The Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park is known for housing the Springfield Botanical Gardens. The park features themed gardens, an arboretum, a butterfly house, a solar tram, play areas for kids and a lake. It is also linked to the South Creek Greenway which has 8-mile (12.8 kilometers) long trails for activities like hiking and biking. They also conduct demonstrations and various activities to educate visitors about the lifecycle of plants.
The Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is a stunning site that features above 225 species of animals, aquariums both fresh and saltwater, attractive displays, interactive sessions, and also educational programs. The visitors get to watch the natural native habitat and wildlife species of Missouri, the pond life from beneath, a 'Out to Sea' exhibit that features a 21 feet deep and 225,000 gallon aquarium which is a home of the sharks and several tropical fishes. The museum also hosts several receptions that can accommodate large crowds. However, the one thing to remember while visiting the aquarium cum zoo is that opening times vary.
The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum tells the history of hunting and the story of how firearms evolved over the centuries. They have exhibits of over 1,000 firearms used since pre-colonial times. They even showcase firearms used by Hollywood movies by stars like Clint Eastwood, Marlon Brando, John Wayne, Steve McQueen and Charles Bronson amongst many others.
Established in June 2016, the Route 66 Car Museum is nestled close to the historic Route 66 passing through Springfield. The major draw of the museum is its collection that includes more than 75 vintage cars, some of which were featured in popular movies and television series. The exhibits here include REO Runabout from 1907, Packard Single Six Series Sedan (1922), Nash Tudor 2Dr Convertible (1925), Austin Bantam 5W Coupe (1930), Buick 96-S Country Club Coupe (1932), Cord 810 Convertible Coupe “Sportsman” (1936) and many more. Moreover, the Route 66 Car Museum is also the home of the Batmobile which was featured in the 1960s Batman series.
If the kids are bored with the video games and are yearning for something far from the ordinary, Pay a visit to Fantastic Caverns, a spectacular underground chamber. Discovered in 1862 by John Knox's hunting dog, these huge caverns are filled with stalactites and stalagmites. All tours take place on a guided jeep-pulled tram in order to preserve the natural features and each tour lasts about an hour. The underground temperature remains at or near 60 degrees, so dress appropriately. Another thing to remember before visiting the cave is that hours of operation vary as per season.
Created in 1985, Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is one of Springfield Botanical Gardens' popular attractions. This Japanese-style landscape garden features the Zig-Zag Bridge, the Moon Bridge, the Gazebo, the Tea House and stepping stones. They help arrange weddings and other parties. Pay a visit to this park if you seek to spend a day amidst nature.
Oldest house in the city, the Gray Campbell Farmstead is located on South Scenic Drive, that dates back to 1896. Constructed by James Gray, the house was later bought by John Campbell. The house gives the visitors an insight into lifestyle of the 1800s.
Pool Art Center Museum is recognized for its fine art collection and related art programs. These programs are held at the upper levels of the museum building whereas on the first floor you can see the gallery showcasing national and local exhibits. On the exterior end, there are two sculpture pieces placed in the front lawn area. The gallery is closed after the last Monday of the month until the first day of the next month.
The Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park is known for housing the Springfield Botanical Gardens. The park features themed gardens, an arboretum, a butterfly house, a solar tram, play areas for kids and a lake. It is also linked to the South Creek Greenway which has 8-mile (12.8 kilometers) long trails for activities like hiking and biking. They also conduct demonstrations and various activities to educate visitors about the lifecycle of plants.