Springfield, Missouri is an eclectic mix of city-savvy sights, outdoor adventures, rolling hills and a green-friendly shopping center.
It is uniquely located on a flat plain in the center of the largest mountain range in the United States of America – the Ozarks. Because of its geographical location, it is also home to several unique caves that are just begging to be explored.
Fantastic caves
Only four of them ride through the caves in the world. Of these four, only one is located in the United and it happens to be located at Springfield. , MO.
Located at 125 North Firm Road, “Fantastic Cave” is a truly rare geological treasure.
Created from an ancient underground river with its crystal clear pools, large but exquisite limestone formations and cool 60 degree temperatures year round, this cave offers a once in a lifetime experience for both novice and experienced explorers.
Visitors to the “Fantastic Caves” get to explore their unique, mystical retreats all from the comfort of a Jeep. The tour guided tour of the caves lasts 55 minutes and visitors are encouraged to bring a light jacket.
The “fantastic cave” is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until dusk. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Fantastic Caverns
4872 N. Farm Road 125
Springfield, MO 65803
417-833-2010
Crystal Cave
Discovered and opened in 1893, the “Crystal Caves” remain almost the same today as they were back then. The paths that take visitors through the cave are “au naturale”, except for handrails to help intrepid trekkers keep their balance.
The natural rock surface in the caves can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is sometimes recommended.
New cave areas are always being opened, so visitors to the cave continue, exciting both newcomers and repeat visitors.
As of 2010 “Crystal Caves” is open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily. Guided tours cost $9.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. Tours usually last 80 minutes and visitors are encouraged to bring a light jacket as the year-round temperature in the cave remains a balmy 59 degrees.
Crystal cage
7225 E. Crystal Cave Lane
Springfield, MO 65803
417-833-9599
Missouri Institute of Natural Science – Riverbluff Cave
Discovered by accident on September 11, 2001, Riverbluff Cave quickly earned the dubious distinction of being the oldest known fossil cave in the United States. City.
The Riverbluff Caves are also unique in that, since neither human hand nor air has touched the cave for more than 55,000 years, it is a remarkable repository of Ice Age artifacts that would otherwise have been lost over the centuries.
Air and human touch quickly destroy the ancient artefacts so much care was taken to preserve the site. Visitors to the “Missouri Institute of Natural Science and Riverbluff Cave” are not allowed to enter the cave itself at this time. Items from the excavation are documented in the adjacent museum and visitors can take a tour of the nearby cave. the magic of computer science.
Rich in bones, fossils, cave features, petrified exploration of forest and preserved organic matter was already turning new species turtles and perfectly preserved remains both short bears and vices.
Short-faced bears, scientifically known as “Artcodus simus”, were prominent in the Pleistocene period. Known to stand over 15 feet tall and weigh over 1,400 pounds, they are believed to be the largest species of bear to ever walk the face of the earth.
The wild boars are ancient, and were quite fertile even in the Pleistocene period.
In addition to mammal and reptile bones, the scientists also found well-preserved animal dung, which gave them new insight into the diets of many Ice Age species. These new insights were not possible before now, as no examples of such organic matter have ever been found so well preserved.
Due to the significance of the “Riverbluff Cave” content on both lines in the “Discovery” and “Science” channels..
In addition to extraordinary exhibits not found elsewhere, the “Missouri Institute of Natural Science and Riverbluff Cave” offers coral workshops, indoor and outdoor fossil hunting excursions and a museum gift shop.
As of 2010 the “Missouri Institute of Natural Science and Riverbluff Cave” is open year round Monday through Friday from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm. Admission is free, although donations are accepted and accepted.
Missouri Institute of Natural Science – Riverbluff Cave
2327 W. Farm Road 190
Springfield, MO 65803
417-883-0594
Additional Information
Those adventure-loving travelers wanting to learn more about Springfield, Missouri’s tourist attractions enter the city.
