It seems everyone in Springfield is looking for ways to get out of the house this winter! Fresh air is good for the soul — not to mention it helps to get the wiggles out of the kids.
We put together a list to help you find fun things to do this winter with your family in Springfield (or just a short drive away!) during these next few winter months in Springfield, Missouri:
1. Springfield Conservation Nature Center
Explore 3 miles of walking trails while connecting with nature! Situated on 80 acres, the Springfield Conservation Nature Center is a great place to take in the beauty of the Ozarks. How many squirrels can you count? Bring along binoculars to spot birds and other wildlife!
Open daily, 8am-6pm. FREE
2. Springfield Botanical Gardens
Have fun playing on the Play Trail! Explore the main playground area, then find the five botanical themed Playpods along the trail, with butterflies, caterpillars, mushrooms, and more! For more adventures, keep an eye out for hidden painted rocks throughout the park and/or hide your own painted rocks! Share your finds with Springfield Rocks!
Download a FREE Botanical Garden coloring page!
Open daily, sunrise to sunset. FREE
 Credit: Springfield-Greene County Park Board |
3. Valley Water Mill Park
Explore the park's 1.5-mile hiking trail around the lake. Stop along the way to see the natural spring and the dam. The trails take you through diverse habitats including glades, woods, bluffs, and stream beds.
Open daily, sunrise to sunset. FREE
4. Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park
Learn about agriculture on the farm! Explore the animal barn, visitor center and gift shop, a fun farm-themed playground, and more. Download a FREE scavenger hunt printable before you go!
Tuesday through Sunday, 9am-5pm. FREE
5. Mr. Nick's Inclusive Playground at McBride Elementary
Honoring the legacy of Mr. Nick, a special education teacher, this inclusive playground was created with children of all abilities in mind. The innovative, interactive space is a place where all kids can come together to play. The adjacent McBride School-Park offers paved walking trails and a disc golf course.
The best times to play are after school hours and weekends. FREE
6. Hidden Waters Nature Park
Located on Historic Route 66 in Marshfield, the park features walking trails, ponds, wildlife, waterfalls, bridges, and 14 springs that form the headwaters to the Niangua River. Be on the lookout for a variety of birds and other animals! Can you find animal tracks on the ground and identify the trees in the park?
Open daily, sunrise to sunset. FREE
7. Ozark Greenway Trails
Take a walk or ride bikes along 75+ miles of public trails throughout the Springfield, Missouri area. Most of these trails are paved, while others are gravel or natural surfaces. With a variety of trail options, you can explore a new section each week! There's something for everyone regardless of age, abilities, or interests.
Open Daily, sunrise to sunset. FREE
