guides

10 Animal Attractions in Southwest Missouri

Springfield Area Aquariums, Zoos, Farms & more!

By Janel Plunkard, Publisher of Macaroni Kid Springfield MO May 20, 2022

Have kids who love animals? If you're looking for animals attractions and encounters in Springfield we have the list! From zoo animals to farm animals, and from the furry to the scaly, we have all the animals you'll need to please your little animal lover. We have all the details for your family to plan a fun day of adventure and amazement in the Springfield, Missouri area!

Seeing your children's faces lighting up and hearing their giggles as they watch animals play and explore is one of the best experiences! While having a fun day exploring animal attractions and encounters in the Springfield area, children also have an opportunity for an engaging learning experience! According to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, studies have shown that animal experiences at zoos and aquariums enhance the understanding of wildlife and why conservation of natural habitats is important. This understanding forges a stronger connection with nature. 

Here's where to find animals in the Springfield, Missouri area:






Dickerson Park Zoo
1401 W Norton Rd, Springfield, MO 65803
(417) 864-1800

dickersonparkzoo.org

Hours:
9am to 4pm daily, November–February
9am to 5pm daily, March–October including all summer holidays

Admission: $10 to $15; Children ages 2 & under are FREE

Printable Scavenger Hunt & Activity Sheets for your visit!






Wonders of Wildlife
500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807
(888) 222-6060
wondersofwildlife.org

Hours:
10am-7pm, daily

Admission: Prices vary depending on date



Rutledge Wilson Farm Park
3825 W Farm Rd 146, Springfield, MO 65807
(417) 837-5949
parkboard.org/farmpark

Hours:
9am to 5pm daily, June through August
9am to 5pm Tuesday - Sunday, September through May

Admission: FREE






Dr. Bill Roston Native Butterfly House 
at Springfield Botanical Gardens
2400 S Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO 65807
(417) 891-1515

parkboard.org/275/Butterfly-House

Hours:
10am to 6pm daily, May through September

Admission: FREE






Wild Animal Safari
124 Jungle Rd, Strafford, MO 65757
(417) 859-5300

animalsafari.com/MO

Hours:
Open daily, year round at 10am. Closing times vary depending on season.

Admission: $18 to $20; Children ages 2 & under are FREE
 Discounted Family Ticket Pack Available!


Beyond Springfield





National Tiger Sanctuary

518 State Hwy BB, Saddlebrooke, MO 65630
(417) 587-3633

nationaltigersanctuary.org

Hours:
8:30am to 5pm, Wednesday through Sunday

Admission: $18 to $30 for Awareness Tour
Upgraded tours available.




Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

4106 W 76 Country Blvd
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 332-2231

www.thebutterflypalace.com

Hours:
9am to 5pm daily

Admission: $14.95 to $21.95; Children ages 3 & under are FREE




Little Beau's Backyard

1123 Keithley Road, Walnut Shade, MO 65771
(417) 559-2311

littlebeausbackyard.com

Hours: By Appointment Only & Scheduled Special Events

Admission: $10; Children ages 1 & under are FREE




Branson's Promised Land Zoo

2571 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway 
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 337-9453

https://www.plzoo.com/

Hours:
9am to 5pm daily

Admission: $17.95 to $26.95; Children 2 & under are FREE




Aquarium at the Boardwalk

2700 W 76 Country Blvd. Unit A
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 335-3474

aquariumattheboardwalk.com

Hours:
8am to 10:30pm daily

Admission: $19.99 to $35.99; Children 3 & under are FREE