
The Sandwich Scene on McDaniel on Google MapsRise
Rise is a cute coffee shop located in the heart of Springfield. Sadly on my visit I had already eaten but the breakfast menu looked delicious.
Rise on Google MapsThings to See in Springfield, MO
In addition to the food scene there are plenty of other fun places to see in Springfield. Springfield is probably most known for the Wonder of Wildlife National Museum.
Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
One of the most well known places in Springfield is the Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. The 350,000 square foot facility has plenty to see and can easily fill your whole day.
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
Located inside the Springfield Botanical Gardens is the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden. This 7.5 acre Japanese garden features a large koi lake, moon bridge, Japanese landscaping and much more. There is a small admission fee to enter and they are closed periodically thought out the year. For more information about hours and pricing check out their website.
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden on Google MapsWilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Just a 15 minute drive outside of Springfield is Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, the site of the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River, fought on August 10, 1861. This historic battlefield is managed by the National Park Service and well worth the visit, with a 5-mile auto tour loop and a visitor center museum. Of course since it’s run by the National Park Service you can use your America the Beautiful pass to get in or just pay for daily entrance.
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield on Google MapsMore Things to Do in Springfield
Springfield has plenty more worth your time. Here are some of the city’s most popular attractions to round out a visit:
The Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Springfield is the birthplace of Bass Pro Shops, and the original Outdoor World flagship here is the most-visited tourist attraction in Missouri. It’s equal parts outdoor megastore and free attraction, with giant aquariums, indoor waterfalls, a fish-filled lake, and the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum inside. Wonders of Wildlife (above) sits right next door, so it’s easy to pair the two.
Drive a Stretch of Historic Route 66
Springfield is known as the “Birthplace of Route 66” because the highway got its famous number here back in 1926. You can drive the historic alignment through town along Kearney Street and College Street, pull off at the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park, and browse classic cars at the Route 66 Car Museum.
Fantastic Caverns
Just northwest of town, Fantastic Caverns is the only ride-through cave in North America. Instead of walking, you tour it on a Jeep-drawn tram that follows the path of an ancient underground river. It stays around 60 degrees year-round, which makes it a great rainy-day or hot-afternoon stop.
Dickerson Park Zoo
This compact, walkable zoo on the north side of Springfield is home to elephants, giraffes, big cats, and more, with budget-friendly admission. It’s an easy stop if you’re traveling with kids.
History Museum on the Square
This downtown museum walks you through Springfield’s story, from its Ozarks frontier days to Route 66. The downtown square itself is historic: it’s where Wild Bill Hickok shot Davis Tutt in an 1865 duel that’s often called the first “quick draw” showdown of the Old West.
Springfield Art Museum
Springfield’s art museum has been around since 1928 and offers free admission to its permanent collection and rotating exhibits, plus an outdoor sculpture area to explore.
Discovery Center of Springfield
A hands-on science and children’s museum downtown, the Discovery Center is full of interactive exhibits and is another solid rainy-day option for families.
Galloway Creek Greenway and Sequiota Park
For the outdoors, the paved Galloway Creek Greenway connects Sequiota Park, with its spring-fed lake and cave, to the walkable Galloway Village district full of restaurants and breweries.
Springfield, Missouri FAQ
What is Springfield, Missouri known for?
Springfield is best known as the “Birthplace of Route 66” and the home of the original Bass Pro Shops. Nicknamed the Queen City of the Ozarks, it’s also a gateway to Ozarks outdoor recreation and a short drive from Branson.
What are the top things to do in Springfield, MO?
The biggest draws are the original Bass Pro Shops and the attached Wonders of Wildlife aquarium, driving a stretch of historic Route 66, touring Fantastic Caverns, strolling the Mizumoto Japanese Garden, and visiting Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. The local food scene is worth building a trip around too.
How many days do you need in Springfield, Missouri?
One to two days is enough to hit the highlights of the city. Add more time if you want to day-trip to Branson or explore the surrounding Ozarks.
Is Springfield, Missouri worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you’re a fan of Route 66, the outdoors, or you’re passing through on a road trip. It makes a great base for exploring southwest Missouri and the Ozarks.
What is the best time to visit Springfield, MO?
Spring and fall offer the mildest weather and fall color in the Ozarks. Summer is good for baseball and outdoor attractions, though it gets hot and humid.
I hope you enjoyed my list of things to do in Springfield, MO. Sadly I couldn’t visit all of the places I listed but I tried to include my favorites from my research.
Obviously I couldn’t see all of the city during my visit but there is plenty more to discover. Do you have any favorite things to do in Springfield, Missouri? Let us know in the comments below!
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