Springfield Missouri offers a surprising mix of engaging activities that cater to different interests. Whether you’re fascinated by wildlife, eager to explore eerie legends, or looking for family-friendly attractions, Springfield has something for you.
We particularly enjoy the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium for its stunning displays and conservation stories, and the Ghost Tour inside Pythian Castle for its spooky atmosphere and historic tales.
Both experiences provide a glimpse into Springfield’s unique character—whether through immersive exhibits or ghostly legends.
If you’re wondering what to do in Springfield, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the top tours, followed by detailed reviews to help you choose the perfect activity.
1. Springfield: Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
For around $36 per person, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium offers an incredible day immersed in nature. This attraction showcases over 35,000 live animals, with exhibits spanning from savannahs to deep oceans.
Visitors can walk through immersive habitats, marvel at interactive touch pools, and watch engaging presentations on wildlife conservation. The experience appeals to families, animal lovers, and anyone curious about the natural world.
What makes this museum stand out is its commitment to education and conservation. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed, allowing visitors to see animals like sharks, otters, and colorful tropical fish up close.
The immersive displays make it feel like wandering through different ecosystems, which is both fun and enlightening. Children especially enjoy the touch pools, where they can gently hold starfish and sea urchins.
The museum also offers informative talks about protecting endangered species and habitat preservation, making it a meaningful visit beyond just sightseeing.
This tour is perfect for those looking for a full-day activity that combines entertainment with education. It’s highly rated—earning 5/5 from 11 reviews—and most visitors find it exceptionally well-curated for such an accessible price. Keep in mind, it’s a large venue, so wear comfortable shoes and plan to spend several hours exploring.
Bottom Line: If you love animals, want a hands-on experience, and are interested in wildlife conservation, this is a top choice for a day in Springfield.
2. Springfield, Missouri, US: Ghost Tour inside Pythian Castle
For just $19 per person, the Ghost Tour inside Pythian Castle offers a 90-minute journey into the mysterious and haunted corners of Springfield’s historic castle. This guided walk takes you through three floors, including the ballroom, theater, cells, dungeon, and tunnel, uncovering stories of the castle’s past and its ghostly legends.
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who bring history and hauntings to life—and you’ll even have some time to explore on your own.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of history and paranormal tales. The castle, built in the early 20th century, has a fascinating background—once used as a military hospital and later as a KKK headquarters—adding layers to its haunted reputation. Visitors report feeling a spooky atmosphere, especially in the dungeon and tunnel areas, making it a popular choice for those craving a thrill.
The reviews are glowing, with a 5/5 rating from 2 reviews, emphasizing the guide’s storytelling skills and the overall creepy vibe.
This experience is best suited for those interested in history with a spooky twist or anyone who enjoys ghost stories with a touch of authenticity. While it’s not a long tour, it packs a lot of atmosphere into a short visit, making it perfect for an evening outing. Be prepared for some dark corridors and possibly a bit of a chill.
Bottom Line: If haunted tales and historic legends are your thing, the Pythian Castle ghost tour offers a memorable and spine-tingling experience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and available time. The Wonders of Wildlife is great for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a full educational day. It’s easy to spend hours exploring and learning. On the other hand, the Ghost Tour inside Pythian Castle is perfect for an evening adventure, especially if you enjoy spooky stories and historic mysteries.
Budget is another factor—at $36 for the museum and $19 for the castle tour, both are affordable options. Think about whether you want to learn about nature and conservation or experience a mysterious, historic ghost story. Booking in advance is advisable, particularly during peak seasons, as both tours are popular.
If you’re interested in wildlife, check out the Wonders of Wildlife, and if spooky tales pique your interest, the Pythian Castle Ghost Tour is a must-do.
Final Thoughts
Springfield offers a diverse set of attractions that cater to different tastes. For a family-friendly, educational day, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is hard to beat, offering a close-up look at thousands of live animals and vital conservation messages. For those after a spooky thrill, the Ghost Tour inside Pythian Castle delivers a fun, eerie experience wrapped in local history.
Both experiences are well worth your time, especially considering their reasonable prices and excellent reviews. Planning ahead and booking early will help ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable activities. Whether you want to learn about wildlife or chase ghosts in a historic castle, Springfield’s tours can add a special touch to your visit.