Springfield Missouri Tourism

While Springfield may be the third largest city in Missouri, at heart it has small town values and sensibilities. This is just one of the reasons that Springfield is such a wonderful college town. There are all of the attractions that students love with a low crime rate and a sense of security. Let's check out some of the most popular attractions in Springfield!

Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro is undoubtedly the biggest attraction in Springfield. The largest store in the Bass Pro chain, this monster of an outdoors store is a mecca to all of those who like to hunt, fish, boat, or spend time outside. With everything from an animal museum to a boat showroom, this store isn't your ordinary retail outlet. Feeding fish and trying out different fly fishing poles in a class aren't things that other department stores will allow. But at Bass Pro, this and more are everyday activities!

Crystal Cave
If you want to see a cave that has not been changed from its natural splendor, then going to Crystal Cave should be at the top of your vacation itinerary. This cave is privately owned and operated by the elderly couple on whose land it is located. The couple takes great pride in Crystal Cave and personally give 80 minute tours of the many rooms inside the cavern. With a Rainbow Room and stellar formations, this cave is beautifully raw and unhampered with. There is even a Native American burial mound and other artifacts located inside the cave.

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Wilson's Creek is just outside Springfield and was the site of one of Missouri's bloodiest battles during the Civil War. The South ultimately took the battle, but the toll was high. Nathaniel Lyons, the first Union general to die in battle was killed here. The Wilson's Creek Civil War Museum is full of artifacts that were left on the battlefield as troops moved out. You can take a tour of the battlefield and see the farm house that served as a hospital as well as some of the more poignant places that saw heavy fighting during the battle. Whether you are a history fan or not, this place speaks to you and should be visited by all vacationing in the Springfield area.

Dickerson Park Zoo
Both Springfield residents and visitors alike love the Dickerson Park Zoo. This large complex is home to more than 340 animals and is chock full of things to do. See animals from different continents, as well as a special exhibit dedicated to Missouri animals. With cafes, a gift shop, and even a train ride, there is plenty more to do at the Dickerson Park Zoo than view the animals.