While you may head to Springfield for its urban and cultural offerings, be sure to spend some time outdoors, too. Did you know Springfield is a premier golf destination in Missouri? Did you know there are plenty of great nature getaways in Springfield? From beautiful parks to nature centers, golf courses and nature trails, and one pretty popular shopping spot, Springfield is home to amazing nature getaways and hours of outdoor fun.
Morning
A. Ozark Greenways
Start your nature getaways in Springfield with a stroll, run or ride on one of the nature trails in the Ozark Greenway network, which includes the 35-mile Frisco Highline Trail. Trailheads are located at various points throughout the city. Three nature trails in the network have been designated as National Recreation Trails by the National Park Service. They are: The Frisco Highline Trail, Galloway Creek Greenway and South Creek Greenway.
B. Springfield Conservation Nature Center
Springfield Conservation Nature Center is a great place to enjoy nature getaways in the Show-Me-State. This 80-acre slice of the Ozark outdoors, within the city limits of Springfield, is a place to connect with nature and to learn the importance of conserving it, too. Enjoy three miles of walking nature trails, attend programs, and explore exhibits. The nature trails are open to foot traffic only.
Evening
A. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
One of the most-popular attractions in Missouri, this is the granddaddy of all outdoor stores. Every year, more than 4 million people visit this megastore of outdoor activities. Explore the 500,000-square-foot store that’s loaded with unique features, including a Tracker Boat showroom, an indoor firing range, and thousands of items and supplies for outdoor pursuits.
B. Farmers Gastropub
Farmers Gastropub is a British-style community pub, located downtown in the Wilhoit Plaza. The menu changes seasonally to align with what the market has to offer.
Afternoon
A. Bill and Payne Stewart Golf Course
Many nature getaways involve chasing that little white ball, and Springfield is an outstanding golf destination in Missouri. If your idea of outdoor fun involves teeing it up for long drives and "gimme" putts, head to this course. This golf destination is named for two legendary Ozarks golfers: Missouri Amateur winner Bill Stewart, and his son, the late Payne Stewart, who won on the PGA tour 11 times.