Know Before You Go: About Springfield
Home to one of the first telegraph lines, the birthplace of Route 66 and Wild Bill's famous shootout—historic sites lurk around every corner in Springfield, Missouri
Today the bustling town remains a breeding ground for innovation and adventure. In the heart of Springfield is Missouri State University, where more than 24,000 students move with one eye toward the future, while the outskirts of the “Queen City of the Ozarks" provides untouched landscape for an endless variety of outdoor adventures. Make some new memories of your own with family and friends or colleagues in this town of innovation.
Annual Weather Conditions
Nestled in the southwestern corner of the 'Show Me' State, Springfield experiences all kinds of weather. March, April and October offer the most comfortable conditions, with highs settling in the 60s. In addition to those mild temps, Springfield in the spring and fall receives anywhere from 3 to 5 inches of rain each month. Come prepared for harsh winters, particularly between December and February, when it often dips below freezing and more than 20 inches of snow dusts the region. Summer temperatures climb toward the 90s as the hot sun shines on the city.
Sightseeing in Springfield
Immerse yourself in live music and theatrical performances at Gillioz Theatre and the Springfield Little Theatre, two early-20th-century performance halls. Step even further into the past at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, where tours help you achieve a greater understanding of this pivotal Civil War battle. Get lost along the 7,500 miles of pristine shoreline that borders hundreds of nearby lakes, streams and rivers snaking their way through the Ozarks. Family fun day includes a trip to Dickerson Park Zoo and Hammons Field, where it’s always a beautiful day for a minor league ball game. Make the one-hour drive south to Branson, the family-friendly resort town famous for its dinner theaters and theme parks.
Business and Industry
Healthcare dominates Springfield’s industry—CoxHealth Systems (a collection of five hospitals) and Mercy Hospital Springfield employ nearly 32,000 people, or approximately 17 percent of the city’s working residents. Manufacturing, including positions with Kraft Foods and John Deere, accounts for about 14,000 regional jobs. Bass Pro Shops and O’Reilly Auto Parts both chose Springfield as their headquarters and provide over 4,000 jobs.
Transportation Options
If you’re coming to Springfield from St. Louis, head southwest on Interstate 44. Route 13 connects with Kansas City to the north. Set 20 minutes northwest of downtown, Springfield-Branson National Airport services 10 cities, including 23 daily flights from such major carriers as United and American Airlines. Rental cars are available from several rental agencies at the airport, while local taxis help you get around town.
Ready to travel? Find hotels in Springfield.
More to Explore
An Illustrated Guide
Get hip to some of Springfield's best offerings through the eyes of hometown artists.
Birthplace of Route 66
Springfield offers many ways to experience the past—and enjoy the present.
Things to Do in Springfield
Looking for things to do Springfield? Get started by reading our recommendations.