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City in Missouri, United States
Photo: (WT-en) Mark at English Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Springfield is the third largest city in the state of Missouri, with a population of more than 168,000, and more than 462,000 (2019) in the metro area. It is also known as the Queen City of the Ozarks, and the birthplace of Route 66. Though it's on a flat plateau, the more picturesque Ozarks are just southeast of the city.
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Springfield's most popular attraction is the only cave in which you ride in a tour vehicle, rather than walk.
Home to 450 animals representing 160 species. It is located northeast of the intersection of I-44 and Missouri Hwy. 13.
Wilson's Creek was the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River. The bloody Southern victory on August 10, 1861, focused greater national attention on the war in Missouri. The nearly pristine landscape allows visitors to experience one of the best-preserved battlefields in the nation. A 4.9 miles (7.9 km) paved tour road provides a self-guided auto tour. There are eight interpretive stops at significant battle-related locations. There are five walking trails off the tour road, varying in length from 1/4 to 3/4 of a mile. A 7 miles (11 km) trail system for horseback riding and hiking is accessible from the tour road.
Sprawling conservation-focused complex featuring wildlife exhibits & an aquarium with huge tanks. Connected to Bass Pro Shops.
Local lore.
Very nostalgic.
Proof that Springfield doesn't have to be a cultural desert.
A free natural history museum exploring the natural history of both Missouri and around the world. The collection includes Henry, the world's largest Triceratops, the contents of Riverbluff cave, and the Hoover Diamond.
This is one of Springfield's greatest attributes. Great for kids and adults. The newest building even has a place where your can bicycle across a tightrope. This is also Springfield's first "green" building.
The Ozarks Springbirds, a AA minor league baseball team, plays at Hammons Field in downtown Springfield.
A vintage video arcade containing many classic games from the 1970s and 1980s, including Asteroids, Deluxe Asteroids, Gravitar, Tempest, BattleZone, Space Invaders, Ms. Pac Man, Centipede, Tron, Pole Position, Vindicators, P.O.W.s, Golden Axe, and even Pong. Single admission price at the door grants unlimited play for as long as the arcade is open.
Has most of the latest movie releases, as well as a large selection of food and drinks.
While not a full spa, Back Rubbzz offers relaxation and therapeutic massages at reasonable rates. Their staff is friendly and personable, and the atmosphere is relaxing. First-time clients are eligible for a "Welcome Massage", 60 minutes for just $39.95.
Springfield's only independent movie theater. They show first-run documentaries, foreign films, and other independents that typically don't make it to smaller markets such as Springfield. They serve beer and wine as well.
Axe, Hatchet or Tomahawk Throwing
A destination for axe-throwing, tomahawk, and hatchet enthusiasts. Craft beverages are available. Groups and parties welcome. Experts will guide you through axe-throwing, ensuring a safe and entertaining experience for all skill levels.
Has well maintained biking and hiking trails through the bluffs and along the shore of Lake Springfield.
This expansive park includes features the Butterfly House, Gray/Campbell Farmstead, Mizuno Japanese Stroll Garden, and a host of other botanical gardens.
Demonstration farm/petting zoo.
Some believe it is the best Mexican food in town, although others think it's the worst. The burrito enchilada style (the house specialty), tortillas, and hot sauce are all highly recommended. They have a very popular sweet salsa that is oddly good. Tastes a lot like a thinned out Chinese duck sauce.
One of the most unique restaurants, serving fresh food with a Mediterranean twist. Great outdoor patio, too.
Good specials and great fruit-yogurt-granola bowl.
Burgers, chili & other comfort eats served in this snug diner with offbeat, artsy decor.
Authentic Mexican food - family owned and operated.
The loaded smoked sweet potato may change your life multiple locations.
A large comfort food restaurant in nearby Ozark where their locally famous rolls are thrown at your face instead of given to you. Somewhat pricy but an essential for first-time visitors.
Springfield is famous for its cashew chicken, which is best at this small local chain.
Greasy spoon gastropub type of place.
Good wine list, great eggplant pasta.
Sushi and other Japanese food.
Seafood and they also have good steaks.
Higher-end Italian food.
The best hibachi in town.
Full service buffet, movies, and games.
Available to rent for meetings, weddings, reunions and any other special event needs you may have. It boasts spectacular panoramic views of Springfield.
Longtime, unassuming restaurant providing generous plates of BBQ & comfort eats in a casual setting.
The closest thing to "real" Mexican food in Springfield.
BrewCo (for short)
A pretty good local microbrewery located downtown. In addition to various ales and lagers they have decent pub food. Hosts bands oftentimes at night.
Downtown coffee shop
Downtown coffee shop.
Downtown coffee shop.
Coffee shop a few blocks north of Battlefield Mall on Glenstone. Features a wide variety of hot and cold drinks as well as smoothies and pasties. They have a drive-thru for those in a hurry. They also sell coffee by the pound. Only negative is that the shop is small so seating is limited.
Pappy's Place is a barbecue bar and grill that oozes local flavor. It's been in business since 1971. Look for the Welsh rugby jerseys on the walls along with other historic memorabilia, but it is a dark shotgun bar. Good food and low prices.
The Potter's House serves a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies, and teas. They also feature homemade cookies and brownies. In December 2011, it was voted Ultimate Coffeehouse in Springfield by MSU students. Comfortable place to meet friends, drink coffee, and play games.
Accommodations, Restaurant and Lounge, conference center, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools.
The first and largest of a chain known for its large, wilderness-themed stores & wide array of hunting, fishing & outdoor gear.
JCPenney, Macy's, Dillards, and many more.
RMB
Great used book store if you are looking to buy, sell, or trade Christian-themed material. Largest selection of used homeschool products in the area. For those not looking for Christian-themed books or music, they also offer one of the best collections of classic literature and philosophy of the second-hand shops in town. Books are priced half of retail (exception for collectibles or antiques), and they offer 50% of their price for trade or 25% for cash. They also have a 40% off sale in February and August.
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Springfield · Regional · SGF
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