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.
Holiday Window Raffle- Jellycat Teddy Bear Train Conductor
All aboard for imagination and fun with this one of a kind Teddy Bear Train Conductor! This unique collectible Jellycat bear has been magically transformed into a train conductor complete with a uniform and hat. This bear, along with his specialty uniform, is a $100 value but can be yours for a steal!
Visitors can have one free entry in the drawing per admission ticket purchased.
If you’re not able to visit the museum or want additional entries, you can purchase them for $5/entry.
The winner will be drawn on Wednesday, December 21st. The winner will need to pick up the bear. It cannot be shipped.
Proceeds from this raffle support our educational programming and hands-on exhibits. The History Museum on the Square is a non-profit organization that depends on contributions to strengthen our community’s future by learning about our past and our culture.
History Museum on the Square Holiday Window Display and Mayor’s Tree Lighting Holiday Show
November 19, 2022, from 5-7 pm.
During the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Holiday event the History Museum on the Square will host free games on the side walk. Shop inside the Voices of History Gallery. This space will be free and open to the public for a special holiday shopping opportunity! The museum will have gift memberships and a variety of limited edition canvas prints of photos from Springfield’s past for sale.
Want to visit the museum? Special One-Night-Only- Discount Admission, Saturday November 19th from 5-7 pm
History Museum on the Square Downtown Holiday Window Display Opens
“Coming Home for Christmas”
Through the years, the way we have traveled home for the holidays may have changed but the
reasons why have not. Love of family, community, and home keeps bringing people together
during this special time of year. Come home to Springfield, Missouri, this holiday season.
Admission is $10.oo per person, and children 12 and under free.
As always, museum admission is free for our Members and Patrons.
History Museum Book Club
Evening Hours on December 2nd 5-7 pm
Join the History Museum on the Square during December’s Art Walk from 5-7 pm.
History Museum on the Square’s Voices of History Gallery will be free and open to the public for a special holiday shopping opportunity!
The museum will offer gift memberships and a variety of limited-edition canvas prints of photos from Springfield’s past.
Sensory Friendly Morning
General Admission applies – No registration needed.
Downtown Springfield Christmas Parade Watch Party for Museum Patrons and Members
Museum Patrons & Members join us for a Parade Watch Party
Saturday, December 10, 2022 1:30 pm.
The Route 66 Series – 5 years – 5 Exhibits- 5 Series Sponsor
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.
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.
Route 66 Bus Tours – Get on the Mother Road!
Tour Dates:
The third Saturday of each month starting March 2023 through September 2023. Reservations can be made online starting in early 2023.
Tour Ticket Price:
Route 66 Bus Tour – $30/Museum Members & Patrons, $35/non-members
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.
Thanksgiving: A Holiday with History
Thanksgiving is a holiday that has changed a great deal over the course of American history. Its origins are wrapped up in the colonial founding story of our country: that of English Pilgrims landing at Plymouth Rock and the “First Thanksgiving.” The reality, however, is more complicated. Tracing the history of November’s big holiday backward…
Bonnie and Clyde in Springfield: Kidnapping, Robbery, and Tangible History
The Depression Era of the early nineteen-thirties is home to many enduring American stories. One of the most famous is that of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the infamous criminal couple who robbed, kidnapped, and murdered their way across the central United States for several consecutive years before their eventual death at the hands of…
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