Springfield, MO, sits in the rolling landscape of the Ozarks and has grown into one of the most recognizable communities in southern Missouri. With a population of roughly 170,000 residents, the city functions as a regional hub for commerce, education, and culture across a wide stretch of the Ozarks. Often called the Queen City of the Ozarks, the community is widely known for its connection to historic Route 66 and its role as one of the early locations associated with the famous highway. The area blends Midwestern traditions with a strong outdoor culture tied to the nearby hills, lakes, and forests that define this part of the state.

History has a noticeable presence across the community. Established in the 1830s, the area played a small but memorable role during the Civil War when the Battle of Wilson’s Creek unfolded just outside town. The battlefield site remains preserved today and offers walking trails and interpretive exhibits that give visitors a glimpse into the region’s past. Another piece of local lore centers on Route 66 itself. Many residents still take pride in the long-held claim that the name “Route 66” was first proposed during a meeting held here in 1926, an event that later led to the road becoming one of the most famous highways in the United States. Whether traveling through the restored downtown streets or passing the old neon signs that still stand along historic stretches of the highway, reminders of that era remain visible.

Food traditions have deep roots here as well, and longtime establishments help define the local dining scene. Casper’s Diner has been serving chili for more than a century and remains well known for bowls of hearty chili and old-fashioned burgers cooked on a grill that has been in use for decades. The restaurant’s interior has a playful personality with vintage decorations covering the walls, giving the place an unmistakable atmosphere. Another longstanding favorite is Mexican Villa, a restaurant recognized throughout the region for its distinctive style of Mexican-inspired dishes and a signature sauce that many residents have grown up eating. For classic barbecue, Whole Hog Café draws steady crowds with smoked pork, brisket, and ribs prepared in the slow-cooked tradition. Those looking for a lively local gathering place often stop by Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes, which has built a following for creative burgers and thick hand-spun milkshakes.

Local businesses also contribute to the character of the community. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World operates a massive flagship store here and has become a destination for travelers interested in fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation. The company’s founder established the store in the area decades ago, and the location has expanded into a large complex that includes museums and aquariums. Another popular stop is Askinosie Chocolate, a small-batch chocolate maker that sources cacao beans directly from farmers and produces handcrafted chocolate bars inside a renovated downtown building. Visitors can watch parts of the chocolate-making process and learn about the company’s sourcing practices.

Things to do extend far beyond restaurants and shopping. The downtown district frequently hosts community events that bring residents into the streets. One of the most well-known gatherings is the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, which celebrates the region’s ties to the historic highway with classic cars, live music, and historical displays. During warmer months, First Friday Art Walk draws crowds to local galleries, studios, and small shops where artists display their work. In the fall, Cider Days fills Walnut Street with craft vendors, performances, and seasonal foods. Outdoor enthusiasts often head toward nearby parks such as Nathanael Greene Park or drive a short distance to explore the Ozark countryside, where hiking trails and scenic overlooks offer sweeping views of the landscape.

A few lesser-known stories circulate among longtime residents. One of the most unusual involves the “spooklight,” a mysterious glowing orb reported along a rural road in the Ozarks for generations. People have claimed to see the strange light floating just above the ground before disappearing without explanation. While scientists have suggested possible natural causes, the legend continues to spark curiosity and late-night drives from those hoping to witness it for themselves.

Wildlife activity is also common throughout the region, especially as development continues near wooded areas and natural corridors. Animals such as raccoons, squirrels, bats, and opossums often adapt quickly to neighborhoods, attics, and crawl spaces. When that happens, professional help becomes important. Our experts provide reliable wildlife removal and prevention services designed to protect homes and businesses throughout Springfield. If unwanted wildlife has become a problem on your property, contact us at Critters Gone Urban today to learn how we can help your property return to a critter-free condition.