Springfield, MO is a stunning city, home to a range of attractions that can be enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
From historical museums to fun outdoor adventures, there is no shortage of entertainment and activities to check out!
If you are planning a trip to the area and are looking for ideas on what to do during your visit, then stick around.
As a Springfield local, I have the inside scoop on all of the best things to do in the city!
In this article, I’ll be taking a look at these activities:
Let’s go ahead and jump right into it!
So, you’ve got your trip to Springfield planned out – accommodation organized, transport sorted out, restaurants reserved.
The only question is: what are you going to do during your free time?
There are endless activities that you can check out in Springfield, but I’ve narrowed these down to the top 10 attractions that are best for visitors to the area.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or a thrilling and active adventure, there is something in Springfield for you.
Image Source: Fantastic Caverns
One must-visit attraction in the Springfield area is the Fantastic Caverns. The name of this attraction truly says it all – these caverns are absolutely breathtaking and are well worth a visit.
You can enjoy a 55-minute tram ride through the caverns with some great commentary and information about the caverns.
The tour guides are what really make this experience phenomenal.
These knowledgeable and passionate guides make the trip through the caverns both educational and wildly entertaining.
This spot is definitely one of the best outdoor activities in Springfield, packed full of history and gorgeous natural features.
This is also a great way to check out some of the natural wonders of the area without a whole lot of walking and trekking – the tram ride is seated and you won’t have to lift a finger in order to see the stunning sights.
The Fantastic Cavern tours are a great activity if you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family.
If you find yourself with some free time during your Springfield trip, these caverns are definitely the place to be.
Image Source: Wonders of Wildlife
If you are a history buff, a wildlife enthusiast, or are simply looking for a relaxing indoor activity in Springfield, then the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is absolutely worth a visit!
This is the perfect activity for families who are wanting to have a fun and educational experience and learn about the local wildlife.
There are a range of incredible features at the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum, such as animal-focused exhibits, guided tours, and close-up animal encounters.
If you have some time during your Springfield trip, I would highly recommend paying this museum and aquarium a visit.
The hands-on nature of this museum and aquarium makes it a great pick if you’re looking for somewhere to take the kids.
The little ones can really get involved, have some fun – and learn about wildlife at the same time.
The best part of this attraction is that it is a wildlife museum and an aquarium in one.
There is no need to cart yourself (and your family) back and forth across the city to check out different attractions – everything you need is right here!
Image Source: Springfield Botanical Gardens
If you are on the hunt for a relaxing outdoor activity, I can’t recommend the Springfield Botanical Gardens enough. This is a super affordable activity that is perfect for a sunny day when you want to spend some time outside.
There are a wide range of unique areas in the gardens where you can check out stunning flowers, plants – even a butterfly garden!
There is also a cafe on-site where you can grab a bite to eat after exploring the gardens.
I would recommend setting aside a fair amount of time to explore these gardens – it is very easy to get absorbed in nature and the gorgeous gardens and spend more time than you’d anticipate there.
It is also a good idea to wear some comfortable footwear, as you will likely spend a lot of time on your feet, walking around the gardens.
The good news is, with food and free parking available on-site, it is very easy to make a day out of it.
I would particularly recommend this activity during the spring or summer, but these gardens really are gorgeous all year round.
Image Source: History Museum on the Square
Are you a fan of historical museums? Looking to immerse yourself in the local culture? Or perhaps are just wanting an affordable and relaxing activity to fill your day with?
If so, the History Museum on the Square is an absolute must-visit attraction in Springfield.
This is a self-guided museum that allows you to explore the exhibits at your own pace.
There are a range of volunteers stationed around the museum who will answer any questions that you may have about the exhibits.
You can explore the rich history of Springfield through the wonderful features and displays that this museum provides.
This is a wonderful way to spend a few hours and is great for families.
There are a wide range of activities at the museum that are great for kids, such as scavenger hunts and activity sheets.
What I love about this museum is that you will get your hand stamped at admission and can return at any time during the day.
So, while there is not food available on site, you can always pop off for a snack and a coffee and return exploring the museum later in the day.
Image Source: Springfield Little Theatre
While you’re in the area, why not check out some local talent by catching a show at Springfield Little Theatre?
This is a theater with a wide range of extremely talented performers who put on unforgettable performances.
This is a perfect evening activity to round off a fun-filled day in Sprindfield.
There are a variety of different musicals and plays being put on at this theater at any given time, so you are sure to find something that interests you.
Visiting a local theater and watching a show is an underrated activity that I would recommend to anyone visiting Springfield.
The shows that are being put on at the Little Theater switch up fairly often, so it is a good idea to check out the list of shows that they are currently performing ahead of time by checking out their website.
You can also purchase tickets online, which will help support the theatre and the local talent involved.
Not only are the performances put on at this theater incredible to watch, the theater itself is an absolutely beautiful building.
Whether you’re planning on bringing your kids along to a family friendly musical or are wanting to catch a play or ballet performance, this theater is definitely worth a visit.
Image Source: Dickerson Park Zoo
Visiting the local zoo is always a super fun way to spend a day, whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or are bringing the whole family.
The Dickerson Park Zoo is an absolutely incredible zoo and well worth a visit if you are in the area.
Dickerson Park Zoo is also paterned with a variety of animal protection and conversation programs, so it is always great to support them and take a look at the work that they are doing.
If you are bringing the kids, they can enjoy the on-site playground, train rides, petting zoo, and much more!
This zoo is open daily from 9am - 4pm, and only ever closes if the pathways are frozen over during the colder seasons, meaning you’re almost guaranteed to be able to visit.
With a huge variety of animals, attractions, and a cafe on-site, it is easy to spend a whole day at this zoo.
This is another great relaxing outdoor activity to take part in when visiting Springfield.
Image Source: Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
Going for a walk in the park is a great activity when you want to get out of the house – and it doesn’t get any better than the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park.
You can visit and explore this gorgeous park at any time, entirely for free.
I always recommend checking out a National or Memorial Park when visiting a new location. It is a great way to get some fresh air and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area without spending a dime.
This park is attached to the Springfield Botantical Gardens and the Roston Native Butterfly House, which are always fun to check out while you are in the area.
These areas do cost a small entry fee, so it is a good idea to carry some cash with you if you plan on stopping by.
This is a great activity for the whole family and is pet-friendly, making it perfect for those who happen to be traveling with pets.
You can even bring a picnic and enjoy your lunch in the beautiful natural surroundings of Springfield.
For those wanting to partake in some relaxing, free activities during their visit, this park is a great little spot.
Image Source: Ozark Greenways
If you are someone who enjoys walking and hiking, then you should definitely consider taking a stroll along one of the Ozark greenways trails.
There are a wide variety of these trails all over Springfield that you can walk, trek, or bike along.
Paved trails, bike trails, gravel trails – even a water trail. There are a huge number of incredible trails that you can follow all over the city to take in the beautiful surroundings.
This is one of the best ways to explore the local area – any time from sunrise to sunset!
If you do decide that you want to check out one of the biking trails but did not bring your own bike with you on your trip to Springfield, there are a range of great bike rental spots in the area that you can take advantage of.
Overall, the Ozark greenway trails are one of my must-try activities for those visiting Springfield.
With these trails being dispersed all over the city, you are extremely likely to find one that is nearby and convenient for you to have a stroll along.
Image Source: Route 66 Car Museum
Calling all car enthusiasts!
If you have some spare time during your Springfield trip, you have got to pay the Route 66 Car Museum a visit. This museum is a car preservation museum open to the public located in Springfield – the birthplace of Route 66.
This museum has a huge range of classic cars on display that you can explore at your own pace.
This collection spans 100 years of classic vehicles, including a range of iconic cars that you are unlikely to spot anywhere else. This museum is open 9-5, 7 days a week, so be sure to pay it a visit when you can!
I would recommend this spot to car lovers (of course), but even to those with little to no car knowledge.
As someone who is not a classic vehicle expert, I still find myself having a great time whenever I get the chance to explore the Route 66 Museum.
This museum is a great look into American automobile history. There is a wonderful gift shop on-site as well as super friendly and knowledgable staff to help you with any questions that you may have.
Image Source: Springfield Art Museum
If you enjoy art in any capacity, chances are you’re going to absolutely love the Springfield Art Museum. There are a range of stunning exhibits, beautiful art collections, and even art classes available at the museum.
This is a great indoor activity for families, couples, or individuals. If you encounter a rainy day or find yourself with some free time during your trip, I highly recommend paying the Springfield Art Museum a visit.
There are some unique and absolutely breathtaking exhibits and works in this museum that are well worth checking out.
There are also a wide range of activities for kids at this art museum, such as family art labs, learning opportunities, book nooks, and project bags that you can take home!
All information about these activities and opportunities can be found on their website.
The exhibits that are on display at the Springfield art museum can switch up from day-to-day, so I would highly recommend checking their website to find out what exhibits will be on show during your trip so that you can choose when you visit based on what exhibits appeal to you.
