Looking ahead to 2026? Springfield, Missouri has a lot to be excited about. From major infrastructure projects and public art to new restaurants and nationally recognized celebrations, the city is stepping into a year filled with momentum, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a visitor planning your next trip or a local eager to see what’s coming next, here’s some things you should get excited about.
National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff
Springfield is gearing up to host the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff from April 30–May 3, 2026, a once-in-a-lifetime celebration marking 100 years of America’s most iconic highway. As the official host city and birthplace of Route 66, Springfield will be the center of major festivities including a nationally broadcast concert with A-list entertainment, historic dedications, classic car shows, lively parades, and community activities that honor the road’s legacy and cultural impact.
With live entertainment, educational experiences, drone shows, and special ceremonies celebrating both the Mother Road and America’s 250th birthday, this multi-day event promises unforgettable moments for visitors and locals alike. Learn more about this amazing celebration here!
Jefferson Avenue Footbridge
Built in 1902, the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge has long served as a vital connection between Springfield’s north and south sides. After closing in 2016 for safety reasons, the historic 562-foot truss bridge is set for a meaningful return in 2026, aligning with both the Route 66 Centennial and America’s 250th birthday.
A public rededication is planned for Saturday, May 2, 2026, with a special lighting ceremony the evening prior near Commercial Street and Jefferson Avenue. Learn more about this here!
Grant Avenue Parkway
The Grant Avenue Parkway is transforming one of Springfield’s corridors into a more connected, people-friendly gateway. Stretching roughly three miles from Sunshine Street to College Street, the project adds an off-street pedestrian and bicycle path that links downtown Springfield with Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium.
Years in the making, the parkway has already sparked nearby development, including new housing, neighborhood reinvestment, and the opening of the Risdal Family Center for Great Futures, a Boys & Girls Club of Springfield facility. As final landscaping and finishing touches wrap up, the Grant Avenue Parkway stands as one of the city’s largest and most impactful public works projects.
Renew Jordan Creek Project
Rendering courtesy of Renew Jordan Creek Project
The Renew Jordan Creek effort isn’t just another construction project, it’s a transformative investment to bring downtown Springfield’s historic urban stream back to life. Phase 1 of the daylighting project is well underway and expected to continue through late 2026, opening up a more natural channel for Jordan Creek that will reduce historic flooding, improve water quality, and create new green spaces in the heart of the city.
New Public Art Installations
Springfield’s public art scene is getting an exciting boost as part of the Route 66 Centennial celebration, with new installations and dedications that blend history, creativity, and community pride. Artworks include a striking sculptural tribute at Birthplace Plaza honoring the very site where Route 66 got its name, the dramatic Queen’s Gate 66 monument welcoming travelers into town, and a citywide Route 66 sculpture series featuring uniquely decorated shield sculptures on public display across Springfield.
These installations, along with place-making pieces already enhancing spots like Broadway and the College Street Corridor, create fresh opportunities for exploration and photo-worthy moments while celebrating Springfield’s identity as the Birthplace of Route 66. Learn more about the dedications here.
New & Returning Restaurants
Springfield’s food scene continues to grow in 2026 with a mix of new arrivals and returning favorites that reflect the city’s evolving culinary identity. Restaurants like Hawaiian Bros, Tie & Timber Pizza Kitchen, The Safe Spoon, Mumbles 1888 and Scratch & Co. bring fresh concepts, bold flavors, and creative menus to the table, while the highly anticipated reopening of Ebbets Field adds a familiar favorite back into the dining lineup.
World Cup Travel Momentum
Springfield may not be a host city, but with World Cup matches happening in Kansas City, the Ozarks are just an easy drive away. A few hours south, Springfield offers a more laid-back and budget-friendly place to stay while still being close to all the action. It’s the perfect spot to mix match-day excitement with Route 66 stops, outdoor adventures, and time exploring a welcoming downtown, whether you’re stopping through before a game or sticking around afterward.
A Packed Calendar of Annual Events
From festivals and fairs to arts and cultural celebrations, Springfield’s annual events lineup continues to deliver year after year, giving visitors plenty of reasons to plan a trip around their favorite experiences. Check out these annual events coming up that you won’t want to miss.
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