Springfield isn't just about Bass Pro Shops and Route 66 – it's the perfect jumping-off point for a Missouri adventure!
Springfield's central location makes it ideal for exploring everything from Ozark’s natural beauty to quirky small towns and historic sites. Whether you’re a local, or new to the area, we guarantee there will be day trips you haven’t even dreamed of.
In this article, we’ll highlight 6 unique trips that go beyond the ordinary, catering to a variety of different interests. Let's get into it!
Image Source: Missouri State Parks
Located an hour and half from Springfield, the Ha Ha Tonka State Park is the perfect day trip that combines natural beauty, and history together into one captivating visit.
At this park you'll find breathtaking castle ruins, which overlook the tranquil lake. The empty stone castle towers over the park, with views of the Ha Ha Tonka Spring and Lake of the Ozarks.
It is a popular location for hikers, adventurers and photographs.
There are a number of hiking trails which is the best way to explore the area. The paths are well-kept, and offer a range of difficulties, based on your fitness and interest in hiking. There are 15 miles worth of trails running through the park, with various different terrains and levels of difficulty offered.
Located a 2 hours drive from Springfield, Eureka Springs will transport you back in time. This quirky Victorian town gives a night in the museum feel. The old city is alive with Victorian style buildings, galleries and restaurants reminiscent of a time passed.
Day trips here offer a unique opportunity to explore a Victorian city like you never have before. With great shops, restaurants and activities, you can spend a whole day here simply exploring.
Image Source: National Park Service
Take a ride along America's best known road: Route 66. Stop by the Instagram-worthy stops, and take a glimpse into the past.
Route 66 runs close to Springfield, and allows you to follow the highway, stopping at iconic All-American stores along the way. It is a perfect activity, rain or shine.
Image Source: Finley Farms
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, and explore the local charm of a small town, take a day trip either to Bolivar and Ozark. Located just an hour’s drive from Springfield, these small towns offer a different take on the Springfield area.
For those food lovers, Bolivar offers a challenge like no other.
Known for its giant tenderloin, the Smith’s Restaurant serves one of the most iconic meals in the area. The massive tenderloin sandwich is renowned as a Midwestern delicacy.
For those with a lighter appetite, there are numerous charming cafés in the area, which allow you to get a taste of the town’s culinary offerings.
Ozark is another small, charming town, which is known for its history, nature and culinary experiences.
The small town is home to the historical Ozark Mill in Finley farms. The restored mill is known for its farm-to-table restaurant. Making it a perfect place to enjoy all the town has to offer, with the freshest ingredients used in their dishes.
If you're looking for adventure, it's right here. Springfield has many outdoor activities for the more adventurous of souls. One or two adventure tours can usually fill a whole day. After a day of these activities, you’ll be sleeping like a baby.
Located in a private cattle ranch, this off-road track will take you through ridges, valleys, creeks and of course through a cattle farm, highlighting the diverse landscape of the Springfield area. Expect some sharp turns, mud and pure grit.
The high speed boat tour zips through to Lake Taneycomo. With 360 spins, bow drunks and impressive speeds, you’ll be sure to be stifling a few screams along the way.
Zip through the Branson hills on the Alpine Mountain Coaster. The sharp turns and crazy twists can exceed speeds of 30 miles per hour. The alpine coaster can be enjoyed either alone, or as a tandem, making it ideal for families also.
For nature lovers, and those who enjoy getting outdoors, exploring the renowned cave systems, and nearby zoos makes for an unforgettable day trip.
Image Source: Fantastic Caverns
The Fantastic Caverns are one of the few ride-through caves in America. Take a ride on a small tram, through the towing cave system and learn about the history of the cave.
At the cave entrance, there are numerous trails which allow you to appreciate the vast beauty of the cave system from the outside.
If you do visit, make sure to bring warm clothing, as the cave can get chilly.
Image Source: Dickerson Park Zoo
Dickerson Park zoo is a popular destination amongst families and couples. Located just a 15-minute drive from the caverns, it is the perfect activity to couple up with the caves, making for an adventurous day trip.
Known for its conservation efforts, the zoo is home to animals from across the globe. The zoo is also part of various breeding programs which help support the re-establishment of numerous endangered species.
At the zoo you’ll get to see local animals too, including the native black bears and river otters. These furry friends are great to show the kids.
The zoo has various events, opportunities to meet animals and educational programs, which may be worth checking before you visit.
Whether you’re a family traveling for the first time, a young solo traveler, or a couple getting away for the weekend, you’ll find something to please everyone’s taste in the Springfield area.
Those keen hikers, and budding photographers are able to explore the Ha Ha Tonka Park area, admiring the impressive abandoned castle. For those keen road trippers, Route 66 and its various charms await exploration. And for the adrenaline junkie, jet boats, alpine roller coasters and ATV tours lie ahead.
No matter who you are, there's something for you. If you are planning on visiting the Springfield region, it pays to do a little planning before you go, so you do not miss out on all the amazing day trips the region has to offer.
