Stop In Springfield!
It’s the heart of the Ozarks and is a must-stop! In fact, I’d plan on staying for several days in Springfield, Missouri, because there is so much to do and see. Whatever brings you to the “Show-Me State,” be sure to Stop in Springfield because it is filled with unique, impressive, and memorable attractions, from the Ozarks’ natural beauty to the vibrancy of a metropolitan city.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
This is the world’s first and largest Bass Pro Shop—the granddaddy of all Outdoor Stores! It’s enormous and has an abundance of family-friendly wildlife, attractions, and amenities. This is not just a store—it’s an experience and a “must-see” when visiting the Ozarks.
At 500,000 square feet, this massive store focuses on the beauty of the outdoors and immersive shopping fun. In fact, this creative outdoor-themed experience has become the number one tourist destination in Missouri. Annually, it attracts fourmillion families, sportsmen, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Cave State
Missouri is known as the Cave State. Amazingly, it has more than 6,400 caves. Several of the caves here are accessible to those with mobility issues, and Fantastic Caverns even features the nation’s first drive-through cave, which is also perfect for small children.
Smallin Cave’s history dates to the Civil War. The basic tour is just a half-mile, has no stairs, and can accommodate those in wheelchairs. Seasonally, Civil War Lantern Tours are conducted around a campfire with stories and a Southern meal followed by a trip through the cave by lantern light.
Route 66 Car Museum
Located along the famed and historic Mother Road is the 20,000-square-foot Route 66 Car Museum. It features a 75-car collection of sports cars, 1907 to 1980 classics, and even some famous movie cars. This privately owned collection is a popular destination for history buffs and classic car enthusiasts. Naturally, Springfield hosts the annual Birthplace of Route 66 Festival each August.
Accommodations
Springfield offers boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and everything in between, with more than 6,000 hotel rooms at every price point. I stayed at the beautiful Hotel Vandivort, a former Masonic temple. It is chicly elegant yet still has that small-town charm.
Springfield is the perfect vacation destination for all ages. Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, it offers so much to keep visitors entertained, educated, and excited about their visit.…and that is why you should Stop in Springfield!
