There are a number of exciting museums to experience in the Queen City — and they're all free of charge! Some are more well-known while some are a little quirky and off the beaten path. But they all help make Springfield what it is today and are definitely worth exploring!
Archery Hall of Fame
Archery Hall of Fame in Bass Pro Shops® Outdoor World® in Springfield, Missouri.
Located in Bass Pro Shops® Outdoor World®, this 3,500 square foot facility has a collection of some of the most unique memorabilia depicting archery history available anywhere in the world.
Battle of Springfield Tour
Battle of Springfield Tour in Springfield, Missouri.
This self-guided tour in downtown Springfield explores the January 1863 Battle of Springfield. Twelve markers placed throughout the battleground commemorate where defenses were organized, troops gathered supplies, injured soldiers were hospitalized and homes were burned.
Calaboose
Calaboose in Springfield, Missouri.
The Calaboose is tucked away in downtown Springfield but is a fascinating glimpse into Springfield’s history. Built in 1891 as a jail, this federally recognized historical restoration returns the structure to use as a police substation with a police museum on the first floor. Tours are only available by appointment most weekdays.
Civil War Library at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
A park employee at the Civil War Library at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield in Springfield, Missouri.
With about 6,000 volumes, the library at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield has one of the largest collections of bound volumes on the Civil War in the National Parks Service.
Dr. Michael J. Clarke History Museum of Ozarks Scouting
Dr. Michael J. Clarke History Museum of Ozarks Scouting in Springfield, Missouri.
Located in the Clarence and Edna Wheeler Scout Service Center as the only Boy Scout Museum in Missouri. There is also a nice walking trail you can enjoy.
History of Hearing Museum
History of Hearing Museum in Springfield, Missouri.
Yes, there is such a thing as a History of Hearing Museum and we have one right here in Springfield! Marvel at the hearing assistance devices from yesteryear. Enjoy full displays with an expert curator on staff for an informative experience. We’d love to hear what you think about this one!
Lew's Ozark Fishing Museum
Lew's Ozark Fishing Museum in Springfield, Missouri.
With big daddy Bass Pro Shops in town, you may not have heard of this gem. See historic beginnings of rod and reel entrepreneur Lew Childre, and legendary Ozarks White River fishing guide, J. D. Fletcher, who established the Devil’s Dive Resort on Table Rock Lake.
Missouri Institute of Natural Science - Riverbluff Cave
Missouri Institute of Natural Science - Riverbluff Cave in Springfield, Missouri.
The museum has a plethora of fossils from around the world as well as all the fossils from Riverbluff Cave. It’s a fascinating look into the history of the Ozarks and prehistoric life on Earth.
NRA® National Sporting Arms Museum
NRA® National Sporting Arms Museum in Springfield, Missouri.
Also located in Bass Pro Shops® Outdoor World®, see over 1,000 firearms that trace the history of hunting, conservation and freedom in this fascinating museum. You can visit this museum along with the Archery Hall of Fame all in one spot.
Railroad Historical Museum, Inc.
Railroad Historical Museum, Inc. in Springfield, Missouri.
There are many hands-on things for children to do at this museum dedicated to the preservation of the history of railroading. Kids can ring the bell and explore the cab of the Frisco 4524 locomotive, the Burlington Baggage Car, the Chicago Northwestern Commuter Car and the Burlington Northern Caboose. Open May through October.
Springfield Art Museum
Springfield Art Museum in Springfield, Missouri.
This beautiful museum is the permanent home for some 10,996 art objects representing thousands of years of culture. The museum features special collections which include 19th, 20th, and 21st century American paintings, watercolor, sculpture and prints.
Springfield Softball Hall of Fame Museum
Springfield Softball Hall of Fame Museum in Springfield, Missouri.
Operated by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, this museum features the Springfield and Missouri ASA Hall of Fame with displays dating from the 1920s, including state, regional and national tournaments; Sister City Isesaki, Japan, uniforms; trophies; photos and much more!
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