When was the last time you went out and enjoyed your city as though you were a tourist? Many of us have the tendency to treat our hometown as something comfortable, safe, and perhaps even a little boring. We forget how many beautiful, interesting, and enjoyable attractions are waiting just beyond our doorsteps. If you’re looking for something out-of-the-ordinary to do in the Queen City, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of fun things to do in Springfield, Missouri, compiled with seniors in mind but excellent for people of all ages.
Our Favorite Attractions & Events
Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
When the weather’s nice, locals swarm Nathanael Greene / Close Memorial Park, and it’s easy to see why. The Springfield Botanical Gardens are spectacular, the Butterfly House is a delight, and you can even take a little walk down the South Creek Greenway to see horses! If you’re on the southeast side of town, Sequiota Park is another fantastic option.
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
When you want a little peace and natural beauty, the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is the perfect place. Though technically part of the Springfield Botanical Gardens, it’s separate and requires a small fee. Inside, you’ll find a miniature sanctuary, complete with a koi lake, a moon bridge, a meditation garden, a tea house, and lovely traditional Japanese landscaping.
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
An experience unlike any other, Wonders of Wildlife is the largest immersive wildlife attraction in the world! There are interactive experiences for kids, educational exhibits, an enormous aquarium, and so much more. You could easily spend a few hours exploring this amazing place.
Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Caverns deserves a place on any list of fun things to do in Springfield, MO. It’s perfect for seniors with mobility issues, as you can enjoy a 55-minute ride-through tour. Plus, the cave remains a comfy 60 degrees Fahrenheit all year round!
Route 66 Car Museum
The Route 66 Car Museum is a must-do for car lovers. It showcases a variety of beautiful vintage vehicles and classic automobiles, including a 1907 REO Runabout that still runs!
Springfield Conservation Nature Center
When you want to go on a little hike within the city limits, the Nature Center is the perfect place. Its 80 acres include three miles of walking trails, educational programs, and nature and conservation exhibits.
First Friday Art Walk
On the first Friday of each month, galleries around downtown Springfield open their doors and invite the community to stop by, peruse the art, and sometimes enjoy a little food and entertainment. If you’ve never checked out Art Walk, consider this your invitation! And speaking of art, be sure to check out the Springfield Art Museum, a lovely and approachable museum that offers free admission!
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Looking for a little history? Check out Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, which is where the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi occurred. This national park includes a self-guided tour road and a Visitor Center museum.
Springfield Little Theatre
A volunteer-driven, nonprofit theatre, Springfield Little Theatre puts on a variety of shows each year. Whether you’re partial to the ballet or lively musicals like Mary Poppins and Guys and Dolls, do yourself a favor and check out what the season has in store at the Springfield Little Theatre.
Heirloom Candle Bar
Have you ever made your own candle? Stop by Heirloom Candle Bar to give it a go. Choose a vessel, peruse the wall of scents, and combine your favorites to create a custom candle that perfectly suits your aesthetic and olfactory preferences! This is a new addition to downtown but it’s already one of our favorite fun things to do in Springfield.
Springfield Cardinals Game
Root for the home team at a Springfield Cardinals game at Hammons Field! Minor League Baseball games are always a good time, and you won’t have to worry about shelling out for expensive tickets. It’s a perfect spring or summer outing for sports lovers.
Annual Community Events
Throughout the year, you can find community events featuring food, entertainment, shopping, and more. Two of our favorites are ArtsFest, which happens each spring, and Cider Days, which happens each fall.
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There are so many fun things to do in Springfield, no matter what your age. Which option strikes your fancy? Would you prefer strolling through a Japanese garden, visiting art galleries, or venturing into an amazing cave — or maybe you’ll just do all of the above? Whatever you do, be sure to take advantage of everything the Queen City of the Ozarks has to offer.
At Springhouse Village, we encourage our residents to explore their interests and offer a wide range of activities and events so that there’s always something interesting happening. We make it easy for our residents to participate in our community. Whether that means encouraging residents to join an exercise class or assisting them in starting a garden club, we strive to help our residents thrive. To learn more about the amenities and services we offer, contact Springhouse Village today by sending us a message online or calling 417-708-3403.