Introduction
Southwest Missouri is a beautiful region with plenty of natural attractions and charming small towns. Two of the most popular destinations in the area are Aurora and Springfield. Aurora is a small city with a rich history and a friendly community, while Springfield is a larger city with a vibrant arts scene and lots of shopping and dining options. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide will help you plan your trip from Aurora to Springfield and discover all the best things to see and do along the way.
Getting from Aurora to Springfield
The distance between Aurora and Springfield is about 40 miles, which can be easily covered by car or bus. If you’re driving, take Highway 60 west to reach Springfield. The trip should take around 45 minutes depending on traffic. If you prefer to take public transportation, Greyhound and Ozark Regional Transit offer bus services between the two cities.
Things to Do in Aurora
Aurora is a charming small town with lots of historic buildings and friendly locals. Some of the top attractions in Aurora include:
- Visit the historic downtown area and explore the shops and restaurants
- Tour the Aurora Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s history
- Go fishing or boating at the nearby Table Rock Lake
- Take a hike in the Mark Twain National Forest or Roaring River State Park
Things to Do in Springfield
Springfield is a larger city with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the top attractions in Springfield include:
- Visit the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, one of the largest wildlife attractions in the world
- Explore the Springfield Art Museum or the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in nearby Bentonville, Arkansas
- Shop at the Battlefield Mall or the downtown boutiques and antique shops
- Take a stroll through the Springfield Conservation Nature Center or the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
Where to Eat in Aurora
Aurora has a variety of local restaurants and cafes serving up delicious food. Some of the best places to eat in Aurora include:
- The Boardwalk Cafe, a cozy spot for breakfast or lunch with homemade baked goods
- The Bayou, a Cajun-style restaurant with live music on weekends
- The Stone’s Throw Cafe, a farm-to-table restaurant using locally sourced ingredients
- The Red Barn, a classic diner serving up burgers and fries
Where to Eat in Springfield
Springfield has a diverse food scene with options for every taste and budget. Some of the top restaurants in Springfield include:
- Aviary Cafe, a trendy brunch spot with creative dishes and cocktails
- Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes, a popular burger joint with unique toppings and milkshakes
- Grad School, a casual bar and grill with gourmet burgers and craft beer
- Thai Express, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine
Where to Stay in Aurora
Aurora has several affordable hotels and motels for visitors. Some of the top options include:
- Super 8 by Wyndham Aurora, a budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi
- Best Western Mt. Vernon Inn, a mid-range hotel with an indoor pool and fitness center
- Quality Inn & Suites, a recently renovated hotel with a restaurant and bar
Where to Stay in Springfield
Springfield has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury hotels. Some of the top hotels in Springfield include:
- The Vandivort Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown with a rooftop bar and restaurant
- The DoubleTree by Hilton, a mid-range hotel with an indoor pool and fitness center
- The La Quinta Inn & Suites, a budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi
- The Oasis Hotel & Convention Center, a resort-style hotel with an indoor water park and golf course
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful small town or a bustling city, Aurora and Springfield offer something for everyone. From historic museums and natural attractions to delicious restaurants and comfortable accommodations, you’ll find plenty to do and see in Southwest Missouri. Plan your trip today and discover all the wonders of this beautiful region!
