Autumn is one of the loveliest times of year for Springfield families looking for things to do.
I’ve gathered all of Dear Springfield Mama’s favorite fall guides and outings in one place so you can plan your next adventure.
I send a “things to do” email every Sunday night to tons of parents and caregivers in the Springfield, Mo. area. It’s full of free ideas that always match the season we’re in.
The ultimate mom’s guide to fall festivals in the Ozarks
Plan fall without the research: 11 can’t-miss fall festivals near Springfield, MO, plus a 27-event Google Calendar made for local moms.
Wommack Mill is worth the 20-minute drive — festival or not
Why and how to visit Wommack Mill in Fair Grove, Missouri, a family-friendly historic stop with old machinery, local history and the annual Heritage Reunion.
Maple Park Cemetery: An unexpected place to enjoy fall with kids
Looking for a peaceful place to enjoy fall color in Springfield? Maple Park Cemetery might surprise you — with its quiet paths, rich history, and brilliant trees, it’s a calm spot for moms and kids to explore together.
Lake Springfield: The hilltop park that makes autumn feel extra golden
Take the kids to Hilltop Pavilion at Lake Springfield, a playground with stunning lake views, picnic tables, dirt paths to the water, and plenty of space for playdates and nature walks.
Family-friendly float on the Niangua River near Springfield
A spring-fed river just an hour from Springfield, the Niangua offers crystal-clear water, gentle currents, and family-friendly float trips through Riverfront Campground & Canoe. Expect good bathrooms, organized staff, and beautiful fall scenery through October 31.
