Loads of Attractions

Springfield is home to a wide array of attractions. Our itinerary attempted to contain most of the larger items. Dickerson Park Zoo is certainly a must for visitors of all ages. Wander the newly renovated Boardwalk, watch the spider monkeys frolic and play, listen to the lions roar or feed a giraffe at this accredited mid-sized zoological park. Be sure to save time for a train ride before leaving.

Just north of town you will find Fantastic Caverns. We loved the idea that we could ride through this immense cave system. The guide gave a thorough history, and peppered it with some amusing anecdotes. Afterwards, you can stretch your well rested legs on the nature walk down to the nearby river.

Travelers with kids or grand-kids will find hours of educational entertainment at Discovery Center. With four floors of scientific exhibits, children of all ages will see and learn new things. Even without any kids, we still found it hard to leave this place. This certainly ranked highly on our “Hidden Gem” scale. Be sure to get there early to make the most of your visit.

A visit to Creative Escape Glass will offer you a chance to slow down the pace a little. Here guests can create their own fused glass masterpiece under the guidance of  a professional glass worker. For those visiting from out of town, finished pieces can be mailed to your home after final firing. This was truly a novelty that we have not seen in other cities.

Main Street of America

The memories of the Mother Road (Route 66) have slowly decayed and been removed. Here and there you still find references to the old highway system, which is a draw all on its own. Running from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, this historic thoroughfare ran right through Springfield. Along the route, travelers would find many unique structures and oddities on their journeys. In Springfield, visitors can stay in what was one time the largest Howard Johnson Motor Lodge in the nation. We were honored that they hosted our stay, and found the retro decor to be fun. These days the name has changed to Oasis Hotel and Convention Center.

Springfield Special Features

We found that Springfield embraces their Route 66 legacy. As we wandered around the downtown Park Central Square area, we found ourselves strolling the historic highway. The downtown section is a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment district. We wandered through an assortment of shops that seemed focused on providing an artistic twist on the products they offered. Springfield Hot Glass caught our attention, as a glass-maker was working on a piece in full view of customers. Another staff member described the action, and was on hand to answer any questions.

The History Museum on the Square was occupying its temporary home, while the new state-of-the-art museum is being built. Currently they are housed in the historic Fox Theater, which limits their display space. The main focus of their exhibits during our visit was Springfield’s participation in World War 1. Loads of pictures, posters, memorabilia, and even newsreels make up the current displays.

At Fun Acre guests can experience miniature golf like it was in its heyday. Loads of cheesy statues join unique, and challenging obstacles to make for a healthy, and entertaining activity. With an admission charge of only $2.50 per person, you may want to visit more than once during your stay in Springfield.

A Foodie City

Someone told us that Springfield has the distinction of being an incubator for many new restaurant ideas. This certainly makes sense when you see the wide range of restaurant options available. In the downtown area we savored the offerings at two of the many choices at hand. Black Sheep Burger serves up some of the most picturesque burgers we have ever seen. Take your selfies quickly, because the flavors will soon have you tearing into your meals.

Nearby is Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe, which is located in an old pharmacy building. We had an early morning breakfast here, and enjoyed watching the playful interactions of the open galley kitchen. Be sure to check out the Freedom Waffle for a delightfully photogenic breakfast meal. It is certainly picture worthy, and the taste is amazing.

In the northern section of Springfield we found Cafe Cusco. Located on Commercial, or as they call it C-Street, this revitalized railroad headquarters now houses a Peruvian restaurant. Our first foray into this cuisine couldn’t have been better, and we became raving fans by the end of our meal. Be sure to save some time in your itinerary for a stroll through this historic section of the city.

Fire & Ice is located inside of the Oasis Hotel. The restaurant serves a wide range of meals, and the Ice Bar is a unique conversation starter. While sitting at the bar, guests can watch the action in the open-air kitchen, while their drink stays perfectly chilled in the long ice trough built into the bar. There is something to be said for getting a show with your meal.

Sweet Treats

It’s hard to imagine a vacation itinerary that didn’t include some sweet delights. While we were on C-Street we stopped in Askinosie Chocolate for a tasting. This bean-to-bar chocolate manufacturer has some of the most unique flavor combinations around. Their business model has created an atmosphere of excellence from farmer to distributor, and it shines through in the delivered products.

At Elle’s Patisserie we found pastry perfection during an early morning visit. This dainty, yet bountiful sweets shop will have you imagining yourself in a European setting, as you savor the sights and scents of the experience. Be sure to ask Elle to package some of the macarons up for later. They make an eye-catching present for that special someone back home.

If you need a quick sugar fix, then Hurts Donut may be calling your name. Open 25 hours a day, and 8 days a week (according to them), this place serves up sugary creations in the round. If you have never visited before, be prepared to take some time picking which variations you want to taste. An assortment may be needed to get a true feel, and taste, of this place.

For those looking for some adult sweet treats, perhaps a visit to OOVDA Winery is in the cards. This local winery offers dry and sweet varieties of grape and fruit based wines. Stop in for a tasting, and then enjoy your purchase in their outdoor seating area. By the way, if you like a nice sweet wine, we would recommend the “Happy Birthday” variety. It is definitely a reason to celebrate.

Still More To See & Do

As you can see, we packed a lot into our 2 1/2 days, and still couldn’t see all of the great things Springfield, Missouri has to offer. There were still quite a few things on our original attractions list that we didn’t see, but may be of interest to you. For sports fans, Springfield is home to the Cardinals, a minor league baseball team, as well as the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Those looking for cultural displays can visit the Springfield Art Museum with over 10,000 pieces available for display or take time to see a performance at one the the local theaters. Outdoor adventurers can savor the 114 acre botanical garden/park, before heading over to Lake Springfield Park for a hike. Visitors can also rent a canoe or kayak to better explore the lake. Even all of these still barely scratch the surface of the city’s attraction list. Hopefully we have helped you see that Springfield, Missouri is more than just throwed rolls and fishing supplies. Isn’t it time for you to start planning your own trip to the the “Gateway to the Ozarks”?

*We would like to express our appreciation to the Springfield Visitors Bureau for their assistance and support of our research trip. While we did receive support from some of the places listed in our articles, all of the writing and opinions are our own.

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We want to thank the Oasis Hotel for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

New Digs

At one time, it was the largest Howard Johnson Motor Lodge in the chain.  The management of the hotel is proud of the facility’s history, and wanted to play off of that point. The Oasis had recently changed brands, and received an overhaul. Colorful waterfalls flank the entrance, and the retro vibe is carried into the lobby. Here guests will be greeted by palm trees flanking the entrance, and a beautiful floor with infused glass pieces. Bright colored tile and carpeting can be found throughout the facility. The whole atmosphere is light and airy, and lends itself to a relaxed pace. It reminded us of the 1950’s golden age of auto travel, except with all of the conveniences of today.

Indoor and outdoor pools are available for guests, and continue the playful design. Lush greenery muffles the sounds in the large indoor pool area. On the outside, there is plenty of space to catch some rays, while you lay out by the pool. Being a convention center means that they also have plenty of space available to host meetings, and events. Over 30,000 feet, and it’s all under one roof. Our visit to Springfield was a whirlwind of activity, but we knew that we had a comfortable place to return at the end of our days running. All of our interactions with staff members were pleasant, and they were helpful with tips and suggestions.

Dining at Fire and Ice

They have an interesting on-site restaurant called Fire & Ice. This was a handy feature, as our last evening we decided to eat at the hotel. We had poked our head in on our arrival, and were sorry that it didn’t fit into our itinerary. The place had lively crowd at that time, and the Ice Bar was loaded with guests. On our final night a decision was made that the place we had originally picked just didn’t work for us. We decided that instead of staying at a restaurant that didn’t turn out to be what it advertised as, we would just head back to the hotel. Now we had a chance to test out Fire and Ice.

Let’s Eat

The menu at Fire and ice rotates through the seasons. This is done to allow changes based on availability of certain key ingredients. I chose the White River Beer Battered Cod. This meal comes with bacon-jalapeno hush puppies, and I added some house fries. They include a remoulade dipping sauce, which is similar to tartar sauce, but has more flavor. I was surprised how much I liked the dipping sauce, and even used it for my fries.

Crystal went for the Caesar Salad, and added grilled chicken to the meal. The salad comes with a balsamic glaze, which added a new depth to the taste. They also include a Peppercorn Parmesan crisp for some crunch. The grilled chicken ended up being a good addition. As we waited for our meals, we watched the flames dance in the open air kitchen. The curved bar includes a six-inch wide trough that is filled with ice. This keeps guests drinks chilled, while they watch the kitchen staff feverishly preparing dishes. The entire experience makes for an entertaining show, which we are glad we got to witness firsthand.

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Unique Projects

When we first heard of this place, we weren’t sure what to expect. We have been to many glassblower shops and demonstrations. Neither of us were thinking this would be something we could do. After all, it looks like an art form that takes many years to master. We were relieved to find out that Creative Escape Glass is something totally different. Here guests create fused glass projects using various colors and shapes of cut glass. A display table showcases potential projects that guests can choose from, and the price for each. Once the style of item is determined, you can let your imagination run free.

When we arrived there were already people busy working on their own projects. The owner of Creative Escape Glass, Rebekah, was cutting glass sheets to the sizes needed for various projects. She would buzz around her studio giving pointers, and making sure supplies were at the ready. Here she has created an environment where people have the opportunity to let their creativity flow, and end up with something uniquely their own.

A Calm and Creative Escape

Each customer has a station to work at. We watched a group of ladies, as each created their own version of small trays. The base glass plate is the canvas for the various glass pieces which will be fused together. Working with various tools supplied by the store, customers piece together their individual art pieces. Along the wall are racks filled with glass sheets of various colors and textures. A wide assortment of other types of glass beads, stones, straws, and other shapes are also available. Customers are taught the basics of glass cutting, and put to work creating their masterpiece. An average of 2 to 3 hours are needed to complete a project, so plan accordingly.

The Final Product

Once your artistic creation is completed, it is time for the fusing. This process takes many hours, and is done after you leave. The normal turnaround for a piece is about a week. For those nearby or frequent Springfield visitors, you can pick up your creation at the shop. Visitors who are merely vacationing or passing through can have their artwork shipped to them. Of course, as with many forms of glass working, unexpected issues may arise. Rebekah always tries to remedy these when possible, but you may want to review the “Oops” page on her website to see potential pitfalls. No matter what you choose or how it turns out, you will still have the memory of creating your own fused glass. It is a special way to spend a few hours.

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We want to thank Fantastic Caverns for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Fantastic Caverns History

Although the cave was formed ages ago, it was only discovered around the start of the Civil War. The land owner did not want the cave to be used for wartime purposes, so he kept the discovery hidden. Just after the end of the war, the first official exploration party was allowed inside. A newspaper ad in the local Springfield paper had requested explorers. The ad was answered by 12 local women. Their names are visible during your underground journey. They lit their way with torches, which surely limited their scope of the immense underground structure. No traces of human habitation were discovered, so it is safe to assume the cave had remained undisturbed until this point.

A visit to Fantastic Caverns begins at the visitors center. They are open for tours almost every day of the year. The temperature inside the cave reflects closely to the average annual temperature of the local region. For this specific cave, it hovers right around a comfortable 60 degrees. In the visitors center guests can view some of the vehicles that were used in the past. It is interesting to see the progression of the technology used to take guests through the cave system. Being a ride through excursion, this cave is popular with many group tours.

Hop Onboard

The tours leave about each half hour, and soon it was our turn. We climbed on board a wagon that has bench seating along both sides. This is pulled by a Jeep driven by a tour guide. The first stop is just outside the cave entrance, Here the guide demonstrates an old steam power system that used to provide power to the cave. He stoked the fire, but the only thing it powers these days is a whistle. We entered the cave, and our eyes quickly adjusted to the lighting. The lighting used in the cave system does a wonderful job of highlighting the various underground formations.

I will share just a few pictures, since none of them do justice to this awe inspiring attraction. The cave system is quite large, and would require extensive time and stamina to tour on foot. The drive through feature helps open the experience to a wider range of people. It also helps limit the possibility of damage to the formations from human contact. Our guide did a great job of explaining the various formations, and helping us understand the length of time required for them to form. It was interesting to see how many of the formations are still growing today. This cave system is still alive, so they closely monitor the water entering and passing through the cave. Although we were not witness during our visit, there are some creatures that make the cave their home.

On The Outside

After our tour we decided to spend some time touring the grounds. We made our way down a steep incline to the Canyon Trail. Here visitors can hike to Indian Spring, which flows into the Little Sac River. The total round trip is just under 1/2 mile, but be aware that it does have a steep finish to the parking lot. The spring is very small, so it is not the main draw of the hike. The nature that surrounds you during the visit is the true draw. You will be entering a lush, moist area, so bug spray would be advised. We didn’t have any with us, and we survived, but I did see a couple of mosquitos. A good portion of the trail is paved or part of a long wooden walkway. It does spill out onto a gravel path that leads to the river, and the last portion is more of a nature trail to the spring.

At the end we did a little shopping in the gift shop. The prices are actually very attractive, and they have a good selection of souvenir items. They also have many natural stone and mineral items for sale, including jewelry. Being a fan of various rock formations, I picked up a little piece for my collection at home. We bid our goodbyes to the staff, who are all very friendly, and made our way back to our car. On our drive out of the grounds we were treated to a short show by some of the turkeys who live on the grounds. It was a nice ending to a very pleasurable visit. Be sure to add this  place to your itinerary for your next trip to Springfield, Missouri. If it’s summertime you may want to save it for the hottest part of the day.

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We want to thank the Discovery Center for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Discovering the Discovery Center

Our itinerary, for the day we visited Discovery Center, was focused around the entire Center City area. We had parked at the center, but had some time before they opened. The area has seen a revitalization, which has brought in new and interesting businesses. After getting our bearings of the area, we headed to our appointment. A quick tour of the facility helped us orient ourselves, and then we were released to enjoy the exhibits. Since we had no little ones in tow, we skipped Wonderland. This area is dedicated to those five and under, and has its own hands-on exhibits.

Earth Science

The first floor of Discovery Center has a wide variety of exhibits dealing with the earth. Here kids of all ages can get involved in learning, but in a fun way. A favorite for most children is the dinosaur fossil dig area. Here they can be pint-sized paleontologists, and dig up their own discovery.

Further into the area we found displays showing the affects of pollution on our planet. Visitors can walk under a discarded automobile, and see what decomposition does to ground underneath. There is another diorama that shows how rain runoff varies for different surfaces. Guests can create their own rainstorm, and then see the path the water takes across a variety of surfaces.

Getting Hands On

We believe it is safe to assume that most people enjoy the fun of interactive exhibits. At Discovery Center they try to make all of their exhibits as user-friendly as possible. Our arrival at the start of the day meant that there was a smaller crowd. We would suggest this timing for your visit, if possible. We had nearly free reign of the exhibits, but noticed an ever increasing crowd, as our visit progressed.

Visitors can test, and learn about various scientific principles. Everyone can try their hand at launching airplanes from a tower. Experience how your body’s weight is distributed on a bed of nails. A little farther, and you find an assortment of gears, pulleys, ramps, and levers used to demonstrate how machines move items.

As you work your way through this floor, you will also get to test your ability (or maybe your kids) to create electricity on a giant wheel. This exhibit seemed to be quite popular with the kids, and quite often had a line waiting to try it out. Nearby was a display the allowed visitors to see how water moves through a large trough. An assortment of panels can be moved around to alter the flow, and you can test your pathway by floating balls down this miniature version of a river. While we wanted to keep playing with all of these cool displays, we knew we had to move upstairs.

Moving On Up

The second floor is where we found Phenomena. Here visitors can explore more about electricity. One of the fan favorites is the Van de Graff generator which will make your hair stand on end. I didn’t have a reason to test it, but Crystal is the perfect guinea pig for testing this machine. They also have a plasma ball, which is hard to resist.  An air cannon can be aimed at a target on the floor below. A good thump on one end will send a burst of air out. The effects can be seen, and highlights this non-visible energy source.

This floor of the Discovery Center also features exhibits on light and shadows. A shadow room allows visitors to capture their shadow on a wall. It only remains for a few seconds, so you can create a variety of poses. We found this display to be a lot of fun. Another display allows you to see the different colors that comprise a shadow. Here the colors are separated, and cast on a white background.

Get in Touch with Your Body

The third floor features a wide range of topics. One of our favorite sections is BodyWorks. As we entered through the mouth, I noticed an over-sized piece of floss hanging from a couple of teeth. Everywhere we went, we were amazed at the level of detail in the exhibits. Here we were learning, in a hands-on fashion, about various body parts. This area was also popular with kids, and understandably. We learned how the eye works, and why your eyesight degenerates with age.

Moving around the area, we found displays on a variety of body parts. Each helped us explore, and learn about health and wellness. The third floor also holds Discovery Town, which is designed like a city street. Guests can put on a play at the theater or publish a story at the local newspaper office. There is even a miniature TV studio complete with cameras.

Become a Scientist

In the ChromoZone, we found tons of displays about genetics. The area is set up like a laboratory, and really makes you feel like a scientist. We also learned about cells, and DNA in this area, through lots of hands-on equipment. This area certainly begs the visitors to slow down for a bit. Feel free to sit down and examine cells through a microscope. While you are in this area you may want to make time to do your own experiment.

A high-wire bicycle exhibit allows those fearless visitors to test their “center of gravity”. A heavy counterweight keeps the bike on the wire, even when the rider’s weight shifts off-center. During our visit we convinced the ride operator to give us a demonstration. Crystal was not willing to do the ride, and I had to take the pictures. Fortunately, staff was more than willing to assist us in our research.

Our time was quickly running out, and we hadn’t even had time to explore the fourth floor. On that level , visitors will find the WorldWise Gallery. Here guests of all ages can explore the cultures of six different countries from around the globe. Learn about the various foods, clothes, games, and music that are common to each of these unique areas. As you can see, there is plenty at Discovery Center to keep everyone in the family occupied. Be sure to add this place to your itinerary for your next visit to Springfield, Missouri.

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Why Black Sheep Burger?

The name of the restaurant has an interesting story. The owners have two other restaurants in Springfield. Both are more of the upscale dining venue style. When the opportunity presented itself to start a burger joint, the name became rather fitting. This is the Black Sheep of their restaurant family. That doesn’t mean the food is of any lower standards. In fact, this place is a local hot spot. If you don’t call in advance, you can expect a wait. Fortunately, it shouldn’t be too long, but it will certainly be worth it. This place has a target menu, which is heavy on the burger side, as one would expect. The Angus beef patties are tender and juicy, but it’s the toppings that make them extra special. Crystal chose the Blues Brothers Burger, which comes topped with butter lettuce, tomato, pickle, candied bacon, and avocado. To add another layer of flavor, they also toss in some truffle mayonnaise. All of this is placed on a pair of 4 oz. patties. That’s a heaping of good eating.

Bring It On!

The advantage of doing the research beforehand is that I have a chance to dwell on the menu options at Black Sheep. The Cowboy Carl had piqued my interest from the first time I saw it described. This monstrosity takes all of the best things I love, and piles them all on a bun. How could I pass up this opportunity? Besides a 4 oz. Angus patty, there is also a pile of smoked brisket. This is capped with spicy fried onions, candied bacon, sharp white cheddar, pickles, and a delicious BBQ sauce. Of course, when they delivered my prize I began wondering what I had gotten myself into. Not being one to shirk from a task, I decided to divide and conquer. Fortunately, we had seen the size of the burgers when we entered, so we chose to split an order of the Sea Salt n’ Pepper Fries. By the way, these are crispy and delicious. In the end, we were both bested by our burgers, and we gave up the fight before finishing them.

It was difficult passing up some of the other burger options. They have their own spin on a Philly, which uses filet mignon. The Godfather is a monster meal that includes two 4 oz. patties, locally made Italian sausage, and a tomato-basil soup for dipping. It even comes with a pair of gloves to wear while dipping to keep your hands clean. The chicken option of a burger has an interesting flavor combination, and there is even a Quinoa patty available for those looking to forego the meat.

The Extras

Black Sheep Burger does things beside burgers. They offer a couple hot dog options, as well as a couple of salads. The sides are as unique as their burger options. The Waffle Mac n’ Cheese is an interesting option, and can even be served with chili on top. Sweet potato fries come topped with marshmallow cream and pecans. The fries come in three different flavor combinations, along with some interesting dipping sauce options. The kids aren’t forgotten, as they have three meal choices for them. Now of course you will need something to wash all of this food down. Black Sheep has a full bar, and offers up some unique shakes in adult or non-alcoholic versions. They also have quite a few brews on hand, and include a few interesting cocktails on the menu.

They are located in the Center City area, which has a hip vibe. There are lots of unique shops to enjoy, and you might just find that perfect collectible to remember your visit. Apparel stores offer up some interesting options, as well. This part of Springfield makes a great day destination, as you can park and walk the whole area. Of course, when hunger hits make sure you know the quickest route to Black Sheep Burgers.

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Time for a Change

We once visited a gentleman in Wyoming who was nicknamed ‘The Cowboy Chocolatier”. He picked up this moniker, because he retired from bronc riding to make truffles. He knew that if he stayed in his previous profession it would possibly shorten his lifespan. His story piqued our interest enough to make sure to add our visit to our Rocky Mountain Road Trip article. Imagine my surprise when I found another story just as interesting. Shawn Askinosie spent about 20 years practicing law as a defense attorney. He worked many high profile cases over his career. With these come the good and bad attention. It also brought the death threats, that comes along with this type of notoriety. Shawn decided he needed a change.

Becoming a chocolatier may not have seemed like a logical move, since he knew nothing about the task. He studied all aspects of chocolate from history to botany. Shawn experimented with recipes at home, and tested them on friends and family. Soon he hit upon the magic of making his chocolate from the bean. This would make him one of only a few using this method.

The Askinosie Chocolate Difference

Shawn has built Askinosie Chocolate on the principle of partnership. He travels to the farms where the beans are grown, where he meets each of the farmers. The company purchases from multiple continents to ensure the best supply of high quality ingredients. Shawn believes in an open book approach, so that every person in the supply chain understands their importance. By taking these extra steps, he has helped foster an atmosphere of worthwhile work. This engages everyone in understanding their role in the success of the venture. All of this leads to an exceptional level of dedication to quality.

All of this attention to detail has paid off for Askinosie Chocolate. They have received a variety of accolades and awards. While all of this notoriety is nice, the real reward comes from satisfied customers. They offer a wide range of products at their shop, and online. Gourmet bars, sipping chocolate, and even baking chocolate is available. They don’t limit their choices to just two or three. Sixteen different varieties of bars are sold, and each denotes the country of origin. For those wanting something unique, we would suggest the Dark Milk Chocolate with Black Licorice bar. The flavors blend so well, and make for an interesting combination.

Products That Make a Difference

Askinosie Chocolate also sells two items marketed as “Product of Change”. These are harvested and produced by the administration and PTA of local schools in Tanzania and the Philippines. The profits from the sale of these products is returned to the schools, and help provide lunch for about 1800 students a day. This small batch chocolate shop is finding new ways to make a big impact on our world. Check them out on your next visit to Springfield, Missouri.

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One Fun Acre

Now we didn’t measure the space, but all combined we can’t believe it is any bigger than one acre. This of course would include the on-site batting cages, and the parking lot. That doesn’t mean it contains any less entertainment value. This is especially true when you consider that the cost for 18 holes is $2.50. Where else can you get a deal like that? Sure the holes are fairly simple. Some are not in as good of shape as they could be. These small details don’t stop the crowds from gathering to play alongside an old green dinosaur.

During our visit we learned the key to this pint-sized attraction. Give the people a place to wile away an hour, while making memories. For that you will be rewarded with a steady crowd of return visitors. As we played, we listened to the stories of others, from previous visits. Some discussed proper approach shots, while others bragged about there best scores. Children scampered around scouting out the next holes. Everywhere people were enjoying this attraction.

The Verdict Is In

Our time at Fun Acre was just that, fun. We have a habit of always trying to find time to squeeze in a round of mini-golf. Some places are over the top fancy, and have state of the art features. These usually come with a price tag to match. While they have lots of eye candy, the main draw is still putting a colored ball around the course. This place offers that same experience, albeit less. Less glitz and glamour, but still all of the putting. Give it a try, and see if you agree. Just be wary of that green dinosaur.

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We want to thank the Dickerson Park Zoo for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

 Perfect Timing

When we planned our research trip to Springfield, we had no idea that the Dickerson Park Zoo would be hosting a celebration. It was a coincidence that our arrival landed on the day of the ribbon-cutting for a refurbished area. The South America Boardwalk had been need of repairs for some time, and they are finally completed. When you are a public attraction, like a zoo, you need to take every opportunity to showcase your improvements. Fortunately, the weather and the crowds all proved to be positive for the event. We even had the honor of visiting with their newly elected mayor, prior to his ceremonial speech.

After the ribbon was cut, the public was invited to stroll the new feature. The elevated walkway winds its way over a water feature. The landscape holds new artwork nestled among the rock outcroppings. A variety of waterfowl swim around the koi filled lagoon, which the boardwalk overlooks. The walk ends at the South American bird and primate area. This revitalization project has allowed the zoo to bring the animals back into the limelight. It was obvious that the staff was excited to see this work completed. Many of the animals also seemed pleased to be back in full public view. Of course, it could have also been the beautiful weather that day.

Touring Dickerson Park Zoo

Our tour guide for the morning was Joey Powell, who is the head of Public Relations. Her enthusiasm for the job was evident from the moment we met her. We watched her scurry around before, during, and after the ribbon cutting, and waited at the cafe while she completed her duties. We noted that the cafe has plenty of open air seating, which provides great views of various animal exhibits. Later in the day, as we enjoyed our lunch, we watched the ostriches parade around their enclosure, and the kangaroos lounge during their midday rest. We found the ability to survey the animals while on our downtime break to be an added bonus. The zoo has certainly worked hard to keep the visitors engaged with the exhibits.

After Joey had bid goodbye to the local dignitaries, we began our tour. As we walked, she shared the history of the zoo, and we discussed some of it’s best features. The Dickerson Zoo is a mid-sized park, which got its start in the 1920’s. The zoo stayed small until the mid 1970’s, when a local Friends of the Zoo was formed. Since that time, Dickerson Zoo has continued along its master plan, and maintained its accreditation. In 1996 a newly revised master plan was implemented. The goals of this plan were completed by 2010, so steps were taken to project the future vision of the zoo. This latest strategic plan will help guide the zoo on its journey to be a leisure destination, as well as an educational resource for species preservation.

Special Exhibits

Our first stop was at the giraffe area, which includes an opportunity to feed them. For a small fee, visitors can purchase special crackers to feed the giraffes.This seemed to be a very popular attraction, and people of all ages lined up for their turn. The giraffes are free to roam their enclosure, and seem to take turns visiting the feeding station. During our visit to the stand, one adult seemed famished. Of course, soon another arrived, and the first one headed off.

Crystal took her turn feeding, and seemed a little surprised at their slimy, dark tongue. I have had the pleasure of feeding giraffes in the past, and knew what to expect. Even with my previous experiences, it is still an amazing opportunity, when you get to feed one of these magnificent creatures. This is certainly one stop you don’t want to pass up during your visit.

Hungry, Hungry Hippos

Our next stop was to see the hippos. We were in for a special treat, as Joey took us for an up-close view. Of course, since we approached at the point that they get fed, they were expecting food. After a few moments of waiting with open mouths, they gave us the look of disappointment. It was quite exhilarating to get such a birds eye view of these river horses.

We continued on deeper into the zoo. We passed more primates, as well as some of the cats. The cheetahs lounged in the shade, but we kept moving toward the back of the zoo. We were on a mission to visit an area that makes the Dickerson Park Zoo stand out from many of the others its size.

Helping the Hurt

Dickerson Park Zoo is a rehabilitation center dedicated to the treatment of animals. Many of the creatures that are brought to them are orphaned, and need only some attention. Others may be ill or injured, and need the rehabilitation center. The goal is always to try to get the animals back to a point that they can be released back into the wild.

Occasionally an animal will need more intensive care. The zoo is equipped with a complete surgery center to help with those extreme situations. We had a chance to meet one of the staff in this area, and it was evident that they have a true dedication to the animals. In all actuality, every staff member we met seemed proud to be a part of the zoo family. They truly care about the well being of the creatures in their care.

After our tour, we spent time walking around the park. There five distinct zones in the park, as well as a few additional exhibits. The entire zoo can be seen in two or three hours, but we found no reason to rush. Exhibits are designed to allow good viewing for all ages. The Dickerson Park Zoo also has a cafe, gift shop, and a miniature train. This family friendly attraction is a great place to while away a few enjoyable hours.

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Historic C-Street on the Rise

Cafe Cusco is housed in a building that was built in 1883. At one point it was the headquarters of the nearby Frisco Railroad. Owners Joe Gidman, and his mother Claire, have revived this building into a popular, and highly praised lunch and dinner option. The two are dedicated to seeing Commercial Street rise back into prominence in Springfield. Joe has a good head for business, and has made selective moves to help stabilize costs at his restaurant. He quickly saw how expensive spices were when bought in quantities just big enough for his business. He quickly discovered that by buying in bulk, he could sell to other local businesses to help lower costs for all of them. Soon he opened a tea and spice shop located just down the street from his restaurant.

Joe fell in love with Peruvian foods during an extensive visit to the country. The time he spent there stuck with him, and years later he was able to see his dream come to reality. The building they purchased is a great fit for their restaurant. The copper coated high ceilings, and extensive woodwork create a wonderful backdrop for the interesting menu. For our visit we were seated in one of the covered booths. These create an atmosphere of intrigue, and certainly make the visit feel special. Our server, Sam, walked us through the menu, and started us out by suggesting a couple of cocktail options. One is similar to a margarita, while the other is a Peruvian form of sangria. Both were delicious.

Cafe Cusco Cuisine

Joe had us try a couple of the signature appetizers, which are customer favorites. These are traditional foods that he found in many restaurants in Peru. Anticuchos Pobre consists of beef heart marinated with a zesty seasoning. It had a beefy texture, but with a zesty accent. The sauce was deceivingly mild at first, but finished with just a hint of a kick. Not enough to burn, but the flavor kept drawing us back.

The other appetizer was a Tamal. This is an Andean tamale wrapped in banana leaves. It is stuffed with vegetables, and comes with a cheese sauce and marinated red onions. We knew we still had our main courses to savor, but we just couldn’t stop nibbling on this dish. When you order it, be sure to spread the sauce and onions over the tamal, before digging in. These are designed to compliment the dish.

Signature Plates

Crystal decided to test the Chicken Para Rayos. It consists of a grilled chicken breast coated in a creamy pepper sauce. The sauce includes sauteed shrimp, tomato, and spinach. This is all served on a bed of garlic rice with a side of pineapple. The sauce is light, and flavorful, but not overpowering.

My selection was Puca Picante, which is an ancient Incan dish. Toasted peanuts, garlic, and potato are blended in a honey beet sauce. I chose to include pork in the dish, which added an additional layer to the flavors. The crunch of the peanuts was a pleasant surprise. The dish has some sweetness from the beets, but there is certainly an underlying heat from the peppers used in the sauce. After our dinner, we had a lengthy conversation with Joe. His love for the people and culture of Peru are apparent, as is his desire to share these with others. Along with Claire, his mother, they are giving others a chance to taste the flavors of this rarely featured cuisine. This place ranked high with us, and we ended up talking with Joe for about an hour. It is hard to imagine a better representative for Springfield tourism. This place is certainly a must-do for those looking to expand their dining experience.

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We want to thank the Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Gailey’s Digs

The restaurant is housed in the old Gailey’s Pharmacy, and extends into the historic Seville Hotel building. The decor is eclectic, and has a hip vibe to it. Assorted artwork from local artists decorate the walls. The kitchen area is housed in the old pharmacy section of the building. This is where we decided to dine, since it offered the best view of the action. Our original plan was to arrive around 9:00, but the manager suggested we may want to swing by a tad bit earlier on the weekend. Since it was our first stop of the day, we arrived around 7:30. The place already had a steady stream of customers, but we were seated immediately. From our perch we were able to watch the staff at work.

Breakfast Eats

After placing our orders, they were assembled in quick fashion. The staff all seemed to be on the same page, as the whooshed around the galley shaped prep area. Playful banter between workers showed that they all enjoyed their work  atmosphere. Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe opened in 2005, and has won notoriety for it’s breakfasts. Recently, they expanded their menu, as well as their hours, to include lunch and dinner. Our early arrival time gave us the chance to speak with the manager on staff for a bit. She explained that during the week you can usually walk in and get a table. Come the weekends, the place becomes extremely popular by 8:30. Quite often they will have a line out the door waiting for a table. That told us the food must be pretty good.

The menu had so many great options that choosing was difficult. I ended up with the Sientz Bowl with a side of fruit. Layers of hash browns, scrambled eggs, and even biscuits with gravy mix into a delicious concoction. Crystal went with the Freedom Waffle, which is appropriately named. A thick waffle is topped with strawberries, blueberries, and sweet whipped cream. The resulting flavor is light, and amazing. This dish comes with a side of eggs and meat. Toss in a couple of cups of coffee, and our breakfasts were delightful. Now we had plenty of energy to start a fun-filled day of touring. Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe is a must-try for visitors to Springfield, but arrive early.

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A Native Chain

Hurts Donut is a Springfield based business started by a husband and wife team. Their motto is that they are open”25 hours a day, and 8 days a week”. The business was started about three years ago, and has grown like a wildfire. Recently they began franchising the business, and it is quickly spreading around the Midwest. Even with this sudden success, the owners still run the business with a heart for communities. On many Wednesdays they travel to neighboring cities. Here they will conduct pop-up sales, with the profits going to charities. They usually give advance notice through social media. They also wait to start selling until local breakfast restaurants have finished their morning rush. In Iowa, they raised $28,000 for the families of two police officers who had been killed in an ambush attack. Their franchise partners all participate in the charitable side of the business, as well.

Why Hurts Donut Works

The concept at Hurts Donut is to offer “gourmet” donuts 24 hours a day. The range of flavor combinations is mind boggling. The handmade, oversize donuts are decorated with a wide range of toppings. These include everything from breakfast cereals to crushed candy bars. Some varieties are quickly identifiable, while others take a little thought. The owners realize that unlike many food cuisines, donuts appeal to all demographics. This allows them to locate their businesses in almost any part of a town. It never fails that each new store opening is greeted with huge crowds.

The sugary treats are not anywhere near the realm of health food. That doesn’t stop people from dropping in and picking up one or even a dozen. During our visit, we noticed a non-stop line of patrons waiting for their turn. We didn’t mind the short wait, since it gave us more time to survey the selection. In the end, we chose the carrot cake donut, since our visit was the day before Easter. The donut was moist and sweet. Very sweet, but very good.

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