History Museum on the Square
Sharing Stories of the Crossroads
As a city at the crossroads of our nation, Springfield, Missouri played a role in many significant events throughout American history. Step back in time, and see these stories come to life through hands-on experiences, world-class exhibits, and activities for all ages. You’ll become part of the story as you ride on our passenger train, encounter a Wild Bill Hickok shootout, and immerse yourself in the Birthplace of Route 66.
Illuminating Stories of the Past
The Museum
Journey through eight interactive galleries to see how Springfield, Missouri and its region shaped American history. Each gallery brings unique stories to life through world-class exhibits designed by Explus and videos and interactives created by Richard Lewis Media Group. Our rich and vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and “voices of history” are combined, using innovative technologies that are fun for all ages. You’re sure to discover something new with every visit.
| Adults | $16 |
| Seniors, Military & Students | $13 |
| Children (4-12) | $10 |
| Children Age 3 & Under | FREE |
| Group Adult Rate with 10+* *3 days’ notice is required |
$13 |
For FREE parking location click here |
Welcome Center
Enjoy interactive displays and stories of the past as you enter.
Native Crossroads at the Spring
Explore the Native American experience in and around Springfield.
Trains, Trolleys, and Transportation
Take a ride back in time through Springfield’s transportation history.
Pioneers and Founders at the Crossroads
Peek into the lives of Springfield’s founding families.
The Civil War In Springfield
Discover Springfield’s significant role in the Civil War.
Wild Bill Hickok and the American West
Experience America’s first recorded Wild West shoot-out.
Birthplace of Route 66
Travel to the place where it all started.
Voices of History
Hear more stories of the crossroads in our temporary exhibit gallery.
Get Your Kicks Where Route 66 Got Its Name
BIRTHPLACE OF ROUTE 66
From neon signs to classic cars to drive-ins, Route 66 represents a time in American history that captivates nostalgia lovers everywhere. With one of the largest Route 66 timelines and maps in the country, this gallery is a must-see for any Americana enthusiast.
Hop into the turquoise blue '57 Chevy Bel Air convertible at the John T. Woodruff Theater and learn about the local man who gave Route 66 its name.
After that, enjoy your stroll through numerous interactive neon sign exhibits and take photos of your favorite spots along the historic Mother Road.
- Visit the John T. Woodruff Theater complete with a ’57 Chevy Bel Air convertible, and learn about the man behind the Birthplace of Route 66.
- See a plethora of interactive neon sign exhibits featuring local Route 66 icons like Red’s Giant Hamburg, Rail Haven motel, Sanders’ Standard Oil gas station and Sunset Drive-in Theatre.
- Hear the story about John Wilkinson, a local boy who met Elvis Presley at the Shrine Mosque and later became his rhythm guitar player.
- See a restored Martin & Schwartz Model 80 Series 4B Cyclops gas pump, view stunning Route 66 paintings by artist Jerry L. Rice, and discover more iconic pieces throughout the gallery.
Making History in the Present
Upcoming Events
Stay informed of the latest events and traveling exhibits happening in and around the museum. Make memories today and celebrate the past in the present.
Order Up! The Restaurants of Route 66
Order Up! The Restaurants of Route 66 is the first in a five-year Route 66 Series culminating with The Mother Road’s 100th birthday in 2026.
Once, not so very long ago, Route 66 was the best way to travel between Chicago and Los Angeles. All manner of restaurants were dotted along its two thousand miles, featuring many types of food to satisfy hungry and road-weary travelers.
Order Up! celebrates some of the most popular places to grab a bite to eat in Greene County, Missouri, during the heyday of Route 66. A few of these restaurants are still open while others, such as the elegant dining at the Colonial Hotel, have long since passed into history.
Click Learn more to find out the different levels of support. We hope you will come along for the ride. Consider supporting this exhibit with many levels of sponsorship.
History Museum on the Square is a 501c3 nonprofit organization; all donations are tax-deductible as prescribed by law.
Downtown Walking Tour
Friday, August 26 at 5:30pm
Commercial Street Walking Tour
Learn about the impact of the railroad, the relationship between North and South Springfield, and the society and culture of C-Street. Presented in partnership with the Commercial Club of Springfield, MO.
Tour Dates:
Saturday, August 27 at 10:30am
With limited space available, reserve your spot today!
Route 66 Bus Tours – Get on the Mother Road!
Learn why Springfield, MO is the birthplace of Route 66 and hear the stories of many of the businesses on the Route.
Tour Dates:
Saturday, August 27 at 1:00 pm
Saturday, September 24 at 1:00 pm
Saturday, October 22 at 1:00 pm
With limited space available, reserve your spot today!
History Museum Book Club
Join us as we read The Wives of Los Alamos by Tarashea Nesbit.
The discussion will be in person on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, 7-8 pm at Tie and Timber.
Sensory Friendly Morning
General Admission applies – No registration needed.
August 13th Sensory Friendly day is canceled due to the Route 66 Festival. Plan to visit on September 10, 2022.
Haunted History Walking/Bus Tours
Haunted History Walking Tours balances telling historical stories in the places they occurred and some of the more prevalent ghost sightings and creepy stories in downtown Springfield.
Tour Dates:
Haunted History Walking Tours will run on Fridays and Saturdays at 5:30 pm starting September 16th through October 29th. The History Museum will limit participants to 15 on the walking tour. Friday, September 30th and Saturday, October 1st will be our only Bus Tours.
Tour Ticket Price:
History Museum Members get a discount on tour tickets.
Haunted History Walking Tour – Non-Members $20.00, Members $15.00 per person.
Haunted History Bus Tour – Non-Members $25.00, Members $20.00 per person.
Haunted History Tours are a yearly fundraiser for the History Museum on the Square. Tickets are non-refundable.
Latest News
Our Stories
Take a deeper dive into the rich history of the Springfield region and its impact on American history through our stories.
Springfield, Missouri: The Birthplace of Route 66
If you’ve spent even a few hours in Springfield, you’re bound to see a sign declaring it “The Birthplace of Route 66”. This may sound like a bold claim, considering that the route begins and ends in Chicago and Los Angeles. While our city is not the start of the physical highway, it is where…
On the Diamond: African American Baseball in Springfield
Baseball in Springfield was segregated either by law or by custom until the 1950s. Information about the early African American teams is largely unavailable. The Hyde Park All Stars, sometimes known as the “Stars” took on all comers. They were an African American, semi-professional, barnstorming baseball team. They traveled to other cities and played teams…
Illuminating Stories of the Past
Places To Visit
The museum is located at the heart of downtown Springfield, Missouri. You’ll find parking and restaurants within walking distance. Our interactive map shows places of rich history in and around the Springfield area, from Civil War sites to the iconic Rail Haven motel on historic Route 66.
- 154 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806 Map & Directions
- 417-831-1976
- Info@historymuseumonthesquare.org