Are you looking to visit Springfield, Missouri but only have a couple of days? Not to worry!
Curated by a local, here is a short guide of Springfield featuring all the highlights and must-see sights.
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
Springfield, Missouri is a mid-sized city in the Midwest, but it’s anything but ordinary. Hometown of Brad Pitt, the birthplace of Route 66, Springfield-style cashew chicken, and the world’s largest fork – this eclectic city has a lot to offer.
In this Ultimate 2-Day Guide to Springfield, you’ll get the perfect mix of urban sights, delicious food, wildlife, and nature.
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
Day 1
Kick-off your first day in Springfield by taking a stroll around downtown.
When visiting somewhere new, my favorite thing to do is walk around and see what the heart of the city has to offer. Here are some of my personal favorite shops to pop into downtown.
– SOAP
Take a Break at European Cafe
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
After wandering around downtown, it’s time for a macaron and coffee stop at European Café.
Located at: 207 Park Central E, Springfield, MO 65806
Have Lunch at Civil Kitchen
Photo courtesy of Civil Kitchen
Civil Kitchen offers a large variety of made-from-scratch dishes that will launch your taste buds on a delicious journey. Whether you like a classic veggie wrap or perhaps a more unique lunch like chicken and donuts, Civil Kitchen has many tasty choices to choose from.
Located at: 107 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806
See the World’s Largest Fork
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
This gigantic fork holds the title of the largest fork in the world standing 35-feet high and weighing 11 tons... now that’s a big bite!
Located at: 2215 W Chesterfield St, Springfield, MO 65807
Wonders of Wildlife
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
Now that you’ve seen the world’s largest fork, it’s time to experience the world’s largest immersive wildlife attraction. Johnny Morris’s Wonders of Wildlife Museum is a must-see during your time in Springfield.
Located at: 500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807
Have Dinner at Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub
Photo courtesy of Jimm's Steakhouse & Pub
Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub is a classic staple of Springfield. This affordable and delicious steakhouse offers a variety of dishes such as steaks, salads, chicken, and salmon. Jimm’s books up quickly, so make sure to call in advance for a reservation!
Located at: 1935 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804
Day 2
Now that you’ve had a day to familiarize yourself with the highlights of Springfield, it’s time to visit one of the most historic areas of the city – Commercial Street. This Historic District of Springfield developed between 1870-1935.
Shop for a Thrifty Nifty Find
Photo by Natalie Laturno
Take some time to explore the many thrift stores and unique boutiques that Commercial Street has to offer. Here are some of my favorites:
– Ms. Gilmore’s Tea Room & Boutique
– MJ’s Flea Market
Have Lunch at Lindberg’s – Springfield’s Oldest Tavern.
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
Lindberg’s is without a doubt one of the most tasty and unique places to dine in Springfield. While this historic tavern was once a brothel and listed as a place of “ill repute” in the 1880s, it has since redeemed itself and is now serving some of the most delicious food in Springfield.
Located at: 318 W Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803
Snap a Photo at the “Do Good” Mural
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
Grab your camera and take a photo ant the most popular mural on Commercial Street!
Location: 219 W Commercial St Ste 100, Springfield, MO 65803
Spend an Afternoon at Bear Creek Wine Company
Photo by Natalie LaTurno
After you’ve explored Commercial Street, it’s time to relax and enjoy a glass of wine at Bear Creek Winery. Located about 20 minutes outside of Springfield, this scenic setting is the perfect place to end your trip to Springfield.
Bear Creek offers an extensive wine selection along with delicious homemade pizzas and small plates. For more info about Bear Creek, you can read a detailed blog post here, or check out their website here.
Location: 1320 Keithley Rd, Walnut Shade, MO 65771.
That concludes the Ultimate 2-Day Guide to Springfield, Missouri.
I hope you enjoyed this 2-Day Guide to Springfield!
If you’d like to experience more of Springfield, check out The History Lover’s Guide to Springfield, MO, or The Outdoor Lover’s Guide to Springfield, MO.
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