Despite being a relatively underrated city, we think that Springfield, MO is one of the best located cities in the country. Situated within the Ozark Mountains - an area of densely forested highlands in Missouri, Springfield is in close proximity to several stellar locations that highlight the best of mother nature,
These destinations are perfect for a weekend escape, as they are close enough to Springfield that you do not need to travel too far, but offer the much-needed change of scenery that can be needed at the end of a long work week. We love taking weekend escapes, as whether your purpose is to relax, have an adventure, or experience new cultures, you can pack in as much or as little as you like.
While we love spending time in Springfield, sometimes a weekend trip away is needed. However, with so many nearby options, it can be hard to narrow down where to go on your next weekend escape.
To help you out, we have done the research for you and have compiled a list of the ultimate weekend trips around Springfield. This should give you some inspiration for your next weekend break and allow you to plan the ultimate vacation away from Springfield.
Let’s get into it!
Image Source: Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center
What’s better than a destination holiday? A destination hotel holiday. One of our favorite hotels in the state of Missouri is the Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa at Table Rock Lake, and we love it so much that we decided to give it its own entry on this list.
Located an hour away from Springfield in Table Rock Lake, this is the ultimate romantic getaway destination. The four-star hotel is equipped with everything you could ever want - a swimming pool, spa, multiple restaurants, gym, beautifully fitted suites, and gorgeous lake views.
Plus, it is located right on Moonshine Beach, one of the best sandy beaches in the area. You can spend your morning lounging by the water, before returning to the hotel and receiving a relaxing massage or facial, and then enjoy a premium dining experience at one of the many dining options at the hotel.
Every inch of this location is steeped in luxury, and it is the perfect place to get away from it all for a weekend.
If you want to enjoy the resort at its best, we highly recommend you visit during the summer, as this way you can make the most of its beachside location.
However, make sure you book well in advance as this iconic hotel is one of the most popular in Missouri. If you want a truly unforgettable weekend getaway with a loved one (or yourself), then this destination hotel should be at the top of your list.
No list of vacation destinations in Missouri is complete without mentioning the jewel of the state - Kansas City. Often hailed as the big city with the charm of a small town, Kansas is one of the best cities in the Midwest, and for good reason too.
It is known for its barbeque, jazz music, and of course, reigning champion football team. The city is teeming with culture, and there is something for everyone here.
If you choose Kansas City as the destination for your next weekend getaway, there are several “must do'' activities and sites you must see. Of course, you need to try some famous Kansas City barbeque.
Don’t worry, the city loves barbeque so much that there is a joint on almost every street you turn. Additionally, we suggest you hit up a jazz bar or perform to hear world-class musicians perform some of the best music of the 20th century. Or, if you are more of a people watcher, we recommend taking a walk through the downtown area at any time of the day to get an idea of what Kansas is truly about.
As it is a large city, booking a weekend getaway to Kansas could not be easier. There is a plethora of hotels to choose from, ranging from upmarket to budget options.
It is also only a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Springfield, meaning you can easily take your car with you. We suggest spending as much time in Kansas as you can, preferably three nights, as there is just so much to do there.
If you’re looking for an action-packed getaway that will stimulate your senses and satisfy your cultural appetite, Kansas City is the destination for you.
One of our favorite things about living in America is the diversity between states, despite how close in proximity they are to each other. If you want to escape Springfield and feel as if you are in a totally new world, then we highly recommend Eureka Springs in Arkansas.
Despite being in a different state, Eureka Springs is only an hour and a half drive from Springfield, making it the ideal weekend getaway destination. Located in the Ozark mountains, this town is a hidden gem in the Ozarks.
It is a history lover’s paradise thanks to its perfectly preserved Victorian downtown buildings that offer a glimpse into what life was like all those years ago. There is also a funky arts scene within Eureka Springs, meaning that there are several fantastic galleries and shops for you to check out.
One of the highlights of Eureka Springs is the nearby Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural masterpiece located in the nearby Ozark hills. The Chapel is made of glass and wood, standing at a whopping 48 feet tall. It is a true architectural feat and is guaranteed to take your breath away the first time you lay eyes on it.
Another highlight of Eureka Springs is its quirky accommodation options, namely the treehouse cabins that are so popular in the area. If you are looking for a fun yet affordable place to stay, many high-quality cabins have been built into the surrounding trees of Eureka Springs. These cabins offer a slice of tranquil paradise and are the perfect option for anyone who wants a peaceful weekend getaway.
If you are a culture vulture who wants to explore something new but doesn’t have the time to travel too far from Springfield, we think that Eureka Springs should be at the top of your list.
Outdoors lovers rejoice because you haven't forgotten when we were making this list. Springfield is near some of the best outdoor landscapes in the state, our favorite of these being the Stockton State Park.
Located less than an hour from the Springfield city center, Stockton State Park is a gorgeous lake that is a nature lovers’ paradise. It covers over 2,176 acres, and features some of the best fishing, swimming, scuba diving and hiking in the area.
As the state park is so large, there are multiple camping sites and lodges surrounding the lake. Whether you want to be up close and personal with nature and camp, or rent a cabin and enjoy more of a luxurious experience, there are multiple options available to you. There are also several restaurants surrounding the lake, so you don’t need to worry about packing all your food.
Furthermore, if you decide you want to venture out a little bit further, the state park is only nine miles south of the town of Stockton, where you can find many restaurants, cafes, and other accommodation options.
If you are planning to explore Stockton while staying within the state park, we highly recommend you bring your car so that you can easily drive from location to location.
This is one of the most gorgeous camping spots in the area, and we are so lucky that it is so close to Springfield. If city life is driving you up the wall, a weekend getaway to Stockton State Park is just what you need to relax and reset.
We are so lucky to have such a diverse range of getaway options within a short driving distance from Springfield. Whether you are looking for an outdoorsy vacation, an inner city break, or a cultural experience that will stimulate the mind, you can easily find something that is accessible to the Springfield area and easy to travel to.
From the bright lights of Kansas City to the peaceful wildlife of Stockton Lake, there is an option for absolutely everyone.
Whether you are a long-time Springfield citizen or someone who is only visiting for a few days, we highly recommend that you make a point of exploring the area outside of Springfield and experiencing one of these weekend escapes for yourself.
They are the perfect way to get a bite-sized idea of what the Ozarks have to offer and can provide you with a well-earned rest after a busy week at work.
