Museums & Historic Sites

Cars at the Route 66 Car Museum.

Whether your interests are in local history or events of the past that shaped our nation, historical sites and museums in Springfield will provide education and entertainment for hours. Some are well known while others are quirky and off the beaten path, and they all are worth exploring.

Founded in 1835 and incorporated three years later, the city itself is rich in history. Downtown Springfield, in fact, was the site of a Civil War battle and the second major battle of the war took place just southwest of the city where Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield stands today. The first recorded quick-draw shootout of the Wild West era took place on the town square and the Trail of Tears went through the city. You can find information about local history at The History Museum on the Square and Founders Park.

For the outdoorsy types, check out the museums inside Bass Pro Shops ® Outdoor World ® and be sure to visit the new Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, a world-class facility showcasing wildlife and sea creatures from around the world.

Other museums and historic sites to explore include the unique History of Hearing Museum, Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, Lew’s Ozark Fishing Museum to learn about the beginnings of rod and reel entrepreneur Lew Childre and legendary fishing guide J. D. Fletcher, The Missouri Institute of Natural Science offering fossils and minerals from around the world, the Railroad Historical Museum, the Springfield Fire Department Museum and others.