Life
Things to do Labor Day Weekend in Southwest Missouri
Make your Labor Day celebrations worth remembering with the great outdoors, local activities and weekend getaways.
By Abigail Blaes, Katie Pollock Estes
Jul 01 2023 at 9 a.m.
Photo by Brandon Alms
Purchase Photo
Things To Do Outdoors
Southwest Missouri is filled with adventures, whether you’re looking to hit the lake or jump on a thrill ride. Take a look at some of the outdoor adventures waiting for you this Labor Day weekend.
Insider's Guide to Table Rock Lake
There’s so much on Table Rock Lake to discover and explore, and this insider’s guide to Table Rock Lake is a great place to start.
Best Waterfalls in the Ozarks
Take a break and across the Ozarks to visit some of our region’s beautiful waterfalls.
Best Swimming Holes in Southwest Missouri and Beyond
Explore the coolest places to swim in the great outdoors—that you can only find in Missouri and Arkansas.
Great Trails in Southwest Missouri and Arkansas
From a stroll on the Ozark Greenways to an adventurous hike to a spectacular outlook on Mount Magazine, there are plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy nature.
Outdoor Adventures in the Ozarks
Explore your options for outdoor experiences in the Ozarks and choose your own with an interactive experience powered by Springfield Brewing Company.
Things To Do in Branson
When you think “weekend getaway,” think Branson! Now’s the perfect time to check out all the attractions, shows, adventures and fun for the whole family.
Shut-Ins to Visit Before Summer Ends
Round out these last sweet weeks of summer by wading in some of the state’s most gorgeous shut-ins. Pick one for a day trip, or turn it into a weekend, and visit all four.
Cool Off with These Rides and Attractions
It’s the hottest month of the year, and being doused, splashed and sprayed with water is about the only thing that really adds relief to those steamy, humid days.
417-land Staples
Whether you're a native, new to the area or are just visiting for the long weekend, southwest Missouri has a ton to do! Check out some of these lists of local activities and staples to see how many you've completed, and how many more you have to go.
New Restaurants in Springfield
Work up an appetite and eat at one of Springfield, Missouri's new restaurants.
Where to Get Your Mexican Food Fix in Springfield
Southwest Missouri is dotted with Mexican restaurants both old and new and big and small. Check out what makes them so good.
Dining Day Trips
Pack up the car (and don't forget your appetite) to take a dining day trip to one of our favorite spots.
Where to Get the Best Pizza in Springfield
What’s in a pizza? In Chicago, it’s a deep dish pie with a high ratio of sauce to cheese. In New York, it’s ultra thin crust with savory tomato sauce and mozzarella. Here in southwest Missouri, pizza is all this and more.
The Great 417-land Scavenger Hunt
Challenge yourself and your family to complete as many of these activities as possible in a single weekend. It takes some planning and strategy!
31 Things to do in Springfield, MO
Whether you're looking for somewhere to eat or something to do, this is a great starter list of popular things to do in Springfield
50 Things Every 417-Lander Must Do
This list is mainly focused on activities and things to do!
31 Staples We Can't Stop Eating
And if you're famished, this is your go-to list of some of our favorite local dishes and drinks!
Weekend Getaways and Road Trips
There’s no better way to break up the monotonous tone of summer than with a road trip and weekend spent away from your typical stomping grounds. Whether it’s cross-country, a 417-land small town, or a drop off I-44, it’s an easy way to keep things fresh and exciting!
417 Magazine's Guide to State Parks
Here's a list of our favorite state parks in southwest Missouri and Arkansas to help you map out your next outdoor adventure.
Where to See Sunflowers Around Springfield
Cut your own flowers, snap selfies, participate in games and crafts and listen to live music nightly at these sunflower festivals.
U-Pick Berry Farms
Visit these local u-pick farms with the entire family to harvest your own delicious berries at their peak ripeness.
The Best Patios in (and around) Springfield
Check out our list of the best patios in southwest Missouri.
Small Town Getaways
We've rounded up nine of our favorite nearby small towns that offer big fun without extensive travel. Pack an overnight bag and see what area towns have to offer for a weekend getaway. Your next big (little) adventure awaits.
Seven Stops on an I-44 Road Trip
Already on your way to St. Louis for a Cardinals game, a concert or a weekend away with friends? Don’t rush through that drive down I-44. We found seven stops that will make the Route 66 journey as much fun as the destination.
Weekend Getaway Adventures
Feeling adventurous? There’s plenty of adventure to be found nearby, and lucky for you, we’ve planned out 52 amazing trips ready for you to take. From a taste of the South, embracing farm tradition, art focused, or a Route 66 journey, you can find something suitable for you.
Stick Close to Home
You don't have to travel far to enjoy something new. If you're not from Ozark and haven't checked out their downtown in a while, it's worth a visit! There's lots of shopping, eateries and outdoor spaces to enjoy.
Send Us Your Where's 417 Pics!
Bring 417 Magazine along for the ride on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home. Take a snapshot with the magazine and send us a copy for a chance to see yourself in an upcoming issue!
