If you're planning a trip to Springfield, Missouri, one attraction deserves a spot at the very top of your itinerary—Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. Connected to the famous Bass Pro Shops headquarters, this award-winning attraction is much more than an aquarium or museum. It's an immersive journey through some of the world's most incredible ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and conservation stories.
Whether you're traveling with kids, planning a couples getaway, or simply love nature, Wonders of Wildlife offers an unforgettable experience that easily fills half a day—or even longer.
USA Today has voted the Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium as America's Best — and I can honestly say that I 100% agree with that vote.
Why Visit Wonders of Wildlife?
Wonders of Wildlife combines a world-class aquarium with expansive wildlife galleries, creating one of the most unique attractions in the Midwest. Visitors walk through more than 1.5 miles of exhibits, exploring everything from freshwater rivers and tropical rainforests to African safaris and the open ocean. The attraction is home to over 35,000 live animals representing hundreds of species across immersive exhibits and aquariums.
If you are planning to visit the area, let me give you a little rundown on what to expect and how long you can expect to visit here. We did our research beforehand, but I still was not prepared for the amount of time needed.
Visiting the Wonders of Wildlife Museum
Plan for at least two days
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Bass Pro Shops are connected and I will tell you right up front — there is absolutely no way to see it all in one day.
Unlike many museums where you're simply looking at displays behind glass, Wonders of Wildlife surrounds you with realistic environments, dramatic lighting, waterfalls, shipwrecks, and underwater tunnels that make you feel like you've stepped into another world.
Step Into the Wildlife Galleries
After exploring the aquarium, you'll continue into the wildlife museum.
These galleries feature beautifully recreated habitats from around the globe, including:
- North American forests
- African plains
- Arctic landscapes
- Mountain ecosystems
- Wetlands
- Desert environments
The museum showcases remarkable wildlife displays while telling the story of conservation and America's outdoor heritage.
Even if you're not a hunter or angler, you'll appreciate the craftsmanship, storytelling, and breathtaking scenery throughout the exhibits.
Plan to Spend Several Hours
One mistake many first-time visitors make is assuming they'll only need an hour or two.
The museum itself recommends allowing 3–4 hours to fully enjoy the attraction, although many guests spend even longer exploring every exhibit. Wear comfortable shoes because you'll cover more than 1.5 miles of walking during your visit.
If you also plan to browse Bass Pro Shops after your visit, you can easily spend an entire day at the complex.
Explore Incredible Aquarium Exhibits
One of the biggest highlights is the Aquarium Adventure.
As you wander through the exhibits, you'll encounter:
- Massive shark tanks
- Sea turtles gracefully swimming overhead
- Colorful coral reef fish
- Freshwater river habitats
- Jellyfish displays
- Stingrays
- Alligators
- Penguins
- Octopus exhibits
Walking through the underwater tunnels is an unforgettable experience as sharks and giant fish glide overhead.
Every section is thoughtfully designed to recreate natural habitats, making it educational without ever feeling like a classroom.
Helpful Tips Before You Go
Make the most of your visit with these tips:
- Purchase tickets online ahead of time.
- Arrive early to avoid the busiest crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring your camera.
- Allow extra time for Bass Pro Shops.
- Visit during weekdays if possible for a quieter experience.
- Families with small children may want to rent a stroller if needed.
Free parking is available, making arrival simple and convenient.
Attend every short movie, every interactive exhibit and talk to the workers. They are super knowledgable about everything.
One of my favorite exhibits, while we visited, was the Native American section. There is a whole art section that was painted by a man who had Lewis and Clark's actual notebook. He really made all those moments in their lives come to life.
Dining Options
When hunger strikes, there are several convenient choices nearby.
Inside Wonders of Wildlife you'll find casual dining and snack options, and just next door is Hemingway's Blue Water Café inside Bass Pro Shops, making it easy to take a break before continuing your adventure. Visitors may also leave and return later the same day with proof of admission if they'd prefer to eat elsewhere.
Perfect for Every Season
One of the best things about Wonders of Wildlife is that it's an indoor attraction.
That makes it perfect for:
- Rainy vacation days
- Summer afternoons
- Winter weekend getaways
- Family spring break trips
- Holiday travel
No matter the weather outside, you'll enjoy a comfortable experience year-round.
Don't Forget to Play with the Sting Rays!
At the very end of the tour, there is a room with a pool full of large and small stingrays. These rays love being loved on and will come right up to rub their bodies on your hands.
Be ready though — they may just splash you! Ask my kids.
Bass Pro Shops
Once you are done walking around the museum and aquarium, take my advice and go back to your hotel and rest (hopefully you stayed at The University Plaza Hotel!)
Use the next day to visit the attached Bass Pro Shops. This is the largest Bass Pro Shops in the world — and they offer more than just shopping!
They have sections throughout the store for each of their components — camping, fishing, hunting, knives, clothes, and more. There are also two restaurants on-site.
Inside the Bass Pro Shops, you will find all kinds of Interactive demonstrations. One of our favorites was making the fudge and also watching the guy sharpen knives.
Back by the gun section, they have a gun museum that you must go in. We were so impressed with all the artifacts from history that can be found scattered throughout the store.
And — you do not want to miss the live fish feeding! There is nothing like watching fish go crazy for food. It is something that everyone needs to see.
Pair It With Other Springfield Attractions
While you're in Springfield, consider visiting:
- Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
- Fantastic Caverns
- Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
- Dickerson Park Zoo
- Route 66 attractions
- Local breweries and restaurants
Many visitors choose Springfield as a weekend destination because there are enough attractions to easily fill two or three days.
Is Wonders of Wildlife Worth It?
Absolutely.
From the breathtaking aquarium tunnels to immersive wildlife habitats and conservation exhibits, Wonders of Wildlife delivers an experience unlike almost any other museum in America.
Whether you're fascinated by marine life, love wildlife photography, enjoy learning about nature, or simply want an unforgettable family outing, this attraction lives up to its reputation. It's easy to see why it's considered one of Springfield's premier destinations and a must-visit stop for travelers exploring southwest Missouri.
If you're planning a Missouri road trip, add Wonders of Wildlife to your itinerary—you'll leave with a greater appreciation for wildlife, conservation, and the incredible beauty of our natural world. For more information about this amazing place to visit, click here.