Last updated: 2025-04-22
Springfield’s indoor attractions offer a perfect escape from unpredictable Ozarks weather, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. From historical exhibits to interactive museums, visitors can explore diverse experiences that capture the city’s unique character.
Whether diving into military history at the Air & Military Museum or discovering wildlife wonders, Springfield’s indoor destinations provide engaging entertainment for all ages and interests. Each venue offers a distinctive glimpse into the heart of southwest Missouri.
Discover Springfield’s coolest indoor adventures right here!
Featured Indoor Activities in Springfield
- Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
- Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
- Discovery Center of Springfield
- Gillioz Theatre
- Springfield Art Museum
- Moxie Cinema
- History Museum on the Square
- Relics Antique Mall
- Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks
- Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center
Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks
What to Expect
Hands-on military history museum with extensive artifact collection
Description
The Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks provides an immersive military history experience with over 5,000 historical pieces. Visitors can explore vintage aircraft, military equipment, and interactive exhibits showcasing restoration projects and educational programs for students and military enthusiasts.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
What to Expect
Massive wildlife museum-style retail environment
Description
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World offers an immersive indoor retail experience showcasing extensive hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear collections. The flagship store features massive wildlife displays, aquariums, and museum-like exhibits of taxidermied animals and nature-themed environments that transform shopping into an educational exploration.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Discovery Center of Springfield
What to Expect
Largest Midwest gallery of giant animatronic dinosaurs
Description
The Discovery Center of Springfield offers an immersive science museum with 60,000 square feet of interactive exhibits across six floors. Visitors can explore diverse galleries featuring animatronic dinosaurs, digital playgrounds, a HighWire Bike, LEGO building zones, and hands-on STEM experiences that engage visitors of all ages through technology and engaging learning activities.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Discovery Center of Springfield
Gillioz Theatre
What to Expect
98-year-old performing arts center preserving local cultural heritage
Description
Historic Springfield theater offering diverse live performances ranging from music concerts and comedy tours to film screenings and local cultural events. The Gillioz Theatre provides a historic venue with community-focused programming, showcasing regional and touring artists across multiple entertainment genres.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Gillioz Theatre
History Museum on the Square
What to Expect
Comprehensive Route 66 timeline with restored vintage artifacts
Description
The History Museum on the Square offers an immersive journey through Springfield's past, featuring eight interactive galleries highlighting regional history. Visitors explore Native American experiences, Civil War narratives, Route 66 origins, and Wild West stories through innovative exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
Where: Springfield | More Info: History Museum on the Square
Moxie Cinema
What to Expect
Community-supported independent film programming
Description
Moxie Cinema is Springfield's dedicated arthouse theater showcasing independent, international, and classic films. The cinema offers curated film series like Mondo Moxie, Essential Arthouse, and FilmStubs, providing diverse cinematic experiences for movie enthusiasts seeking thought-provoking and culturally significant screenings.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Moxie Cinema
Relics Antique Mall
What to Expect
Largest antique mall in Missouri with dual shopping sections
Description
Missouri's largest antique mall spanning 90,000 square feet, featuring two distinct shopping sections: a vintage antiques area with 90% collectible merchandise and a Fun Flea Market section offering new and used home decor and furniture. Hosts special events and provides a comprehensive dealer support system.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Relics Antique Mall
Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center
What to Expect
Official Route 66 information hub in Springfield, Missouri
Description
Springfield's Route 66 Visitor Center provides comprehensive travel information and resources for exploring the historic Route 66 corridor. Visitors can obtain maps, brochures, and local insights about Springfield's connection to this iconic American highway. The center serves as a central hub for travelers interested in Route 66 history and regional tourism.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center
Springfield Art Museum
What to Expect
Regional art collection with contemporary visual arts focus
Description
Springfield Art Museum offers diverse art collections and interactive exhibits showcasing regional and contemporary artwork. Visitors explore curated galleries featuring paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. The museum provides educational programs and rotating exhibits that engage art enthusiasts of all ages.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Springfield Art Museum
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
What to Expect
World's largest immersive wildlife attraction
Description
National wildlife museum and aquarium featuring immersive exhibits showcasing global wildlife and marine ecosystems. Over 35,000 live animals represent diverse habitats through meticulously designed galleries. Visitors explore comprehensive wildlife conservation displays, underwater environments, and interactive educational experiences highlighting global biodiversity.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
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