10 Things to Do for Free in Springfield, MO

Springfield, Missouri is a vibrant city filled with wonderful attractions, activities, and events for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or have been living here for years, there are plenty of ways to have fun for free. From outdoor adventures to indoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Springfield. Here are 10 things to do for free in Springfield, MO.

Explore Nature at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park is a great place to explore nature in Springfield. This park offers over 200 acres of rolling hills, wooded areas, and streams. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the trails or take in the sights from the observation tower. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and a fishing lake, making this the perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun.

The park also features a number of outdoor activities, including disc golf, archery, and volleyball. There are also plenty of events held at the park throughout the year, such as music performances, outdoor movies, and holiday celebrations. This park is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to spend any money.

For even more outdoor fun, the Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located within the park. This nature center offers educational programs, guided hikes, and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. Best of all, admission to the nature center is completely free.

See a Live Performance at the Gillioz Theatre

The Gillioz Theatre is a historic venue in downtown Springfield. This theater opened in 1926 and has since become a popular spot for live performances. Music fans can enjoy a variety of shows, ranging from rock and country to classical and jazz. There are also a number of theatrical performances, comedy shows, and other special events held at the Gillioz.

The best part is that admission to many of these shows is free. The theater often hosts free performances throughout the year, so be sure to check out their website for upcoming events. You can also catch free outdoor concerts during the summer months.

The Gillioz Theatre is also home to a number of art galleries, which feature works by local and international artists. You can stop by the galleries any time to view the artwork for free.

Enjoy a Scenic Drive Along the Ozarks

The Ozarks is a beautiful stretch of land that spans across Missouri and Arkansas. This region is home to stunning beauty, ranging from rolling hills and lush forests to crystal clear lakes and rivers. If you’re looking for a scenic drive, the Ozarks is the perfect destination.

The Ozarks also features a number of historic sites, such as the Chateau on the Lake and the Lake of the Ozarks State Park. There are also plenty of quaint towns and villages to explore. Best of all, the drive is completely free – all you need is a full tank of gas.

If you’re looking for an even more scenic drive, consider heading east to the Mark Twain National Forest. This forest spans over 1.5 million acres and is home to a variety of wildlife and stunning scenery. It’s the perfect spot for a day or weekend of exploration.

Experience the Arts at the Springfield Art Museum

The Springfield Art Museum is a great place to experience the arts for free. This museum is home to a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits, featuring works from local, national, and international artists. You can also check out the museum’s collection of artifacts and artifacts from around the world.

The museum also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as art classes, lectures, and workshops. Best of all, admission to the museum is completely free. So if you’re looking to explore the arts without spending any money, the Springfield Art Museum is the perfect destination.

Stroll Through The Square

The Square is one of the most popular spots in Springfield. This vibrant area is filled with restaurants, shops, galleries, and more. Stroll through the Square and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of downtown Springfield.

The Square is also home to a number of events throughout the year, such as outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and live music. Even if there are no events going on, The Square is still a great place to people watch and take in the atmosphere of downtown Springfield.

The Square is also home to a number of sculptures and public art pieces, so be sure to keep an eye out for these. Best of all, admission to The Square is completely free.

Take a Hike at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is a great place to take a hike and experience nature. This nature center offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone. You can also take a self-guided tour of the center and learn more about the area’s history and wildlife.

The nature center also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year. Best of all, admission to the nature center is completely free. So if you’re looking for a day of outdoor fun without spending any money, the Springfield Conservation Nature Center is the perfect destination.

Visit the Springfield Botanical Gardens

The Springfield Botanical Gardens is a great place to explore nature and experience the beauty of plants. This botanical garden is home to a variety of gardens and exhibits, including a Japanese garden, a butterfly garden, and a children’s garden. You can also take a self-guided tour of the gardens and learn more about the plants and flowers.

The botanical gardens also offer a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year. Best of all, admission to the gardens is completely free. So if you’re looking for a day of outdoor fun without spending any money, the Springfield Botanical Gardens is the perfect destination.

Explore the History of Springfield at the History Museum on the Square

The History Museum on the Square is a great place to explore the history of Springfield. This museum is home to a variety of exhibits and artifacts, including photographs, documents, and artifacts from the city’s past. You can also take a self-guided tour of the museum and learn more about the history of Springfield.

The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year. Best of all, admission to the museum is completely free. So if you’re looking to explore the history of Springfield without spending any money, the History Museum on the Square is the perfect destination.

Learn About the Arts at the Art Museum of Springfield

The Art Museum of Springfield is a great place to learn about the arts. This museum is home to a variety of exhibits and artifacts, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photographs and ceramics. You can also take a self-guided tour of the museum and learn more about the history of art.

The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year. Best of all, admission to the museum is completely free. So if you’re looking to explore the arts without spending any money, the Art Museum of Springfield is the perfect destination.

Experience Springfield’s Music Scene

Springfield is home to a vibrant music scene that features a variety of genres, from rock and country to jazz and blues. Enjoy a live show at one of the city’s many venues or take in the sounds of local artists at one of the many outdoor concerts held throughout the summer. Best of all, admission to many of these shows is completely free.

So if you’re looking for a night of music without spending any money, Springfield is the perfect destination. Be sure to check out the city’s website for upcoming events and concerts.

Visit the Springfield Farmers Market

The Springfield Farmers Market is a great place to shop for local produce, handmade crafts, and more. This market is held every Saturday from May through October, so be sure to check it out when you’re in town. Admission to the market is completely free, so it’s a great way to experience the local culture without spending any money.

Go Fishing at Fellows Lake

Fellows Lake is a great spot for fishing in Springfield. This lake is stocked with a variety of fish, ranging from bass and crappie to catfish and carp. If you’re looking to catch some fish without spending any money, Fellows Lake is the perfect destination. Just be sure to bring your own gear and a valid fishing license.

So if you’re looking for free things to do in Springfield, MO, you’re in luck. From exploring nature to experiencing the arts, there are plenty of ways to have fun without spending any money. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Springfield.

Conclusion

Springfield, Missouri is a vibrant city filled with wonderful attractions, activities, and events for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or have been living here for years, there are plenty of ways to have fun for free. From exploring nature at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park to experiencing the arts at the Springfield Art Museum and taking in the sights of The Square, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Springfield. So if you’re looking for free things to do, you’re in luck. There are plenty of ways to have a great time without spending any money.