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History Museum on the Square
154 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806, United States
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Ro
Review №1

Hands down the best Route 66 museum in Missouri and one of the top ten museums on ALL of Route 66!Theres so much to see and interact with while youre visiting here. There are multiple floors that have a great deal of Springfield history on display.Be sure to try the virtual shoot out!!! Its a blast!While youre here be sure to take in some of the great food joints on and near the square.

Da
Review №2

I cannot recommend Springfields History Museum on the Square highly enough. It is everything I could personally hope for in a local history museum: professional, creative, inclusive, and beautifully conceived and designed. It is a true gem. The care and time put into making this space about the story and identity of Springfield is astounding. It touches on the Native American prehistory of the region and doesnt shy away from Southwest Missouris troubled past with slavery and the Confederacy. It highlights both the movers and shakers as well as the common mans experience as post-war life changed with the coming of the railroad. Lastly, it ties both the old and new Western American experience together, taking us from the first shootout with Wild Bill to the birth of Route 66. From beginning to end it was an inspiring and inspired space. Cant recommend highly enough.

cd
Review №3

What a fantastic museum in downtown Springfield! So much to learn with interactive exhibits and interesting memorabilia spread across five floors. The Route 66 gallery was my favorite. Definitely worth checking out!

An
Review №4

This was a great museum full of quality exhibits, but on our way out, a manager was chewing out an employee in the hallway. She saw us, but kept going. We felt so awkward that we just ducked our heads and skipped over that entire hallway, trying to get out quickly. It wasn’t very busy the day we were there, but I’m sure there was a room somewhere which would’ve been a better place to handle that. Just left a bad, unprofessional taste.

Kr
Review №5

A fantastic place to visit. The interactive exhibits were fun and informative, and the galleries were filled to the brim with local history.

Ke
Review №6

Only opened in August this is a very professional presentation. Set out over five levels and comprising several distinct sections, it tells the history of Springfield from its very earliest inhabitants to the present day; along with its influence on things such as Route 66.The staff and volunteers are both knowledgeable and enthusiastic and there are plenty of interactive displays.Even the elevator is large enough for a whole class of children, so they have really thought through the whole concept.Definitely one of the must sees in Springfield.

Br
Review №7

Went here with my family that came in to visit me.After just recently moving to the area from Florida, it was a great way to get acquainted with the local history. They had tons of educational videos that were both enjoyable and informative. Entertaining to both adults and children.In terms of normal Museum relics, artifacts, etc. they didnt have a whole lot until you reached the upper floors.The floors progress in a way where the oldest history is at the bottom and as you work your way up, it becomes more modern until it ends in the 50s.By the time you get to the area thats civil war, they have tons of civil war weapons, papers, documents, etc.Overall a great experience and worth the money.If you were to quickly run through it all youd need a good 1.5-2 hours. But if you like to read everything and watch everything, expect that youll need 3.5-4 hours.THE ONLY negative thing I can say is this...We had some weird guy who appeared to perhaps work at the museum follow us around. We were the only people there, but the guy just kept following us and staring at us in a VERY odd manner. Was honestly uncomfortable and I hope this employee doesnt do it often as it could easily drive away guests. Even when confronted he wouldnt respond and just sort of scurried off.So other than the creepy guy, all together it was a good experience.

La
Review №8

Very informative about the area and its interactive. Older kids would enjoy it, younger ones not so much.

Ca
Review №9

I didnt technically go to the History museum but I did go on the Haunted History Ghost Tour and wow. It was so good. The guide was very knowledgeable and the walking really wasnt as bad as i had expected. It is a few block square around down town. The history stories combines with ghost stories... squeal. I have lived in the area my entire life and there were things I didnt even know so even if you are local it is still s ok mething fun and spooky. Also they did a great job with social distancing and everyone had on a mask the entire time. When we stopped everyone spread out the best the could but I never felt unsafe or anything. It was fun and I highly recommend everyone go and have not only a spooky night but support the history museum

Et
Review №10

Hey, this place is really neat. Lots of local history that ties into Americas history also. As a local from the area I was fascinated to find out facts about the area that Id not known before. The Wild Bill interactive display was a fun one I remember.

Ka
Review №11

Very clean and well thought out museum. I came here actually to do senior photos, as it was their favorite Springfield location. Pictures turned out beautifully, and the staff was so accommodating. Will go back to actually take a look around.

R
Review №12

Not expecting such an interactive experience! great facility and storytelling. the staff was exceptionally helpful and friendly. highly recommended. will look to use their space for private events in the future. perfect for that. learned a lot, too.

Ma
Review №13

Such a neat place! Its full of info about the Springfield area beginning before it was settled. Lots of visuals on the five floors (a huge elevator is available). I hope a section will be included describing churches and music (such as Ozark Jubilee and Red Foley). Its certainly worth a couple of hours and the low admission price.

Sh
Review №14

The staff is always so sweet & helpful

De
Review №15

Did you know Wild Bill Hickock killed a man in Springfield Mo. Visit the museum for details.

Wi
Review №16

Fantastic collaboration of the history of Springfield MO. and the surrounding area. Excellent presentations. Truly a jewel in the queen citys crown. Interactive stations throughout. Truly a must see.

La
Review №17

Friendly and informed volunteers and inexpensive entry. They have worked hard to curate a large and varied gathering of documents, pictures, and actual memorabilia from WWI and have highlighted the contributions of citizens from Missouri and Springfield. There is also a large theater with war footage showing. I highly recommend this exhibit for those that are interested in history. Well worth the time to visit and look around.

Ma
Review №18

Wonderful interactive exhibits that bring the history of Springfield to life.

To
Review №19

Very visually cool with great information place to stop along the mother road.

Fa
Review №20

One of the most amazing interactive museums Ive ever been to. You have to go!

M.
Review №21

I love this place! Very very nicely done, lots of hard work! Very informational for our area.

Su
Review №22

MOHAI is the place to go for a thorough history of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. With engaging exhibits, hands-on activities, and interesting films this museum is ideal for the whole family. The museum had a dedicated kids space with toys and comfortable seating and books to read. Its perfect if you have a little one that needs a break from the exhibits. There is also a great interactive railroad exhibit complete with railroad ties and hammers for construction.

Ma
Review №23

Very cool. Being new to the area, this was a great place to learn about our new home!

Mi
Review №24

We really enjoyed the interactive displays.

Da
Review №25

Its a great place! The staff is friendly and very helpful. Classy place with a friendly atmosphere.

Pa
Review №26

REALLY cool stuff, from the old west and Wild Bill Hickocks first shootout to Route 66... Wow!

Ke
Review №27

Lots of fun, great place to take people not familiar with Springfield history.

Sa
Review №28

Amazing and fun to visit one of my favorites

fa
Review №29

A lot of potential but was $32.00 for both me and my brother on a Monday afternoon I felt was too expensive. Not a lot of actual exhibits but was mostly interactive video which was also disappointing. I can watch documentaries at home. Overall appreciate the effort put in but wouldnt take another family member who came in from out of town again.

Ge
Review №30

FANTASTIC, I loved it here as a history nerd.

Ma
Review №31

The brand new renovated museum is legit. Long overdue for Springfield and Southwest Missouri!

mo
Review №32

Fun museum with lots of information and history of Eureka Springs

Ca
Review №33

Just the theater is open now but looks like it will be a nice museum. The jukebox was made the same year I was born 1949. WOW

Ro
Review №34

Very good. Well presented. Need to update website with right hours.

Do
Review №35

Excellent! Beautifully designed exhibits, many photos of the history of Springfield, told in an innovative way!

Pa
Review №36

Wow so good, did not spend as much time in there as I wanted, it was route 66 car show, Ill be back.

Jo
Review №37

We stopped in here on a business trip to Springfield. Really cool place that has a lot of local history, even had a film in the theater playing. Recommend a visit if you are in the area.

ke
Review №38

Beautiful place. Plan on several hours here if you want to see it all.

Eu
Review №39

What a great place to visit and bring everyone in the whole family. We all really like Springfield there is so much to see A lot of good parks and places like this museum are just amazing to go to. Euphoria Askew Studio Hopes to see you all soon

Ni
Review №40

Staff was super friendly and helpful great museum. Its a little small but they are supposed to be opening up another section!

re
Review №41

Very kid friendly, helpful staff

Fe
Review №42

I never knew so much about Springfield before I came here. Really fitting location, too. Lots of interesting artifacts in a beautiful building.

ca
Review №43

.Good for a quick stop. We enjoyed the history of the mother road

Gl
Review №44

Hope the new location will be better. The Lebanon Route 66 Museum was more interesting.

Br
Review №45

Interesting place to learn about Springfields past. Currently features route 66 history in Springfield with a 25 minute narrated film.

Ch
Review №46

History museum not open all the time. Number on sign to call make an appointment. A lot of interesting facts & info n a small space.

b
Review №47

It was interesting but a little expensive for what it is.

Ro
Review №48

I was expecting to see a lot more Artifacts than there was and was disappointed that there was really not a gift shop there.

Fr
Review №49

Only a small portion is dedicated to Route 66

co
Review №50

Great little spot with lots of information about Springfield. They are remodeling and it will soon be bigger and better. The Fox theatre is in here also. We have been to three different shows here and it is a nice little hidden gem. Hope to see some more action in this place.

Ju
Review №51

The history the museum covers is only the lifespan of Route 66. Largely made up of reproductions of photos and post cards, and discusses varies business in Springfield in that time period. Mostly consists of a few exhibits and a hallway with wall displays. Theres also a narrated slide show. I went on day it was free. I am glad I didnt pay money. Springfield is much older than, and has more to claim than just our connection to Route 66. Especially given that theres another Route 66 museum in town, too. Would like a more comprehensive look at Springfield over its whole life.

Ka
Review №52

We enjoyed going through this museum. Learned a lot about Route 66 history that we didnt know. We will be going back soon.

Ca
Review №53

Always love to see the art work. Brings such inspiration

Mi
Review №54

This museum is, in part, in the very well preserved Fox Theater on the Springfield Public Square. Interesting exhibits.

Jo
Review №55

Nice walk through museum. Looking forward to the upgrade.

Gr
Review №56

Very nice black and white photo history of Springfield. Looking forward to them moving g into the new building.

Ka
Review №57

Very interesting and cool

Kr
Review №58

The temporary exhibit space in the Fox Theatre always has something new and exciting (Rt. 66, women artists in the Ozarks, Betty Love photography, Springfield in the 1950s). Im really looking forward to the new museum space opening that will feature Wild Bill Hickok, Rt. 66, and the history of the region!

Dw
Review №59

Too expensive for no more than is there

Ja
Review №60

I loooooove this place. Admission is cheap. The people at the front desk are friendly and knowledgeable. Ive seen two exhibits and did the haunted bus tour (scaarrryy). The exhibits were of WWI and Route 66. They were both fascinating. Its cool to see what Springfield was up to in those famous historic times.I follow them on Facebook and I love what they share with the throw back photos. They have a great collection of old photographs of the Green County area. Its crazy how much our community has evolved over the years! Im excited to see what theyll do when they move to their permanent space!

Li
Review №61

Loved it. Cant wait till theyre done with construction.

An
Review №62

Supposed to be much more within the year. Right now, very small with lots of pictures

Za
Review №63

I want to warn people, the museum in the old fox theater is not a museum about the history of Springfield, or Route 66. The only thing in this place are old photos of stock car racing around Springfield over several decades. There is a film running repeatedly in the theater that is also nothing but stock car racing. If you are expecting to see any exhibits about the history of anything else, you will be disappointed. I feel ripped off. The name of the museum should reflect its total focus on racing.

Sh
Review №64

Lot of interesting history

Ka
Review №65

What a fun place to visit! I love gaining a deeper knowledge of local history as it ties into the world events that we learn about in school!

So
Review №66

Centrally located

Te
Review №67

Very cool place. Amazing exhibit. Thank you for your wonderful donation.

Wi
Review №68

The fox theater bring back memories it will be nice once all the renovations are done.

Am
Review №69

Spfld is home. Love the fox. Great things to see. Live in Topeka ks. But come often as we can home.

Th
Review №70

Cost is to high for no more then what they show

La
Review №71

I have only been a couple times during Art Walks, but I can say that the owners are very passionate about what they do, and its neat to see historical representations of Springfield to compare to today and how much it has grown (and in some cases, maintained) its charm.

Ji
Review №72

This is a work in process. It could be ten years before the museum is finished, but it has a huge store of material and photos. Great investment in downtown and a must see stop on route 66.

Ka
Review №73

So excited for new things to come at museum! The WWI exhibit is an amazing tribute to those who served from Greene County.

Wo
Review №74

Parts were still being developed. Dont know if this is worth many return trips.

PR
Review №75

Great historical info on the area. Learned a lot! Definitely recommend

En
Review №76

Very informative...

Dr
Review №77

Its great

Mi
Review №78

Really neat

Je
Review №79

A treasure of our city..friendly volunteer dtaff..great exhibts

Am
Review №80

Its renovating so who knows what it is going to be like when finished.

Ch
Review №81

Great display

Jo
Review №82

Small but interesting.

川名
Review №83

Good movie

Ba
Review №84

Ok

Va
Review №85

Walk down memory lane!!!

Ro
Review №86

Wish it were bigger

Jo
Review №87

I like it it was different

Th
Review №88

Good

Al
Review №89

Its okay

Er
Review №90

Looking forward to when they remodel the museum. Current its is in a temp location mainly focusing around WWI and WWII

St
Review №91

Wonderful place !!!

Ja
Review №92

Nostalgic.

Ja
Review №93

Informative.

Information
100 Photos
93 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:154 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806, United States
  • Site:http://historymuseumonthesquare.org/
  • Phone:+1 417-831-1976
Categories
  • History museum
  • Museum
  • Non-profit organization
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:10am–5pm
  • Thursday:10am–5pm
  • Friday:10am–5pm
  • Saturday:10am–5pm
  • Sunday:1–5pm
Highlights
  • Active military discounts:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Toilets:Yes
  • Restaurant:No
Crowd
  • Family friendly:Yes
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