Springfield

Tourist places in Springfield, Springfield Travel Info

Springfield City Overview

Springfield is known as the "Queen City of the Ozarks" and is the third-largest city in Missouri. It serves as a hub for education, healthcare, and retail in the region. The city offers a mix of big-city amenities and small-town charm, with a strong connection to outdoor recreation in the nearby Ozark Mountains.

Where is Springfield Located?

Springfield is located in southwestern Missouri. It is situated on the Springfield Plateau of the Ozarks, about 220 miles southwest of St. Louis and 170 miles southeast of Kansas City.

Best Time to Visit Springfield

The best time to visit Springfield is in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). The weather is mild, and the Ozarks are beautiful with blooming flowers or colorful fall foliage. Summers can be hot and humid.

Best Ways to Get Around Springfield

A car is the most convenient way to get around Springfield and explore the surrounding Ozarks. The City Utilities of Springfield operates a public bus system, and rideshare services are available.

Top 5 Things to Do in Springfield

  • Visit Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World: Explore the original and largest Bass Pro Shops, known as the "Grandaddy of All Outdoor Stores," featuring aquariums and museums.
  • Explore Fantastic Caverns: Take a tram tour through the only ride-through cave in North America.
  • Visit the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium: A world-class conservation attraction voted America's Best Aquarium multiple times.
  • Stroll through Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park: Enjoy beautiful botanical gardens, walking trails, and the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden.
  • Tour the Pythian Castle: Visit this historic castle built in 1913, offering history tours, ghost tours, and escape rooms.