Animals in a natural setting, butterflies, beautiful gardens and a national recreation trail – all elements of nature that you’re sure to enjoy.
Missouri Native Butterfly House with garden is open May 15 - Sept 30. Learn about the four life-cycle stages of butterfly development. Surrounding parks open year-round, many additional gardens, walking trails, lake and picnic areas.
2400 S. Scenic, 417-683-3733
Wild Animal Safari is a walk-through and 250 acre drive-through animal park where customers can interact with hundreds of different animals. Open at 10 a.m. daily, call for closing times.
124 Jungle Dr., Strafford; 417-859-5300
Fresh, local, organic and sustainable foods cooked with passion. Bistro dining. Sports TVs in Pub; free Wi-Fi.
431 S. Jefferson Ave., Suite 160. 417-864-6994
This beautifully landscaped 7.5 acre garden includes a teahouse, moon bridge, moon deck and pagoda, all connected by winding paths and bridges.
2400 S. Scenic Ave., Nathanael Greene Park, 417-864-1049. April – October
Frisco Highline Trail is a 35-mile Rail-to-Trail project connecting Springfield to Bolivar. The trail has a crushed gravel surface. A 10-mile equestrian section parallels the trail from Willard to Walnut Grove. Designated as a National Recreation Trail.
Kearney Street and Eldon Road, 417-864-2015
Award-winning craft beer prepared in-house along with an extensive menu including local favorites like fish and chips. Live music is played nightly.
305 S. Market Ave., 417-832-8277
American-Mediterranean cuisine. Voted best restaurant, tapas, happy hour and outdoor dining by local magazine.
1620 E. Republic Rd., 417-823-8383
The Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, established in 1992, demonstrates the efficient use of water in landscaping and provides an attractive area for strolling and relaxing in an urban setting.
S. National Ave. and Linwood St. Self-guided.