Only in Ozark

The historic mill on the Finley River.

Travelers heading between Springfield and Branson on U.S. 65 have good reason to make a pit stop in the thriving community of Ozark. Its midwest charm, local restaurants and unique shops combine to create an experience exclusive to the Missouri Ozarks.

he Ozark Courthouse Square Historic District is quintessential Americana. The historic courthouse sits in the center with local shops and restaurants surrounding it. Iguana Roja Restaurante, specializing in contemporary Latin-American cuisine, is one of those restaurants. The award-winning Lizard King Chicken Wings are a must-try with your choice of four flavors — El Diablo, Strawberry Heat, IgRo Buffalo and Chipotle Agave. The Margarita Fajitas are also highly recommended. Also on the Square,

Spring Creek Tea Room is an antique shop and elegant lunchtime eatery. Featuring delicious soups, sandwiches and a variety of mouthwatering cakes and pies.

Spring Creek Tea Room isn’t the only antique store in town. There is a section of Ozark known as the “Antiques District” where antique shops are just a short distance from one another. Browse for special treasures at Camp Flea Antique Mall + Vintage Market, Keen Eye Antiques and others.

A hiking trail along the banks of the Finley River.

A visit to Ozark isn’t complete without a visit to the famous Lambert’s Cafe. Heads up! They’re known for “Throwed Rolls” where servers toss the melt-in-your-mouth bread to customers. Lather some sorghum onto your roll and you’re in for a treat. The hot rolls and sorghum are part of the “pass arounds” that come with your meal and also include macaroni and tomatoes, fried potatoes and onions, black-eyed peas and fried okra. The chicken fried round steak, roast beef and barbecue ribs are popular menu items.

Shops on the Ozark square.

Finley River Park After a meal at Lambert’s Cafe, you might need a little exercise and Ozark’s Finley River Park is the perfect place for that. This picturesque park, located off Missouri 14, is a clean and fun destination for anyone looking to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Ozarks. With lots of space to play and roam, the Finley River Park is perfect for picnics, evening strolls, fishing, paddling and more. The park is home to a number of festivals and activities every year including the Christian County Fair, the Hot Air Balloon Glow and the Christmas light display.

One of the more unique movie-going experiences the Ozarks has to offer is at the B & B Theatres Marquee Suites. Here, film buffs can relax in plush leather recliners during the movie while being served from a full bar and menu. Smallin Civil War Cave Smallin Civil War Cave is a fascinating glimpse into the past. Along with seeing the beauty of the huge cave opening where a spring gushes water year-round and rocks are covered in lush green moss and ferns, guests learn lessons about history, geology, paleontology and nature as they walk on the half-mile paved path that takes them through the cave.