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Springfield

Springfield travel guide

City in Missouri, United States

Best time to visitOctober
Nearest airportSGF · 7 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−5
Population169,176

About Springfield

Springfield is the third most populous city in the U.S. state of Missouri and the county seat of Greene County. The city's population was 169,176 at the 2020 census. It is the principal city of the Springfield metropolitan area, which had an estimated population of 487,061 in 2022 and includes the counties of Christian, Dallas, Greene, Polk, and Webster. Springfield is the largest city in the Ozarks region, and sits on the Springfield Plateau, which ranges from nearly level to rolling hills.

Places to visit in Springfield

  1. Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

    Museum

    Attached to the flagship Bass Pro Shops store, this large attraction combines aquariums and lifelike wildlife dioramas to showcase animals and conservation themes from around the world.

  2. Fantastic Caverns

    Fantastic Caverns

    Nature · 8 mi from centre

    A cave north of the city that is toured entirely by jeep-drawn tram, passing stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations along an old underground river channel, so no walking is required.

  3. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

    Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

    Historic · 9 mi from centre

    Southwest of Springfield, this preserved Civil War battlefield has a driving loop, walking trails and a visitor center explaining one of the first major battles west of the Mississippi.

  4. Dickerson Park Zoo

    Dickerson Park Zoo

    Zoo · 4 mi from centre

    A mid-sized zoo in north Springfield known for its elephant and cheetah programs, with animals displayed in themed areas representing different continents and a manageable layout for families with children.

  5. Springfield Botanical Gardens

    Park

    Located in Nathanael Greene Park, these free gardens include a Japanese stroll garden, a butterfly house and many themed plantings around a peaceful lake, ideal for a relaxed afternoon walk.

  6. Park Central Square

    Neighborhood

    The historic downtown square sits near the old Route 66 alignment and is surrounded by restaurants, bars and music venues, making it a lively spot in the evening.

Where to stay in Springfield

Popular hotels in Springfield, out of 71 properties you can book.

See all hotels in Springfield

Best time to visit Springfield

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Springfield is October, when average daytime highs are around 71°F and rain falls on about 6 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 24° – 42° 8
Feb 29° – 50° 8
Mar 39° – 60° 10
Apr 47° – 67° 11
May 57° – 76° 13
Jun 66° – 85° 11
Jul 70° – 90° 10
Aug 68° – 88° 7
Sep 62° – 82° 7
Oct 52° – 71° 6
Nov 40° – 58° 7
Dec 32° – 49° 7

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Springfield weather forecast

  • Wed 21 Oct 76° 50° 2%
  • Thu 22 Oct 79° 56° 0%
  • Fri 23 Oct 79° 58° 0%
  • Sat 24 Oct 80° 58° 0%
  • Sun 25 Oct 77° 60° 1%
  • Mon 26 Oct 74° 56° 2%

Know before you go

Currency
United States dollar (USD)
Language
English
Calling code
+1
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/ChicagoUTC−5
Capital
Washington, D.C.

Upcoming public holidays in United States

  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • Presidents DayWashington's Birthday

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Springfield

These are the airports closest to central Springfield. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • SGF Springfield-Branson National Airport7 mi (11 km) from the city centre
Search flights to Springfield

Getting around Springfield

Just about everyone drives, but because Springfield is so flat, bicycling or walking are good options.

Springfield travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Springfield?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Springfield is October, when average daytime highs are around 71°F and rain falls on about 6 days a month.

What is the weather like in Springfield?

July is usually the warmest month in Springfield, with average highs of 90°F (32°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 24°F (-4°C). The wettest month is typically May, with about 177 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Springfield?

Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) is the closest airport, about 7 miles (11 km) from the centre of Springfield.

What time zone is Springfield in?

Springfield uses the America/Chicago time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Springfield?

Just about everyone drives, but because Springfield is so flat, bicycling or walking are good options.

What are the best places to visit in Springfield?

Top sights in Springfield include Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, Fantastic Caverns, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield and Dickerson Park Zoo. Attached to the flagship Bass Pro Shops store, this large attraction combines aquariums and lifelike wildlife dioramas to showcase animals and conservation themes from around the world.

Where should I stay in Springfield?

Popular areas for hotels in Springfield include Springfield. Well-reviewed options include University Plaza and Convention Center and Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven.

How many hotels can I book in Springfield?

Destina Holidays currently lists 71 properties in and around Springfield, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.