Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
Dive into adventure at the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, a must-visit gem on Route 66! This remarkable attraction, crafted by conservationist Johnny Morris, showcases an awe-inspiring blend of wildlife exhibits and immersive aquatic habitats. Explore over 1.5 million gallons of underwater beauty and engage with educational programs that highlight the wonders of nature. Perfect for families and travelers alike, this enchanting stop promises unforgettable moments that celebrate the spirit of the Mother Road!
N H
3 weeks ago"I Been TWO times already!!! This is my absolute favorite museum! The staff is always welcoming and friendly. I would highly recommend having at least 2-3 hours to walk through all three museums and take it all in! It is absolutely amazing and always clean. They even offer to feed and pet STINGRAYS! 🥰"
Sean Burgess
a month ago"Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium completely blew me away. The array of animals and wildlife is incredible, paired with some of the most impressive and immersive sets I’ve ever seen in any aquarium. The environments feel thoughtfully designed to pull you in and make you feel part of each habitat rather than just a spectator. That being said, at times it felt very cramped and crowded, especially during the “cave” segment. The staff was exceptionally friendly and helpful—one employee even chased us down just to let us know the otters had returned to their enclosure, which was such a small but memorable gesture that really speaks to the care and enthusiasm of the team. The entire facility was spotless, well-kept, and clearly focused on guest immersion from start to finish. On top of that, I was genuinely impressed by the historical artifacts woven throughout the experience, including Ernest Hemingway’s boat, which added an unexpected and fascinating layer to the visit. This is officially my new favorite aquarium, even surpassing the National Aquarium. Highly recommended"
Yonkers12
a month ago"An absolute "must-see" – more like a theme park than a store! If you are anywhere near Springfield, you have to stop at the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. Calling it a "store" doesn't even do it justice—this place is absolutely massive. It’s nearly 500,000 square feet of pure outdoor paradise. You could easily spend an entire day here and still not see everything. The sheer scale of the building is mind-blowing. It houses multiple massive aquariums, indoor waterfalls, and even a swamp with live alligators and turtles. It feels like you’re walking through a high-end nature museum that just happens to sell world-class gear. Beyond the retail space, there are free attractions like the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum and the Archery Hall of Fame, which were both fascinating. We also grabbed a bite at Hemingway’s Blue Water Café, which has a huge aquarium right in the middle of the restaurant! Whether you are a serious hunter/fisherman or just someone who appreciates a cool atmosphere, the "Grandaddy" is an incredible experience. Wear comfortable shoes, because you’ll be doing a lot of walking! Quick facts to keep in mind: • Size: It is the flagship and original location, spanning roughly 500,000 square feet. • Wonders of Wildlife: The store is connected to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, which is a separate (and equally massive) paid attraction if you want to extend your visit. • Parking: Because it's Missouri’s #1 tourist attraction, the parking lot is huge but can get busy—aim for a weekday morning if you want to beat the crowds."
Wes Frentrop
a month ago"My wife and I visited the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium this weekend and absolutely loved it. The exhibits are incredibly well done, with a great mix of education, conservation, and just plain “wow” moments. Everything is beautifully maintained and thoughtfully laid out, and you can really tell how much care went into the experience. Be prepared for a lot of walking — it’s worth every step — so definitely wear comfortable shoes. We took our time going through and never felt rushed, and there was always something new around the corner. Highly recommend this to couples, families, or anyone who enjoys nature, wildlife, or aquariums. We’re glad we made the trip and would absolutely go again."
Merisa Vernoy
a month ago"This aquarium is super amazing. I think since it’s open. This place is getting better and better as well Better aquatic animals better tank better atmosphere literally making you feel like you’re underwater or lost in ship wreck You can even go somewhere with Sarh, which is really fun help you understand that water thing They have a little food area where you can get a little snack and drink or a lot of walk around the aquarium and food as well and drink and just don’t make a mess. Aquarium is a little expensive, but once you get in, you’re understand why. Way too much artwork and way too many fish and animals to not be able to feed him"
