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

Aug 26 2021 at 9 a.m.

Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to let off a little steam after the school year has begun and the summer weather begins to change. Soak up these last weeks of sun with some fabulous local events perfect for you! For current information about COVID-19, including information about vaccinations and where to get yours, see the Springfield-Greene County Health Board website or use their vaccine finder.

If you have questions about vaccines, check out our conversation with local experts on our blog.

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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.

Boy jumping into lake

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.

Branson Track photo

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.

Photo of shut-in

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.

Water park in Branson

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.

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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.

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!

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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!

a woman leans against a store front

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.

a group of boys and their adult guide smile among the huge caverns surrounding them

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.

a road stretches between a forest cliff side and the coast

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.

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