Things To Do In Springfield MO | Blog | University Plaza Hotel

Hoop Dreams

Even though 2020 just started, it is already time for NCAA basketball teams to start getting into position for deep postseason runs during March Madness.

The Missouri State Bears are one such team. They hope to find their stride as a team as the Missouri Valley Conference tournament approaches, with an ultimate goal of an NCAA tournament appearance. You can watch as they complete their final fine-tuning in home games against Northern Iowa, Bradley, Valparaiso, Illinois State, and Indiana State in the next month alone. The Bears’ home court, JQH Arena, is only about half a mile from the University Plaza Hotel, so you could even walk to the game. Coach Dana Ford has a highly motivated team featuring star players like Jared Ridder, Lamont West, and Tyrik Dixon. There is nothing quite like the atmosphere of a college basketball game, especially when the postseason is just around the corner.

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Soon It Will Be Christmas Day

As 2019 comes to a close, there will be all kinds of holiday events that you and your family will want to enjoy.

If you are looking for something that brings together the people of Springfield and really kicks off the holiday season, then you will want to attend the 2019 Downtown Christmas Parade. The theme this year is "Silver Bells: It’s Christmas Time in the City," and just like the famous Bing Crosby song, the parade is a great reminder that soon it will be Christmas Day. The parade is on Saturday, December 14 this year, and it starts at 2 pm. This is your opportunity to visit all of the fine shopping establishments in Downtown Springfield, pick out those perfect gifts for all the special people in your life, and stick around for one of the most popular traditions in the city. In addition to floats demonstrating their creativity with the aforementioned theme, there will also be an appearance by Santa Claus himself!

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It's a Beaut, Clark

As we approach the holiday season, it is time to start breaking out all of your favorite holiday movies. One that appears on just about everyone’s list is the 1989 Chevy Chase classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

This incredibly quotable film has become synonymous with Christmas and the holiday season. On November 29, The Historic Gillioz Theatre will be presenting a special screening of the film. The beautiful event space is located only about half a mile from the University Plaza Hotel, so you will not want to miss your chance to take your family to the show. In addition to the screening, there will be a costume contest, a raffle, and lots of fun giveaways. This annual event is perfect for everyone in the family from your own Cousin Eddie to Aunt Bethany. So throw on your Santa Hat, grab a glass of eggnog, and join all of the fun at the Gillioz Theatre to kick off your holiday season.

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Get in the Halloween Spirit

After a seemingly endless summer, the temperatures have finally started to drop. At the same time, people are starting to prepare for a fun and spooky Halloween.

If you prefer your Halloween season to be filled with scares, then you will want to visit two of Springfield’s most popular and oldest haunted houses. The first, Hotel of Terror, opened in 1978 and has been a Springfield favorite ever since. The highlight of the Hotel of Terror is the 96-foot slide that has made the place famous. The newest attraction, Dungeons of Doom, has been developing quite the reputation as well. No matter which of the haunted houses you are able to visit, you are sure to be delighted by thrilling exhibits, frightening monsters, and even some of your favorite Halloween creatures from film and television. Both of these incredible haunted houses are only about 10 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel.

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College Football is Back

With a history that can be traced back all the way to 1909, the Missouri State Bears have playing winning football for over 100 years.

Now that the college football season has begun, you can take in a game and root for the Bears as they try to capture a Missouri Valley Conference Championship. Missouri State plays its games at the beautiful Robert W. Plaster Stadium, just 5 minutes from University Plaza Hotel. The next couple months of football include home games against Kennesaw State, South Dakota, Northern Iowa, South Dakota State, and Indiana State. College sports is where young men and women get to live out their dreams, so you will not want to miss your chance to enjoy a Missouri State football game this season. You will be able to say that you are now a part of the storied history of the college’s football program.

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A Strong Impression

Ventriloquist, actor, singer, and comedian Terry Fator burst onto the scene when he won the top prize on the television program America’s Got Talent in 2007.

Since then, he has been delighting audiences all across the country with his uncanny impressions and impressive vocal range. On Sunday, August 18, Terry Fator will be bringing his talents to the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, just half a mile away from the University Plaza Hotel. Throughout his show, you will be amazed as Terry perfectly imitates famous artists and celebrities like Gnarls Barkley, Garth Brooks, Maroon 5, Kermit the Frog, Etta James, Louis Armstrong, and many more with the help of his puppets Cowboy Walter, Emma Taylor, and Winston the Impersonating Turtle. If you are looking for a night full of laughs and one of a kind entertainment, then you do not want to miss your chance to experience all of the wonder and excitement that Terry Fator provides on a nightly basis.

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Movies in the Park

There is just something special about watching a movie outdoors on the big screen. When a large group of people get together under the stars to watch a popular film, the movie watching experience is just a little more fun.

All summer long, there will be family movies played at Founders Park, just one mile away from University Plaza Hotel. On July 5, the film will be Smallfoot, followed by Second Act the next day. The weekend after that features The Goonies and Jurassic Park on July 12 and July 13 respectively. How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World will be playing on July 19, and Crazy Rich Asians will be featured on July 20. The month wraps up with Incredibles 2 on July 26 and Solo: A Star Wars Story on July 27. Each weekend offers films for the younger kids on one night and something for the older members of your family on the other night. Concessions will be available at each show, so come hungry and ready to enjoy the film!

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The Candy Man Can

Since 2007, Askinosie Chocolate has been whipping delicious treats that are so impressive that it has been called one of the “25 Best Small Companies in America” by Forbes magazine.

Now, you have the opportunity to tour the factory for a behind-the-scenes look at the chocolate making process every Tuesday at 3:30 pm. Tours last about 45 minutes, and they, of course, include plenty of samples along the way. After the tour, you get a 10% discount in the chocolate shop where you can purchase all your favorite sweets. Askinosie Chocolate is located less than 10 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, so this is one experience you will not want to miss. If you have always wanted to know what it is like visiting Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, minus the danger and songs, then a tour of the Askinosie Chocolate Factory is the perfect afternoon outing for you and your family.

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Indulge Your Creative Side

Just about everyone has dreamed of performing on stage in front of a live audience and wowing everyone in the crowd with their musical prowess.

Have you ever wanted to have your own Lady Gaga moment from A Star is Born where the unsuspecting crowd is shocked by your unbelievable natural ability? If so, you will want to hone your skills at Ozarks Writer’s Night at Friends Karaoke Pub. Located only about 15 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, Friends Karaoke Pub is the best spot in all of Springfield for karaoke and live music. At Ozarks Writer’s Night, musicians of all sorts come together to jam, work on lyrics, and collaborate with the many talented people that live in the area. Bring your favorite guitar, and show the world what you have to offer. Ozarks Writer’s Night occurs every Wednesday night, and it is one of the most popular regular live music events in Springfield.

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Namaste

Yoga is truly is for everyone, and it helps you increase flexibility, reduce your weight, maintain a balanced metabolism, improve athletic ability, and basically improves your overall health.

Every Sunday, there are weekly yoga classes in Phelps Grove Park at 6 PM. This beautiful park, one of the prettiest in all of Springfield, is only about 5 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel. These yoga classes are suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. The sessions are led by registered yoga instructors from the Springfield area, and they only ask for a small donation. All you need to bring is a positive attitude, a smile, and your yoga mat. If this is your first experience with yoga, you are sure to develop a love for a style of exercise that you can continue for the rest of your life. If you are a veteran, you will find the beautiful scenery inspiring and the local instructors quite knowledgeable.

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Happy St. Patrick's Day

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, and the 39th Annual Springfield St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the perfect place to celebrate the emerald holiday.

The parade, which takes place Saturday 3/16, is great fun for the whole family, and the route is conveniently located less than 10 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel. All throughout the parade, you and your family will be treated to traditional Irish dancing, live music, and plenty of festive costumes. At the conclusion of the parade, you will want to stick around for Irish themed food and drink from nearby restaurants. The green beer will be flowing, and the corned beef and cabbage are some of the best that you will ever taste in your life. Additionally, there will local merchants selling St. Patrick’s Day themed trinkets and mementos all day long. The event is free, but donations are welcomed to help keep this wonderful tradition going for many years to come.

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Warm Up at the Winter Market

The Farmers Market of the Ozarks Winter Market allows you to have the opportunity to support local businesses all year long.

From now until March 16, the Winter Market will have special hours from 9 am to 1 pm every Saturday. The market includes a heated pavilion and is located just 15 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel. The Farmers Market of the Ozarks features a variety of goods from local farmers, bakers, artisans, and crafters. In addition to delicious seasonal fruits and vegetables, there will also be plenty of handcrafted jewelry and other handmade gifts available. Whether you are looking for honey, jams, or even salsa, you are sure to find just what you need at the Winter Market. Even though the temperatures have been pretty low so far this year, the turnout at the Farmers Market of the Ozarks is always high due to the quality of produce and crafts sold there.

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Take in a Show

When Cabaret in 1966 on Broadway, it immediately became a smash hit. Subsequent runs all across the world proved to be so popular that the stage show was adapted to a successful film in 1972.

From January 17- February 3, you can experience the magic and beauty of Cabaret at Nathan P. Murphy’s Theater. This incredible venue is less than a mile from The University Plaza Hotel, which is only about a 5-minute drive. Cabaret tells the tale of the Kit Kat Klub in Germany just before Hitler’s rise to power. This classic production provides insight into the lives of ordinary Germans of the period and the simultaneous rise of the Nazi party. With classic songs like “Willkommen,” “Maybe This Time,” “Don’t Tell Mama,” and “Cabaret,” this performance is guaranteed to entertain audiences night after night. You will not want to miss your chance to catch this winner of 8 Tony Awards in person.

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Holiday Fun at Bass Pro

Every year, Bass Pro Shops transforms a section of their store into Santa’s Wonderland. The majestic winter-themed display has fun for kids of all ages.

The nearest store to the University Plaza Hotel is only about 10 minutes away. From now until Christmas Eve, there will be a variety of free crafts available including Color a Wood Elf, Write a Letter to Santa, and plenty of other holiday-themed activities. On December 8, 15, and 22, you and your family can enjoy Breakfast with Santa starting at 8 AM. While you enjoy a delicious meal with your family and friends, Santa Claus will mingle with of all of the children. There will also be delightful live holiday music throughout the event. All of the fun concludes with a chance to get your picture with the Big Guy himself! Don’t forget to keep your eyes open for Christmas sales to find the perfect gift for the special people in your life.

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Brothers Osborne in Concert

Who would have thought that two brothers from a small town in Maryland would become country music megastars?

With hit songs like “Rum,” “21 Summer,” It Ain’t My Fault,” “Shoot me Straight,” and “Stay a Little Longer,” Brothers Osborne has become one of the most famous country music acts in the entire world. On November 16, you will have the opportunity to see these two talented siblings perform all of their biggest hits and crowd favorites at the Gillioz Theatre which is only about half a mile from the University Plaza Hotel. The Theatre itself is a treasured piece of Springfield history. Built in 1926, the Gillioz Theatre is the best place to see a concert in the area. If you are a fan of country music or just a fan of live music in general, then you will definitely want to catch the energetic and fun-filled performance from the Brothers Osborne.

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Pumpkin Patch Fun

Autumn is officially here, and that means that Halloween is just around the corner. All month long there will be spooky movies on TV, costume parties to attend, and Jack-O-Lanterns to be carved.

Before you can create the perfect Halloween Jack-O-Lantern, you need the perfect pumpkin. Campbell’s Maze Daze, located about half an hour from the University Plaza Hotel, is just the place to pick your own pumpkin. Campbell’s has acres of pumpkins for you to explore to find the best one for you. In addition to the pumpkin patch, they have an incredible corn maze, fun hayrides, a haunted maze on the weekends, magic shows, karaoke, and even bonfires with live music. This one of a kind pumpkin patch is a great place for the entire family to have fun. After working up an appetite by partaking in all of the fun activities, make your way to the food stands for special Halloween and pumpkin inspired treats.

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Celebrate Military History

The Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks, located only about 10 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, is dedicated to “the restoration, preservation, and display of military history and memorabilia.”

Every week, Tuesday through Saturday, you have the opportunity to tour this unique museum that has been growing every year since its opening in 1989. Since 1989, the museum has collected over 5000 pieces for their collection. New to the museum this year is the F84-F Thunderstreak which was built in 1954 and acquired in May of 2006. Another highlight of the museum is the opportunity to take a simulated flight in a genuine Cobra AH-1S helicopter. Of course, the permanent exhibits filled with vintage memorabilia are always worth a visit. The Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks is an incredible hands-on experience that is a memorial to all of the men and women who have served in the United States military to help preserve our nation’s freedoms.

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Stop the Presses

When “Newsies” hit the Broadway stage in 2012, it quickly became a favorite for critics and audiences alike. The hit play is based on the 1992 Disney film and tells the story of Jack Kelly who leads a band of newspaper boys during the 1899 Newsboys Strike in New York City.

The traveling version of the Broadway hit will be performed at the Springfield Little Theatre from September 14-October 7. “Newsies” features toe-tapping hits and a Tony Award-winning score by legendary conductor Alan Menken. This show demonstrates just what can be accomplished when people come together. Jack gathers his fellow Newsies in order to stand up against the terrible conditions and low wages that are being forced upon them. The timeless message is as relevant today as it was when the film came out in the early 1990s. After seeing just one performance, “Newsies” is sure to become one of your all-time favorite musicals.

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Tennis Anyone?

The Springfield Lasers have been providing exciting professional tennis to the city for over 20 years. The team has been successful in their time in Springfield, winning Western Conference Championships in 1999, 2001, 2009, 2013, and 2014.

Their home stadium, Mediacom Tennis Stadium at Cooper Tennis Complex, is less than ten minutes from the University Plaza Hotel. The current team, Jack Sock, Abigail Spears, Vania King, Daniel Nestor, and Miomir Kecmanovic, hope to help the team continue their winning ways this season. In July alone, the team has home matches against the San Diego Aviators on July 18, the New York Empire on July 19, the Orange County Breakers on July 20, the Philadelphia Freedoms on July 22, the Empire again on July 28, the Washington Kastles on July 30, and finally the Freedoms again on July 31. Watching professional tennis live is one of the most exciting experiences in all of sports, so you will not want to miss your opportunity to see the Springfield Lasers in action.

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Haunted History

The Pythian Home of Missouri, also known as Pythian Castle, is an actual haunted attraction with a rich and spooky history. Located less than 10 minutes from The University Plaza Hotel, the Pythian Castle offer both history and haunted tours.

The attraction was originally built by the Knights of Pythias in 1913 as a home for elderly and needy members as well as widows and children. Later, the property was owned and run by the US military for over 50 years. Throughout that time, Pythian Castle has gained a reputation of being haunted by some of its former inhabitants. History tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 11 am and Monday through Sunday at 2:30 pm. For those more interested in the supernatural aspects of the castle, Night Time Ghost Tours are offered on Tuesdays and Fridays. This hour and a half tour is filled with ghost stories, history, and lots of fun.

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Stroll The Garden

The peaceful, tranquility of nature is something that all of us yearn for from time to time. The 7.5 acre Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden at the Springfield Botanical Gardens is the perfect place to relax and calm your soul with a casual walk.

Located just 15 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is home to a moon bridge, meditation garden, koi lake, tea house, and traditional Japanese garden landscaping. Imagine walking hand in hand with the one you love as you make your way around the koi lake, stopping to look at the majestic fish as they swim. Think about the serenity you will feel when you turn off your mind and just admire the landscape and plant life all around you. The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in all of Springfield and in fact, the entire state.

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Catch Baseball Fever

All of your favorite Major League Baseball players likely got their start in the minor leagues so that they could hone in on their skills and really be ready for “The Show.” When you attend a Springfield Cardinals baseball game, you will have the chance to see the players who will be starring for the St. Louis Cardinals in just a few short years.

The beautiful home diamond, Hammons Field, is only about half a mile from the University Plaza Hotel, so you could easily walk to the game if the weather cooperates. Catcher Andrew Knizner, outfielders Randy Arozarena and Jordan Schafer, and pitcher Corey Littrell all made good impressions during Spring Training and will be starting the season with the Springfield Club. Hard-throwing prospect Conner Greene, part of the Randal Grichuk trade, will also begin the season with the club as he starts what the organization hopes is a long career with the Cardinals. When you attend a minor league baseball game, you might just see the next big superstar right before they are about to take off to Major League stardom.

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Walk on the Wild Side

Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is one of the largest wildlife attractions in the entire world. The mission of this one of a kind museum is to allow visitors the opportunity to take a journey around the world while also educating the next generation on the wonders and beauty of the natural world.

Located less than 10 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, the museum has a 1.5 million gallon aquarium featuring 35,000 live fish, mammals, birds, and reptiles. Additionally, visitors are able to explore 1.5 miles of immersive trails and exhibits. The museum and aquarium are open seven days a week with admission options including aquarium only, museum only, and combination tickets. While exploring the aquarium, be sure to keep your eyes open for zebra sharks, leopard rays, and the wildly popular sea turtles. Johnny Morris’ allows you the opportunity to experience the great outdoors in a wonderful indoor complex.

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Hall of Fame

What do Stan Musial, Jim Edmonds, Bill Bradley, Jackie Stiles, Steve Stipanovich, Hale Irwin, and Dick Vermeil have in common? They are all just a few of the many athletes who have been inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.

This unique Hall of Fame is about more than just athletic dominance. In fact, inductees to the hall include successful athletes who were born in Missouri or played a large portion of their careers in the state, coaches, and other contributors that helped shape athletics in the Missouri. Located about 15 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame is open daily, and admission is only $5. Missouri has been home to some of the greatest baseball, soccer, football, basketball, golf, and hockey players that have ever played their sport. At the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, they are appropriately honored for their amazing accomplishments and historic contributions to sports in Missouri.

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College Hoops

The Missouri Valley Conference is one of the most exciting mid-major conferences in all of college basketball. This year, the Missouri State Bears have started the season with a promising 13-4 record. Missouri State’s home court, JQH Arena, is only about half a mile from University Plaza Hotel so you could walk to the game if the weather cooperates.

In the next couple of months, the team has multiple home games against conference rivals that you can attend. If you are able to visit in January or February, you can see the Bears take on Indiana State, Valparaiso, Southern Illinois, Illinois State, Evansville, Drake, and Bradley. Hopefully, the team gets on a hot streak as they approach the MVC tournament and hopefully a bid to the NCAA tournament. With stars like Alize Johnson, JT Miller, Obediah Church, Reggie Scurry, and Jarred Dixon, the team is primed for an extended postseason run.

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Christmas Bash at Bass Pro

From now until December 24, Bass Pro Shop will be transformed into Santa’s Wonderland to help celebrate the holiday season. This event is the perfect opportunity to do some holiday shopping while also enjoying some family style holiday fun.

Bass Pro Shop is less than 10 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, so it is a very convenient stop for you and your family. All month long, Bass Pro Shop will be offering free pictures with Santa as well as a free wooden picture frame. There will also be fun craft activities and fun for the little ones. They can create cabins and houses in the Lincoln Logs Building Area. A Laser Or Foam Toy Arcade allows participants to practice their shooting skills in a safe way. In between playing with remote control cars and perusing the holiday sales in stores, your kids can even write their own letters to Santa Claus.

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Cheers to Local Beers

It is always fun to sample the local beer offerings when visiting a new city. Whether this is your first or fortieth trip to Springfield, you should definitely check out Mother’s Brewing Company during your stay.

This local favorite was established in 2011, and they have 21 taps in their Tasting Room for you to sample. Located only 5 minutes from the University Plaza Hotel, Mother’s Brewing Company has weekly events to go along with their delicious beers. Tuesday is game night, Wednesday features live music, Friday has food trucks, and Saturday is tour day. The Tasting Room is exceptional every day of the week, but the tour offers an insightful behind the scenes look at the brewing process. In November, there will also be an exciting beer release event. On November 17, at 6 PM, Mother’s Brewing Company will release their new Foggy Notion offering. After one visit, you are sure to find your new favorite beer.

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Bring Your Wedding Ideas to University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and we understand the importance of organization and order. We want you to have an uniquely special day while treating your guests like royalty. After all, aren’t weddings just an excuse to celebrate love amongst your friends and family?

Select from 39,000 square feet of elegant wedding space which includes two stately ballrooms, indoor and outdoor areas, and a courtly sun deck. A space this beautiful makes planning easy. Bring your wedding ideas and we’ll do the rest. Whether you’ve been planning since childhood or you are just getting started, our expert team will bring your dreams to life. From lavish banquets to first-class catering, we have the winning combination for an unforgettable celebration. Discover the breathtaking opportunities at our luxurious hotel and request a quote today. For more information click here.

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The Top Three Attractions in Springfield, Missouri

Whether you are joining us for a jammed-packed convention or fun-filled vacation, squeeze in these brilliant tourist attractions before you leave. Springfield is the third largest city in Missouri, bringing world-class venues worth exploring.

Discovery Center of Springfield | 438 E St. Louis St. | 417-862-9910

Established in 1980, this interactive hands-on science center focuses on learning, discovering, and playing. Perfect for families and children of all ages, the center features hundreds of exhibitions on chemistry, energy, health, culture, physics, the environment, and more. Take note, it is the first southwest Missouri LEED Gold Certified building, making it an example of what it preaches.

Dickerson Park Zoo | 3040 North Fort | 417-864-1800

Explore an impressive collection of over 500 live animals from 160 different species. The zoo includes an animal hospital and rehabilitation program, making it a place of learning and caring. Both the animals and the staff have been described as super friendly, so head over for a great day of adventure in the sun.

Fantastic Caverns | 4872 N. Farm Road 125 | 417-833-2010

All the excitement of a exploring a cave without the danger or hardship of having to walk or climb. The only all-riding cave tour in America. Sit back and relax as a Jeep-drawn tram leads you along the ancient river path that once ran through this stunning and preserved cave. Ideal for families, seniors, and small children.

Visit one or all three and let us know what you think. Welcome to Missouri!

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Hoop Dreams

Soon It Will Be Christmas Day

It's a Beaut, Clark

Get in the Halloween Spirit

College Football is Back

A Strong Impression

Movies in the Park

The Candy Man Can

Indulge Your Creative Side

Namaste

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Warm Up at the Winter Market

Take in a Show

Holiday Fun at Bass Pro

Brothers Osborne in Concert

Pumpkin Patch Fun

Celebrate Military History

Stop the Presses

Tennis Anyone?

Haunted History

Stroll The Garden

Catch Baseball Fever

Walk on the Wild Side

Hall of Fame

College Hoops

Christmas Bash at Bass Pro

Cheers to Local Beers

Bring Your Wedding Ideas to University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center

The Top Three Attractions in Springfield, Missouri