Six-Stop Tour: Springfield, MO
Enjoy nature up close and personal in Springfield, Missouri.
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Wonderful Wildlife
Spend an entire day at Wonders of Wildlife. This fantastic natural history museum and aquarium bills itself as the “largest, most immersive fish and wildlife attraction in the world!” The 1.5 million-gallon aquarium adventure features 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds. Kids love seeing sloths, bears, alligators, flamingoes, otters and countless sea creatures including octopus, sharks, jellyfish and fish from around the world.
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An Oasis in the Ozarks
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, straddling the Missouri/Arkansas border, is a beautiful 10,000-acre oasis in the Ozarks. The park is beautiful year-round. At Dogwood Canyon, explore the water-powered mill, where families may watch live demonstrations and tour the small museum showcasing Native American artifacts. Be sure to savor a delicious meal at the restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the waterfall.
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Nature Lovers Paradise
Bass Pro Shops in Springfield is the brand’s flagship store. The 300,000-square-foot facility includes waterfalls and aquariums. Children love watching the fish feeding, and you’ll see animal displays and exhibits throughout. For a delicious fish dinner, try Hemingway’s, a nice sit-down family restaurant. Kids also love exploring the various wildlife exhibits and watching demonstrations presented by conservationists.
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Hands-On Science
The Discovery Center of Springfield is an interactive hands-on science center. Kids learn how to “go green” at the Energy Exchange, ride a high-wire bike, learn about the human body at Body Works and explore the sciences, including physics, chemistry, energy, health and culture. Tip: Science City KC members receive free admission to the Discovery Center when they visit.
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An Underground World
If you’re traveling with young children, Fantastic Caverns is the cave to see. Known as “America’s only ride-through cave,” the cavern offers an excursion perfect for little ones who may be apt to trip or require carrying on long tours. The hour-long tour follows an underground riverbed filled with massive formations. The views are breathtaking, and the tour is manageable for all ages.