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.
2026 Summer Camps
Your child can adventure through Springfield’s past, present, and future during our week-long, full-day summer camps. Registration open! Spots are limited, so register today!
ALL CAMPS:
Time: Full-day camps (8 AM – 5 PM)
Location: History Museum on the Square, 154 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO
Cost: $325 per child*
*Discounts for siblings (attending the same camp) and museum members are available! (Discounts do not stack. Only one will apply.)
Secrets of Springfield – Entering grades 3-6
Dates: July 13-17, 2026
Follow the clues and uncover the treasure buried deep in Springfield’s history.
Springfield’s Superheroes – Entering grades 2-4
Dates: July 27-31, 2026
Discover your superpowers to make a difference in your community.
Time Travelers – Entering grades 1-3
Dates: August 10-14, 2026
Learn, create, and play to explore how people lived in the past.
Made possible by the Jeannette L. Musgrave Foundation’s Multi-Year Impact Grant for Student Citizenship and support from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.
HOW TO REGISTER
Discounts available:
- Registering multiple kids? Families with two or more children signing up for the same week receive 10% off (restrictions apply). Before you purchase camp tickets, complete the sibling discount form and receive a coupon code upon approval!
- Museum member? History Museum members receive 10% off summer camps (restrictions apply). Join today, and before you purchase camp tickets, reach out to [email protected] with “Summer Camp Membership Code” as the subject line to receive your coupon code!
There are 4 steps to registration:
- Purchase admission to the summer camp below! (Apply coupon code for siblings or museum members at checkout!)
- Click here to fill out the Summer Camp Registration Form for EACH child you are registering. You will have to submit multiple forms if you are registering multiple children.
- Click here to download and read the 2026 Handbook. This includes necessary info and will help prepare you and your camper for their week of camp.
- Click here to download the camp permission form. You must print, read, sign, and submit the Summer Camp Permission Form by the time of drop-off on the first day of camp.
Please contact us with any questions regarding summer camps at [email protected] or call 417-831-1976.
History Museum Book Club
History Museum on the Square strengthens our community’s future by learning about our past and our culture, so we started a historical fiction book club in January 2020.
We look forward to our next discussion!
Girl Scout Day at the Museum
Saturday, April 11, 2026, 10:00 am-3:00 pm
Civics on the Square presents the third annual Girl Scout Day at the Museum. Registered Girl Scouts and leaders can complete various steps in Democracy, Citizenship, and History-themed badges. Girl Scouts of all levels can earn up to two badges throughout the day!
Event admission is:
- $20 per scout
- $20 per leader/parent chaperone (Chaperoning leaders/parents need to register.)
- No financial aid or cookie credit can be used.
Additional non-scout children will pay general admission to the museum. Break from 12-1pm, no lunch provided.
Please note – this is not a drop-off event. Troop leaders and chaperones must stay for the duration of the event to adhere to Girl Scout ratio requirements.
Event admission grants your girl scouts access to the museum’s galleries, interactive activity stations, and special badge programs led by museum educators. At your own pace, take time exploring the museum and earning badge requirements at activity stations, and/or sign-up to attend special badge programs in the morning and afternoon where girl scouts can earn their entire badge.
This is a great opportunity for older girl scouts to earn badges alongside other seniors and ambassadors, and for multi-level troops to explore democracy together. Program session spots are limited. Through these activities and programs, girl scouts will have the chance to run for office, map local landmarks, register to vote, speak to a city council member, and even be elected President!
HOW TO REGISTER SCOUTS & LEADERS:
- Add event admission ticket(s) for each participating scout and leader/parent chaperone to your cart.
- Select options to attend badge program session(s) or explore the museum and activities in the morning and afternoon. (No additional charge for programs). Refer to the Girl Scout Day Schedule below when selecting session options. Spots are limited for these badge sessions.
- Proceed to checkout to purchase your tickets!
Questions regarding the event can be sent to our Education Team at [email protected] or 417-831-1976!
History UnCorked Series 2026
History Museum on the Square continues to partner in 2026 with Ty lechyd Da Distillery and 417 Cocktails to bring a variety of educational evenings.
Enjoy a night of cocktails, conversation, and captivating local history with History Uncorked. Each after-hours class combines bite-sized history presentations with themed drinks, creating a fun and social way to experience Springfield’s past, one glass at a time.
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2026 History Uncorked Lineup
February 19 – Partners in Crime – SOLD OUT
In Springfield, the legend of Bonnie and Clyde feels surprisingly close to home: from the kidnapping of a local police officer to a daring car theft that played out just months before their deaths. Join us as we untangle the real stories behind the outlaw romance, separating Ozark’s history from Hollywood myth over cocktails and crime.
April 16 – Get Your Mix on Route 66
Get your mix on Route 66 as we toast 100 years of the Mother Road by exploring the music, venues, and roadside sounds that shaped America’s most iconic highway. From dance halls to dive bars, discover how Route 66 became a soundtrack as much as a road.
June 18 – Rails and Refreshments
All aboard for a night of rails, refreshment, and revelry as we dive into the story of the railroad’s arrival in Springfield. Discover the people and events that followed the tracks while enjoying delicious, themed cocktails.
August 20th – Democracy on the Rocks
Civics doesn’t have to be dry. This History Uncorked blends history, government, and good drinks to explore how democracy works, and where we fit into it. Presented by our Civics on the Square program, this program takes a closer look at the rights, responsibilities, and systems that shape our everyday lives.
October 22 – Spirits, Stories, and Ozark Lore
Join us for an evening of tall tales, legends, and folklore from the Ozarks. Enjoy themed cocktails as we bring to life the colorful characters, eerie encounters, and unforgettable stories passed down through generations.
December 10 – War and Whiskey: WWII Edition
Examine Springfield’s role during World War II and how the war years changed daily life at home. From rationing to recreation, this class pairs powerful stories with classic cocktails.
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What to Expect:
- Three Unique Cocktails
- Engaging History Lessons
- Only light snacks will be provided
History Museum on the Square doors open at 5:00pm. The cost is Table of 6 $250/$85 per pair/twosome/$50 per individual. This event will have assigned seating. If you want to sit with a group, please put friends’ names in the Notes section when purchasing tickets. We will try our best but seating is limited.
Must be 21 or over to participate. Must bring a valid ID to the event.
By reserving your spot, you have agreed to the Terms of Release. Terms of Release are attached for you to read and agree to. There will also be copies at Guest Services when you arrive for the tour. Uncorked Release, Indem, HH, Photo Consent 2026.docx
History Uncorked is a fundraiser for the History Museum on the Square. Tickets are non-refundable.
Downtown or Commercial Street Walking Tours
Tour Dates are every Saturday morning at 9:30 am – Each month we feature either a Downtown Springfield tour or Commercial Street Tour.
$15 per person for Museum Members & Patrons, $20 per person for Non-Members.
Homeschool Day at the Museum
Join the History Museum on the Square for a fun look at history on the day it happened! Explore the museum and participate in a hands-on activity that coincides with historic holidays/anniversaries.
Attendees will receive discounted admission of $8/person for access to the museum’s 7 galleries. The special activity is included as part of your visit for no additional charge.
Doors open at 10:00 am. From 10:30 am – 11:30 am, a museum educator will lead the special activity in the museum. After, explore the museum as long as you’d like until 5PM closing time!
All ages welcome! Activity recommended for ages 6-17. Coloring activities and children’s books will be available. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Note: Library Passes are good for general admission only. They cannot be used for special museum events, member discounts, group reservations or field trips. Therefore, they will not apply for access to the special event activity.
Please RSVP below!
To participate in the special event activity please register by adding your guest count for EACH activity day you plan to attend (including the number of adults and children attending) to the cart below for no additional charge. You will pay discounted admission ($8/person) upon arrival the day-of the event.
The Route 66 Series – Miles of Memories: Celebrating Route 66’s Centennial
Opening June 10, 2026 – September 20, 2026 –
Year 5 of our series showcasing Miles of Memories: Celebrating Route 66’s Centennial.
Thank you, Series Sponsor:
O’Reilly Automotive * MSU Libraries – Ozarks Studies Institute
General Admission applies.
Sharing Stories of the Crossroads – Hosted by John Sellars
Join John Sellars, Executive Director Emeritus of the History Museum on the Square and long-time lover of local history, every Tuesday at 4:00 pm on KICK 92.3 FM.
The program will focus on History Bits in Springfield, Local Headlines from a Century ago and a variety of guests to share local history and stories of the past.
Check out the link for past podcasts.
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.
Civics in Action: Voting and Beyond Panel
In honor of Presidents Day, join us in watching our Voting and Beyond panel led by Dr. Marlin Barber! The event was held in the Historic Fox Theatre, featuring Springfield leaders and professors from the City of Springfield, Missouri State University, and Drury University! Panelists discuss how to engage students and young people in voting,…
The Possum Plague of 1929
It’s September of 1929, and apple harvest season is nearly upon us. The local orchard owners are sure their yields will be high, but the nearby marsupials have other plans. Opossums descended on the fruit trees in droves, devouring apples from the ground, baskets, and straight from the branches. As word began to spread from…
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
- [email protected]