417 Magazine | Stargazing in the Ozarks | August 2025

STARGAZING

Stargazing in the Ozarks

With the rise of astrotourism and a local push to preserve our region’s dark skies, there’s no better time than now to embark on a stargazing adventure. We tell you how to plan your perfect night under the stars.

ON THE COVER:

VOLUME 28 ISSUE 8, 2025

This striking image of the night sky was captured at Stockton Lake by Sony Hocklander.

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com

MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com

RESEARCH EDITOR JO JOLLIFF jo@417mag.com

CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com

EDITORIAL INTERNS MOLLY HAYNES, EMMA ZAWACKI

CREATIVE DIRECTOR SARAH PATTON sarah@417mag.com

ART DIRECTOR JORDAN DYKSTRA jordan@417mag.com

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON ALMS brandon@417mag.com

EDITORIAL DESIGNER GRACE CHIPLEY-THOMPSON grace@417mag.com

PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com

ART INTERN ALEX GODDARD

DIGITAL EDITOR JAMIE THOMAS jthomas@417mag.com

DIGITAL MANAGER ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com

CONTRIBUTORS BRENNEN NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY, JOSHUA BEECHER, TESSA COOPER, ANDREW EDWARDS, CHELSEA EULISS, SONY HOCKLANDER, HEATHER KANE KOHLER, RYAN KOWALSKI, MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPHY, JEFF ROSE, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE, LEAH STIEFERMANN, CHUCK TRAVERS, BRAD ZWEERINK

BUSINESS

PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRElogan@417mag.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSONmjohnson@417mag.com

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR LYNDSEY SLAGLE lslagle@417mag.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI WIGHTMAN jami@417mag.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JANELLE HAIK janelle@417mag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE KAYLIN HOMAN kaylin@417mag.com

ACCOUNTING MANAGER CARRIE POWELL accounting@417mag.com

OFFICE MANAGER BERNADETTE PRY bernadette@417mag.com

OPERATIONS MANAGER ERIN KINGHAM ekingham@417mag.com

ACCOUNT SERVICES MANAGER KATHY GRIEVE kathy@417mag.com

ACCOUNT COORDINATOR NICKI SHERWOOD nicki@417mag.com

ADVERTISING DESIGNER KATIE BATLINER kbatliner@417mag.com

ADVERTISING & BRAND DESIGNER MCKENZIE KEY mckenzie@417mag.com

FOUNDERS

GARY WHITAKER gary@417mag.com

JOAN WHITAKER joan@417mag.com

417 MAGAZINE 2111 S. EASTGATE AVE., SPRINGFIELD, MO 65809 417-883-7417 • FAX 417-889-7417

Social Life

GO BEYOND THE PAGES

GET OUTSIDE

Labor Day Weekend Roundup

417MAG.COM

Long weekends are the best types of weekends, and we have one coming up soon on September 1. Visit 417mag. com to nd our roundup of Labor Day activities. Take a trip to the lake, go for a dip in a swimming hole, spot some sunowers and more. If it gets a little too muggy for your liking, you’ll also nd places to eat and places to cool o . Plan a Labor Day worth remembering with the great outdoors, local activities and weekend getaways at 417mag.com/laborday.

Take Your Feet a Little Farther

417MAG.COM

Over on p. 31, read about trails across the Spring eld-metro that you can stroll when you’re needing a hit of nature without driving to a remote location.

If that’s got you curious about other outdoor hiking, walking and sight-seeing spots, check out our guide to all of the best trails in the Ozarks at 417mag. com/trails.

Send Us Those Stargazing Sel es

417MAG.COM

This month’s feature is about all the places you can go stargazing around the Ozarks. If you end up feeling inspired to go to one of the events we list—or any we didn’t, we’re not fussy—don’t forget to send photos of your night under the stars for Where’s 417?, or just tag us on any of the usual social channels @417mag. We know (from painful experience) that it can be very hard to take good photos of the stars at night; we just want to see the fun you had while you were there! To improve your night sky

photos, head online to 417mag. com for extra content from this months feature on how to capture photos of the stars.

EVENTS

Celebrating the Best in the Biz

BIZ417.COM

We have a quick Q&A with avid astronomy enthusiast Dr. Richard Hammar on p. 112 and extra content online. You can nd it online at 417mag.com/hammar.

It’s almost time to celebrate the Best Places To Work in 417-land! Biz 417’s 2025 Best Places To Work Celebration takes plans on Wednesday, September 3, at Oasis Hotel & Convention Center. Join us to hear from Mostly Serious CEO Jarad Johnson about keeping a focus on humans in the workplaces as AI evolves. The event will reveal the Top 20 companies in southwest Missouri, recognized through a datadriven evaluation. Find out more on list and event at biz417.com/ bestplaces.

DON’T MISS A THING Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters. Table Talk brings you don’tmiss food news every Tuesday, Datebook o ers the top weekend events every Thursday, and House of 417 is your monthly passport to inspired living.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

The October issue of 417 Magazine is our guide to enjoying the best fall season in 417-land. Be the first to get your hands on it; subscribe at 417mag. com/subscribe.

WE LOVE 417-LAND

We are a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and Regional Magazine Association, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Home Builders Association of Springfield and the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.

Editor’s Note

WRITTEN IN THE STARS

Something you might not know about 417 Magazine: We are members of the City & Regional Magazine Association, a group of publications much like 417 that all tell the stories of their regions. Every year we get to visit with those magazines’ teams and share loads of ideas at the CRMA Conference, and we receive many of their publications in the mail every month. Those magazines serve as inspiration and idea fodder. Sometimes we’ll see a novel cover story concept and think, “I wonder if there’s an audience for something like that right here in the Ozarks?”

Back when we were planning the 2025 cover story calendar, I was inspired by a feature story 5280 (Denver’s city magazine) had produced about stargazing in Colorado. The cover image was a stunner—a gorgeous picture of the Milky Way over snow-capped mountain peaks. I couldn’t stop staring at it. I had heard rumblings about local organizations and individuals in the Ozarks that were trying to preserve and protect our own dark skies (and even trying to get some of them o cially designated by DarkSky

International). And just a few weeks before, I’d seen an image of the Milky Way over Stockton Lake, shot by local freelance writer and photographer Sony Hocklander.

My interest was piqued. I wanted to learn more. We slated a feature about stargazing in the Ozarks for this August 2025 edition, to coincide with the annual Perseids Meteor Shower that happens around mid-month. Sony hopped on as the writer for the project and even attended a DarkSky festival in southeast Missouri last fall to get some intel and experience a night stargazing with local star enthusiasts.

A few months later another freelance writer, Taryn Shorr-Mckee, sent me a note to say travel trend predictions for 2025 included lots and lots of astrotourism and nocturism—traveling and recreation centered around observing those celestial beauties up in the sky.

It was kismet. This was certainly the feature topic for us.

The feature starts with context, as Sony tells the story of our region’s darkest skies. But because we know that not every 417 reader is a professional photographer or seasoned astronomy whiz, we added plenty of sidebars so you can e ortlessly plan your own astrotourism moment in the Ozarks— places to see dark skies, stargazing events for all skill levels, beginner-friendly photography tips and lots more.

If you nd yourself out in the Ozarks on a starry night and happen to snap a stellar pic of the stars, send it my way. I’d love to see the adventures this feature inspires.

TALK TO US

LENDING A HELPING HAND

What an awesome turnout for Day of Caring! We’re so encouraged by how the community came together to make a difference. Yesterday, 69 volunteers from six different organizations made amazing impacts. 417 Magazine helped with a variety of projects at the Food Bank Farm, including harvesting 329 pounds of celery and green onions, planting corn, mulching garden areas for weed suppression and other maintenance projects. Thank you so much to everyone who came out yesterday to help Transform Hunger into Hope in southwest Missouri. We truly could not reach 70,000 of our neighbors facing hunger each month without generous volunteers.

OZARKS FOOD HARVEST

Participating in United Way Ozarks Region’s annual Day of Caring event is one of our favorite traditions! We’re feeling pretty grateful over here for the chance to impact the community we love in a meaningful way. —Editor

OH, NO

I wanted to point out my name is spelled wrong online. It’s Israel Wofford. Other than that, love the article!

ISRAEL WOFFORD

Oh, geez. We really, really hate when this happens. We featured Israel Wofford in the July edition of 417 Magazine for a story about his barbecue-centric social media, where he shares some truly drool-worthy food content that always makes us hungry. And, unfortunately, we spelled his name incorrectly. We regret the error. —Editor

To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.

Contributors

rill of the Catch

AS A TRUE OZARKS BOY, IF YOU ASK our son Cruz his favorite sport, he’ll tell you it’s shing. This is a hobby he really developed all on his own, and thankfully for us, both of his grandfathers enjoy shing with him. My dad has untangled countless lines from rocks and shrubs on the shores of Table Rock Lake. And my father-in-law in Florida has indulged Cruz on his fair share of shing excursions, even helping Cruz snag a hammerhead shark until it snapped the line at the last minute. I had yet to experience a shing trip with Cruz, so in July our family of four hired a shing guide to take us out on Table Rock Lake, right in our own backyard. For ve hours we

learned all the tips and tricks for the best spots, bait and equipment for catching walleye and bass. As I sat on the boat, mesmerized by the water, the birds and the thrill of getting a bite, I thought “I get it!” I see what all the fuss is about. It’s peaceful, it’s exciting, it’s tech-free. And it drums up some healthy family competition. For a minute there, I had caught more sh than Cruz. But by the end of the day, he had reclaimed his family nickname, the Bass Assassin.

PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM

The image on the cover was taken by Sony Hocklander at Stockton Lake. She was staying at the Ruark Blu Campground to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower. “The beauty of the Ozarks doesn’t end with sunset when you find yourself in a dark sky area,” she says. “ I love sitting under the stars, listening to peaceful sounds of the night while capturing the Milky Way with my camera. It’s a challenging subject that leaves me feeling inspired every time.”

BEHIND

Field from the

BY TARYN SHORR-MCKEE

A ower shop, bakery and cafe, Covéll brews co ee and connection in downtown Lebanon.

HIDDEN GEM

Small Town, Big Charm

From e Field

YOU DON’T EXPECT A BLOOM bar, French-style macarons or works of art masquerading as lattes in the heart of Lebanon, best known for its boat manufacturing facilities and location on

Route 66. But that’s exactly what Covéll delivers, all under one roof. Tucked into a brick storefront at the end of Commercial Street, Covéll is a ower shop, bakery, co ee bar and boutique rolled into one.

into everything from the bloom bar full of freshly cut owers to the hand-

like

PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR

Covéll founder Kayla Miller (left) channels creativity

made baked goods

the Dubai chocolate cookies (above).

Founder Kayla Miller started the light, airy shop after an incredibly di cult season. “This place was born out of the darkest time in my life,” she shares, recalling being a new mom of two who su ered from postpartum psychosis. A former dental assistant and wedding photographer, Miller launched Covéll in 2022 with just $31 in the cash register and a home espresso machine. It’s since blossomed into a space where customers come not just for ca eine, but connection.

“A lot of stay-at-home moms come in, and I see it because I’ve done it—some come in for company,” Miller says. Her desire to create something joyful, restorative even, manifests in the intangible: from intimate ower arranging workshops and mother-daughter tea parties to the ever-present worship music and popular Grumpy Hour, a cheeky take on morning co ee specials.

mopolitan European cities, one of Miller’s earliest dreams was opening a ower shop. Her husband suggested they sell co ee drinks.

“That’s why I’m here, to bring a tiny slice of the big city to our little town.”

And yet, it’s clear she was made for this. As we talked, Miller cut owers, elded drink orders, greeted regulars by name and happily ful lled a special dessert request—one of the coveted Dubai strawberry cups, which aren’t on the menu. You won’t nd that level of personal attention at a chain co ee shop. “Everything that comes from here, I touch,” Miller says. “There’s a soul behind this place. That gets lost sometimes at chains. You can buy a $5 co ee, but they make it in two minutes and put it in the window without any interaction.”

Behind the counter, Miller channels creativity into everything. She lovingly bakes every item in a kitchen that’s more home chef than Master Chef, and the shop stocks goods from dozens of local vendors she curates herself. Miller also stays on top of viral trends, serving things like the ubiquitous Dubai chocolate strawberry cups. “That’s why I’m here, to bring a tiny slice of the big city to our little town.” Trendy treats aside, if Covéll has banana pudding when you visit, snag one—it’s a menu original.

Flowers remain the beating heart of the business, especially during spring and summer when local blooms take center stage. In fact, owers were the business at rst. Inspired by sidewalks lined with fresh owers in New York City and cos-

Miller wears her many hats well. In addition to running Covéll, she prioritizes time with her two children, ages 3 and 6, and husband Steven, owner of Miller’s Seamless Gutters. “It’s awesome owning this business while my kids are little,” she says. “They’re seeing us work for things, realizing Disney isn’t free.” The Millers also started a lavender farm on family land in Laquey earlier this year, planting 500 lavender plants and doing almost all the work entirely by hand.

Looking ahead, Miller has a few modest upgrades in mind—like a commercial espresso machine—but she’s not in a rush. “I would love to make drinks faster,” she explains, “but also, this isn’t a place for quickness. This is a place to be enjoyed.”

And that’s exactly what Covéll is: a thoughtfully designed slice of big-city charm, grounded in faith, family and a bit of everyday magic. The kind that only comes handcrafted.

From e Field

Growing Together in Hope

HOW OZARKS FOOD HARVEST’S FULL CIRCLE GARDENS PROGRAM WORKS TO MAKE FRESH PRODUCE AVAILABLE TO NEIGHBORS FACING FOOD INSECURITY AND HUNGER.

BY NADIA FLETCHER

HEALTHY FOOD IS essential to overall well-being, yet many people in the Ozarks face hunger. According to the USDA one in ve children don’t know where their next meal will come from. Ozarks Food

Harvest works to alleviate food insecurity across 28 Ozarks counties. “Our overall mission is to transform hunger into hope,” says Alexa Poindexter, director of Full Circle Gardens, one of Ozark Food Harvest’s 270 partner sites that help work to achieve their mission.

Located in Rogersville, the Food Bank Farm, part of Full Circle Gardens, is a program where volunteers work with sta to grow and harvest vegetables and fruits to donate to Ozarks Food Harvest. Once harvested, the produce is sent to pantries, kitchens and agencies to be used in meals

PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR

Alexa Poindexter, director of Full Circle Gardens, provides food for Ozarks Food Harvest.

“We can take $1 and turn it into $10 worth of groceries for a family facing hunger.”

and distributed to neighbors in need. In addition to the Food Bank Farm, a volunteer group called the Glean Team works with local farmers to gather leftover produce, reduce waste and provide more food for those in need.

Two large greenhouses are the rst thing visitors notice at the gardens. The greenhouses feature vertical rows of produce such as tomatoes, carrots, beets, cabbage and more. Adjacent to the greenhouses is the main garden, dotted with 78 cinderblock beds where more produce and owers grow.

The Food Bank Farm grows 14,500 pounds of fresh produce each year that goes towards Ozarks Food Harvest distribution of more than 21 million meals annually. The gardens rely on volunteers to get the job done. “Volunteers truly keep our programs running,” she says. “We couldn’t feed the community the way we do without them, both at the garden and at our distribution center.”

Due to funds being cut, Ozarks Food Harvest and their partner sites need extra support from the community. People can help o set this loss through donations of time or money. “Ozarks Food Harvest is incredibly e cient with donations. We can take $1 and turn it into $10 worth of groceries for a family facing hunger,” says Jordan Browning, director of communications. “Ninety-six cents of every dollar goes directly to food programs.”

To learn more about volunteering, visit ozarksfoodharvest.org.

OZARKS VIBES

The Hunt is On

Fund Friends 417 is an interactive scavenger hunt in downtown Spring eld and on Commercial Street. To help its organizers raise funds for local organizations, all you have to do is play along.

BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST

HAVE YOU COME ACROSS A SMALL gurine hiding in downtown Spring eld or along Commercial Street? More than likely, it is the work of Fund Friends 417, an initiative run by Chris Upton and his wife, Nicolette Marr, to get more people to the area. “It’s a way to show o not only what these amazing spots in our town have to o er, but to show o what amazing nonpro ts we have in our areas as well,” he says.

Upton works in the nonpro t realm himself at the Brightli Foundation as the annual giving manager for the Southwest Region. His love for the downtown community helped spark the idea to start the nonpro t.

Here’s how it works: Upton goes on a walk, usually with his wife and their dog, and hides the little gures. He then posts photos of them on Fund

Friends 417’s Instagram and Facebook pages and waits patiently. As people stroll through downtown and C-Street, those who nd a gurine send a picture to one of the accounts. Upton shares it to the story, and in return, he donates $1 to a rotating local charity.

Fund Friends 417 hides 20 gurines around town for each charity they support, and the nonpro t changes with every round. So far, they have donated to Rescue One, Sculpture Walk Spring eld, Fight CRC, High Tide Theatrical and The Glo Center. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Upton says.

At any point in time, there might be between two and 10 gurines in play. If the weather is nice, Upton can anticipate the gurines will be found pretty quickly. However, there are a few in alleyways and other o -the-beaten-path spots that haven’t been found yet. Upton often posts clues on social media. “Sometimes the songs that I put on the posts are also clues,” he says.

Upton was born and raised in 417-land. He created Fund Friends 417 as just a fun way for the community to engage. “Not only with itself and with each other—with the spaces that we take for granted, like downtown and Commercial Street,” Upton says. “I would love to see this continue to grow and become more of that community e ort and become a tradition that people look forward to… it makes me proud to be able to do something like this.”

Find scavenger hunts on Instagram @ fundfriends417 for fun across Springfield.

The $1-per-photo model works well for Upton—it’s a sustainable way to give back while staying within his means. “We had a giving model that we already used in our house, and we like to donate money each month,” he says. “This way, we can still kind of keep track of things and make sure we’re not overextending ourselves.” That model has also inspired others to join in. Some local companies now match the donations. “For these di erent campaigns, we get di erent local folks who just want to be a part of it,” he says. “They’re jumping on and matching these as well.”

Where should you be looking for these gurines, you might ask? “I really enjoy using the Sculpture Walk sculptures,” Upton hints. “C-Street has been really fun for me just because of all the di erent nooks and crannies that you don’t always see. Really, it’s just back alleyways and places you don’t always go, but we want to make sure everybody gets the most out of all of these spaces. There’s a lot of beauty in our weird little areas.”

Who Runs the World?

BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST

TRENGTH, HEALTH AND a whole lot of girl power—The Chicas Club (4032 W. Lark St., Suite A, Battle eld ) is building a welcoming, women-only tness space that’s all about empowerment and community. It’s a 24/7-access gym o ering daily classes like yoga, Zumba and HIIT workouts.

The aspiration for The Chicas Club began as a shared dream between co-owners Gabriela Verdugo-Johnson and Jennifer Hernandez Longoria. “I just had a vision of me encouraging other women,” Hernandez Longoria says. More than six years ago, she

found herself in a toxic relationship. After leaving, the emotional weight lingered in the form of depression. Even into her new relationship, which led to marriage and the joy of children, Longoria still struggled with moments in her past. She turned to tness and committed to Andy Frisella’s 75 Hard program. “It gave me con dence in myself,” she says. “Health and tness got me out of that dark hole.” That transformation became the foundation for The Chicas Club. Hernandez Longoria brought the idea to Verdugo-Johnson, and they dove right in.

Verdugo-Johnson is a real estate agent and the president of the Hispanic Networking Group in the Ozarks, but her true

Jennifer Hernandez Longoria and Gabriela VerdugoJohnson

passion lies in health and tness. She always wanted to open a gym but thought of it as more of a post-retirement goal. “Jenny has had this idea for about two years, and she came up with the idea of an all-girls gym,” Verdugo-Johnson says. “I thought that was a very good idea—there’s nothing like that here.”

Verdugo-Johnson now leads classes like HIIT, Booty Camp and Chicas Camp, while Hernandez Longoria manages much of the business side. What they both love most is the relationships they’re building. They created The Chicas Club for women who have never stepped foot in a gym or who’ve avoided it out of intimidation. “I want women to feel con dent,” she says. “When you walk into a room with con dence, you just have a di erent energy. When you look at yourself in the mirror and you like what you see, it just switches everything—not just physically but mentally.”

Hernandez Longoria and Verdugo-Johnson make it a priority to listen to their members. While they initially planned to o er tness classes further down the road, demand was immediate, so they launched them early. When clients asked for smaller weights, they added those too. Verdugo-Johnson also o ers all the members a free one-on-one so they can get familiar with the machines and equipment. “We don’t just charge a membership and say, ‘Now it’s on you,’” she says. “We’re going to be here to help you. We want a community.”

For more info head to @thechicasclub or call 417-212-4181.

THE CHICAS CLUB SPACE STRIVES TO EMPOWER WOMEN IN THEIR HEALTH JOURNEYS.

PROFILE

Head to the Ozark Empire Fair for rides through August 3.

August Calendar

On the agenda this month: nonstop fun. Fill your days with the season’s best local events.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

August 1

See art by local and regional artists as you stroll through Downtown Spring eld galleries and shops, like Missouri State University’s Brick City Gallery, the Creamery Arts Center, Fresh Gallery, Obelisk Home and lots more.

Free; 6–10 p.m.; Downtown Spring eld; spring eldarts.org

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

INTO THE WOODS

August 1–2, 7–9, 14–16

Watch High Tide Theatrical perform the classic musical Into the Woods, featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. The musical weaves together familiar fairy tale characters.

$20–25; 7:30 p.m.; The Lightroom Lounge, Martha’s Vineyard, 219 W. Olive St., Spring eld; hightidesgf.org

CREED: SUMMER OF 99 TOUR

August 2

Hear some of the band Creed’s career fan favorites, like “With Arms Wide Open” and “Higher.” There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences.

Tickets start at $30; 7 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

BY

PHOTO

OZARK EMPIRE FAIR

Through August 3

This year, the Ozark Empire Fair turns 88 years old. And there’s plenty of fun planned for this beloved annual event this year, from midway games, carnival rides and over-thetop snacks to magic acts, stunt shows and a petting zoo. The grandstand shows include a concert by Matthew West with Riley Clemmons on July 27 and a performance by State Champs on July 29.

$10–15 adults, $3–5 kids; Ozark Empire Fairground; 3001 N. Grant Ave., Spring eld; ozarkempirefair.com

SUMMER CELEBRATION

Through August 3

The Summer Celebration festival at Silver Dollar City features so much fun entertainment—in addition to all those thrilling rides. There are dance parties in the Plaza, a canopy sky, street performances, the Silver Dollar City Circus, a Wild West Comedy Stunt Show and more. If you visit July 12–August 3, look for extended evening hours and a new-thisyear drone and reworks show. It features a showstopping combo of sights and sounds that put the perfect cap on a summer night.

$92 adults, $82 kids; 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson; silverdollarcity.com

DALLAS JONES & FRIENDS

August 5

Local musician Dallas Jones is joined on stage by his friends and fellow performers for unique events that are part singing, part storytelling and all musical goodness. Plus, they help raise money for one of Spring eld’s longest-running arts institutions: Proceeds bene t Spring eld Little Theatre and its education programs.

$15; 7 p.m.; Reynolds Auditorium, The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, 237 S. Florence Ave., Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org

MOVIES IN THE PARK

August 8

Throughout the summer, you can visit downtown Spring eld’s Jordan Valley Park to view family-friendly outdoor movies during select evenings. The events feature themed concessions and activities that are a bunch of fun for the whole family. The nal lm of the 2025 summer season is Moana 2 on August 8. No advance tickets are required. Bring lawn chairs or blankets so you can be cozy while you watch the movie.

Free; movies begin at dusk; Jordan Valley Park, 635 E. Tra cway St., Spring eld; parkboard.org/movies

Last Hurrah on the Lake

Visit these Table Rock Lake marinas to rent in atables, lily pads and oaties for a lazy, no-work day on the water before the summer season comes to a close. BY NADIA

Port of Kimberling Marina portofkimberlingmarina.com

417-739-2315

The Port of Kimberling Marina provides boats with water slides to entertain the kids and an upper deck for the adults to relax, bask in the sun and lounge.

FLETCHER

State Park Marina stateparkmarina.com 417-334-2628

The State Park Marina supplies a variety of fun inflatables to enjoy for a memorable summer day before school season arrives. The Aloha Slide Pontoon Boat has a slide attached to the boat, so parents enjoy

PRIMATIVE LIVE FIRE COOKING

August 8

This communal outdoor dinner features a meal cooked in front of you on an open ame by Finley Farms’ Executive Chef Brandon Peterson. The menu includes creative dishes like cucumber ceviche, a salad of crab and sweet corn, charred cabbage with hot honey, peppercorn-encrusted ribeye and more. There’s even a chamomile and rosemary ice cream that’s a collaboration avor with Bold Spoon Creamery.

$125; 6 p.m.; Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; nleyfarmsmo.com

GIBONEY CAVE TOUR

August 9

Doling Park is home to Giboney Cave, which you get a chance to explore with a knowledgeable guide who can tell you all about this natural wonder. Bring a ashlight and wear shoes that can get nice and muddy. Appropriate for ages 4 and older (with an adult for ages 17 and younger). Call in advance to register.

$5; 1 p.m., 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.; Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St., Spring eld; 417-883-8657

AN AUGUST EVENING WITH WILCO

August 13

kids play. All of the Spirit of America Catamaran cruises include inflatables, a giant water slide and kayaks.

Table Rock Lake

Toy Rentals tablerocklaketoys.com 417-676-8243

Rent an inflatable dock for basking in sunlight and a relaxing float on the lake. Lilly pads are available and provide a great way to spend a day unwinding while floating on the water.

Chicago-based Je Tweedy and the rest of the Wilco musicians have been entertaining audiences for 30 years—starting with their album A.M. that came out in 1995 and continuing through last year’s EP release Hot Sun Cool Shroud.

$60–100; 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com

RIVERSIDE SYMPHONY

August 13

What’s better than live music? Live music with fresh air! Add in the rushing water of the Finley River and a lovely scenic view, and that’s a recipe for a great night out. The Monarch String Quartet performs tunes from movie soundtracks for this concert at Finley Farms’ open-air chapel

$42–68; 5:30 p.m.; Finley Farms Open-Air Chapel, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; nleyfarmsmo.com

From e Field Calendar

CASSIDY STATION CONCERT NIGHT

August 14

Join Cassidy Station at the farm for an unforgettable evening with live music, great food and refreshments and fun. The night will feature live performances by Devlin Pierce from 6–7 p.m. and Deja Crew from 7–9 p.m. Guests can gather in available seating on the patio or bring blankets and lawn chairs.

$10; 5–9 p.m.; Cassidy Station at Estes Farms, 5176 N. Fremont Road, Nixa; cassidystation.com

CONCERTS IN THE WILD: QUEEN CITY CHORALE

August 14

Concerts in the Wild is a new series at Dickerson Park Zoo. Each concert features a di erent musician, and proceeds bene t Friends of the Zoo and its work to support zoo projects and operations—including the conservation education department. This month’s concert features Queen City Chorale. Tickets include entry into the zoo and the concert, including extended zoo hours for concert ticketholders.

$5–20; 6 p.m.; Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Road, Spring eld

HANK WILLIAMS JR.

August 16

Country music fans who love a connection to the OG country singers, this one’s for you. The son of 1940s country singer Hank Williams, Hank Williams Jr. is known for songs like “A Country Boy Can Survive” and “Texas Women.”

Tickets start at $30; 6:30 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Hwy 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

ROOTS & BOOTS

August 16

Taking the stage are country music artists who made a name for themselves in the 1990s. Sammy Kershaw, Colin Raye and Aaron Tippin. If you spring for VIP tickets, you get express entrance, a bu et dinner and VIP-only parking, bathrooms and bar.

$45–140.50; 5:30 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe; blackoakamp.com

UMPHREY’S MCGEE: CRUISING ALTITUDE

2025 TOUR

August 16

The rock band Umphrey’s McGee has been making music for almost three decades and

Farewell, Summer

Say farewell to the summer season by following this itinerary for one last perfect summer-fun day with your kids.

BY NADIA FLETCHER

10 a.m.

Slip on your swimsuits, pack your towels and spend the morning at White Water.

1 p.m.

Make a pitstop for lunch at Crazy Craig’s Treehouse for an immersive lunch in a tropical jungle with delicious food.

3 p.m.

Go to a Pineapple Whip truck for a sweet treat to savor under the sun.

7:30 p.m

Catch a movie the old-fashioned way at 66 Drive In in Carthage.

10 p.m.

Spend an evening under the stars while catching fireflies.

plays everything from jam band tunes to a little bit of metal.

$35–55; 8 p.m. ; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com

THE OFFSPRING: SUPERCHARGED WORLDWIDE IN ’25

August 20

Hear both classic and more recent songs by The O spring, like “Come Out and Play” and “Self Esteem.” There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences.

$32 and up; 7 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

ALABAMA

August 21

This country music band got its start in, you guessed it, Alabama! They’re known for songs like “Tennessee River” and “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band),” and you can catch them this month at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena.

Tickets start at $30; 7 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

SOUTHERN GOSPEL PICNIC

August 21–September 1

Hear Southern Gospel music on stages throughout Silver Dollar City. It’s the perfect soundtrack to a day spent exploring the park, riding the rides, watching the craftspeople and shopping for handmade goodies.

$92 adults, $82 kids; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson, silverdollarcity.com

LIVE & COLLECTIVE SOUL: SUMMER UNITY TOUR

August 22

These mid-90s rock stars are still going strong. Hear the two bands play favorites like Collective Soul’s “Shine” and LIVE’s “Lightning Crashes” this month at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences that include cool perks like excellent views of Table Rock Lake.

Tickets start at $30; 6 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

POSTMODERN JUKEBOX: MAGIC & MOONLIGHT TOUR

August 22

Hear a fun take on your favorite modern-day pop hits. Postmodern Jukebox gives them an interesting spin by playing them in oldie-but-goodie genres like swing, doo-wop, 1920s jazz and more. VIP ticketholders get extra goodies, like a tote bag and an autographed poster.

$49–217; 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com

From e Field Calendar

CODY JOHNSON

August 23

This country artist has had ve successful albums so far, and he’s been named CMT Artist of the Year and CMA Best New Country Artist. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences that include Table Rock Lake views.

Tickets start at $68; 7 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

CURRENT RIVER OVERNIGHT PADDLE TRIP

August 23–24

Join the guides from Outdoor Initiatives on an 18-mile oat down the Current River. You’ll even pass a spring you can paddle into. Spend the night camping on a gravel bar. Gear is included. This trip includes primitive camping and is appropriate for intermediate paddlers ages 12 and older (with an adult for anyone 17 or younger).

get express entrance, a bu et dinner and VIP-only parking, bathrooms and bar.

$60.50–158.50; 5:30 p.m. doors, 7 pm. show; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe; blackoakamp.com

THE LIGHTS FESTIVAL

August 30

$70; 8 a.m. August 23 to 7 p.m. August 24. Call 417-833-8647 to register by August 22.

PBR THUNDER DAYS

August 29–31

Professional bull riding teams—and lots of pyrotechnics and music—make for an intensely entertaining event. Special upgraded ticketing options include extras like concession vouchers, souvenir Yeti tumblers, prime seating and more.

$28 and up; times vary by day; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; greatsouthernbankarena.com

BRANTLEY GILBERT: THE TATTOOS

TOUR

August 29

This country-rock artist is known for songs like “Bottoms Up,” “One Hell of an Amen” and more. If you spring for VIP tickets, you

BREAKING BENJAMIN & THREE DAYS GRACE

August 29

Breaking Benjamin has been making music since 1999, and Three Days Grace has been at it since 1992 (although under a di erent name back then). There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences. Tickets start at $30; 7 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

THE MARSHALL TUCKER BAND: ALL OUR FRIENDS TOUR

August 29

A rock, blues and country group, The Marshall Tucker Band has released more then 20 albums over more than 50 years.

$39.50–119.50; 8 p.m.; Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; hammonshall.com

For a twinkly, magical night out where you can send your dreams and wishes up into the night sky, snag tickets to The Lights Festival. Guests get to launch biodegradable oating paper lanterns that glow in the sky creating a sparkling, cozy atmosphere. There is also live music, food and drink vendors and kids activities.

$36–60; Priest Farms, 987 State Highway MM, Kirbyville; thelightsfest.com

TURNPIKE TROUBADOURS & TREATY OAK REVIVAL + MORE

August 30

So many artists are taking the stage at this afternoon concert. Guests get to hear Turnpike Troubadours, Treaty Oak Revival, William Clark Green, Tyler Halverson, Shelby Stone and Bottomland. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences that include Table Rock Lake views and other cool perks.

Tickets start at $50; 3:30 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

BY

PHOTO

LEAH STIEFERMANN

Head to Millsap Farms for their family for pizza club nights on Thursdays.

Refresh With Peaches

Visit these orchards for delicious, locally grown peaches and bake a sweet treat back at home with the kiddos.

BY NADIA FLETCHER

Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery

Brighton gardenersorchardandbakery.com

Gardener’s Orchard o ers a farm experience with a variety of tree-ripened peaches for the entire family to pick and enjoy.

Gordon’s Orchard

Collins facebook.com/GordonsOrchard

Take your family and friends alongside you to visit this peach orchard with a variety of di erent peaches to choose from.

Murphy Orchard

Marionville murphyorchard.com/products

Pick and savor fresh peaches from Murphys Orchard or bring some home to make a delicious treat with family.

Peach Tree Farm

Boonville thepeachtreefarm.com

Snag peaches from the Peach Tree Farm cabin or at local farmers markets.

TIM MCGRAW

August 31

Tim McGraw’s name is synonymous with “country music,” and he has put out 17 studio albums so far in his long career. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences that include Table Rock Lake views and other cool perks.

Tickets start at $62; 8 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com

THE ROUTE 66 SERIES: 1926–2026

Through September

History Museum on the Square is showcasing Route 66 and its upcoming 100th anniversary. This exhibit is ongoing through the month of September, so get there while you can!

$10–16; Wednesday–Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m.; History Museum on the Square, 154 Park Central Square, Spring eld; historymuseumonthesquare.org

LADY LIBERTY DINNER CRUISE

Ongoing

Cruises on the Lady Liberty yacht run March through September. They include a scenic cruise on Table Rock Lake and live entertainment, plus food and drink. Dates vary as the season progresses.

$70–120; Long Creek Marina, 1368 Long Creek Road, Ridgedale; bigcedar.com

PIZZA CLUB

Ongoing

Visit Millsap Farm on Thursday nights through October for a chance to enjoy four types of homemade pizza, cooked fresh in wood- red ovens using locally grown and produced ingredients. Guests can enjoy the pizza in a sweet little clearing surrounded by trees while listening to live music. Visit Millsap’s self-serve farmstand shop too. $18 adults, $7 kids; 6–8 p.m.; Millsap Farms, 6593 Emu Lane, Spring eld; millsapfarms.com/pizza-club

SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS

Ongoing

This month, your Spring eld Cardinals’ home games at Hammons Field have them facing o against the Arkansas Travelers August 1–3, the Wichita Wind Surge August 12–17 and the Midland RockHounds August 26–31.

Game times and ticket prices vary; Hammons Field, 955 E. Tra cway St., Spring eld; spring eldcardinals.com

STAND-UP

COMEDY

Ongoing

There is great stu on the lineup this month at Blue Room Comedy Club. Get tickets to see Johnny Pemberton August 1–2 and David Koechner on August 14–16. Prices and showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Spring eld; blueroomcomedyclub.com

CURTAIN CALL TO COMFORT

TheLongWay

BY SONY HOCKLANDER

e Long Way

SPRINGFIELD’S URBAN footprint feels like any small city, but it’s easy to nd a nature trail without going far. Three nearby trail networks feel especially remote for an extra boost of forest bathing.

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield

A popular walking place, the 80-acre Nature Center in southeast Spring eld features a three-mile network of six trails that weave uphill and down through towering trees and quiet glades, along pretty

creeks and to a portion of Lake Spring eld. Trail-trekkers are sure to see plenty of birds and other wildlife that occupy the park, including deer, turkey, herons, and even eagles.

Most Nature Center trails feel very removed from urban disruptions, save one

PHOTO BY BRANDON ALMS

section that pops out with a view of James River Freeway. Choose a short trek, such as the Boardwalk Trail to Lake Spring eld and back, or take the Long Trail for an extended adventure throughout the park, which includes a vista view, a popular bridge and a side trail to the photo blind where you might see birds on the lake.

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

6424 W. Farm Road 182, Republic

Don’t let the tour road con ne your adventure at Wilson’s Creek National Battle eld, about 15 minutes southwest of Spring eld. The park’s 7-mile trail network merges battle eld history with the natural outdoors. Some trails traverse through wooded areas along the namesake creek; others cut a path through open glades.

The Gibson’s Mill Trail, at the rst tour road stop, is an easy, level wooded path. A trail that starts at the third tour road stop leads to Edwards Cabin. It also connects to paths that lead to Bloody Hill, Ray’s Corn eld and other historic locations. A

horse-friendly trail from the fth tour road stop takes visitors around the park’s entire perimeter of trails.

The potential for combining trails in numerous ways is a great reason to visit the battle eld again and again.

Fellows Lake

4200 E. Farm Road 66, Springfield

Immerse yourself in the woods at Fellows Lake, where more than 25 interconnecting natural surface trails attract hikers, runners and mountain bikers. Before striking out on a multi-use trail, check the Ozarks

Greenways map to locate intermediate downhill sections, trail mileage and the closest lot among ve to park.

The 3.1-mile Stick Dance is a pretty trail with plenty of water views on the lake’s south side. Another trail, Bullwinkle, is a short, easy favorite with an oft-photographed tree along the path that sports a couple of moose antlers. The 2.5-mile Nature Trail, for pedestrians only, is easy to access from the Miller Park Store and Marina o North Farm Road 189.

Whether you ride or hike, you’ll feel far removed from the city at Fellows Lake.

Springfield Conservation Nature Center (left) Wilson’s Creek (above) and Fellows Lake (below)

e Long Way

Creek wading is perfect for anyone with pets or small kids—the water is often shallow and calm.

whether

EAST:

Make It Easy

When you’re itching to get on the water but don’t want to plan a full-on river oat, may we suggest the simple joy of wading in an Ozarks creek? It’s a low-key summer activity with a super-high return on investment.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

TAny parent can tell you about what happens when you plunk a kid into a cool body of water on a hot day. Tantrums dissolve. Grumpy moods dissipate. This works for adults, too. I can attest to this, personally. Three playful splashes and about four rock skips later, and everyone in your family will be renewed, whether they realize it or not. It’s therapy, for real.

In a perfect world, this scenario would play out on a kayaking trip. At least, that’s the case for my family. But sometimes there simply isn’t time (or you simply don’t have the mental bandwidth) to plan a oat trip and all the details and logistics that go into it.

Enter: the Ozarks stream. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that these wee waterways are peppered all over our beautiful region. And what our petite creeks lack in water depth, they make up for in ease of access. These may not be expansive lakes with their cozy coves or rapidly owing rivers that sweep you and your kayak swiftly through the scenery. No, these are lazy

PHOTO BY CHUCK TRAVERS

CURRENTS

your

spots for chill summer days when you want one thing: Easy.

The return on investment is high when it comes to creek wading. Planning? You’ll do none of that. Driving? You don’t even have to leave town. Packing? Throw some PB&J sammies into a lunchbox if you’re really feeling industrious—but you don’t have to. You probably won’t be away from home long enough to need to plan a meal. At most, you need a towel and a dry change of clothes.

Within Spring eld city limits, you can nd easy-access stream-splashing spots like Lost Hill Park (northwest Spring eld), where you can stroll down the Fulbright Spring Greenway Trail to the South Dry Sac River. That one is my 12-year-old son’s absolute favorite.

A 30-minute drive south of Spring eld, Busiek State Forest o ers exceptionally easy access (you can see it from the parking lot) to Woods Fork Creek. My 9-year-old daughter likes this one, mostly due to the success she’s had with waterside rock hunting.

The farthest away on my family’s easycreeks list is Grand Falls in Joplin. It spans a whopping 163 feet across Shoal Creek. There’s enough water for a good swim, there’s the option to climb around on the falls (please, please be careful!) and there’s the pleasant roar of the water as your background music.

For better or worse, you’ll be home in time to do a little laundry.

Splash Zones

Busiek State Forest

Great for: skipping rocks and kicking around in the shallows

Lost Hill Park

Great for: real swimming (but only in early summer when the water’s high)

Grand Falls

Great for: riverside picnics and a scenic waterfall view

Along with our top selection of spray tanning and tanning bed options, we offer a wide variety of Wellness Spa services, including Red Light Therapy and Hydromassage. Combine your tanning with any or all of our services to maximize your glow-getting journey with us.

MAIN STREETS

History & Fun at the River

Need something fun to do in the waning days of summer? Hit the road for an easy day trip to Galena at the James River, less than 40 miles south of Spring eld via Highway 65.

BY SONY HOCKLANDER

THE TINY TOWN OF GALENA, WITH a population of less than 500, makes a perfect summer launch spot for river recreation, whether wading, tubing or oating. It’s also worth the drive to stroll across Galena’s unique, historic Y-Bridge.

PHOTO BY JOSHUA BEECHER

Small Footprint, Rich History

Nearly a century old, the Y-Bridge is the only one of its kind in Missouri and one of three across the United States. Named for its “Y” shape and limited now to foot tra c, the scenic bridge built in 1926 o ers stunning vista views of the river.

Head to The Bean Counter, (top) for co ee served in a historic bank and the Y-Bridge (bottom).

Go Fish

Local business owner Sherry Mills calls Galena a hidden gem. It’s like the ctional Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls, she says, only with a river. While the Ozark Mountain Highroad reduced tra c to the town, Mills believes a revival is happening, with a growing number of out tters, businesses and places to stay, including the new Bridge Walk Riverside Cabins near the Y-Bridge.

James River Adventures

Recreation on the river attracts most visitors, especially for a popular 5-mile oat from the HL Kerr Access to Galena. Several area out tters provide shuttles and rentals, including rafts, kayaks and paddleboards.

Some with riverside locations, like James River Out tters, also o er day passes for river play. Camp Tomahawk, located near the Kerr Access, does all-day tube shuttling, a kid-friendly favorite. Other area out tters include Y Bridge Canoe Out tters, James River Canoe Rental and Schitty Canoe Company.

Mills recently opened the James River Mercantile on Missouri 176, a must-stop for visiting anglers. The new bait and tackle shop carries a huge variety of plastic lures and other tackle, plus live minnows and worms. Anglers on the James can sh for smallmouth bass, suckers, channel cat sh and more.

Eat Local

Pack a picnic for your day trip or dine locally instead. If you go Monday through Friday, stop by The Bean Counter, Co ee Bank, a quaint, locally owned small business on the square that’s housed in a historic bank with an old teller’s window and serves specialty drinks and pastries. For more substantial fare, try The Farmer’s Daughter Cafe, also open on weekends. A locals’ favorite, the simple cafe serves hearty homestyle meals. It’s a great spot to go for breakfast before playing all day on the river.

GOLDEN HOUR

BRANSON GUIDE

When you think “Fall Vacation,” picture Branson! Whether you’re into festive shows, thrilling adventures or cozy attractions, Branson has something special to o er. This guide will help you discover all the magic Branson has to o er during the fall months.

BRANSON GUIDE

MYER HOSPITALITY

877-386-7829

MYERHOSPITALITY.COM

FOUR BRANSON HOTEL LOCATIONS

Myer Hospitality’s four Branson hotels— Best Western Center Pointe Inn, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Comfort Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express Green Mtn.

Drive—promise quality service tailored to guests’ needs, regardless of their chosen accommodation in town. All hotels o er a relaxing indoor pool and hot tubs.

WHAT’S NEW

The Comfort Inn & Suites owned by Myer Hospitality stands as the most decorated Comfort Inn in the brand’s history, ranking

among the top 1% nationwide. Additionally, renovations are underway at the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, with plans to introduce new features in their A building.

WHAT TO TRY

Myer Hospitality’s hotels o er a variety of room types based on each person’s and family’s needs. All hotels have rooms that can sleep up to six people, as well as suites for a romantic getaway.

TIP

Myer Hospitality o ers vacation planning and ticket services without service fees, making vacations easier and more economical. Guests can also access dining publications at all their hotels for added convenience.

SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS

417-334-4191

THESHEPHERDOFTHEHILLS.COM 5585 W. 76 COUNTRY BLVD., BRANSON

If you love all things fall—from the leaves and pumpkins to the feelings in the air— Shepherd’s Pumpkinfest is the place to be this autumn.

WHAT TO SEE

At Shepherd of the Hills, there are activities for all members of your family! Adventurers can enjoy a zipline canopy tour, the Copperhead Mountain Coaster or the Vigilante Extreme Ziprider. Once you’re inside the gated admission, experience Pumpkinfest with the Treetop Sky Trail, barnyard animals, hayrides, tube sliding, pumpkin painting, photo ops and family games.

DON’T MISS

You can’t forget Inspiration Tower, which provides a panoramic view of the changing leaves. With over 20 activities plus the natural beauty of the changing landscape, you can’t miss Shepherd’s PumpkinFest at Shepherd of the Hills!

Soaring high through the Ozarks skies— adventurers take on the thrill of ziplining at Shepherd of the Hills!

& SOUND

WHAT’S NEW

Making its Branson debut, DAVID is a state-of-the-art theatrical experience the whole family will enjoy. From still waters to shadowed valleys, David’s legendary ascent to the throne is lled with towering giants, wild animals and Philistine soldiers. After unprecedented victories lead to devastating failures, this passionate warrior faces the biggest battle of all: the one within himself. Don’t miss your chance to come alongside this young shepherd on his journey to become a man after God’s own heart.

WHEN TO GO

Performances of DAVID run March 8, 2025, through January 3, 2026, at Sight & Sound Theatres Branson.

WHAT TO SEE

DAVID features state-of-the-art special e ects, including Sight & Sound’s largest and most complex animatronic to date: Goliath. Towering at 14 feet tall and weighing in at 800 pounds, this set piece is truly a giant! DAVID also includes the use of Sight & Sound’s famous LED screen. Currently the largest of its kind in theatrical use, the LED screen is three stories tall and over 110 feet wide; that’s equivalent to the wing span of a 737 jetliner. Like all Sight & Sound productions, animals play a key role in the cast of DAVID. Audience members can expect to see sheep, camels, horses, goats, birds and donkeys! The music of DAVID is equally impressive, featuring original compositions inspired by the Psalms and moments of David playing the harp live on stage.

TIP

If you’re visiting Sight & Sound Theatres, don’t miss their signature glazed almonds. Grab an almond cone to enjoy during the show, then take the experience home with a one-pound bag of cinnamon-sugar goodness, perfectly packaged for sharing or snacking.

SILVER DOLLAR CITY

417-336-7100

SILVERDOLLARCITY.COM

399 SILVER DOLLAR CITY PKWY., BRANSON

It’s glow time! Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival shines September 12 through October 26.

WHAT TO SEE

Silver Dollar City gives folks “pumpkin to talk about” as one of its brightest festivals of the year gets glowing soon! The gourd times roll during Harvest Festival presented by Humana, with acres of crafts by day and more than 20,000 pumpkins aglow by night!

Pumpkins are creatively carved and perfectly placed throughout City streets with no-scare family fun around every corner,

including an all-ages dance party and character meet and greets in the Pumpkin Plaza. There’s a pumpkin-perfect picture opportunity everywhere you look, starting with a stroll beneath the two-story, lantern- lled Canopy Sky or a walk through Foggy Hollow. A three-story pumpkin greeter welcomes guests into a gorgeous gourd display of towering pumpkin sculptures. Even bigger fun unfolds across the park at the Garden of Giants with pumpkins weighing over 1,000 pounds!

Before the nighttime adventures, The City’s Harvest Festival hosts loads of visiting craftsmen daily who demonstrate pioneer leatherworks, copper art, jewelry making, artistic pumpkin carving, hand-painted décor, woven rugs, stained glass, whimsical upcycled wind chimes and much more.

DON’T MISS

Meanwhile, cowboys return to the Carousel Barn at the Cowboy Emporium, featuring Western-inspired crafts and a showcase of the acclaimed artwork of Yellowstone and Gunsmoke star Buck Taylor.

The autumn food o erings pump up the pumpkin spice! From pumpkin funnel cakes to warm apple dumplings with cinnamon ice cream, there’s something sweet for every festival foodie! Fall avors take a savory twist with o erings like pumpkin-spice rubbed smoked ribs, roasted pepper gouda soup with a cheese twist or chicken and andouille gumbo with cheese grits.

For more information, visit silverdollarcity.com or download the free Silver Dollar City App.

At Home

BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER

At Home

IN A COTTAGE AMONG THE trees lives artist and author Cindy Louisette Johnson, whose story begins in darkness and turns to light—and today that light shines brighter than ever. She tells her life story in her book Emergence, an Illustrated Memoir, where she leads readers through her very di cult childhood, then through a reawakening in which she begins to enjoy simple moments of profound joy.

Today she spends time in and around her home creating, gardening, decorating, cooking and hosting friends and family in beautiful ways. Johnson’s creativity takes many forms, and her art spans many mediums. “I like to use mixed media like paper, paints, pencils,” says Johnson. “My art studio is upstairs in my home.”

She’s known for creating in a paper doll fashion, illustrating and collaging gures

she has named Nature Girl and Angel Girl. “In ways, these were parts of who I am,” says Johnson. These self-portrait illustrations can be found in her book, and more of her illustrations have been used for a collaborative children’s book, The Childornot Tales by Martie Healy.

Johnson doesn’t have to travel far for inspiration—her home is tucked away in the woods and boasts beautiful walled gardens with plenty of places to sit, rest and re ect. “When I take a walk in the woods, I see every shape of leaf,” says Johnson. “I feel glad to be wired the way I am.” Johnson was inspired by the gardens in Europe when designing her gardens and gravitated to boxwoods for their year-round color. “I think we have over 75 boxwoods,” says Johnson. “I love the

structure of them and how they give some formality to the garden.” With a preference for perennials and a love for the cottage French country style, pairing white owers with lots of green is one of Johnson’s favorite things to do in her front garden. The springtime is especially beautiful with

white dogwoods, white irises, white peonies and white candytuft, all blooming at once. On her veranda she opts for more colorful and deer-resistant owers like yarrow. “I have ve di erent colors, and I put them all together,” says Johnson. “It blooms all summer and looks beautiful.”

Just down from the veranda is what Johnson calls her woodland garden, and then down a steep hill is Johnson’s treehouse that overlooks a small creek. It’s a favorite place where she can sit, think and feel inspired. “My husband designed and built the treehouse for me,” says Johnson. “He is very creative.”

Johnson’s husband is also the one who enjoys entertaining in their home, while Johnson loves cooking and creating beautiful table settings with lots of natural elements. “I love layering chargers and mixing

“There’s such a difference between a house and a home.”

di erent patterns,” Johnson says. “You just have to make it fun.”

In the summer months Johnson loves making dishes like watermelon salad and crowd-pleasers like classic roasted tomato soup. She’s always reading interesting cookbooks and enjoys trying lots of new recipes. “My daughter and I started using

and author Cindy Louisette Johnson spends her time tucked away in her home and studio treehouse surrounded by inspiration.

edible owers,” says Johnson. “I grow edible owers and cut owers in my little greenhouse.” Arranging a small bouquet from her greenhouse for all her friends is something Johnson sees as her signature. “They make people so happy,” says Johnson.

Johnson describes her home and the surrounding gardens and woods as a refuge, and she loves feeling one with all the wildlife like deer, birds and wild turkeys. “I have a feather bouquet with feathers I nd on my walks,” says Johnson. Building traditions with family and creating family heirlooms is what she focused on as she raised her children. Making simple things memorable—like a special ower vase or celebrating holidays by setting beautiful tables—is something her family has continued to carry on. “There’s such a di erence between a house and a home,” says Johnson.

Artist

At Home

One Cute Coop

BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER

THE FOUR AND ONE half acres of property the Phillips family calls home is a beautiful playground for husband-and-wife duo Chuck and Jenny to bring their ideas to reality—and for their 11 children to be a part of all the fun. The couple are seasoned DIYers and love renovating

and creating spaces with care and ingenuity. With their new home and property in southeast Spring eld allowing for more outdoor space, the couple have taken on lots of outdoor projects to add to their resumes.

The family moved to the property three years ago, and were attracted to the acreage and Turner’s Creek that runs through the property. “This house is actually smaller

than our last one,” says Jenny. “We have a lot of bunkbeds.” What the home lacks in square footage it makes up for with outdoor space to roam and a place to raise their beloved chickens.

Today, the Phillips family shares its property with some 40 chicks, chickens and roosters, a number that keeps growing. “As a big family, we eat a lot of eggs,” says

THE PHILLIPS FAMILY DREAMED UP A PINTEREST-WORTHY COOP FOR THEIR FLOCK.

PEEK INSIDE

The Phillips family includes 11 kids with 40 chicks, chickens and roosters.

“This is how we spend our time together. We’re a big family, so we don’t do trips—we do projects.”

Jenny. “We also sell eggs to friends and family.” Raising chickens just made sense to the Phillips family, and they’ve been perfecting the most beautiful chicken coop that began with a free nd: a shed that was up for grabs on Facebook Marketplace. Chuck strengthened the shed’s frame, and the family added windows and an arched doorway. They made sure to raise the coop o the ground to keep rodents away and for protection against predators. The chickens enjoy the extra space to roam as well. Jenny used cedar pickets for siding and tiles on the roof. Adding the tiles was a two-person job, so their sons Ivan, 16, and Paul, 19, helped out. “This is how we spend our time together,” says Jenny. “We’re a big family, so we don’t do trips—we do projects.”

Gathering the eggs is an exciting time for the Phillips kids, who all want to collect the eggs throughout the day. “We nally had to designate one kid a night to go collect them,” says Jenny. They gather the eggs after 5 p.m., when the chickens are nished laying, to avoid disturbing them too much throughout the day. Right now the chickens are referred to as a barnyard mix, meaning there are several breeds. Pepper is the family’s best layer, with big, darkly colored eggs. Cream Pu is a family favorite chicken. “She’s the most useless,” says Jenny. “She doesn’t lay any eggs, but she’s always at our feet and loves people.” The Phillips family plans to create a separate ock of only Copper Marans, known for their beautiful dark brown eggs. They also have started their own beehives, which are just as beautiful as their chicken coop. “I’m just a city girl, trying to be country,” says Jenny.

IN THE GARDEN / BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER

Mad for Maypops

Try your hand at growing the Ozarks’ passion ower for its exotic blooms and unique fruit.

Purple passionflower, also known regionally as maypops, is a vine with exotic, fragrant flowers native to the Ozarks. Its beautiful tendrils climb trellises and fences, and its blooms host several types of butterflies. This vine is a favorite at Maypop Flower Farm, where its curling vines playfully dance in market bouquets. The flower resembles a tropical bloom and bears edible fruit o en called maypops. “I love the idea of a beautiful flower producing a

delicious fruit a er it’s done blooming,” says Chelsea Dillard from Wheeler Gardens. Planting passionflower in a garden bed may not be ideal—it spreads through underground rhizomes and quickly dominates surrounding plants. Give this vine space to spread—its own area will help it thrive. In the Ozarks, passionflower dies back to the ground in winter and resurfaces from rhizomes when temperatures warm. Passion fruit is usually about

the size of a chicken egg and remains green. The best way to tell if it’s ripe is to feel whether the fruit is heavy. You can break the skin and eat the tart, seedy pulp inside. The whole passionflower plant is used medicinally, especially for sleep, anxiety and inflammation. The flavor resembles tropical passion fruit but is less juicy. While many eat the pulp, a more common way to enjoy this flavor is in what Ozarks homesteaders call maypop jelly.

At Home

Making Meadows

HOW ONE MILITARY VET FINDS HEALING AND JOY IN THE ART OF BEEKEEPING.

BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER

Wthe world just disappears,” says Hood. “I really believe that being present is a huge healer for people.”

HEN BRYAN HOOD RETIRED FROM THE MILITARY AFTER 26 YEARS of service, he never expected to nd peace and tranquility in gardening and beekeeping, but that’s exactly what happened. “I was part of Highs for Heroes and went through a program called Warrior Path,” he says. “My big takeaway was the act of being present.”

It’s on his land in Nixa that Hood spends much of his time tending to two wild ower plots and the beehives located between them. Working on his property to cultivate native and experiment with non-native owers— along with beekeeping—helps him stay in the moment, forget past hardships and avoid stressing about the future. “All the noise goes away and

Beekeeper Bryan Hood creates the perfect environment for his bees by seeding his pasture with native wildflowers.

Hood began his beekeeping adventure in 2020, after a fellow combat buddy reached out asking if he knew anyone who kept bees. His friend had a hive in a tree on his property and wanted someone to relocate it. That moment sparked Hood’s decision to try beekeeping himself. He brought his son along, and together

PHOTOS

OUTDOOR LIVING

“All the noise goes away and the world just disappears. I really believe that being present is a huge healer for people.”

they cut down the branch the hive was attached to and watched it drop into the bee box Hood had just purchased.

Hood has come far since that day, perfecting his beekeeping skills and researching as much as he can. “I’m always learning, and bees are not something you can really control,” says Hood. “They are still going to do their own thing.”

Creating a good environment for his bees helps make Hood’s honey so special. With 40 to 50 ower species growing in his eld, the bees have direct access to a unique blend of pollen and nectar. He only plants perennials, reseeding the eld every two years. Each fall he mows the meadows after everything has died and had time to reseed, then tills the elds, turning the soil, mixing the seeds and planting more. “I feel like this method is more natural,” says Hood. “Some people spray the weeds, but I prefer the plow method—it’s more organic and wild.”

The eld features an array of native wild owers like cone owers, coreopsis, butter y milkweed, daisies, poppies and corn ower. Hood also experiments with non-native owers that grow in the Ozarks, like lupine and canola. “The variety of owers brings a unique avor to the honey,” he says. “And it’s just really pretty.”

In the spring months, the elds begin to bloom. Once the summer heat hits, the elds and bees ourish. “It’s so cool to watch the elds just erupt with blooms,” says Hood.

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417-207-2441

RESIDENTIAL PROS TO KNOW

Before you entrust your home to just anyone, you have research to do. Who is the most experienced? Who will be reliable to work with? A big investment requires a big amount of trust. Rest assured—we’ll guide you to the professionals. Here are your Residential Pros to Know.

888-LOG-GUYS

888-564-4897

888LOGGUYS.COM

6701 SELMORE RD., OZARK

From humble beginnings in the mid-1990s, 888-Log-Guys has grown to an expansive team of log home and wood craftsmen professionals serving hundreds of 417-land clients on their residential and commercial projects each year. With careful attention to detail, the experts on their team have grown this niche trade over the past few decades. As they have grown, so has their following of loyal customers across Mid-America. Their service offerings have also expanded from exclusively restoring log homes to now offering a variety of services for all types of homes with decks, privacy fences and log or wood accents.

Often their customers think that they will need to nd another vendor to re nish their decks, paint their windows or maybe even re nish wood doors. The good news is that 888-Log-Guys can do those tasks, usually at the same time that they are re nishing your home.

888-Log-Guys has been in the business of log home restoration for more than 25 years, with team members who have decades of hands-on experience. Restoring log homes is their business, and when it comes to dependable services and quality workmanship, nobody does it like 888-Log-Guys. Contact them today for a hassle-free bid.

PHOTO BY KATY ST. CLAIR

Stephanie Chapman, Dustin White, Nicole Carr, Jeff Parks, Jordan White, Jason Douglas

BluCurrent Credit Union offers a range of mortgage options, including conventional xed-rate mortgages, government loans (FHA, VA, USDA) and home equity lines of credit. Known for its competitive rates, personalized service and low fees, BluCurrent has earned a reputation for putting member satisfaction rst. They serve homeowners and investors across Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois and Colorado.

Whether members are buying their rst home or adding to their investment portfolio, BluCurrent works with them to nd the right mortgage. Their team is known for responding quickly to questions, walking members through their options and providing guidance to help them make informed nancial decisions. They take a personal approach to each member, ensuring that their mortgage ts their speci c needs.

The BluCurrent team—with a combined 17 years of experience— holds licenses with the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) and is actively involved with the Greater Spring eld Board of Realtors. BluCurrent is committed to supporting its community, fostering strong relationships with members and staying updated with the latest industry trends through ongoing education and professional development. Their dedication to service and expertise makes them a standout choice for anyone looking to navigate the mortgage process with con dence.

Hannah McCaig, DeAnna Downs, Courtney Pruente

CONCEPTS BY DESIGN

417-725-3400

CABINETCONCEPTSBYDESIGN.COM

4123 N. STATE HWY H, SPRINGFIELD

Meet Matt and Shelley Wehner, the dynamic duo behind Concepts by Design. For the past 17 years, they’ve been transforming homes in 417-land with custom cabinets, closets and moldings. When it comes to staying on top of trends and using the best construction practices, Concepts by Design is always ahead of the curve. Their design team is like a squad of spatial planning wizards, ensuring every inch of a home is used to its fullest potential. With a friendly and talented team, they deliver top-notch quality and service every time. Plus, they’re proud members of the HBA, SDA, CMA (Cabinet Makers Association) and NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association).

What sets them apart is their fearless approach to thinking outside the box. They’re ready to try new things and push the boundaries of design. When cabinets are designed by Concepts by Design, clients can expect to maximize function and storage in a way that ts their lifestyle. The best part? They bring each vision to life with stunning 3D renderings before production even begins. This means everyone involved can see the nal plan, understand how it will work and get excited about the project. For anyone looking to transform their home with custom designs that are anything but ordinary, Concepts by Design is the team.

PHOTO BY MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPHY

Matt Wehner and Shelley Wehner

EDGE SUPPLY

Edge Supply is in the business of transformation. Whether it’s a custom home or simply a new sink faucet, Edge Supply has the parts and professionalism to bring transformation to how you live. After all, they’re your go-to plumbing store!

Experience is what makes the difference. This family-owned company has been in business since 1946 serving both contractors and homeowners throughout Missouri and northwest Arkansas. Staff at both the East Traf cway and South Campbell locations are serious about serving customers and meeting their needs. In fact, they have more than 100 combined years of experience. They’ll bridge the gap between homeowners and plumbing contractors, and even offer installation advice to do-it-yourselfers.

Find the latest styles at Edge Supply. Whatever your project style or budget may be, they have countless options to make your dream bath or kitchen a reality. Their products range everywhere from essential to astounding. Edge Supply’s showrooms spark the imagination, and their warehouses are stocked deep and high with even the hardest-to- nd products—the kind of items that most places have to special order. Edge Supply is all about making customers happy and building lasting relationships. After all, at Edge Supply, it’s all about how you live.

IMBER POOL & OUTDOOR

From tranquil water features to fully customized outdoor living areas, Imber Pool & Outdoor transforms backyards into year-round retreats. With over a century of experience, the Imber team brings extensive knowledge to every project—whether it’s a new pool build, pool repair, pergola, replace, pond, fence, waterfall or outdoor kitchen. Their offerings range from classic rectangular designs to freeform shapes and everything in between. Their commitment to top-tier materials, the latest technology and exceptional customer service ensures each space is both functional and beautiful.

Imber Pool & Outdoor specializes in creating one-of-a-kind environments that enhance everyday living. The Imber team works closely with clients to understand their goals, budget and style preferences, and will develop a personalized plan that ful lls all their requirements. They embrace innovation and employ cutting-edge techniques to deliver durable, stunning pools that stand the test of time. If it can be imagined, Imber can design and build it. Ready to turn your backyard into an outdoor haven? To schedule a free in-home estimate, call 417-772-3184. Flexible nancing plans are available to help make your backyard dreams a reality—sooner than you think.

PHOTO BY KATY ST. CLAIR

Back row: Greg Johnson, Joshua Hermans, Kole Raby, Andrew Hermans, Chuck Hermans, Tommy Maglich; Middle row: Rebecca Hermans, Michelle Hermans; Seated: Daniel Trolinger, Kenny Brossart, Keiton Greer, Asa Venable

MUNNIK REAL ESTATE GROUP

M417-887-5333

MUNNIKREALESTATEGROUP.COM

3745 S. FREMONT AVE., SUITE A, SPRINGFIELD

unnik Real Estate Group (RE/MAX), owned by Amber Munnik, stands out for its steadfast dedication to elevating the client experience in every real estate transaction. With a focus on luxury service, Munnik Real Estate Group combines cutting-edge technology and a top-tier, in-house marketing team to ensure clients achieve their goals effectively. They cater to a diverse clientele, including rst-time homebuyers, seasoned investors and individuals seeking luxurious second homes near the lake.

What distinguishes Munnik Real Estate Group is its commitment to accessibility and personalized service. They prioritize client satisfaction above all else, striving to create a one-of-a-kind experience characterized by attentive customer care and securing the best deals possible. Clients consistently commend the team for their prompt communication, meticulous attention to detail—from distinctive yard signs to beautifully curated open houses—and the genuine care that makes clients feel like the main focus.

Beyond fostering strong business relationships, Amber Munnik and her team aim to forge lasting personal relationships through their exemplary service and respect for each client’s speci c needs. For anyone navigating the real estate market in 417-land, Munnik Real Estate Group offers not only expertise but also a commitment to making every transaction a seamless and rewarding experience.

Amber Munnik

At OMB Bank, home lending starts with local insight and ends with real results—fast. The community bank’s residential lending team is built on relationships, not red tape. Every pre-quali cation, underwriting decision and nal call is made in-house by people who know their clients by name and understand the local market. That means faster answers, fewer hoops and a smoother path to closing.

Files aren’t sent across the country—they’re walked down the hall. That kind of closeness matters when buying a home. It’s how OMB Bank delivers personal service with real speed and accountability.

OMB Bank offers free loan pre-quali cation to help buyers move forward with con dence. Whether purchasing a rst home, upgrading or re nancing, their lending experts guide clients through every step of the process. There’s no outsourced support, no guesswork—just sharp guidance, transparent answers and decisions made right in the community.

It’s all part of OMB Bank’s commitment to making the mortgage process simple, clear and personal. Backed by more than 25 years of community banking, OMB’s residential lending team brings that same trusted approach to home loans today.

At OMB Bank, it’s not just a loan. It’s a key to the future—and they’re proud to help open the door.

PHOTO BY KATY ST. CLAIR

Nigel Templeton,Oksana Kigilyuk, Rachel Leach, Michael Frerking, Katie Bradford

TLC PROPERTIES

417-869-1118

TLCPROPERTIES.COM

3811 S. WELLER AVE., SPRINGFIELD

For Ken Oeser, the Sales & Service Director at TLC Properties, building strong communities starts with building strong relationships. His journey with TLC Properties didn’t begin with apartments; it started poolside. “I started as the Coryell kids’ swim coach for three summers,” he says. Years later, after running his own business, including a stint where he was the boss of TLC’s current president, Oeser has become a respected leader and decorated changemaker during his 11-year tenure at TLC.

What does he love most? “That’s easy,” he says. “Serving people.” He brings a friendly presence and decades of experience to every interaction, from welcoming new residents to the community to stocking the dog treat stations. “There’s no job too big or too small when it comes to creating a great living experience,” Oeser says.

Oeser’s approach is rooted in hospitality and guided by principle. “If we start with the right foundation—treating people with respect and empathy— we’ll enhance lives,” he says.

He’s seen the industry evolve dramatically. “Apartments are a lifestyle now,” Oeser says. “Expectations have gone up, and TLC has grown with them.” As TLC continues to expand, Oeser offers this advice to newcomers: “Have a passion for people. Empathy matters, and so does backbone. Bring both to the table, and you’ll go far.”

Ken Oeser

UNIQUE TILE

417-725-5515

UNIQUETILE.COM

1364 KELLY AVE., NIXA

Since 1988, Unique Tile has been a locally owned wholesale distributor of designer-oriented tile and stone. They set standards for style and design to meet the demands of their clients, both residential and commercial nationwide. Their expert staff travels the globe to personally select stocked tile series, presenting the latest the tile industry has to offer. Unique Tile’s evolving showroom is open to the trade and features a vast array of products, with hundreds of stock tiles, thousands of special-order tiles and all the tools and products needed for installation. The Stone Gallery at Unique Tile is one of only two granite fabrication facilities in Missouri accredited by the Natural Stone Institute. The standards for accreditation have been veri ed through a multistep process, including a thorough document review, written exam and extensive on-site inspection. With decades of experience in the stone industry, Unique Tile’s team brings expertise and precision to every project. Quality products, attention to detail and exceptional customer service have helped Unique Tile gain the loyalty of their clients over the past 36 years. Get to know them online by browsing their website at uniquetile.com and ordering through a professional near you.

BY

PHOTO

KATY ST. CLAIR

Front row: Paul Mudd, Melissa Turpin; Back Row: Kevin Alba, Regina Salvador, Stephanie Karlsons, Tara Guydos

Mark Long

417 CLOSETS

417-844-8813 | 417CLOSETS.COM

Clutter creates stress and steals time. A disorganized closet can disrupt your day before it even starts. At 417 Closets, the team transforms chaos into calm with custom systems designed around your life. Whether it’s a walk-in closet, pantry or laundry room, they create organized spaces that work beautifully. Adjustable shelving, hidden hampers, shoe racks—every detail is tailored to simplify your routine and bring order to your home. Start each day with clarity, not clutter. When everything has a place, you gain time, reduce stress and feel more in control. Let your home become your sanctuary.

ARCHADECK

OF SPRINGFIELD

417-473-2027 | ARCHADECK.COM/SPRINGFIELD

Archadeck specializes in custom outdoor living spaces, including decks, porches, screened-in decks, sunrooms, paver patios, repits and outdoor kitchens. Locally owned and operated, the team brings years of experience and takes pride in delivering high-quality, code-compliant builds tailored to each client’s vision. With an in-house design and drafting team, Archadeck manages projects of all sizes from start to nish. Their sister companies—Superior Fence and Rail, Lazer Striping and Sealing and Enviro-Air Duct Cleaning—offer additional services, all under trusted local ownership. Known for professionalism and craftsmanship, Archadeck helps homeowners bring their outdoor living dreams to life.

Mike Burton

ARVEST BANK

417-885-7256 | ARVEST.COM

Buying a house is one of the largest purchases most people will ever make, so it’s important for homebuyers to have the right mortgage team guiding them through the process to make sure they secure the best loan for their speci c situation.

The experienced team of mortgage lending pros at Arvest Bank is ready to help. Not only will they make the process convenient with local lenders and the highly rated Home4Me® app, but they also service 99% of their loans after closing so homebuyers receive continued local service. Get started today at arvest.com or call 417-885-7240.

Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Loans subject to credit approval

CLEAN GREEN RESTORATION

417-300-5062 | CGRMO.COM 143 E. STATE HWY CC, NIXA

Clean Green Restoration, a family-owned business, specializes in re, water and mold damage restoration. Led by industry expert Miles, with over 20 years of experience, the team provides seamless solutions, including mold removal, water cleanup, re restoration and odor removal. IICRC-certi ed and EPA Lead-Safe Certi ed, they offer honest, transparent service without upselling unnecessary work. The team at Clean Green Restoration are experts in navigating insurance claims, offering free inspections and fair pricing to keep things simple and stress-free. They are a trusted choice for restoring safe, healthy homes with care and professionalism, treating each home as if it were their own.

PHOTOS COURTESY

ARVEST

BANK, BY KATY

ST. CLAIR

Miles and Tarah McNeill

CONCRETE ENHANCEMENTS

417-830-2060 | SPRINGFIELDCONCRETE.COM SPRINGFIELD

Concrete doesn’t have to be gray anymore! There are so many possibilities to consider with Concrete Enhancements. They can help you elevate your concrete’s appearance with coloring, stamping, staining and sealing. They can even create borders and designs to make your project unique. Set the foundation for your perfect patio’s re pit, hot tub, outdoor kitchen and entertaining area.

In business since 1991, Concrete Enhancements is licensed, is a proud member of the Home Builders Association and has an A+ rating with the BBB. They put a strong emphasis on quality, workmanship and customer satisfaction. They invite you to view their recently completed projects online.

ETHEL CURBOW

417-447-4968 | ETHELCURBOW.COM 1324 E. KINGSLEY ST., SPRINGFIELD

It’s hard to outshine Ethel Curbow’s reputation for excellence in 417-land real estate. Along with her AMAX team, she’s made a name for herself in the industry, listing and selling residential and land properties over the past 30 years. She brings plenty of experience to the table, and customers are oored that she always answers her phone. Ethel keeps clients informed, markets their properties in every kind of media and has a great track record of success—that leads to many satis ed past clients. The Curbow team is knowledgeable, experienced, hard-working and ready to help you with your real estate needs!

David Braeckel, Ethel Curbow, Kristi Williams, Nick Jackson

FIVE STAR PAINTING

417-720-2376 | FIVESTARPAINTING.COM

Doug and Andrea Windsor, owners of Five Star Painting of Spring eld, are passionate about more than just paint—they’re passionate about creating beauty that lasts. Since 2017, this husband-and-wife team has brought color, character and charm to homes and businesses throughout the region. Whether it’s a serene interior refresh or a bold, curb-appeal-boosting exterior, every project is treated as a unique re ection of the client’s personality or brand. With a deep commitment to personalized service and a discerning eye for detail, they transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. Connect with Five Star Painting—and watch your space come to life like never before.

FOREVERLAWN

OF THE OZARKS

417-233-3099 | FOREVERLAWNOFTHEOZARKS.COM

3213-A S. CAMPBELL AVE., SPRINGFIELD

For homeowners looking for top-quality arti cial turf, ForeverLawn of the Ozarks stands out as the area’s leading specialist. With 10 years of expertise, they offer ve major turf options: K9Grass, playground grass, sports grass, golf greens and landscapes. Known for their innovation and custom solutions, they cater to high-end residential properties, delivering tailored landscapes that require less maintenance and last longer. They also serve businesses, installing turf for doggy daycares, veterinary of ces, playgrounds and much more. ForeverLawn’s customers appreciate their local roots, professional team and extensive knowledge. No two projects are the same, making each installation unique.

Doug and Andrea Windsor

LORENZ PLUMBING HEATING AND AIR

SPRINGFIELD: 417-863-1122 | 1429 N. CEDARBROOK AVE. BRANSON: 417-544-4430 | 526 BRANSON LANDING BLVD. LORENZPHAC.COM

Lorenz began in 1978 and has proven they know what it takes to succeed in an industry where customer satisfaction is everything. Their goal is to provide excellent workmanship, consistent service and fair prices. Lorenz’s technicians can handle all of your HVAC repair needs, regardless of the brand, including complete replacement of your system with quality Trane or Mitsubishi equipment. From traditional systems to ductless and mini-split systems, they will help you nd what’s best to keep your home cool this season. Locally owned and operated. Just another reason why they’re your friends at Lorenz and your Premier Trane comfort specialists.

PALISADES STONE

417-831-5048 | PALISADESSTONE.COM 1350 E. COMMERCIAL ST., SPRINGFIELD

Palisades Stone is a locally owned manufacturer in Spring eld, Missouri, specializing in high-quality stone and brick veneer for both residential and commercial projects. With over 60 years of collective experience, their team offers not only premium products but also installation materials and full turnkey installation services. Palisades Stone is known for excellent customer service, competitive pricing and quick lead times thanks to local manufacturing. Their products meet ASTM speci cations and come with a 75-year warranty. Ideal for homeowners, contractors and architects, stone veneer adds timeless value and ranks among the highest return-on-investment features in construction and remodeling projects.

Don Gardner, Andy Carr, Mike Lorenz Polino, Andrew Wagner, Dylan Ballard

David B. Myers, Jacob W. Myers, David W. Myers

SET THE STAGE®

417-340-1525 | WESETTHESTAGE.COM

975-C STATE HWY NN, OZARK

Set the Stage® offers expert home staging and furnishing services designed to boost a property’s appeal and value. With eight combined years of experience, the team specializes in turnkey solutions for home sellers, investors and property managers. From pre-listing consultations to fully styled spaces, they combine deep design knowledge with curated furnishings that buyers can even purchase. Their wholesale buying power and streamlined approach help clients save time, reduce stress and attract top-dollar offers. Set the Stage® isn’t just about decorating—it’s about delivering results. Whether you’re selling, renting or simply refreshing a space, they help make every space market-ready and memory-worthy.

SIMMONS BANK

417-890-7770 | SIMMONSBANK.COM

4625 S. NATIONAL AVE., SPRINGFIELD

With over 75 years of combined experience, Adam Thompson and Sheila Falls bring unmatched mortgage expertise to Simmons Bank in Spring eld, Missouri. Thompson, a Spring eld native, has worked in the mortgage industry for 26 years and continues to call the city home. Falls has been in banking since 1976, including 25 years in mortgage lending, and has served the Springeld community since 2004. Backed by Simmons Bank’s 100-plus-year legacy and recognition as a top employer in Missouri and the South, this dedicated team is committed to building trust and delivering exceptional service to customers across 417-land.

Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC

PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR

Adam Thompson, Sheila Falls

Liz Lusk, Caroline Lusk, Mark Lusk

SKAGGS HEATING & COOLING

417-831-6606

SKAGGSHEATINGANDCOOLING.COM

4347 W. CALHOUN ST., SPRINGFIELD

Skaggs Heating and Cooling brings over 25 years of combined experience to residential and commercial service and replacement. Owners Jason and Sherri Bergen rst crossed paths when Sherri needed a new air conditioner and Jason arrived to install it—a meeting that led not only to marriage, but to a shared passion for building a business rooted in service. Now as co-owners of Skaggs, their commitment to honesty, integrity and fair pricing de nes every customer interaction. Known for professionalism and quality work, the Skaggs team handles everything from routine maintenance to full system installs with pride and precision.

SPRING-GREEN LAWN CARE AND TRIMWORKS LAWNCARE & IRRIGATION

417-368-0591 | 417-886-5740

SPRING-GREEN.COM | TRIMWORKSLAWNCARE.COM

3328 E. LINWOOD ST., SPRINGFIELD

Spring-Green Lawn Care and partner Trimworks Lawncare & Irrigation, both locally owned by Jonathan Thurman, can take care of your lawn the way that you would… if only you had the time!

They are the neighborhood lawn care professionals, providing healthy, weed-free lawns, landscapes and irrigation services since 1997. Caring for lawns in 417-land requires skill, knowledge and experience, as well as reliable, regular attention. They provide a personalized service plan that is unique to each customer, so that your individual lawn goals can be met. Forget the hassle during the hottest parts of the year. For a lush and healthy lawn, contact them today!

Jonathan Thurman

Jason and Sherri Bergen

TABLE ROCK COMMUNITY BANK

417-290-3020 | TRCBANK.COM 3550 S. NATIONAL AVE., SPRINGFIELD

With over 75 years of combined experience, the mortgage lending team at Table Rock Community Bank helps homebuyers make con dent, informed decisions. Known for great service, honest answers and clear communication, they prioritize accessibility every step of the way. Their new offering re ects the bank’s continued commitment to serving local families with personalized support and sound nancial guidance. Locally owned and rooted in the community, Table Rock Community Bank proudly serves Stone, Taney and Greene counties. Their dedicated team not only works here, but they also volunteer, give back and help build a better place to live, work and thrive.

BY

PHOTO

KATY ST. CLAIR

Back row: Charles Hachtel, Paul Eckert, Brooke Black; Middle row: Shannon Steinert, Lauren Helms; Front row: Tyler Maggi, James Coffer

STARGAZING IN THE OZARKS

WRITTEN BY SONY HOCKLANDER

BY

PHOTO

BRENNEN NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

DARK SKY TOURISM IS ON THE RISE IN THE OZARKS—ALONG WITH OUTREACH AND ADVOCACY FROM LOCALS WANTING TO PRESERVE OUR STARRY SKIES. THAT’S GOOD NEWS FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS AND STARGAZERS OF ALL AGES.

The Milky Way over Stockton Lake.

AS DUSK GIVES WAY TO TWILIGHT and growing darkness, stars appear in the clear night sky. First, only the brightest. You can make out the Big Dipper. Then Polaris—the north star—emerges. Soon, eyes adjust to the night— darker than many gathered on the wide open greenspace near Big Spring have experienced. And there, to the south, at last, the Milky Way and its galactic core become visible. One woman weeps: She’s never seen it before. An excited youngster with his rst telescope focuses successfully on a star, enthralled by more than two dozen volunteers sharing their telescopes with the crowd.

DarkSky Missouri’s rst festival star party, held last fall at Big Spring Campground on the Current River, left good memories for those who attended. Many in the crowd of roughly 200, including volunteers, organizers and attendees, came from Spring eld. This year’s festival returns to Big Spring October 17 and 18, and a similar festival in its fourth year is planned for September 19 and 20 near the Bu alo National River in Arkansas.

Both festivals’ success illustrates growing interest in viewing starry skies in dark places and protecting those skies by reducing light pollution. Ozarkers value the natural outdoors where they hike, oat, cycle, sh, camp and more. No wonder that extends to the outdoors at night.

Yearning to experience a truly dark sky with sparkling stars for yourself? Late summer and fall are great seasons to seek celestial wonders away from city lights, whether it’s a rising full moon, easy-to-spot constellations, or astronomical events like the popular Per-

seids meteor shower in mid-August. Not only that, the Milky Way rises earlier this time of year, so you don’t have to stay up as late to see or photograph it.

PROTECTING DARK SKIES IN THE OZARKS

There’s nothing like stargazing under a truly dark night sky, says DarkSky Missouri board member Loring Bullard, a local author, naturalist and former executive director of Watershed Committee of the Ozarks.

“That was always a big part of the experience of going out and camping under the stars in a wilderness somewhere, and really being able to feel like you can reach out and touch those stars,” Bullard says. “It’s such an incredible feeling.”

But we can’t take dark skies for granted, he and other advocates say. In fact, dark skies are disappearing as urban development expands. Research in the last decade reveals that more than 99 percent of U.S. residents live in areas with light pollution, and 80 percent can’t see the Milky Way.

For generations, people have used indiscriminate lighting around their properties as a misguided and excessive practice. But a growing movement calls for adopting responsible lighting practices to help reduce city glow that diminishes dark skies for miles.

PHOTOGRAPHY 101

If you’re intimidated by the idea of snapping quality images of the night sky, visit 417mag.com for Sony Hocklander’s beginner-friendly tips for capturing the night sky.

The concern is not just to save stargazing. Scientists say excess arti cial light is disruptive to feeding, mating and growing cycles for plants, insects, birds and animals.

Living things—including people—need darkness, says Bullard. “Everything is tuned to that cycle of day and night.”

Cathy Webb of Spring eld, who helps plan the Dark Sky Festival, is a board member with Bullard of DarkSky Missouri, a chapter of DarkSky International, the advocacy organization that bestows Dark Sky Place designations for deserving applicants. Webb is also a member of Greater Ozarks Audubon Society. She became interested in dark sky conservation when she learned how light pollution disrupts bird migration.

Reducing light pollution “is even, we’re nding out, important for things like the food system,” says Katherine Auld, an astronomy professor at Northwest Arkansas Community College and board member for Arkansas Natural Sky Association (ANSA), another afliate of DarkSky International. That’s because pollination happens at night by moths, bats and other living things that come out at dark.

People often don’t know any of that until they attend an astronomy event, whether at a festival, a public viewing at Missouri State University’s Baker Observatory, through the Spring eld Astronomical Society or at local and state parks.

Those are good ways to connect people to the natural environment, Webb says, “where you can actually see what you’re helping to protect. The night sky evokes emotion. It’s an inviting environment that is full of wonder. People

How To Find Dark Skies

will remember that and they will want to protect it more.”

SPREADING THE MESSAGE

Bullard says it will take a culture shift to reduce light pollution, not only in parks and natural spaces, but in urban communities, too. Still, light pollution awareness is growing.

“There’s no question that the awareness is starting to spread,” says Bruce McMath, an amateur astronomer and retired lawyer who chairs ANSA. “It’s got a long way to go, but an increasing, signi cant part of the population has at least heard of light pollution.”

McMath says DarkSky International promotes the implementation of responsible lighting principles. Those principles include using light only when needed and no more than necessary, for instance, shielding xtures so light only points down and not at the sky. That also includes using motion detectors and changing lights to warmer color temperatures.

The good news is, “we’ve got communities nally coming around and thinking about lighting ordinances and so forth,” McMath says.

One of those is the city of Ozark, which in July 2021, passed a dark sky ordinance to adopt those responsible lighting principles. Spearheaded by

Area experts shared their favorite dark sky viewing spots and we found excellent location resources at darkskymissouri.org and darkskyarkansas.org.

The night sky is best viewed in open space away from urban communities and city glow. Stick to public land that allows nighttime occupation, or private land with permission. State parks with camping/lodging are good options. Or book a rental in a dark sky area (ANSA includes a list of dark sky-friendly rentals at darkskyarkansas.org). Also try public Army Corps of Engineers marinas and boat docks in dark locations. To find areas on your own, review a light pollution map with a color-coded overlay at darkskymap.com. Pinks, reds and yellows indicate the most light pollution; green, light blue and dark blue areas o er better stargazing.

King’s River Falls in Arkansas, right before a fog rolls in.

Assistant City Administrator Cameron Smith, who worked with DarkSky Missouri and Truman University, it doesn’t apply to individual residences. But the ordinance requires remodeled or new public property development to comply with those principles, so it will become a cumulative e ect. “We wanted to get ahead of light pollution the best we could,” Smith says.

The ordinance—the rst of its kind for a city in Missouri—is making an impact and has been embraced by the community, Smith says. Given local interest in the outdoors and natural resources, it aligns with community goals and values.

Spring eld is also making changes to lighting policies as part of its longrange plan. Based on public feedback, protecting the night sky was included with Forward SGF, the city’s comprehensive plan and blueprint for its future goals.

Steps have already begun, according to Justin Crighton, assistant director of Planning & Development. “The updated Land Development Code incorporates the dark sky principles into the Landscape and Site Design Article, with the goal being to reduce light pollution overall,” he shares. The code, e ective in early 2026, incorporates corrected color lighting with height restrictions and shielding requirements that limit light spillage as projects are developed going forward.

These progressive e orts bode well for stargazers and people who care about the Ozarks outdoors.

NIGHT SKY OUTINGS

Auld says she has been drawn to night skies since youth after watching Perseid meteors with her grandmother. “The connection we have with the outdoors really is bene cial to your mental health,” she says. And stargazing is a way to get outdoors without needing a bike, hiking boots or much knowledge. “Just go outside to a night sky, throw a blanket on the ground and lay there, staring at the stars,” she says.

Fortunately, the Ozarks includes many dark, wilderness areas in Missouri

and Arkansas. To nd dark skies within a reasonable drive, use a color-coded light pollution map online or in an app (darkskymap.com is one site). Pinks, reds and yellows indicate the most light pollution; greens, light blue and dark blue areas o er better dark sky viewing. Generally speaking, federal parkland, state parks in dark areas, campgrounds, national forests and public outdoor spaces that allow all-night occupancy—like a boat launch—are good places to try.

Before heading out, Auld recommends having warm clothes, a chair that leans back or a blanket, and water and snacks. Also bring binoculars for an easy closer look.

If you want to identify stars, planets, constellations and asterisms (star patterns), download a current star chart or use a night sky app. (Stellarium.org or the Stellarium app is one recommended resource. Auld likes the Sky View Lite app.)

Plan your outing on a night near the new moon or when the moon sets early or rises late. Or plan around a special event, like a meteor shower which occurs about every month until the end of the year. The most popular is the Perseids, which is active between mid-July and end of August. This year, the Perseids peak August 12-13 when it will be harder to see because of the waning gibbous moon, about two-thirds full. October’s Orionids meteor shower may be better because it peaks October 2223 during a new moon.

One unusual event in November will be Saturn’s “lost” rings. The angle of Saturn’s rings will be at an edge-on view, making them seem to disappear. This phenomenon won’t return again until 2032.

ANSA board member Je rey Hoeper is excited to see the close conjunction of Venus with Jupiter and Saturn with the moon on August 12. He also hopes a rare aurora borealis viewing will return to the Ozarks. With the sun just past its solar maximum, it’s possible Missouri and Arkansas could see more coronal mass ejections, which have produced auroras in the Ozarks, he says.

Aurora Borealis visible in Missouri.

Night Sky for Beginners

We asked local astronomers, including Andy Baran, associate professor of Astronomy at Missouri State University, to share easy-to-find objects in the late summer night sky, such as constellations, asterisms – which Baran explains are recognizable star patterns – and other wonders. The best way to find and identify them is to use a star chart or night sky phone app. Baran particularly likes stellarium.org. Arkansas hobby astronomer Je rey Hoeper created star charts people can download at lakenorforkadventures.blogspot.com. He recommends skymaps.com. Here’s a short night sky list to get you started.

Milky Way

Visible in the southern sky, it appears nearly vertical in late summer and fall. Some people, seeing it for the first time, think it looks like a ribbon of wispy clouds.

Summer Triangle / Cygnus the Swan

An asterism made up of three stars – Vega, Deneb and Altair – creates the summer triangle, which also looks like a “V.” Deneb in the Summer Triangle is part of the Cygnus constellation.

Scorpius

Baran’s favorite constellation, the scorpion can be found low in the southern sky. Its brightest star, Antares, is red. The Milky Way seems to rise out of its tail, which looks like a hook.

Ursa Major / Big Dipper

Ursa Major is the largest constellation in the sky; the Big Dipper is an asterism within the constellation. Once you find the Big Dipper – a rectangular bowl with a handle – look for stars that make up the rest of the constellation.

Polaris (North Star)

While Polaris isn’t the brightest star in the sky, it’s the most constant because the Earth’s axis points to it, so it appears unmoving. An easy way to find Polaris is to look for the Merak and Dubhe stars at the front of the Big Dipper’s bowl and follow the “line” they create, up and to the right. That line points to Polaris.

Sagittarius / Teapot

The shape of a teapot is an asterism found in Sagittarius, one of the “zodiac” constellations. Located in the southern sky, its easily recognizable teapot points to the Milky Way.

BY JOSH

PHOTO

BEECHER

A view from Finley Farms’ Stargazing & S’mores event.

USING A TELESCOPE

In addition to naked-eye stargazing, consider using a telescope, says Dale Flippo, vice president and 25-year member of the Spring eld Astronomical Society. “You can do lunar observing, solar observing, or you can do what we call deep sky objects, which is clusters, galaxies and other things.”

The SAS, which meets monthly at the Library Center, conducts outreach programs in partnership with local organizations where volunteers bring telescopes and educational expertise to share with the public.

In conjunction with the Astronomical League, SAS also facilitates a telescope check-out program through libraries in Spring eld-Greene, Christian and Stone counties. The kits come with information on how to use the telescope and objects to look for, Flippo says. In Spring eld, they are available on a rst-come, rst-served basis and can be used for up to three weeks. Libraries in Arkansas have a similar program.

The Astronomical League (astroleague.org) is a good resource for budding astronomers, Flippo adds, because it shares nationally recognized observing programs to explore using telescopes. For instance, follow the Messier Observing Program to nd objects cataloged by Charles Messier beginning in 1771. An easy observing program for beginners, Flippo says, is to look for double stars.

Also watch for events where telescopes—and local expertise—are available. Several occur around Spring eld in coordination with SAS, including an annual Star Party at Wilson’s Creek National Battle eld in October. If you plan a weekend getaway, look for star parties at several Missouri and Arkansas state parks, too.

Missouri State University’s Baker Observatory in Fair Grove usually plans three viewing events in the fall and spring semesters.

ASTROTOURISM IN THE OZARKS

Nighttime satellite images of the United States reveal plenty of dark space in the west while the eastern half is lit up like a Christmas tree. It’s easy to see why Western states attract night sky viewing and photography.

And the Midwest? It’s a mixed bag, with bright pockets of light pollution surrounded by remote areas with truly dark skies. That makes the Ozarks ripe for astrotourism, a budding national trend where travelers plan trips around their desire to stargaze in areas without light pollution. It’s already happening in the Ozarks, say local astron-

Continued on p. 83.

Astronomical Events

Spring eld Astronomical Society Meetings

When: 7 p.m. August 26, September 23, October 28, November 25

Where: Library Center, 4653 S Campbell Ave., Springfield

About: The SAS meets every fourth Tuesday of the month. Meetings, open to the public, feature presentations and discussions of celestial occurrences.

Baker Observatory Public Viewing Events

When: September, October, November 2025 (dates to be determined)

Where: Baker Observatory, 1766 Old Hillcrest Road, Fair Grove

Distance: 40 minutes northeast of Springfield

About: Missouri State University’s Physics, Astronomy and Materials Science Department presents night sky viewing events using telescopes in and outside the observatory.

Arkansas Dark Sky Festival

When: September 19–20 (rain dates September 26–27)

Where: Bear Creek Log Cabins property, 6403 N. Highway 65, St. Joe, Arkansas Distance: 2 hours southeast

About: Presented by the Arkansas Natural Sky Association (ANSA) and numerous partnering organizations, the festival features presentations and constellation tours.

Missouri Dark Sky Festival

When: October 17–18

Where: Big Spring Campground, o Missouri 103, Van Buren

Distance: 2 hours, 30 minutes east

About: Members of Dark Sky Missouri present a roundup of educational presentations.

Stargazing & S’mores

When: Fall (contact for date)

Where: Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark

Distance: 25 minutes south

About: Finley Farms hosts a fun night with the Springfield Astronomical Society.

Starry Sky Nights

When: 8:30 p.m. August 23, 8 p.m. September 20, 8 p.m. October 18

Where: Onondaga Cave State Park, 7555 Missouri H, Leasburg

Distance: 2 hours, 20 minutes northeast

About: Astronomy experts lead stargazing programs about planets using telescopes.

Date Night Stargazing

What’s more romantic than counting stars in a clear, dark sky? Book a remote cabin with a big view or a comfortable room in a cozy lodge—so you can stargaze in peace just minutes from your bed. Late summer into fall is the perfect time to look for the Milky Way without staying up too late. For the best star-gazing experience, book your getaway near a new moon night. Here are four places to try.

PONCA, ARKANSAS

Distance: 2 hours south of Springfield

Stay here: Bu alo Outdoor Center’s overlook cabins are good options for night sky viewing in the Bu alo National River area, which is a designated Dark Sky Park. Try Cabin X with a hot tub for a private, romantic overnight or the Big Sky Cabin for a group outing. Both cabins have incredible views of the night sky.

ECHO BLUFF STATE PARK, MISSOURI

Distance: 2 hours, 20 minutes east of Springfield

Stay here: The Betty Lea Lodge with a wide back deck and comfortable modern rooms makes a beautiful home base for a cozy getaway in one of Missouri’s darkest state parks. Going with a group? Book a cabin. At night, stroll down to Echo Blu to stargaze or drive up to the “sky porch” (aka the Blu Top Pavilion) for night sky viewing.

DORA, MISSOURI

Distance: 2 hours southeast of Springfield

Stay here: The 350-acre River of Life Farm on the North Fork of the White River has a dozen two-person cabins with whirlpool tubs for a romantic weekend of outdoor adventure. Cabins for groups and lodge rooms are also available. During your stay, walk to the property’s dedicated night sky observing area for stargazing.

PONCA, ARKANSAS

Distance: 4 hours southwest of Springfield

Stay here: For a special extended weekend on Arkansas’ highest mountain, stay at the Lodge at Mount Magazine with breathtaking views of the Petit Jean River Valley. Book one of 60 lodge rooms or a cabin with one to three rooms. Mount Magazine is known for its broad vista views and dark night skies.

Continued from pg. 81.

omers and dark sky advocates, thanks in part to the Bu alo National River achieving Dark Sky Place status in 2019.

“The park is an icon,” says ANSA’s McMath. “It’s the crown jewel of Arkansas’ natural heritage resources,” he says. “That it got designated was a big eye-opener for people.” Now, McMath says, state parks, including Mt. Magazine, are adopting lightscape management, perhaps eventually leading to Dark Sky Place status, too.

On the Missouri side, there are plenty of truly dark locations for stargazing around the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, says Dena Matteson, Chief of Interpretation, Planning and Partnerships with the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. “We’re fortunate to have a lot of land around us that isn’t in development, and probably won’t ever be, hopefully,” she says. “So we can at least hold this little oasis down here for the future.”

Ozark National Scenic Riverways works with DarkSky Missouri to host its festival, and Matteson says there’s strong interest in the federal park to apply for Dark Sky Place status like the Bu alo did. But it will take a while to get there, she says: “We’re still working through some of the process.”

Still, Missouri is making progress. A collaborative e ort between DarkSky Missouri, Missouri State Parks, the city of Kirksville and Truman University paid o when Thousand Hills State Park earned its Urban Night Sky Place designation in late 2024.

Ideally, as communities grow and expand, they will make smart decisions to reduce light pollution and protect the Ozarks’ dark skies. Otherwise, those skies and their stars will diminish, Matteson says: “And you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.”

The southern sky in Jasper, Arkansas at 2 a.m.

TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.

Taste is

ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!

DIG IN!

Al Dente Meets Picante

Show Me Chuy blends avors from Italy and Mexico into one menu.

BY TESSA COOPER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

Taste is

MEXICAN AND ITALIAN

cuisine aren’t a common fusion pairing.

But if anyone is quali ed to merge the two in a delicious way, it’s chef Jesus “Chuy” García. And that’s precisely what he’s set out to do as chef and owner of Show Me Chuy.

García previously worked as the executive chef at Avanzare Italian Dining and is from Jalisco, Mexico. Show Me Chuy’s menu is full of pasta dishes with a bit of spice, re ecting both these aspects of his identity.

In light of this review, I headed over there for dinner, hungry for a dish that showcased this concept of Mexican-Italian fusion. I was having a bit of a hard time nding the perfect dish that blended the two world cuisines, since a lot of the o erings seem to lean more Italian. So, I asked my server what she’d recommend for a taste of the two in one. She suggested the Mexican lasagna, which shows o layers of corn tortillas with shredded chicken and tomato salsa, all topped with cheese and resting on a bed of creamy poblano sauce. I was sold.

This dish is actually a lunch o ering, but it was the lasagna of the day for dinner service when I went. In terms of spice level, this is a very accessible dish. I love a Mexican dish that layers on the heat, but I did appreciate that this entree was milder and allowed the other avors a chance in the limelight. I am curious how it would have tasted with a bit more heat added, so I would have loved the option to pick my own spice level.

My husband, Chandler, joined me for dinner and ordered the lobster ravioli. This dish

Show Me Chuy

1410 E. Republic Rd., Springfield, 417-771-5357, showmechuy.com, Mon–Fri: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4–9 p.m., Sat: 4–9 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $$–$$$

de nitely leaned more Italian, with a garlic butter lemon sauce that had just a splash of marinara sauce. I, of course, helped myself to a bite and made sure to get both ravioli and the sautéed shrimp on my fork. I immediately had food envy because this was my favorite thing I tasted that evening. No one can argue with Chuy’s ability nail a pasta dish.

While the lobster ravioli dish was delicious, I would recommend ordering the penne poblano with shrimp if you want to try a pasta dish with more avors from south of the border, as it features Mexican-style salsa as a star ingredient.

The beverage menu is impressive, with two pages of signature cocktails and six mezcalitas. I got to try the hibiscus mezcalita and also a few sips of the tamarind mezcalita (perks of eating out with your spouse). Both of these drinks were an incredibly refreshing way to show o Xicala Mezcal Joven. In the

tamarind one, a splash of agave balanced out the spice, while the dash of cinnamon perfectly rounded out the bright oral avor in the hibiscus version.

My biggest regret of the evening is that neither of us ordered the pork chop marinated in abodo with fresh mango pico de gallo. García considers this dish one of his specialties and a prime example of how he is blending these two avor-packed cuisines. I think this means I am due for another visit soon.

We tried calamari, pollo salata and eggplant Parmesan at Show Me Chuy.

Sweet and Steady

ORDERING A SCOOP of ice cream from Buttermilk’s walk-up window is quick and convenient. Making this ice cream from scratch is neither of those things, but that won’t stop owner Kyle Davis from taking the time. Buttermilk doles out scoops of housemade and velvety-soft

vanilla, chocolate, buttermilk and espresso- avored ice cream from its walk-up window in the Rountree neighborhood. While these mainstay avors are always worthy of an order, never sleep on any ice cream avor that Davis whips up as a special, like olive oil (just trust us, it’s amazing) or Uncrustable (a ri

CREAM OF THE CROP

Breaking Bread

When baker Kelly Jones whips up her sourdough bread, croissants, cookies and scones at home, we can only imagine the heavenly scent that wa s into every room. Through Flourish Cottage Bakery and Garden, she o ers organic and 100% naturally fermented smallbatch baked goods. Her sourdough loaves come in classic flavors like ancient grain, but also unique versions like apricot, cranberry and jalapeño cheddar. They feature whole spelt, an ancient grain that she mills right in her own kitchen. The spelt adds a nutty flavor and an extra dose of fiber and vitamins, while the process of fermenting each loaf to a pH of 4 ensures it’s a bit easier to digest for those with a gluten sensitivity. If you want access to Jones’ loaves on a weekly basis, be sure to sign up for the bread add-on through Millsap Farm’s CSA. You can also purchase her loaves and other goodies directly through her

on PB&J made with slow-roasted grapes and tahini paste). You’ll also nd at least one sorbet option on the menu at all times and a selection of pastries, so come ready to indulge.

THE SWEET SPOT / BY TESSA COOPER

BITE-SIZE REVIEW | BY TESSA

On Sundays, We Brunch

WHEN DERBY DELI DEBUTED ITS co ee service this past November, we didn’t realize that those cappuccinos and pastries were foreshadowing something even bigger: Sunday brunch. The not-so-hidden gem inside Brown Derby Wine Center now greets the beginning of each week with toasts layered with toppings, lots of eggs and bacon and refreshing breakfast cocktails. Here are some must-try o erings.

Something Local

The biscuits and gravy show o drop biscuits made by pastry chef Kyle Davis and smoked sausage gravy. The menu denotes that they are available until sellout, so you know they’re good.

Something Sweet

The almond butter banana toast on wheatberry is simple, yet surprisingly delightful

with almond butter, banana slices, a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Something Unique

If you’re a cured salmon fan, you’ll love ordering this one. The smoked salmon board is a build-your-own experience where you get to decide how much mascarpone cheese, capers, arugula and pickled red onions to include on your croissant.

Sit outside for Sunday brunch goodies served at Derby Deli.

Something To Wake You

The caramel latte is made with Coop’s Salted Caramel Sauce. Pick up a jar to take home, because it’s an incredibly creamy and divine addition to any co ee.

Something To Relax You

Try the Ruby Rosé, a refreshing way to kick o the day with elder ower, grapefruit and organic prosecco by Natale Verga.

A Sweet & Savory Starter

When you’re caught somewhere between a sweet and savory breakfast craving, the Swiss and apple croissant from The Co ee Ethic will satisfy both. The base of this breakfast sandwich is a croissant from Neighbor’s Mill Bakery and Café, which is delicious in its own right, while

the addition of Swiss cheese, eggs and arugula transforms it into a nutritious, hearty breakfast. However, it’s the crisp, always-sweet green apple slices that make this a repeat order. When you pair it with a pourover, you know it’s going to be a good day.

PHOTOS

COOPER,

RISE & SHINE | BY TESSA COOPER

COOPER

TRENDING NOW

Conveniently Delicious

Kuick Noodles brings the joy of self-service instant ramen stations from Korean convenience stores to Spring eld.

TESSA COOPER

CONTENT CREATORS have recently discovered the joy of Korean convenience stores, which means one of the country’s best-kept secrets is out. Just in case the algorithm hasn’t caught you up on the trend yet, forget everything you know about American convenience stores. Korean convenience stores stock cases full of tasty delights like chilled matcha and strawberry cream buns, cans of milk tea with boba pearls ready for you to pour over ice, and kimbap. But most importantly, they often include a self-service instant ramen station com-

Ramen from Kuick Noodles has varieties from Korea, Japan, China and Indonesia.

plete with toppings. Thanks to the newly opened Kuick Noodles in Spring eld, you can get the same experience right here in 417-land. When you walk into Kuick Noodles, you’ll immediately notice an entire wall of shelves lined with instant ramen packages. You’ll nd varieties imported from Korea, Japan, China and Indonesia. Once you make your pick, the decisions don’t stop there. Grab a few small containers from the cooler lled with toppings like kimchi, sh cakes, soft-boiled eggs and green onions. After you pay and receive your bowl, you’ll then take it all to the user-friendly instant ramen cookers for prep and slurp up.

Making Missouri Moonshine

David

shares the origin story behind his distillery, Black Sea Shines.

BY TESSA COOPER

PHOTO

Haigler

COCKTAIL HOUR

Black Sea Shines Moonshine Lemon-nLime avor makes a bright addition to Sunny Day Sipper.

WHEN DAVID HAIGLER, owner of Black Sea Shines of the Ozarks, set up his distillery, he drew on his expertise in river rescue diving and hard hat deep sea diving and recovery.

“I could visualize the way that an old Missouri river ran when it was low versus when it was ooded,” Haigler says. “So when I went to build the equipment, [I understood] how gas properties worked and how they would be reacted by angles and lines friction. I conceptually built everything to where it owed and reacted like the currents in an old, ooded Missouri River.”

Haigler has held many titles in his life, including deputy sheri , paramedic, and Navy corpsman in the Reserves. He also worked for several years in Emergency Medical Services and Health Safety Security Environmental works.

His career eventually led him to the Middle East, where he rst experimented with distilling spirits. It was there that Haigler met a friend who opened his property along the coast of the Black Sea to him, which gave him space to hone his

new craft before coming back home to the Ozarks to start Black Sea Shines.

Dozens of people helped Haigler get the distillery up and going, and he will gladly name them all if you ask. “I specifically know why I’m proud of the region that I came from, and why I came back,” Haigler says. “The people here have a very strong work ethic. I was able to put all this together by that work ethic and by people still being able to honor their word. A handshake was a handshake, and that made the deal done.”

It took a village to open Black Sea Shines, and it takes a village to run it. His wife, Roseanna Haigler, co-owns the distillery and works as its merchandising rep, while Branden Prewitt plays an integral role in the distilling process full-time. Today, Table Rock Lake goers ock to Black Sea Shines to learn more about the distilling process, attend events, enjoy a sip in the tasting room and unwind on the large deck that overlooks the Ozark Mountains. You can pick up a bottle of their spirits at the distillery, Harter House on Republic Road, TA Express in Norwood and more locations coming soon.

RECIPE / BY DAVID

HAIGLER

A Sunny Day Sipper

Black Sea Shines currently produces a variety of moonshines, avored spirits and whiskies. Their Lakeside Lemon-n-Lime Moonshine with a splash of the Deep Woods Blackberry Moonshine makes a citrusy spirit.

Ingredients

2½ ounces Lakeside Lemon-n-Lime Moonshine

ounce Deep Woods Blackberry Moonshine

½ to 1 tablespoon sugar (depending on desired sweetness)

1 sprig of mint (for garnish)

1 strawberry slice (for garnish)

6 ounces of crushed or cubed ice

Instructions

Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass until the sugar is fully dissolved. Pour over ice in an 8-ounce glass and garnish with a twist of mint and a strawberry slice. Let stand for one minute, then serve.

Dining Guide

OUR DINING GUIDE is a select list of restaurants in the Ozarks.The magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants. This section is not related to advertising, and we don’t accept freebies in exchange for reviews or listings. Entries are updated often and appear based on space availability. Specially featured restaurants are chosen by editors in service to readers.

$ = under $10, $$ = Mostly $10-20, $$$ = $20 and up.

B, L, D = Serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, d= Outdoor seating

14 MILL MARKET

203 E. Mount Vernon St., Nixa, 14millmarket.com Food hall. There are 10 restaurant concepts, the full-service Wisner Bar and a fun outdoor entertainment area. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Wa e Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, pretty desserts and boba tea at Keikeu, burgers at MO Slider Company, pasties at London Calling and more. $–$$ L D d

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. This is a great spot for fun plus food all in one building. The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center o ers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. If you have any pintsize bowlers, get the hot pretzel. It’s a kid-pleaser. Bonus: There’s a full-service bar here, too. $ L D

AVIARY

BY LAVENDER FALLS

2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417-881-9736; aviarycafe.com

Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair. Be sure to try dishes infused with Lavender Falls flavors, like the lavender honey and goat cheese appetizer. $–$$ B L D d

BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL

multiple Ozarks locations; bairsburgers.com

Burgers. There are 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. You can get other sammies too, like fried pork tenderloin or triple-decker clubs stacked tall. $ L D d

BIG WHISKEY’S

Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for bu alo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Fans rave about the spin dip too—a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of heat. Don’t miss the ever-popular burgers. $$ BL D d

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES

CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT

at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org

American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made. $–$$ L D d

CELLAR 417

BIG EASY GRILL

3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040 Cajun. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage balls) are not to be missed. Try mix-and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Cajun flavors (you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for example). Or you could just keep it simple and dig into the peeland-eat shrimp. $ L D dK

BIGSHOTS GOLF

1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-4273040, bigshotsgolf.com American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. Don’t miss the fun cocktails. We loved the Bee Sting, made with tequila, agave, grapefruit, lime juice and jalapeño. So good! Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. $$ BL D d

Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable joint o ers excellent burgers. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—housemade Thousand Island dressing. Vegetarian? Black Sheep has you covered with its Hippy Jen. The shakes are great. $ L D

BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY

206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130 Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. They do some creative things with pastry, like tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd. Many of the ingredients are from Blue Heron Farm and other local and regional producers. For a savory bite, we love the sausage roll. $ BL

CAFE CUSCO

234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com

Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and unexpected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. $$ L D d

15058 Business Highway 13, Branson West, cellar417.com

Bistro fare. With a great wine list and a huge deck overlooking the Ozarks hills, this is a great spot to sip with friends. A lot of the dishes have an Italian flare. Start with the hummus and whipped feta shareable to munch on with your friends, or order an entree like cacio e pepe or confit chicken. $$–$$$ L D d

CELLAR+PLATE

2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board charcuterie. Cellar+Plate has a great wine menu. $$ D d

CHATEAU GRILLE

415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com

Contemporary American. Located at Chateau on the Lake, Chateau Grille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. $$$ BL D d

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE

601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800

Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a co ee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store?

Cherry Picker Package + Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie—an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. $ BL D d

CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP

107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com

American. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo and the gigantic onion rings. $ BL D d

DERBY DELI

2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066

Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more.

We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham. Try the Sunday brunch. $ BL D

DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT

at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com

American. Here you can enjoy a meal while watching a view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is great, and so is the cornbread. $$–$$$ BL D d

DOBYNS DINING ROOM

1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu

American. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm-to-table quality and features well-executed and comforting fare. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that o ers up some delightful homemade ice creams. $$ BL D d

DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE

24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com

American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the award-winning barbecue slingers who own Gettin’ Basted. But there’s a lot more than just barbecue here. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers or the giant Bavarian pretzel. $–$$ L D

FARMERS GASTROPUB

2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com

Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. We love the Scotch eggs, the fish and chips and the burgers. $$ BL D d

FIRE & ICE

2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com Global cuisine. This spot specializes in dry-aged steaks and Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger. Other options include seared Japanese tuna loin, adobo-rubbed flat iron steak, red curry lamb chops, and more. Sit at the bar for a unique experience. $$ L D d

THE GARRISON

at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com

Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order a cocktail—especially the refreshing Mill Pond. $$$ D d

THE GROTTO

301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com

West Coast–style American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers. One of our favorite things to order is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet potato fries. $ L D d

HARVEST RESTAURANT 8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com Farm-to-table. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land—in a fun apple orchard setting. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on what is in-season. $$$ D d

HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS

3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8128020, hueymagoos.com

Chicken tenders. This spot o ers chicken tenders (both fried or grilled) in platters, sandwiches, salads and wraps. If you get tenders, dip them in Spicy Magoo’s sauce. $–$$ L D

HY-VEE two Springfield locations; hy-vee.com

American and more. It’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy-Vee, so it’s a great place to find something for every member of your family—even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and burgers. $–$$ B L D

JW’S KITCHEN

2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997

British and American

Southern. This spot features brunch options like biscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite) or a full English breakfast and everything in between. For dinner, find comforting fare like roasted Scottish salmon. $$ BLD

METROPOLITAN GRILL

2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable flash-fried spinach, this restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood. And we love that the menu is always changing. The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonderful and the service is topnotch. $$$ D d

MUNDOS LATIN

KITCHEN & BAR

5493 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-485-2160, mundoslatinkitchen.com

Latin. The menu here features dishes from many Latin cuisines, including Mofongo (mashed plantains with chicarron), lomo saltado (always so delish!), tostones, street tacos and tons more. We love the jicama taco filled with coconut shrimp. They are tiny, so you'll want to order more than one! The loaded tostones are a fave. $$ L D

NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE

2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. $$ BL D

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com

Deli and bakery. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben. $ BL D

OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT

4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8899596, eatoceanzen.com

Asian fusion fine dining. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken.

We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa. Don’t miss the top-notch steaks. $$–$$$ L D d

THE ORDER

at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8321515, theordersgf.com

New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn le for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Look for lots of locally grown or raised ingredients on the menu. The seasonal cocktails are always musttry items. $–$$$ D

Taste is Dining Guide

OSAGE RESTAURANT

150 Top of the Rock Road, topo herock.com

American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktail menu o ers tasty options. $$$ B D

THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT

802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com

Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their on-site apiary—and the menu changes o en. Don’t miss the risotto fritters appetizer. $$–$$$ L D d

PALM & PADDLE GRILLE

2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417-605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com

Caribbean. Everything has an island flair here. The delicious coconut shrimp is a must-try, and so is the mango-habanero chicken. Their tasty jerk chicken is a filling option for the tiki tacos, along with jerk shrimp and carne asada. $$–$$$ L D d

PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL

344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-5271580, pier28pizzagrill.com

American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. If you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the menu o ers several tasty salads. $$ L D

QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN

1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the o erings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, pork chops and more. Leave room for peach cobbler. $–$$ L D

REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM

2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-5974569, rebar-taproom.com. American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include charbroiled oysters, duck bacon wontons, pizza, wings and more. There are several burgers, like the Hoglager BBQ Burger. $$ B L D

If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, email our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.

RETRO METRO

2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7201708, eatretrometro.com

Contemporary American This throw-back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan Grill favorites and quite a few brand-new flavors too from owner Chef Tiny. Try the wagyu sliders, crab cake sliders and more. $$$ D

SHOW ME CHUY

1410 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715357, showmechuy.com Italian-Mexican fusion. This spot o ers fun options like the Mexican-meetsItalian penne poblano. Brunch Sundays. $ B L D

SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN

3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com

American. Come for creative sshareables and hearty entrees, all served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). The menu changes with the seasons. $$ L D

ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE

301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315

American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite. Come hungry enough to order dessert because the homemade cakes are stellar—especially the banana cake. $–$$ L D

TEA BAR & BITES

621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-883-2462, teabarandbites.com.

Bistro fare. Try the curry chicken salad or the quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. $ B L D d

VAN GOGH’S EETERIE

334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com

Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot. We love the pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. $$ B L D

VOLLEYBALL BEACH OZARK

1198 State Highway NN, Ozark, 816-838-1664, volleyballbeachozark.com

American. Come for yearround sand volleyball and tasty eats. They o er chicken wings with several sauce options (including some fun ones like apple-habanero barbecue or Korean barbecue), a few types of pizza, burgers and more. $–$$ D

WHEELHOUSE

307 S. Je erson Ave., Springfield, wheelhousefood.com. Asian fusion. The pad Thai and drunken noodle are longtime favorites at this spot, but the restaurant’s new downtown Springfield location and menu o er some new dishes. The Banchan Fries topped with homemade kimchi are a must-try! $ L D

BARBECUE

BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com

Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. $ L D d

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE

3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com

This Texas-style barbecue spot smokes meaat in small batches. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are served with a few simple but delicious sides. Try the City smoked cookies. $–$$ L D d

CROSSTOWN BBQ

1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646

Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. Be sure to try the crispy catfish. $–$$ L D

GETTIN’ BASTED

2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com

Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The wagyu burgers are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese and more. We love the pork tacos appetizer. $–$$ L D

HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO.

573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com

This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are all packed with ingredients. $–$$ L D

PAPPY’S PLACE

943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744

Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. The restaurant’s daily specials are delicious, too. A little bonus if you’re thirsty: We heard this spot has some of the coldest beer anywhere in town. $ L D

BREAKFAST

BILLY GAIL’S CAFE

5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com

Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages and is still going strong. Come for massive pancakes and other classic breakfast diner fare done well. $ BL D

THE BRUNCHEONETTE

424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net

We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that are served at The Bruncheonette, whose specials change o en and are always interesting. Be sure to order a plate of poutine. $ B

ON

FIRST WATCH

2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com

At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls (like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs), lemon-ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, chia pudding and fruit and lots more. $ BL

GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ

220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500

The sweet potato hash browns are super-delish here, and we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash browns. We also love The Bear Hug: biscuits and gravy. Gailey’s serves a great lunch too. $ BL

THE HORIZON

Meet Mumbles 1888

It’s been hard to keep up with all of the new concepts popping up by Spring eld Brewing Company (SBC) and Ty Iechyd Da Distillery, which is a great problem to have. There’s One 2 Five Taproom in Rogersville, Mile 6 Taproom in Willard and soon, Mumbles 1888 at 504 E. Commercial Street SBC hasn’t released too many details yet, but their website describes Mumbles 1888 as a taproom and football pub (we’re talking soccer here), and an article from The Springeld Daily Citizen reports a projected opening date by the end of the year. Mumbles is a district of Wales that is historically known for its high concentration of pubs along its coastline that catered to travelers at sea in the 1800s. Fun fact: Our resident Welsh digital editor Jamie Thomas has spent quite a bit of time in Mumbles and even ran a 10K that included a portion of the Mumbles and Swansea coastline. It was, predictably for Wales, raining the whole time. He says that Mumbles is “sickeningly picturesque.” We’re so excited to welcome this new business to the east side of Commercial. They’re already in great company with Eurasia Co ee Co. and Askinosie Chocolate nearby, but it’s especially exciting to see a vacant building get a new life on this block.

—Tessa Cooper

THE EUROPEAN

105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-986-4646, theeuropean417.com

The pastries are picture-perfect and taste just as good as they look. And all the dishes are inventive and superbly executed. We love the mousse cakes and the strawberry pancakes— or the shakshuka for something savory. $ BL d

SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE

1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913-730-6224, sleepyopossumcafe.com

This darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. $ BL

CHINESE

BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505

Chinese food fans, this is a must-try spot for you. This little spot in Chesterfield Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are several authentic items on the menu. Try the salt-and-pepper pork, a super-tender duck entree or the veggie-filled wonton soup. $ L D

CHINESE CHEF

3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8834770, facebook.com/ chinesechefcampbell; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433

Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over 40 years, and some of his customers’ favorite dishes include Kung Pao chicken, from-scratch cashew chicken and more. $ L D

CORNER 21

1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417-771-5666, corner21sgf.com

This restaurant’s menu o ers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuan-style meals. You’ll even find dishes that aren’t common on local Chinese restaurant menus, such as braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and more. $ L D d

LEONG’S ASIAN DINER

1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500

The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stu . The crab Rangoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce. The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter flair.

$–$$ L D

TRIPLE EIGHTS

1710 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-832-8889

While you can find Springfield Chinese favorites like cashew chicken on the menu at Triple Eights, you can also dig into traditional Chinese fare. Mapo tofu is a must try. $ L D

COFFEE SHOP FARE

ARCHITECT COFFEE

1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030; 1300 E. Battlefield; architectco eeco.com

This Instagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side o ers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. We love the seasonal drinks, especially when they are o ering an espresso tonic. $ BLD

BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR

217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommasco ee.com

This spot o ers co ee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches. $ BL D d

THE BLACK LAB COFFEE

CO.

545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc

This casually canine-inspired co ee stop o ers drinks like the Black Lab, which includes to ee nut and chocolate. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. $ BL

CAFE CUBANO

3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso

Aside from all of the delicious co ee drinks, the real must-try item here is the Cuban sandwich. Cafe Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. We also love the guava pastry. $ BL D

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE

1900 West Sunset Street, Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockco ee.com

This co ee shop o ers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel). $ BL D d

THE COFFEE ETHIC

124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, theco eeethic.com Try the single-origin co ee or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The food game here is strong too, and we love the bottled lattes. $ d

DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY

1945 South Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmuleco ee.com

The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe if you’re in the mood for something a little more funky. $ B

ECHELON COFFEE

2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, echelonco ee.com

This sunny co ee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent espresso drinks, drip co ee, pour-over and more. The cortado is well done. And we love The Formation (espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey). $ BL D d

EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE

445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet.com

This co ee roaster serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. In addition to carefully cra ed co ee, there are excellent lunch items. We love the miso caramel latte. $ BL D d

KINGDOM COFFEE

two Springfield locations; kingdomsgf.com

The co ee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not-toosweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. $ BL D d

MUDHOUSE COFFEE

323 South Ave.

Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhouseco ee.com

The co ee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown co ee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also o ers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas and some tasty food items. $ BL D

THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR

2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950

This whole-foods cafe o ers great co ee, plus veggie forward dishes and Mexican-Korean fusion (like kimchi fried rice and street tacos). Juices are organic and cold-pressed. $ BL D d

URBAN GROUNDS

COFFEE & PLANT LAB

5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com

This spot specializes in drinks made with locally roasted co ee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a flavored options (like salted caramel to ee). Try one of the loaded toasts. $ BL

THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS

840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com

The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). We love The Workshop Shake. $ BL d

DELIS

THE ALMIGHTY SANDO SHOP

208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-422-0912

The sandwiches on the menu here include options like The Mighty Burg (smash patties, garlic-bacon mayo, white American cheese), vegetarian options and more. $ LD d

J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI

1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8871148, queencitydeli.com

This spot serves pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches. $ L D

Flock Downtown

7 Feathers Co ee & CO-OP has set up shop at 601 W. Walnut Street (AKA quirky Quonset hut that is the former Casper’s location). This tiny co ee shop has big curb appeal with a fresh coat of gray paint and lots of plants. 7 Feathers Co ee is focusing on hand-pressed espresso, which is a manual method of extracting espresso using a lever. In addition to co ee, you can leave with a haul of produce, plants and locally made jewelry and skincare products. If you’re looking for fun Saturday plans, here’s your answer.—Tessa Cooper

MYTHICAL ‘WICH

113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com

This sandwich shop o ers bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. $ BLD

THE SUB SHOP

1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077

The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Hit an ATM on the way; The Sub Shop is cash only. $ L d

DESSERTS

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com

Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our sta ers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer). Try the Ozarks Turtle. $ d

BUTTERMILK

1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield, instagram. com/buttermilkrules

Ice cream. Pastry chef Kyle Davis serves made-fromscratch treats like espresso ice cream with chocolate crumble or blood orange sorbet. $ d

XURROS CAFE

431 S. Je erson Ave., Suite 172, Springfield, 417-737-9144, Churros. The Spanishstyle churros here are just as pretty as they are delish, with fun toppings like cinnamon-sugar, dulce de leche glaze, chocolate and almonds, rainbow sprinkles and more. You can also order co ee and espresso drinks, plus a few savory food items like breakfast burritos or burgers served on churro buns (omg!). $

HURTS DONUT

1231 E. Sunshine, Springfield, 417-3680279; 1580 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-5983474; wannahurts.com

Donuts. Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, available 24 hours a day. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar. $

PRAIRIE PIE

621 South Pickwick Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com

Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes stellar all-buttercrust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. $–$$

SOCIETEA

1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.

Boba tea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are musttry o erings. Our favorite is the fresh strawberry milk tea with crystal boba. $

ST. GEORGE’S DONUTS multiple Ozarks locations; stgeorgesdonuts.net

Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the cinnamon twist. $ d

DINERS

BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND

1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291

Burgers. Billy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution that has long served delicious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers (pro tip: top them with grilled onions), foot-long hot dogs and more. $ L D

CASPER’S

937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-2277377, caspersdiner.com Chili. This local favorite is filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe. The spot is known for serving overflowing bowls of great chili and a few other yummy diner options (like burgers and hot dogs). Don’t forget to order some luscious chili cheese fries while you’re there. $ BL D

DRUFF’S

331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdru s.com

Grilled cheese. Dru ’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses and lovely tomato soup. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño. $ L D

A GLOW UP

Taste is Dining Guide

INDIAN

INDIA PALACE

1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5270

The huge menu here o ers Indian favorites and fun flavors you may not have tried. We love the pani puri appetizer, the samosa chaat and the lamb rogan josh. Be sure to pop in for lunch on the weekends, when they o er a stacked bu et. $$ L D

NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR

3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050

Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town. We love to order the chicken momos dumplings. $$ L D

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT

1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573

There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so so and perfect), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi. $$ L D d

ITALIAN

AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING

3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com

Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Indulge in the chocolate torte for dessert. $$$ L D d

BAMBINO’S CAFÉ

1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com

This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare, available at two 417-land locations. Try The Ziti or the portobello ravioli. $ L D d

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007

The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and lots of excellent entree options. $$$ D

GILARDI’S

820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, gilardisonwalnut.com

Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce. $$$ D d

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE

3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, nicolasspringfield.com

This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. $$–$$$ D d

NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ

306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-8311222, nonnascafe.net. The seafood lasagna is a must-try dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. For dessert, try the cheesecake. $$ L D

PICCOLO

107 West Aldersgate Drive, Nixa, 417-3747291, eatpiccolo.com

Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things o with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings). Save room for cannoli! $–$$ L D d

SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE

ITALIANO

1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com

The menu here is packed with handmade pastas. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree. $–$$ L D d

JAPANESE

ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA

1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd

This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. Order a sushi roll alongside some sake. $$–$$$ L D d

CRAFT SUSHI

251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, facebook.com/ cra sushi

At Cra Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you customize your own sushi and poke bowls. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame, sesame seeds and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite! $$ L D

HARUNO

3044 S. Fremont, Springfield, harunosushi.com

The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture o the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well, like the mango-jalapeño ahi tuna. $$– $$$ L D

HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777

Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. $$ L D

KAI

306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaia erdark.com

This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. It has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it’ll be delicious! Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. $$–$$$ L D

KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225

With Karai, owner Young Jun, of Haruno, Kai and Koriya, takes ramen seriously, and it shows in her food. The Karai Ramen with a flavorful and spicy house-made broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned so -boiled egg added. Don’t miss the tasty hand rolls or the steamed buns filled with shredded pork. $ L D

NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com

Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops. $$ L D

NIJI SUSHI

3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707

In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. $$ L D

OMO JAPANESE SOUL FOOD

2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield

The ramen and udon soups are some of the tastiest items on the menu here, and they come with lots of fun toppings. We like to order it with spicy broth and either chasu pork or chicken katsu for the protein. There are also sushi rolls, bento boxes, takoyaki and fun desserts like sweet mitrurashi dango. $$ L D

SAKURA

3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000

There’s a solid sushi menu (the Sam’s Roll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on), and you can order a sushi donburi box to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The bento boxes are great too; they o er many tasty protein options and side dishes. $$ L D

SUSHI VILLAGE

1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage

This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. $$ L D

KOREAN

BAWI KOREAN BBQ

4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8862777, bawikbbq.com

Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-caneat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. $$ D

GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT

1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093

This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice. You also get a variety of Korean side dishes alongside your meal. $ L D

KORIYA

4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077

This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. You can also find ramen, stir fried noodles, beef bulgogi dishes, steamed dumplings and much more. $ L D d

KUICK NOODLES

3165 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-901-1803

Get the Korean ramen shop experience here, where you can choose from a variety of instant ramen and make it yourself using special self-serve machines. You can add several toppings, grab a tasty drink or dessert, order a side of dumplings and more. $ L D

MEDITERRANEAN

CRAVE

MEDITERRANEAN CAFE

1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com

There’s so much good stu on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. Don’t miss the flaming cheese appetizer or the manakeesh flat bread with toppings like sumac chicken. $$–$$$ L D

GREEK BELLY

320 E. Walnut St., 417597-3382, greekbelly.com

We love everything we’ve tasted here! Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki, tomatoes, onions and French fries on a so pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. It’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. $ L D

THAT LEBANESE PLACE

338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677

Any of the meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stu ed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. For a super-delicious dessert, don’t miss the baklava made with Lebanese rose water. $–$$ L D

MEXICAN

CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA

3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-2213490, cabosbonitos.com

Come to this east Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and tasty sauces. $$ L D

CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE

4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097

The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield restaurant location is huge too, so there’s plenty of room to bring your whole crew for some Mexican eats. $$ L D

CESAR’S OLD MEXICO

2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252

Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly reasonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stu ed with beans and cheese; they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also excellent. $ L D

EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN

610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-7715641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Stra ord, 417736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com

You must try a margarita here! Order the piña a la parrilla—a pineapple bowl with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, veggies and more. $$ L D

Monday–Saturday: 4:30–11 p.m.

HABANERO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT + CANTINA

Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com

Orginally in Carthage, this popular Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other Ozarks cities. Don’t miss the tender quesabirria tacos with rich consomme for dipping. The nachos, enchiladas and guacamole are hits too. While you’re there, try one of the hand-cra ed margaritas. $$ L D

IGUANA ROJA

107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net

There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are excellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. $–$$ L D

LA PALOMA

3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-8892985, thelapaloma.com

This spot o ers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pico de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce. $–$$ L D d

LUNA MODERN

MEXICAN

2925 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-3501006, dineluna.com

This spot serves guacamole made tableside, fried plantains, quesabirria tacos, spicy Yucatan shrimp (our fave!) and lots more—including plenty of classic faves like enchiladas, quesadillas and more. $$ L D d

MEXICAN VILLA

Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net

This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style. $ L D d

OXO BAR & GRILL

2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com

Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. $$ BL D d

PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com

Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos. $–$$ L D

SEÑOR JULIAN

MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120

This menu features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, queso fresco and avocado. $–$$ L D

TEAM TACO

1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com

Come for flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. We love the Globetrotter pork belly taco and the mezcal-based cocktails. $ L D d

TINGA TACOS

308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318007, tingatacossgf.com

This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam for a salty-sweet combination. $ L D

TORTILLERIA PERCHES

1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195

This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. $ BL D

PIZZA

ARRIS’ PIZZA

1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be sure to order the Athena (a pizza made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers) if you want to try one that bursts with flavor. The bruschetta is a great appetizer, and it’s unlike bruschetta we’ve had other places. $–$$ L D

THE BIG SLICE

1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spin-

New Sandwiches, Familiar Faces

Here’s a new sandwich shop to add to your rotation. Big Dog Deli has opened at 3459 W. Kearney Street, Ste. 100. Judging by its convenient location by the airport and right o the highway, plus its menu full of light and fresh fare, it looks like the perfect spot to get some nutritious food in a ji y. We love that they have a build-your-own option (cleverly referred to as Mutts), but also 10 signature sandwiches (named Best in Show). In addition to sandwiches, paninis and salads, the menu features breakfast offerings such as oatmeal, pastries and co ee. John Allen co-owns the venture with Mark Burgess, and this isn’t the rst time they’ve worked together. Burgess and his wife, Debra, were the original owners of the Aviary Café (they’ve since sold the business), and Allen worked as its rst executive chef until late 2015.—Tessa Cooper

ach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same ones used in the pepperoni pinwheels. $–$$ L D

CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE

located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com

Wood-fired. It’s all about perfect pizza paired with champagne at this spot. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, this pizza is something like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitanstyle. Try the Hotter Than Jacquez pizza with smoke mozzarella, bacon, pepperoni and fresh jalapeños. So, so good! There are occasional bingo night events here, and we’ve heard they are a blast and fill up quickly. $$ D

GARBO’S PIZZERIA

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-8839010, garbospizzeria.com St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose.

Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. It’s honestly so hard to resist. $–$$ L D d

MASO PIZZA BAR

3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047 Wood-fired. Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And just like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. $$ D d

ONE 2 FIVE TAPROOM 1846 Highway 125, Rogersville, facebook. com/One2FiveTaproom Wood-fired. This taproom and micro-distillery is the first outpost of Springfield Brewing Company, and its menu specializes in wood-fired pizza cooked in

a brick oven. The Bourbon BBQ pizza is topped with fire-roasted chicken, smoked mozarella, homemade bourbon barbecue sauce and both pickled onions and pickled jalapeños made in-house. Head there on a nice day to take advantage of all the backyard games. $$ L D d

PAPPO’S PIZZERIA

221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417306-9091; pappospizzeria.com

Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. $–$$ L D

THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB

2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277

Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the Brussels sprouts appetizer; they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction drizzle. Try the carrot cake for dessert. $$ L D

PIZZA HOUSE

312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073

Thin-crust. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny pieces. It’s a classic that’s not to be missed and a local fave. Our favorite thing there: any pizza that includes bacon. $ L D

SCHULTZ PIZZA + PUB

2210 W. Chesterfield St., Ste. 8683, Springfield, 417-885-0060, schultzpub.com

Neopolitan. The pizzas here are made using cold-fermented dough, a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes and a special pizza oven. Try the Blanco Formaggio white pizza made with garlic oil and five cheeses. Also on the menu: smash burgers, hot sandwiches, chicken wings and more. Try the fried goat cheese balls appetizer too. $$ L D

SLAP BOX PIZZA & WINGS

2932 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-886-3333 Brick oven. There are a bunch of creative pizzas on the menu here, with sourdough crust that’s the perfect ratio of chewy to crunchy. We like the Arma Segreta, topped with caramelized and charred pepperoni, mushrooms, ricotta, basil and more. Wings are tasty here too; try the ones with lemon-pepper dry rub. There a few delicious salads here too, for the super-fresh side we always crave with pizza. Gluten-free crust is available and is pretty darn tasty! $$ L D d

PUBS & BARS

BEFORE & AFTER BREWING

2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandaerbrewhouse

There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with zero-proof cocktails. As for what to eat, the snacks are stellar here. The loaded hot pretzel is an indulgence, and they serve tasty grazing boards (with all the accouterments you need to build a perfect bite) that feature high-end tinned fish as the centerpiece. $$ L D

BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL

313-B S. Je erson Ave., Springfield; 417-5229009; bestofluckbeerhall. com

This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the dra alcoholic punches. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. $$ BL D d

BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB

1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665

Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone Gastropub features hand-cra ed cocktails and 16 beers on tap alongside some great-looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Keep an eye out for Blackstone’s super-creative daily specials. Recently, we’ve seen a Seattle Roll with smoked burnt-end sausage and a ton of toppings. $ $ L D

CLEAR LOUNGE

At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417243-3433

Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and drinks. D d

GEORGIA MAC’S

1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3195770, georgiamacs.com

The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers

(like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. The chicken fingers are excellent, and the Georgia Hot Chicken sandwich packs a big flavor with mild heat. $ $ L D

HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining

This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the Worman House on the Big Cedar Lodge property. It’s a great place to stop by for a drink (they have excellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection), and they also o er a rotating menu of small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry-infused Paper Plane cocktail. $–$$ L D d

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB

137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com

This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcra ed cocktails and a madefrom-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $ L D d

GOOD SPIRITS & CO.

1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com

The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink

concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun foodand-drink events. Check their website fro things like monthly Supper Club dinners, seasonal cocktail events and more. $$–$$$

J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE

319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com

This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. Longtime favorites include the Full Ride burger, the Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$ L D

LINDBERG’S TAVERN

318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com

Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole o ers creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, the specials are always creative, and the Sunday brunch is reliably delish. Make sure you order their poutine or—even better—their cashew chicken poutine. $ L D d

THE ROYAL

1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall. com

This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-cra ed cocktails that change with the seasons, sophisticated non-alcoholic mocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters-glazed nuts. Visit when there is live music; the intimate setting makes for a great experience. $ D

Taste is Dining Guide

BREWCO TAPROOM

305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-8328277, springfieldbrewingco.com

This is Springfield’s OG brewing, located downtown in an expansive building with an upstairs patio. Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers, the mac and cheese and any of the pizzas. The Fun Guy pizza is great if you’re a mushroom lover: roasted garlic, ricotta cheese, smoke mozarella, portobello mushrooms, pickled red onion, black garlic and tru e salt. Yum! Live music. $$ BL D d

VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE

2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com

Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot, where you’re sure to also find the perfect bottle of wine to buy and bring home. $ L D

SEAFOOD & FISH

CRABBY’S

SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL

815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com

This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood.

The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salad options. When they are o ering steamed black mussels on special, order them! The presentation changes—sometimes it’s a scampi sauce, sometimes it’s a spicy tomato-garlic sauce. Any option is great. $$–$$$ L D

ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT

Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com

This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio appetizer, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable! For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. There’s also an on-site bar, The Grist Mill located in a historic former riverside mill. $ BL D

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY

260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; roo opvantage.com

This roo op bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even o ers dining igloos in the winter so you can enjoy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. $$ d

STEAK

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR

1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-823-8383

The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (owned by the same

people), but o erings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flashfried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Be sure to sample Char’s cocktails. $$$ D d

FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse. com

The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stu ). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. (Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour! ) $$$ D

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB

1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8865466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com

We love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stu ed Peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer; trust us, you need to taste those things! The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the o -menu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. $$–$$$ L D

KOBE CLUB

2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8696947, facebook.com/ KobeClubSteakhouse The menu here features

wagyu and Japanese A5 steaks, along with a variety of seafood dishes inspired by New Orleans and South Texas. The Gulf Flounder Opelousas features blackened flounder and Creole cream sauce with shrimp, crab and oysters. $$$ LD

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE

The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433, level2steakhouse.com

This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try; it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block: delightful! Don’t sleep on the prime rib dip sandwich, either. $$$ B D

RED OAK STEAKHOUSE

Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com

Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. A er your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. $$ D

WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE

1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com

Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics.

The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. $$$ D

THAI

EVERYDAY THAI

220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7700147, myeverydaythai. com

This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. $–$$ L D

RAMA THAI CAFÉ

1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204

This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. $–$$ L D d

SIMPLY THAI

2808 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8650101, simplythai.com

From the owner of Thai Express, Simply Thai o ers a similar menu of Thai restaurant favorites—and some Springfield-style cashew chicken too. The Thai basil stir fry with tofu is our favorite dish, and the magic noodles never disappoint. $ L D

TAI KITCHEN

114 E. Main St., Branson, 417-544-0581, taikitchenbranson.com

This family-owned spot serves fresh flavors in dishes like the Tai Beef Salad, Thai fish cake appetizer, and several types of Thai soups. Don’t miss the great curries they have here too! $–$$ L D

THAI THAI CUISINE

1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com

Thai Thai Cuisine o ers really great Thai food and a sweet sta . The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$ L D

THAI EXPRESS

2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 417thaiexpress.com

When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might just want to drink it. $ L D

THAI GARDEN

3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8895280, thaigardenspringfield.com

There are so many great Thai options here, like nam tok beef, shareable bowls of noodle soup, stir fry and curry options and lots more. Get the fried bananas or Thai custard for dessert. $ L D

THAILAND STATION

1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net

Find all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. $ L D

VIETNAMESE

BAMBU

1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881

The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to

customize it. (Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of sriracha.) Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too! The one made with lemongrass beef is a flavor bomb. The pineapple chicken stir fry entree is another customer favorite.

$ L D d

HONG YEN

2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. The chicken pho is pretty good too! Really, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. $ L D d

PHO KIM

3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8839999, phokimspringfield. com

Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls too. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup.

$ L D

SKULLY’S

1427 E. Cherry St., Springfeild, 417-3680949, facebook.com/ skullys417

This Rountree spot specializes in their own non-traditional takes on Vietnamese banh mi sandwishes. Try the one made with oyster mushrooms, or the marinated lemongrass beef option. Also on the menu: ramen, chicken wings, tasty wok bowls, miso-butter noodles for the kiddos, lots of vegetarian-friendly dishe options and more. $$ L D

Hours: Tues–Sat: 12pm–9pm

Enjoy freshly made seasonal favorites, in shareable portions, with a wide assortment of wines, beers and a full bar + patios and lake views! From charcuterie and roasted vegetables to house-made pastas, and chicken, fish and beef specials to decadent desserts. Come try your new favorites! 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West 417-527-3799 | Cellar417.com

Hours: Sun.–Thurs: 11:00am–9:30pm Fri.–Sat: 11:00am–10:00pm

Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a local favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. pe ience ib ant a o s, festi e a biance, and authentic Mexican cuisine!

Carthage, Springfield, Republic, Coming Soon to Joplin habanerosmexicancantina.com

Midwest Goodbye the

HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.

Spring eld’s Toast To Tourism

this Visit Springfield event.

Continued on p. 106 >>

The Historic Gillioz Theatre was the beautiful setting for

Pictured: Band Lindley Creek performing

Spring eld’s Toast to Tourism

Toast to Tourism is an annual celebration of the best of travel and tourism and its impact on the surrounding community. This event recognizes the people and partnerships that drive regional hospitality.

Date: May 8 Benefiting Organization: Visit Springfield

PHOTOS BY RYAN KOWALSKI

Location: Historic Gillioz Theatre

1. Marcia & Kirk Hansen

2. Dana Maugans, Logan Aguirre, Je Houghton, Lara Head-Elliot

3. Michelle Koenig, Sondra Fox, Laura Dannegger

4. Jenny Montgomery, Ken McClure

5. Taylor Davidson, Brooke Richardson, Derek Corrigan

6. Cora Scott, Brian Weiler, Collin Quigley, Dave Schaumburg

7. Joyce WongHsu, Kara & Jason Cunni

Date: May 20

Benefiting Organization: Springfield Little Theatre

Location: Springfield Little Theatre

Sponsors: Great Southern Bank, 417 Magazine

Curtains & Corks

Curtains & Corks, presented by Great Southern Bank and hosted by Springfield Little Theatre’s Associate Board, treated guests to an evening of wine tasting, local cuisine, theatrical flair and entertainment, all in support of Springfield Little Theatre’s mission. Local celebrity hosts and interactive experiences made the night unforgettable.

1. Lucretia Burt, Je Williams

2. Nicole & Chris Jarratt

3. Jessica Olson, Logan Aguirre, Ryan Olson

4. Seth & Callie Swa ord, Kristy & Mark Harrington

5. Patrick & Stephanie O’Connor

6. Mark & Joey Powell

7. Corey & Kristy Kilburn

PROMOTION

Giving back to the community is a top priority for 417 Magazine. Each month, we support local nonprofits that help 417-land thrive. We proudly support events by charities and organizations that create Good Times for a Great Cause.

WHERE’S417?

Bring 417 Magazine on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home.

Scotland Rod

David Smith, Gwen Smith and Brenda Romine brought their copy of the “Taste the World” issue to the Edinburgh

2. Victoria, British Columbia Lauren Lee brought her copy of the “Let’s Go

For a Bike Ride” issue with her on her trip to Canada.

3. Easter Island, Chile Marc and Kelly Barnett brought their copy of the “Taste the World” issue with them to Easter Island.

1.

Romine,

Castle in Scotland.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Jonathan and Holli Thornsberry brought their copy of the “Sounds of the Ozarks”issue on their trip to Amsterdam.

5. Antelope Canyon, Arizona Lynn Behling, Dick Behling, Lauren Kitterman and Ryan Behling brought their copy of the “Sounds of the Ozarks” issue with them to Antelope Canyon.

6. Yucatan, Mexico

Robin Auck and Richard Nippert brought their copy of the “Best of 417” issue with them while visiting the Chichén Itzá.

7. Andorra Ken and Patty Smulski, Ginny and Dan Imhof brought their copy of the “Taste the World” issue with them on their trip to Andorra.

Take a snapshot with the magazine, and send a hi-res copy with caption information about where the photo was taken and who is in the photo to art@417mag.com. Don’t forget to share your travels on social media with #wheres417.

Oh,OneMore Thing

Dr. Richard Hammar is a Harvard Law School graduate, attorney, CPA, teacher and author—and in his spare time, an avid astronomy enthusiast.

BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST

“I WAS STARING AT A REAL-LIFE IMAGE OF A PLANET! NOT IN A BOOK OR ON A COMPUTER OR CELL PHONE SCREEN, BUT IN REAL TIME. I WAS TRANSFIXED. ASTRONOMY BECAME A LIFELONG PASSION.”

QWhat sparked your interest in astronomy?

My younger brother received an inexpensive telescope for his birthday. On most clear nights, he’d be in the backyard trying to nd objects in the sky and often would ask me to join him. At the time, I had little, if any, interest in astronomy, and so I ignored his invitations. But one night he was especially persistent, and I agreed to join him. He led me in the dark to his telescope and directed me to look through the eyepiece. And, to my amazement, I was soon looking at Saturn! It was small in his primitive instrument, but the rings made it unmistakable. I was staring at a real-life image of a planet! Not in a book or on a computer or cell phone screen, but in real time. I was trans xed. Astronomy became a lifelong passion.

Any tips for stargazing beginners?

First of all, attend meetings of your local astronomy club. Club members will be pleased to assist you in selecting and using a telescope that ts your budget and needs. Second, visit your public library and check out books on astronomy that will explain the objects you are seeing. Third, consider subscribing to Astronomy magazine or Sky & Telescope magazine. These are excellent for persons of all levels of experience.

Visit 417mag.com to read our extended interview with Dr. Richard Hammar.