Issuu

F F

A T

L I

L V

31 OZARKS FALL FESTIVALS TO MAKE THIS THE BEST SEASON YET

TX FULL PAGE AD

RELIABLE LEXUS SUNSHINE & HWY 65

RELIABLELEXUS.COM

BUILT TO LAST, DESIGNED FOR YOU.

At King Built, we don’t just build houses—we create timeless custom homes designed for families to love for a lifetime. By taking on only a handful of projects each year, we ensure every detail is crafted with care and intention. Book your consultation now!

FULL PAGE AD

Echelon House

King Built

kingbuiltproperties.com 417-849-9817

FULL PAGE AD

Where Autumn Comes Alive

Perched at the highest point overlooking Table Rock Lake, Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve blends luxury with natural beauty. Explore the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, where waterfalls, towering rock formations, and seasonal color create an unforgettable journey. Then step into the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum to discover the stories, people, and wildlife that have shaped this remarkable region for thousands of years. Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve is proudly part of the Johnny Morris Foundation. plan your visit: topoftherock.com

@topoftherockmo

Tue—Fri: 10am-6pm, Sat: 10am-5pm

FULL PAGE AD

D E S I G N

G I F T S

(417) 616-6488

A R T

F U R N I S H I N G S

214 West Phelps St, Ste. 101, Springfield, MO 65806

H O M E

R U G S

obeliskhome.com

L I G H T I N G S E R V I C E S

New Name. More Possibilities. FULL PAGE AD

As Centerstone, we remain dedicated to delivering exceptional behavioral healthcare, strengthening community partnerships, and serving with compassion. While you’ll notice new signs, you will continue to see the same providers, the same services, and the same mission-driven organization, now with the backing of the nation’s largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare provider.

Call 877-HOPE123 (1-877-467-3123) to get connected with any Centerstone location!

FULL PAGE AD

EXPERT CARE. NOW IN BRANSON. Dr. Michael Swann alongside our team of providers, including new-to-the-team Mohs & cosmetic surgeon Jeremy Light, are thrilled to share our newest clinic with Branson and the surrounding areas. We've leveled up our space to give you a more modern, comfortable experience while ensuring you still get the exceptional level of care you deserve.

SWANN DERMATOLOGY PARTNERS - BRANSON HILLS 109 PINEHURST DR., BRANSON, MO 65616 417-690-3858 | SWANNDERMATOLOGY.COM

Your local source for all things Apple.

SW Missouri’s only locally owned Apple Store since 1984. Apple-$ertified Experts | Sales | Service | Repairs

1550 E. BATTLEFIELD, SUITE C, SPRINGFIELD MO 65804 417.883.5665 | SIMPLY417.COM Located across from the mall in the Galleria Shopping Center

Healthy aging starts with the right support. Healthy aging isn’t about adding years to your life. It’s about adding life to your years. Staying active, independent and healthy begins with preventive care, recommended screenings and addressing health concerns before they become bigger problems. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from an illness or injury, or focusing on your long-term wellness, CMH offers the care and support to help you continue doing the things you enjoy. From specialty physicians and advanced diagnostics to rehabilitation, wellness programs and senior living options, you’ll find comprehensive services close to home. September is Healthy Aging Month. It’s the perfect time to schedule recommended preventive screenings, including 3D mammography, based on your age and risk factors. It is also Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, making it a good time for men to talk with their primary care provider about whether prostate cancer screening is right for them. Early detection can make a difference. Take charge of your health this month. Ask questions about changes in your health, stay current on recommended screenings and partner with CMH to help you stay healthy and active for years to come. Schedule an appointment for your annual exam today! MORE INFORMATION

417-326-6000 | citizensmemorial.com

HEALTHY AGING SERVICES Addiction Recovery Allergy & ENT Cardiology Dermatology Dialysis General Surgery Infectious Disease Infusion Memory Nephrology Neurology Oncology Ophthalmology Orthopedics Pain Management Podiatry Pulmonology Rehabilitation (PT, OT, ST) Rheumatology & Osteoporosis Senior Fitness Center (55+) Senior Living Communities Short-Term Rehabilitation Care Sleep Medicine Urology

Where Fall Finds Its Finest View

Discover the magic of autumn at Big Cedar Lodge. From crisp mornings overlooking the lake to afternoons spent on the fairways and evenings gathered by a crackling fire, every moment is designed to help you slow down and savor the season. Surrounded by stunning Ozark foliage, you’ll find the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and rustic luxury. Big Cedar Lodge | Ridgedale, MO 877.224.8041 | BigCedar.com Scan QR code for more information

DREAM HOMES. EXACTLY YOUR WAY. Every MWS home begins with a vision—yours. From blueprint to ﬁnish, we blend creativity, craftsmanship and luxury to design homes as unique as the people who live in them. Schedule Your Consultation MWSHOMES.COM 925-260-2054

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

September ★

VOLUME 29 | ISSUE 9, 2026

★

features

82 Fall Festivals One of the Ozarks’ most cherished autumn traditions is the small town fall festival. Read our feature to learn how you can spend a day exploring these quirky, charming events that are steeped in tradition.

92 Food Trucks A to Z

P H O TO BY C H U C K T R A V E R S

Brick-and-mortar restaurants aren’t the only place to find unique-creative eats in the Ozarks. This guide connects you to the tastiest meals on wheels around.

on the cover: Morgan Lea Photography captured the perfect fall vibes in this gourd-geous shot.

This issue planted 100 trees through PrintReleaf.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

September

departments

From The Field p. 33 / WE TRIED IT, PROFILE, SHOP IT, HOMETOWN HEROES, CALENDAR, NOW OR NEVER The Long Way p. 51 / GAME TIME, GREEN SPACES, MAIN STREETS, TRAVEL At Home p. 65 / FEELS LIKE HOME, PEEK INSIDE, IN THE GARDEN Taste This p. 107 / DIG IN, THE SWEET SPOT, HOMETOWN HIT, FLAVOR BOMB, COCKTAIL HOUR The Midwest Goodbye p. 127 / PEOPLE PICS; WHERE’S 417; OH, ONE MORE THING

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 12 issues, $21. Visit 417mag.com/subscribe. Allow 4–6 weeks for processing orders, payment and changes of address. SINGLE ISSUE, NEWSSTAND: $5.95; back issues, $7 plus $8 shipping and handling, if available. No back issue orders or subscriptions

SEPTEMBER 2026

outside the United States. ADDRESS CHANGES: Include both new address and mailing label with old address. 417 Magazine (ISSN 15389189) is published monthly by Whitaker Publishing, LLC, 2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809–2146. © Whitaker Publishing,

417MAG.COM

LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Periodical postage paid in Springfield, Missouri and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 417 Magazine,

2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809–2146. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or cartoons. The Volume and Issue numbers appear on the front cover of the magazine. Printed in the United States of America.

P H O TO BY C A M E R O N G R A H A M

This fall, explore the Ozarks indoors and out.

FULL PAGE AD

Now Enrolling

Offering Acrobatics, Ballet, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Lyrical, Musical Theatre and Tap Dance classes for ages 18 months–18 years CALL OR TEXT 417.818.2339 | VISIT S3DANCE.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com CONTENT WRITER ALYSSA RONEY aroney@417mag.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR SARAH PATTON sarah@417mag.com ART DIRECTOR JORDAN DYKSTRA jordan@417mag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON ALMS brandon@417mag.com PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com DESIGNER SYDNEY ARLT sarlt@417mag.com JUNIOR DESIGNER ALEX TINKER atinker@417mag.com DESIGN INTERN ALLIE HARRIS designer@417mag.com PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN CAMERON GRAHAM photographer@417mag.com DIGITAL MANAGER ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com CONTRIBUTORS TERESA BLEDSOE, GRACE CHIPLEY-THOMPSON, TESSA COOPER, SONY HOCKLANDER, KAREN KNUTH, HEATHER KOHLER, RYAN KOWALSKI, LEIGH WITH KIDSISTER CREATIVE CO., MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPHY, STEPHEN ROSS, TERESA SIMPSON, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE, CHUCK TRAVERS, DAN WILLIAMS, @MILESOFYELLOWLINES

BUSINESS PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSON mjohnson@417mag.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE OLIVIA SMITH olivia@417mag.com SALES COORDINATOR ALLISON CLEMENTS allison@417mag.com ACCOUNTING MANAGER CARRIE POWELL accounting@417mag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR BETHANY BELL bbell@417mag.com EVENT & PROGRAMMING MANAGER ERIK KISER erik@417mag.com BRAND CONTENT PRODUCER ARIELLE DONAHUE arielle@417mag.com OPERATIONS MANAGER ERIN KINGHAM ekingham@417mag.com ACCOUNT SERVICES MANAGER KATHY GRIEVE kathy@417mag.com ACCOUNT COORDINATOR NICKI SHERWOOD nicki@417mag.com SENIOR DESIGNER MIKAYLA BROWN mbrown@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 • 417MAG.COM

1/3 V PAGE AD

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Social Life

G O BEYOND THE PAGES

417mag.com || @417mag || facebook.com/417mag DON’T MISS A THING

Everything You Need, Straight to Your Inbox

LET’S GET SOCIAL

Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters.

Find @417mag Instagram, where we share even more Ozarks moments than what you’ll find on these pages. Here’s a preview of what’s coming up this month:

Table Talk: can’t-miss food news every Tuesday Datebook: the top weekend events every Thursday House of 417: your monthly passport to inspired living Little Locals: a twice-monthly guide to kid-friendly fun SUBSCRIBE NOW

The November 417 Magazine feature “10 True Ozarks Adventures” is about those quintessential Ozarks activities that you just have to do—at least once. Subscribe now at 417mag.com/ subscribe.

P H O TO C O U R T E SY V I S I T S P R I N G F I E L D

WE LOVE 417-LAND

We are a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, LORE: Leaders for Ozarks Region Evolvement, 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.

An Apple a Day 417MAG.COM

Nothing beats locally grown fruit, especially in the fall when crisp apples make the perfect handheld snack or pie-baking inspiration. Read our online guide to local apples and find out where you can pick your own around the Ozarks—and where you can purchase fresh locally grown apples if picking your own isn’t for you.

Get Lost in a Corn Maze 417MAG.COM

They can be scary or tame, challenging or easy. Either way, corn mazes are one of the season’s most quintessential activities. They combine the sights and smells of the season, and you can find them all over the Ozarks. Read our guide to pick the best one for your family’s next fall outing.

Pumpkin Season Is Here! 417MAG.COM

Whether you need a giant orange pumpkin for your kids to carve or a collection of heirloom pumpkins in every color of the rainbow to decorate your front porch for the season, we’ve got you covered with our guide to local pumpkin patches.

Planning a Big Event? 417MAG.COM

This month, we’re updating our digital Event Planning Guide, a handy tool for finding the best event venues in the Ozarks—whether you’re lining up all the details for your dream wedding, planning a corporate off-site or anything in between.

Cuts Like Glass This month we got to try a stained-glass class with Lokovich Art Studio (see p. 33). Find us on Instagram to see a fascinating demo of how Lokovich’s beautiful pieces are made. An Olympian? Heck Yeah. Read our interview with new MSU assistant swimming and diving coach Ryan Lochte (see p. 36), then pop over to Instagram to watch us spend a little pool time with the Olympic swimmer. Plan Ahead Looking for things to do in September? Peek at our calendar, starting on p. 44. For highlights, check out our monthly “things to do” Reel on Instagram. Would You Like the House Tour? When it comes to mixing patterns and incorporating whimsical bursts of color, Miriam Saeed’s home takes the cake (see p. 65). Tour it with us on Instagram.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

i was sitting up in my bed writing this month’s Dig In food review (see p. 107) when my daughter Eloise, an avid reader, crawled into bed beside me and cracked open her latest read: a super-thick tome with a fantasy storyline and a tween heroine. It’s her favorite type of book. She was also eating a bowl of Kix (in my bed!), which I wasn’t excited about. But I let it slide because she told me this was her very favorite thing in the entire world: a cozy bed, a good book and a bowl of Kix. Girl, same. But trade Kix for coffee. Then she asked me what types of things I prefer to write: fiction or nonfiction. (It’d be fiction for her, in case you’re curious. She likes creating stories from scratch, wrenching wild new ideas from inside her mind.) For me, though, it’s definitely nonfiction. I don’t find a blank page to be intimidating when I know I’ve done my research. Hearing people’s stories or experiencing something new is inspiring to me—and then the words just flow. I didn’t always feel this way, though. I remember the first 28

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

time I wrote a story and truly nailed it. I had already trudged through two semesters of reporting and writing for publication, wondering if I could ever possibly be good enough to do this for a living. Then I found my stride in a feature-writing class, after my fellow students and I were tasked with following someone with a mundane-seeming job and then writing a not-at-all mundane story about it. It was part profile, part process story and part writing experiment. My source ended up being a man who worked for the local utilities company. Specifically, I was to write about the part of his job that involves driving around town looking for burned-out streetlights. I felt confident even then that there must be a better way to find out if there are burnedout streetlights. Surely today, over 20 years later, that task is automated. But my source, a man named Pat, literally drove around at night and searched. So, I drove around with him. It was exactly as exciting as it sounds. I needed some detail, or I would never reach my word count. I asked him to get technical—to tell me in excruciating detail how these streetlights work, how they fix them, how the bucket trucks function, what their safety protocols were. Then I asked him what he thinks about during his long, solo drives. I expected him to tell me what he’s looking for in the streetlights, but instead he (perhaps accidentally, because he wasn’t much of a talker) told me about his inner life. Ah, okay. There’s the story. I still wasn’t entirely confident in my writing skills, but my instructor was pleased. She read the story to the class, and I was so mortified I almost quit journalism right then and there and ran back to St. Louis to hide under my childhood bed. I stuck it out, and I’m glad I did. Because now I get to meet my neighbors here in the Ozarks—finding new inspiration month after month and sharing it all with you.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE@417MAG.COM

TALK TO US That Post-Event Glow

On August 13–14, our sister publication Biz 417 hosted its ninth ever Ladies Who Launch women’s leadership conference—and everyone on the FourOneSeven staff was on-hand to make it happen. It was a big one, with incredible keynote speakers and a huge plot twist. At the end of the final day, Publisher Logan Aguirre announced a name change. Ladies Who Launch is now Pretty Brilliant, a tribute to the moments of insight, support and of course brilliance that are the heart of this empowering event. Here is some of the feedback we got from local women who there to experience the event.—Editor Thank You For Being There

I just had the privilege of attending the Biz 417 Ladies Who Launch event, and I came home feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and—most importantly—refocused on the direction I’m headed. What a powerful reminder of what happens when women come together to encourage, inspire, challenge and champion one another. Thank you to everyone who poured their time, energy, wisdom and hearts into making this event so meaningful. I left with a renewed sense of purpose, new ideas, and a whole lot of gratitude. DAWNIE MAC, VIA FACEBOOK

We Know, Right!?

I love the new name! It’s actually pretty brilliant! @ACTIVELIFEOFANNE, VIA INSTAGRAM

Glad You Came

Thank you for another amazing seminar! Our team had an amazing time. @NETTIEJSBEAUTYANDBOTOXPARLOR, VIA FACEBOOK

See You There?

Tickets go on sale in November for the first ever Pretty Brilliant conference on July 21–22, 2027. Find info at biz417. com/prettybrilliant.—Editor To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.

I L L U S T R AT I O N BY D A N W I L L I A M S

FACT OR FICTION?

➽

Editor’s Note

WE DO ALL STRATUS THEESTATE LIFTING

BUYERS Face • Brow • Eyelid • Neck

Breast • Arm • Tummy • Butt Have you lost weight with Ozempic or surgery? Lift procedures can remove sagging skin after major weight loss. We use advanced technologies to sculpt your abs, tone your arms and restore definition to your jawline.

Surgery is performed in our private, certified OR suite.

Experience Excellence. Schedule your consultation today.

BHARAT SHAH MD Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

1530 E BRADFORD PKWY, SPRINGFIELD 417.742.SHAH | SHAHPLASTICSURGERY.COM

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

Contributors Festival Roots i distinctly remember the fall festivals in the two towns where I spent most of my growing-up years. In Niskayuna, New York, Nisky Day meant a parade, carnival and talent show. I practiced for hours with friends dancing to Madonna’s “Vogue.” Oh, what I’d give for that video. Later, in Kirkwood, Missouri, the Greentree Festival meant another parade, craft booths and a packed Kirkwood Park. I loved being with my cheerleading team performing in the parade that the whole town lined the streets for. Back then, I loved the fun. Now I appreciate what these traditions say about a place. That’s what I love about our fall festivals feature. Our writer Alyssa Roney doesn’t just tell us what we’ll

find at celebrations across the Ozarks. She digs into why each one exists. Why black walnuts? Why apple butter? Why pioneer days? Those origin stories reveal what communities grow, make and value—and what they decided was worth celebrating. This fall, pick one or two and go. Learn the lore, join the tradition and feel a little more rooted in this place we call home.

PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM @LOGAN_IN_417LAND

BEHIND THE SCENES

Interviewing Ryan Lochte was one of those assignments that reminded me why I love journalism. It gave me the chance to look beyond the Olympic medals and get to know the person behind them. I found that Lochte is someone who has experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows. He has not only overcome difficult chapters, but learned from them. Having him in the office was a hoot! Senior Photographer Brandon Alms did a GQ-style photoshoot after our interview, and then we made a pretty fun Instagram Reel (check it out on @417mag). Lochte was down for anything and happily played along with our shenanigans.

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

P H O TO S BY K AT Y S T. C L A I R

Getting Candid

FULL PAGE AD

Knowledge is your strongest defense. Our practical tools and resources equip you to recognize scams, protect your money and make informed financial decisions. Build a stronger financial future through trusted guidance. Start today.

BUILD FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE

Scan the QR code or visit GreatSouthernBank.com/financial-wellness

Field from the

WE TRIED IT

Through Colored Glass A look inside Ozark’s Lokovich Art Studio, where sisters-in-law Rebecca and Kaelea turn stained glass into hands-on classes and a growing creative community. B Y JOR D A N B L OM QU IS T PHOT OG R A PHE D B Y K AT Y S T. C L A IR

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

unlight pours through colorful glass panels inside Lokovich Art Studio (445 E. South St., Ozark), where artists Rebecca Lokovich and Kaelea Lokovich spend their days restoring stained-glass pieces, creating custom designs and teaching newcomers the centuries-old craft. Rebecca and Kaelea have been best friends since their freshman year at College of the Ozarks, bonding over a shared love of art and becoming practically inseparable. At one point, they even spot-

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

ted a set of identical twins on campus Since opening Lokovich Art Studio and joked about each of them marrying in 2022, they’ve expanded their space, one—and then they did. They went on grown their retail supply offerings and to marry their husbands, identical twins introduced new classes, including moDaniel and Benjamin, within six months saics, with plans to add glass fusing in of each other in 2018. the future. “We’ve grown so much, and One afternoon, the we’ve learned so much, sisters-in-law were sitting too,” Kaelea says. Along outside on a porch swing the way, they’ve learned Take a Class! when Rebecca turned to what it takes to run a Classes are held multiKaelea and said, “Do you successful business, even ple times a month and want to start a business?” earning runner-up in The range from $45–95. Three months later, they Blox, a national entrepreTo sign up, head to had a business plan and a neurial competition and lokovichartstudio.com/ workshops. brick-and-mortar. documentary series.

“I want customers to know that they’re valuable as people.” —Rebecca Lokovich

Today, the studio is known for stainedglass classes, custom commissions and a welcoming atmosphere. Rebecca and Kaelea believe art should be accessible, encouraging and fun. Their goal is to make people feel valued while showing them what’s possible through art. “I think how you treat people is really important,” Rebecca says. “Our work is great, and I love our work, but I want customers to know that they’re valuable as people.” Taking a Class I recently stopped into Lokovich Art Studio myself to try one of their beginner-friendly workshops. And I mean “beginner-friendly” in the truest sense, because I am not super detail-oriented when it comes to crafting, and I’ve never done a stained-glass project. However, the piece I created didn’t look nearly as amateur as I expected. When I arrived, they already had the glass pieces that would soon be a beautiful blue butterfly laid out for me. For more advanced crafters or those who want the full experience, they also have classes where you can cut your own glass. The first thing I did was wrap each piece in foil. Because one side was sticky, the foil stayed in place as I worked. After wrapping a piece, I used a tool called a fid, which is similar to a hard plastic spatula, to fold the foil over the edges of the glass and smooth it into place. Once each piece was foiled, it was time to solder them together. The idea of holding a 700°F metal tool was intimi-

Jordan Blomquist (above) created a stained-glass butterfly. Rebecca Lokovich and Kaelea Lokovich (opposite page) show off some of their stained glass pieces.

dating, but there was no time to question it because we were diving right in. I laid the pieces out in the design I wanted, then brushed flux, a bonding agent that allows the solder to adhere smoothly and consistently to the copper foil. A fume extractor sat in front of me as I tapped the hot soldering iron onto the solder, melting it into a drop almost immediately. The drop clung to the iron, and I carried it along the foil lines to adhere the solder to the copper foil. The process of soldering the pieces together went surprisingly quickly and was

extremely satisfying. Once everything was in place and there was no foil left peeking through, the stained-glass piece was officially complete. Rebecca gently added a metal ring to the back for hanging, finishing the final step. By the end, it’s easy to see why the studio has built such a loyal following. Rebecca and Kaelea make the process fun and easy to follow, allowing guests to enjoy crafting for a couple of hours without having to focus on the outside world—a luxury these days. I left with a new skill and a deeper appreciation for the craft. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

PROFILE

After a legendary Olympic career, Ryan Lochte is embracing a new chapter as Missouri State University’s assistant swimming and diving coach. B Y JOR D A N B L OM QU IS T

or 16 years, ryan lochte’s life revolved around the black line at the bottom of a pool, keeping him straight—keeping him in his lane. The expectations were enormous, and the margin for error was measured in hundredths of a second. As an elite athlete, Lochte had the pressure of succeeding, being a role model, han36

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

dling criticism and appearing composed resting on his shoulders. But as an Olympian, he also carried the weight of representing America. The moments on the podium made it worthwhile. The medals, the world records and the years spent representing Team USA made him one of the most recognizable athletes in the world. When the chapter as an Olympic swimmer closed, he found another role that mattered more than any award he had ever won. “Swim-

Ryan Lochte (top left) steps into the role of assistant swimming and diving coach at Missouri State University after competing in four Olympic games, including in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (above).

P H O TO S BY B R A N D O N A L M S, C O U R T E SY S H U T T E R S TO C K

Ryan Lochte Is Changing Lanes

ming and diving coach at Missouri State University, Lochte is embracing family life and a chance to help young athletes chase their own dreams.

ming is just a sport that I love to do,” Lochte says. “It doesn’t define who I am. I love being a dad.” It’s not the answer you might expect from someone with 12 Olympic medals, but Lochte has never been interested in letting his medal count tell the whole story. At 41, Lochte has lived several lives in the public eye. After competing in four Olympics (Athens, Beijing, London and Rio de Janeiro), facing public scrutiny, becoming a father of three, navigating divorce and stepping away from the sport that defined much of his life, the story Lochte is telling now is one of reinvention. “No one ever taught me life after swimming,” he says. “It’s scary because it’s all done. All the money, all the fame, it just goes away, and you’re just by yourself. Now it’s just, ‘Who is Ryan Lochte?’ I had to reinvent myself.” Reinvention doesn’t happen overnight. Lochte says the transition out of elite competition left him feeling lost, a reality many athletes aren’t prepared for. He speaks candidly about his previous marriage, his struggles with depression after his Olympic career ended and the process of rebuilding his life. He believes there’s something in his story for everyone, whether they care about swimming or not. “The things that I learned throughout my life can help anyone out,” Lochte says. While his career made him a household name, it’s the life he’s building beyond competition that brought him to Springfield. As he settles into his role as assistant swim-

Life in Springfield If you’re wondering what brought Lochte to the Ozarks, he says Springfield genuinely won him over. His fiancée, Molly Gillihan, used to live in the Ozarks, and when the couple would visit, the area was magnetic. “There’s something about Springfield that makes me feel at home,” Lochte says. “The people are the nicest people I’ve freaking ever met. The food is amazing. There are so many different things to do with your kids.” He knew he wanted to move to Springfield regardless, but Gillihan was the one who encouraged him to give coaching a shot. After calling around to local colleges to see if any had openings, he found one at Missouri State. “I was like, ‘This is a gift from God,’” Lochte recalls. “‘He’s blessing us with this. We have to take this opportunity.’” He immediately called Dave Collins, the head swimming and diving coach at MSU. “He thought I was pranking him at first,” Lochte says. After checking nearly every box possible as a competitive swimmer, Lochte says the natural next leap is to invest in the next wave of athletes. “I’ve been coached by the best coaches in the world, and I became one of the best swimmers in the world,” he says. “I perfected things in my swimming that I know now I can help the younger generation with. I want to just help kids out. I love that more than anything.” The lessons Lochte hopes to teach in this next chapter go farther than competitive swimming. He wants his athletes to understand that setbacks are part of the journey and how they respond to those moments will shape who they become. “I’ve reached the highest of highs, and I fell to the lowest of lows, and I’m most proud that when I did fall, I was able to get back up and keep moving forward,” Lochte says. “It’s something that I want to teach my kids and the younger generation: Everyone in this world is going to fall down at one point in their life. But it’s not how you get knocked down. It’s how you get back up and keep moving forward.”

1/3 V PAGE AD

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

Good Reads for Little Locals If you want to tap into the spirit of 417 Reads and you’re looking for something to spark your kiddos’ love of reading, check out these titles by Ozarksbased authors. It’s another great way to connect literacy and the community.

Dr. Grenita Lathan reads with an SPS student.

DO GOOD / B Y KAT I E POLLOCK ESTES

Young Minds, Big Potential How Springfield Public Schools is promoting literacy and a love of reading through its new 417 Reads program.

third grade classrooms—will get to experience the Public Schools and Superintenprogram. At the August 6 State of the Schools addent Dr. Grenita Lathan launched dress at Good Morning Springfield, more than 150 the district’s newest literacy initiacommunity mentors signed up to take part in the tive: the 417 Reads campaign. In monthly classroom read-alouds—allowing the propartnership with Scholastic, the gram to expand into fourth grade classrooms too. program focuses on boosting local youth literacy It’s about more than just the fun of enjoying a rates “by bridging the gap between the classroom good book. According to information from Springand the community.” Through local events, confield Public Schools: “Research shows that innections with community mentors and increased creased independent reading is strongly connected student access to high-quality books, reading will to higher literacy achievement, including stronger become visible, accessible and engaging. vocabulary, comprehension, background knowlOne way SPS is achieving this is by recruiting edge, and writing skills.” four community champions to help spread the Teachers get to benefit from the program as word. (One of those champions is FourOneSeven well, as new district instructors will receive classPublisher Logan Aguirre.) Through room libraries tailored to their R.E.A.L. (Read. Excel. Achieve. students’ interests and reading How To Help Lead.), the four of them will get levels. Additionally, Pre-K through Visit supportsps.org and face-to-face time with SPS’s third fifth grade students at 10 Title 1 click on “417 Reads” to grade students, visiting classrooms schools will receive books to build learn how to support monthly to mentor and read aloud. their at-home libraries—so they this Springfield Public More than 1,600 students—across can keep reading long after the Schools initiative. all 75 Springfield Public Schools dismissal bell rings. 38

arly last month, springfield

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

How Mr. Silver Stole the Show written by Kate Klise This is a kid-friendly retelling of the true story of a stray cat who managed to bring main character energy to a fancy pedigree cat show in St. Louis in the 1940s. Crawly School for Bugs written by David L. Harrison Crawly School for Bugs isn’t prolific children’s author David L. Harrison’s newest title, but it’s one of our favorites. The poems are filled with humor, heart and a unique perspective on what a school filled with a diverse population of critters might look like. A Pizza With Everything On It written by Kyle Scheele With lots of humor and a bit of chaos, this book tells the story of a father and son who create the most outlandish pizza there ever was—and there are… consequences. It’s a hoot. What Did Your Dinosaur Do Today? written by Tiffany Tutu, illustrated by Chrisara Designs With both a writer and an illustration duo from Springfield, this book contains loads of local talent—and features whimsical dinos who get into all sorts of mischief and fun.

SHOP IT

It’s Like a Reward

P H O TO BY B R A N D O N A L M S

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

If you’re like me, you love buying yourself a little treat—and you don’t make yourself do too much to earn it. Good day at work? Get a matcha on the way home. Rough day at work? Trade that matcha for an big ice cream cone. Loaded up on healthy veggies at the farmers market? Buy a little self-care goodie too while you’re there. Moss + Pearl Soap Company is one of the vendors at Farmers

Market of the Ozarks that’s an excellent go-to for exactly that. I have tried their delightfully scented shampoo bars in the past, and FourOneSeven Photographer Katy St. Clair recently recommended their car diffusers as a little bit of affordable luxury that I can add to my commute. The car diffusers have a sweetly minimalist design (which is perfect for hanging from that rear view mirror!) and come in scents that make me think of the spa. I’m talking about dreamy aromas like bamboo

teakwood, coconut mahogany, black pepper vanilla and more. They’re the kind of “yummy little treat” that doesn’t cost a single calorie. Peruse some of Moss + Pearl Soap Company’s products on their website (mossandpearlsoapco.com) or visit them in person on Saturday mornings at Farmers Market of the Ozarks (2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield).

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

Meet the Hall of Famers Springfield Public Schools has chosen its 2026 Springfield Public Schools Hall of Fame list-makers. Each got their start at SPS and is sharing their talents with the world.

or the 17th year, springfield public Schools (SPS) proudly honors a group of alumni who exemplify excellence, service, innovation and integrity. SPS graduates Pete Lollar, Sally Hargis and Sarah Self-Kyler will be inducted into the SPS Hall of Fame 40

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Peter Lollar (left), Sally Hargis (center) and Sarah Self-Kyler (right) made this year’s list.

during a luncheon on Wednesday, September 30, at White River Conference Center. Their inspiring journeys and incredible success stories prove that a foundation built in SPS schools can lead anywhere, serving as a bright and influential example for the next generation.

P H O TO S C O U R T E SY S P R I N G F I E L D P U B L I C S C H O O L S

HOMETOWN HEROES / B Y T E R E S A B L E D S OE

P H O TO S C O U R T E SY S P R I N G F I E L D P U B L I C S C H O O L S

Pete Lollar, M.D. Glendale High School, Class of 1969 To describe Dr. Pete Lollar as a lifesaver is not a matter of hyperbole. As a world-renowned hematologist and pioneering medical researcher, he has revolutionized the treatment of life-threatening bleeding disorders, offering new hope to patients worldwide coping with the challenges of Hemophilia A. For those living with Hemophilia A, standard treatments can sometimes trigger a severe immune response, causing the body to reject treatments meant to save them. Recognizing this medical challenge, Dr. Lollar dedicated his career to finding a solution. His relentless research ultimately led to the development of hybrid human/porcine and modified Factor VIII proteins. This breakthrough provided a critical alternative therapy for patients, resulting in more than 23 U.S. patents and led to the development of two drugs currently used to treat hemophilia. “He beat out some of the big companies in this work and got to the finish line first,” says Dr. Tom Abshire, who recruited Dr. Lollar to join the Emory University School of Medicine. Today, Dr. Lollar serves there as Professor of Pediatrics and holds the prestigious Research Chair in Hemostasis for Hemophilia of Georgia. His profound contributions to medicine have earned him international acclaim as a highly respected expert. “He has lectured in hundreds of international venues about Factor VIII,” says Dr. Jim Brown, a Glendale classmate and pediatric radiologist. “They invite Pete because he is the world expert on the topic.” His brilliance has been recognized with induction into the National Academy of Inventors, membership in the American Society for Clinical Investigation, and the prestigious Bayer Hemophilia Award. Yet, Dr. Lollar considers his family his greatest achievement. He has been married for 54 years to 1969 Glendale graduate Carolyn (Strawn) Lollar, and together they have raised three sons. Dr. Lollar’s remarkable journey into medical research began in the classrooms of Glendale High School, where dedicated

Peter Lollar played basketball at Glendale High School (right). Sally Hargis was named a Falcon Queen (below), and Sarah Self-Kyler competed on the cross country team in 1994 (below right).

educators fostered his innate curiosity. Gerald Bonham’s rigorous algebra, trigonometry and mathematical analysis classes built the advanced analytical foundation he would later need while studying chemistry at Louisiana State University and earning his medical degree from St. Louis University. Meanwhile, it was in June Fender’s physics class that his passion for discovery truly ignited. “She supported and encouraged students in what for many was their first exposure to the scientific method,” Dr. Lollar says. Beyond the laboratory and the classroom, Dr. Lollar was also an accomplished athlete during his high school years, excelling on both the basketball court and the baseball diamond for the Falcons. His passion for basketball continued when he competed at the collegiate level while attending LSU.

Sally Hargis Glendale High School, Class of 1973 From an early age, Sally Hargis was surrounded by role models who taught her that building strong relationships and giving back to your community are the true measures of success. Today, as vice president and chairman of the board for Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Company, she continues to be guided by those foundational principles. Hargis has steered the century-old family business through a historic era of growth, including two significant acquisitions that expanded the company’s footprint across Missouri, southeast Kansas and northern Arkansas. In 2016, she stepped into the role of board chairman, focusing on modernizing corporate governance. By 2025, she successfully recruited a new, independent Board of Directors, 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

securing the foundation for the business to thrive into its fourth generation. Her reputation extends far beyond the Ozarks. She has championed public affairs in leadership roles for the American Beverage Association and the Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Association, and as Chairman of the Board for both the Missouri and Arkansas Beverage Associations. Yet, for Hargis, professional success is not the only important measure. “Giving back to our community is ingrained in our family and our corporate culture,” she notes. Her parents and grandparents demonstrated that giving back has its own rewards. Supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield and Junior League of Springfield has always been meaningful to her. Her civic leadership has also fundamentally shaped the growth and development of Springfield as a city. Hargis served on the City of Springfield TIF commission that helped establish the Springfield Cardinals stadium. Understanding the power of leadership, she helped found Leadership Springfield through a partnership with the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Junior League and United Way. Today, she continues her community involvement as a member of the Trust Committee for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield and as chairman of the CoxHealth Board of Directors. She balances these important achievements with the pride she takes in her family and its deep roots in Springfield. She and her husband, James, have raised two sons, who are also Glendale High School graduates. Gregory is an attorney in Springfield and Brian is a civil engineer who lives in Charleston, South Carolina. Both her parents, Phoebe and Edwin “Cookie” Rice, graduated from Springfield High School. Reflecting on her years at Glendale High School, Hargis says she was particularly inspired by one of her teachers. “Mrs. (Kay) Gooch was always encouraging of me and of others who prioritized leadership and perseverance,” she says. “She was an inspiration as a teacher and as a person.” 42

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

“[These teachers and coaches] recognized my potential and pushed me outside my comfort zone.” —Sarah Self-Kyler

For today’s high school students, Hargis encourages them to strive for great things. “Never hesitate to try something new, challenge yourself,” she says. “Follow your heart and your passion.” Sarah Self-Kyler Kickapoo High School, Class of 1995 When Sarah Self-Kyler walked the halls of Kickapoo High School in the early 1990s, she was, by her own description, a fairly ordinary student. Encouragement from her teachers inspired her to try new things, which developed a foundation of grit, teamwork and service. Upon graduation, she stepped beyond her comfort zone to attend the U.S. Naval Academy. This year, she retired from an illustrious military career as Commanding Officer of the U.S. Navy Public Affairs Command. Serving aboard warships from 2000 to 2013, she was stationed on the USS Ross on September 11, 2001. Her ship was the first East Coast vessel to deploy out of Norfolk that fateful day, rushing at maximum speed toward the coast of New York City before deploying to the Middle East. She later launched missiles into Iraq aboard the USS Mitscher during Operation Shock and Awe, and managed global communications as the Public Affairs Officer during the historic final deployments of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. “A 1999 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Captain Sarah Self-Kyler

earned a degree in Engineering and was in the first cadre of women officers to serve on Navy combatants,” says Hank Molinengo, Rear Admiral, Judge Advocate General’s Corps, U.S. Navy (Ret.). “As an Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer, Auxiliaries Officer, Navigator, and later as a Public Affairs Officer, she was a trailblazer on a number of surface ships and an aircraft carrier. Her outstanding performance served our country well and paved the way for women to serve in virtually all warfare specialties and leadership positions.” Beyond her military achievements, Self-Kyler’s life is defined by a focus on lifting up others, a passion sparked when she participated in Kickapoo Key Club. Wherever the Navy took her, service followed. While at the Naval Academy, she led the Midshipman Action Group and earned the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. In the Fleet, she spent her off-duty hours repairing schools and community centers in foreign ports. Back at home, she dedicated over a decade to youth sports, serving as coach and president of the Kings Grant Sports League to ensure over 600 children in Virginia Beach had the opportunity to participate. Today, her commitment remains unwavering. She recently completed the prestigious CIVIC Executive Program and actively builds homes with Habitat for Humanity Hampton Roads. Self-Kyler credits much of her success to a network of Springfield Public Schools teachers and coaches who refused to let her settle for average. In sports, her coaches instilled a relentless work ethic. Her cross-country team clinched a state championship in 1991, teaching her the value of “grit and personal pride.” On the basketball court, she embraced the motto “Hustle Makes it Happen,” learning how to be an invaluable teammate even when she wasn’t the star player. “None of these teachers or coaches were easy,” she says. “Each of them recognized my potential and pushed me outside of my comfort zone.”

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

Calendar

Don’t miss 99x: the most imaginative event of the year. Want to know this year’s theme? Read more on p. 48.

September Calendar The month of September is packed with fun events to keep you busy. Grab your agenda, and pencil in the good stuff! Find even more great events at calendar.417mag.com.

MAKER’S MARK POUR & GOURMET TOUR September 1

Take a progressive bourbon tour (literally!) as you enjoy a Maker’s Mark pour or cocktail at each of five locations across Big Cedar Lodge, along with a paired small plate. You’ll visit The Worman House, Devil’s Pool, End of the Trail Wine Cellar, Top of the Rock and Harry’s Cocktail Lounge. Reservations start at $165 per person; 4:30–7:30 p.m.; Big Cedar Lodge, 190 Top of the Rock Rd., Ridgedale 44

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

THE WALLFLOWERS September 1

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK September 4

Throw it back to music’s glory days of the 1990s as The Wallflowers take the stage at Gillioz Theatre. This tour marks the 30th anniversary of the band’s landmark album Bringing Down the Horse, and to celebrate, they’ll play the album in its entirety. (Plus they’ll be adding in a few bonus surprises.) Tickets start at $59; 8 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield

Downtown Springfield becomes one giant art gallery during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, with numerous venues displaying art in various mediums. In addition to more traditional art, enjoy live music, fashion and food across more than 20 businesses including the Gillioz Theatre, MSU’s Brick City Gallery, the Creamery Arts Center and others. Free; 6–10 p.m.; around downtown Springfield

P H O TO B Y RYA N KO W A L S K I

BY TARYN SHORR-MCKEE

CHRIS D’ELIA September 4–6

There’s not much comedian Chris D’Elia hasn’t done: He’s had roles on multiple successful TV shows (most notably on You, Whitney and Undateable), he has three Netflix comedy specials and he hosts his own podcast, the wildly popular Congratulations with Chris D’Elia. $42–59.50; see website for showtime options; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield YELAWOLF September 5 If you’re not already familiar with Yelawolf ’s distinct musical style, this is one of those you-have-to-see-it-to-believe-it situations. He blends rap and hip-hop with traditional country and Southern rock, combining storytelling with rapid-fire lyrics.

$45–144.50; 7 p.m.; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe

BRANSON WINGS OF PRIDE AIR SHOW September 5–7 Branson’s annual end-of-summer bash is even bigger this year, in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Come out and be dazzled by the world-famous U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and several other stunt performers. Plus, get up-close to aircraft on the ground. Tickets start at $30; begins at 9 a.m. all days; Branson Airport, 4000 Branson Airport Blvd., Hollister CONCERT IN THE WILD: CLAIRE HERZOG & ECLECTICA September 10

Bring a blanket or lawn chair for this outdoor concert at the zoo. Anyone involved in Springfield’s arts community knows Claire Herzog by name; she does everything from singing soprano to playing violin and writing songs. Guests in Dickerson Park Zoo prior to 5 p.m. are invited to stick around for the concert free of charge. $10 for adults, $5 for ages 3–17; free under 3; discounts for zoo members; 6–7:30 p.m.; Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Rd., Springfield

BIG & RICH 9/11 25TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE WITH CRAIG MORGAN September 11

Join country favorites Big & Rich for a special 9/11 anniversary tribute show, featuring special guests Craig Morgan, Andy Ross and Jacob Smalley. VIP perks include a free buffet dinner, express private entrance and private bathrooms and cash bar. $45–164.50; 7 p.m.; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe PREPARED, NOT SCARED STORYTIME September 11

In this special monthly story time, a partnership between the Discovery Center and Springfield Greene County Office of Emergency Management, kids learn that preparedness beats fear. Each month has a different theme, teaching different emergencies and scenarios. Free with paid admission; 10:30 a.m.; Discovery Center, 438 E. St. Louis St., Springfield 30TH ANNUAL JAPANESE FALL FESTIVAL September 11–13

Honoring Springfield’s sister city, Isesaki, Japan, this beloved annual festival celebrates Japanese culture with live performances ranging from dance to traditional storytelling, vendor and artisan booths, a children’s zone and a tea cafe with traditional tea ceremonies. $10–15 for adults, $4 for children; 5–10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday; Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield LES MISÉRABLES SEPTEMBER 11–27

It’s one of the most iconic, powerful musicals in existence; the only word to describe Les Miz is “epic.” Don’t miss your chance to see this legendary show live in Springfield on the historic Landers Theatre’s stage, presented by Springfield Little Theatre. $23–60; 7:30 p.m. nightly plus 2 p.m. Sunday matinees; The Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield

Aesthetic Services with Nurse Amy. Dermal Filler, Mid-Face Augmentations, Lip Filler, Neurotoxins, Vitamin Injections, Peptides, Vaginal Rejuvenation. All appointments at Nettie J's Medical Parlor come with a built-in mini consult to ensure the patients and providers, goals and expectations are met. 417-234-5622 nettiejsbeautyandbotoxparlor.com 3100 S. National Suite 103, Springfield

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

Calendar

HARVEST FESTIVAL AT SILVER DOLLAR CITY September 11–October 31

Kick off one of the best seasons in The City with new shows, pumpkin- and maple-flavored everything, tens of thousands of pumpkins, life-size decor and everyone’s favorite: visiting craftsmen and cowboys. Pumpkins In The City starts September 18, with extended hours, night rides and pumpkin-filled dance parties. Single-day tickets start at $65; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson 12TH ANNUAL MO FOOD TRUCK FEST September 12

Sample goodies from dozens of the best food trucks from across the entire state at this popular annual event. Barbecue, tacos, Asian cuisine, pizza, sweets, fusion cuisine and plenty of surprises, plus a full-day lineup of live music. Free admission and parking; pay only at individual food trucks. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds North Woods area, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield ON THE LAWN September 12

All ages are welcome to drop by Springfield Art Museum’s Hatch Lawn for a morning of free immersive art and wellness activities. Sign up for a yoga session with The Wellness Collective, play yard games, try sound bathing, catch live music by C-Street Jamboree or sign up to help clean up Fassnight Creek. Bring a lawn chair, blanket or yoga mat, and snacks and water. Free; 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Dr., Springfield GUNS N’ ROSES September 12

Regardless of your age, it doesn’t get much more iconic than Guns N’ Roses. Come out and scream out classics like “November Rain” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine” along with Slash and Axl Rose. Tickets start at $89.10; gates at 6:25 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Hwy. 86, Ridgedale 46

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

NEON NIGHT 5K RUN/WALK September 12

Hosted by NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), this colorful fun run/ walk raises awareness about and funds for suicide prevention. Expect glowing trails, a live DJ, a post-race glow zone, vendors and a memorial garden where attendees can light a luminary in honor of lost loved ones. $45 registration (increases after September 4); 7 p.m.; Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Rd 146, Springfield THE BIG APPLE September 12

Fittingly for America’s semi quincentennial, Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s 2026–27 season theme is “American Icons.” Kicking it off, the orchestra will perform a night of music by legendary New Yorkers George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland. $40–70; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy., Springfield CINEMA SUNDAYS: COCO September 13

Treat your children (or yourself!) to a free showing of Pixar’s colorful, inspiring musical Coco, along with complimentary popcorn and one nonalcoholic drink. First-come, first-served, and tickets are available at the box office at noon the day of the show with doors opening at 1 p.m. Free; 2 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS FAN APPRECIATION DAY September 13

Come out and cheer on the Cards for their final home game of the season, against the Arkansas Travelers. All fans receive a voucher for a free ticket in the 2027 season, and the first 2,000 fans will get commemorative tickets. This home game also coincides with $5 Sundays, free Hiland Dairy ice cream for kids at Gate 1 and post-game Kids Run the Bases. General admission tickets $5, others $8–69.50; 1:15 p.m.; Route 66 Stadium, 955 E. Trafficway St., Springfield

TIM CONVY & SEAN O’BRIEN September 13

The co-hosts of The Consumers podcast, along with fellow stand-up comic Greg Warren, co-headline a comedy tour for the first time. Both men recently released their own comedy specials produced by Nate Bargatze and have made numerous TV and comedy festival appearances. Now you can see them live at Springfield Comedy Club. $31; 6 p.m.; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield ARIES SPEARS September 17–20

Most people associate Aries Spears with Mad TV, but that was only the beginning. He also played Cuba Gooding Jr.’s brother in Jerry Maguire, had short stints on a number of sitcoms and appears regularly on late-night talk shows. This comedian’s bits span topics including sports, growing up in New York City and his African roots $35.99–46.99; various showtimes; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield TRACY BYRD September 18

Nineties country music legend Tracy Byrd makes a special appearance at Clay Cooper Theatre, taking the stage for one night only. The singer has had more than 30 chart-topping singles, including “Watermelon Crawl,” “Ten Rounds with Jose Cuervo” and “I’m From the Country.” $25–65; 8 p.m.; Clay Cooper Theatre; 3216 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson OZARKS LYRIC OPERA: ROSSINI’S CINDERELLA September 18 & 20

The ever-popular Cinderella fairy tale gets a fresh update as Ozark Lyric Opera’s 2026–2027 season opener. You can buy individual show tickets, but you save 50% if you subscribe to the entire OLO season. (That’s three shows: Tosca and Opera Rocks–Symphonic! in addition to Cinderella). Tickets start at $32; 7:30 p.m. 9/18, 2:30 p.m. 9/20; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield

NOW OPEN The Branson Element, a Marriott International hotel.

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS OF TRUST Expanding with investors like you. Proudly and dependably headquartered in Springﬁeld. 417.864.6303 | lifewithbryan.net

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

From The Field

Calendar

MOVE WITH MADD SPRINGFIELD September 19

KENNEDY September 25–26

99X: SMOKE & MIRRORS September 26

Come out and walk to support Mothers Against Drunk Driving’s signature annual fundraiser event. Following the walk, participants can stick around for a ceremony honoring loved ones who were lost to impaired driving. Be sure to register in advance for the run. $25 registration; 10 a.m.–noon; Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Road 146, Springfield

The audience gets a bit of everything when Kennedy takes the stage. Her background includes stints as a FOX Business Network contributor, an MTV News correspondent (and before that, a VJ) and host of the Game Show Network’s Friend or Foe. She’s also an author and holds a degree in philosophy. $48–86; 7 p.m. both nights, additional 4 p.m. show Saturday; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield

Springfield Art Museum’s newest 99x theme is Smoke & Mirrors. The museum took inspiration from Studio 54, the 1970s disco culture and Donald Sulton’s art entitled Smoke Rings to plan this year’s iteration of their annual fundraiser. Are you ready to get groovy? There will be lots of dancing, music from DJ Kalani, great food and of course the event’s signature living art tableaux by local artists. Oh and for a bit of extra fun, there’s a casino too! Spring for the VIP experience to get early entry along with a Threadbare Collective fashion show and a seated dinner with food by Char Steakhouse and Oyster Bar and drinks by Flame Restaurant. This event benefits Springfield Art Museum. $250 VIP, $100 cocktail party; 5 p.m. VIP, 7 p.m. cocktail party; Shrine Mosque, 601 E. Saint Louis St., Springfield; sgfmuseum.org

CIDER DAYS September 19–20

Cider Days returns to Historic Walnut Street for a free two-day fall festival featuring regional artists and crafters, live music, performances, incredible food and (of course!) delicious apple cider in many forms and variants! It’s the perfect, pumpkin-filled way to kick off fall. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. both days.; Historic Walnut Street, Springfield

THE OZARK MILL TURNS 5 | ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND September 25–26

This family-friendly, weekend-long event celebrates the Ozark Mill’s fifth anniversary. There will be a full lineup of live music, tasting experiences and activities for all ages. Full event schedule at finleyfarmsmo.com; Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark

`YŔŝF%$Ś ? ċŠÚćä£ h+çĢh\ ɬǠɋǚ ȲȵƷȽƷȄɋȽ h+ %m.? L$ `?h

`YŔŝF%$Ś ? ċŠÚćä£ h+çĢh\

mÞįhţLF Y \hE Fh

'6/ -*'& ċÅ$ Ƹ` .03& $mF h h+ 5)&"53& °-¥¾-u -¨‫הא׎אژًואژٳژ׏׏ژ‬ `{ YŚF% `hL\ L$ +LY ƙ \ EYhŚLFƙ F h+ $Ś%+h $L\ \Ś%+h \ hLEL\\L{Ƙ

Y\ ` Fh ċŠz h

h+ +Ś`hL\Ś äĢF \` h+çĢh\ ‫ژגבב׏ٳחהזٳו׏ג‬ٚ‫ژ‬°¥¨UwGFU-k%kU¾¾k-¾O- ¾¨-ِ ¨G

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

$ ?? ǰ `Y\.F% ? `` ` */ "$5*/( 70*$& %"/$&

` +LL?Ƹ` Lmh {L\=`+LY` `mEE \ Lmh+ Y\L%\ E` m .h.LF {L\=`+LY` `hL\ h.E ` hm\ m hŚLF ` \Ś `

'30. "6%*5*0/4 50 01&/*/( /*()5 " -&"3/*/( -"# '03 -*7& 130%6$5*0/4

Lmh+ Y \$L\E F h\LmY ` `?h E

*/ 1"35/&34)*1 8*5) -"6/$) " 4$)00- 0' 5)& "354 '03 5) ű 5) (3"%&34

.\h+ Y \h. `

07&3ű5)&ű501 %&$03 $)"3"$5&3 7*4*54 5)&"53*$"- '-"*3 .03&

`Ēh LF {+ ?`

&/("(*/( */41*3*/( */5&3"$5*7& 5)&"53& #306()5 50 :06

`hm Fh {L\=`+LY`

$6450.*;&% '03 :063 )0.&4$)00-&% $)63$) 4$065 03 4$)00- (3061

z Fm `

&/+0: " 4)08 03 130%6$& :063 08/ */ 5)& 456%*0 5)&"53& "5 5)& +6%: #& 808&% #: " 41&$*"- &7&/5 03 803, 8*5) 063 $3&"5*7& 45"'' 50 #3*/( :063 08/ 7*4*0/ 50 -*'& 0/ 063 (306/%4 03 */ 5)& 3&:/0-%4 "6%*503*6.

Y Ŕ F Ƥh+ :L L$h+ :m

I L L U ST R AT I O N BY G R A C E C H I P L E Y - T H O M P S O N

MONSTER ENERGY SMX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL September 26

Super Motocross (SMX) is thrilling as it is, but the world championship final is on another level. Watch as the sport’s 22 best riders compete for bragging rights, and don’t miss FanFest before the race starts. New for this event, attendees can now camp at Thunder Ridge ( jampack. com/events/smx-championship-finals-2026/book). $105.35; 5:30 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Hwy. 86, Ridgedale

sweet food to beverages. There’s live music by Chris Kizzia and a bacon eating contest. 21+; $35 admission/$40 day-of; 11 a.m.– 3 p.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield BREW AT THE ZOO September 26

Wander through the zoo and visit the animals with a whole new perspective (and a beverage in hand!). This adults-only, after-hours fundraiser benefits Friends of the Zoo. 21 and older; 5–8 p.m.; Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Rd., Springfield

NINTH ANNUAL OZARKS BACON FESTIVAL September 26

EIGHTH ANNUAL TOUR DE BREW September 26

Exactly what it sounds like, this festival pays tribute to all things bacon (and beer and bourbon!). Admission includes samples of bacon and all sorts of bacon-infused goodies, from savory and

Join fellow cycling enthusiasts for a “super chill” ride to some of the city’s most beloved craft breweries. The ride starts and ends at Mumbles1888, stopping at several breweries along the route before

looping back to C-Street. Participants must wear a helmet. Free; 12 p.m.; Mumbles1888, 504 E. Commercial St., Springfield MOVIES IN THE PARK: HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON September 26

Pack up the family, along with plenty of snacks and some blankets or lawn chairs for this free event. Enjoy a nighttime showing of Harold and the Purple Crayon, plus games and an inflatable slide. Free; starts at dusk; McCauley Park, 701 N. Taylor Way, Nixa

MORE ONLINE

Visit 417mag.com to read a preview of Springfield area theaters’ upcoming seasons. There are some great shows on the horizon you won’t want to miss!

BEAUTY COMES FROM WITHIN

But A Little Boost Never Hurts Natural-looking injectables and personalized hormone therapy focused on vitality, balance, and confidence.

Start Your Wellness Journey 417-470-1633 | skinbarmedstudio.com 1901 S Ventura Ave, Springfield

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

OZARKS HERITAGE RESERVE/DOGWOOD FULL PAGE AD CANYON

y he beaut t R E V O C DIS t of fall a

N O Y N A C D DO GWO O as you t autumn color an br vi h it w m ral rks transfor ildlife, and natu w ve ti na , Watch the Oza ls ai on’s sc enic tr e, there’s an explore the cany e of signature tours availabl rang st. be auty. With a y age and intere er ev r fo ce en experi e oudly part of th Nature Park is pr on ny Ca d oo gw Do undation. Conservation Fo Johnny Morris

R FALL PLAN YOU

@d ogwo od_can

TOUR

y on # d ogwo od

can y on

TheLongWay GAME TIME

All New Game Day Vibes As Missouri State moves into Football Bowl Subdivision play, Plaster Stadium is evolving into an all-day destination, with new upgrades, growing tailgates and a renewed focus on fan experience. BY J ORDAN BLOM QUIST PHOT OGR A PHED BY KAREN KNUTH

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

The Long Way

Plaster Stadium (left) has had major upgrades for the Bears’ FBS designation.

saturday at missouri state football looks different from what it did just a few years ago. As the Bears begin year No. 2 competing at the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level in Conference USA, the university has reimagined the game day experience from the moment fans pull onto campus until the final whistle. New technology, upgraded facilities, expanded gathering spaces and a renewed focus on entertainment have transformed Robert W. Plaster Stadium into an all-day destination for families, alumni, students and fans. “If you ha-

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

ven’t come to a game at Missouri State over the last few years, I think now is a great time,” says Patrick Ransdell, the athletic director at Missouri State. The changes started with investments designed to meet the standards of nationally televised college football. Before the 2025 season, Missouri State installed a new playing surface and upgraded the stadium with LED lighting capable of meeting broadcast requirements for ESPN and CBS. With five to seven nationally televised games expected each season in Conference USA, those improvements were essential.

Tailgating for Missouri State football games (right) has become increasingly popular, with fans filling up both sides of Grand Street.

The lighting also adds another layer inside the stadium. Similar to what fans see at NFL stadiums and powerhouse college football programs, the new system allows lights to flash and dim during big moments like touchdowns, bringing a little more of that big-game energy to night games. Behind the scenes, Missouri State also built a new broadcast compound outside Plaster Stadium, allowing national broadcast crews to connect their production equipment for game coverage quickly. While fans may never notice the infrastructure, it plays an important role in bringing Missouri State football to viewers across the country. Other improvements were simpler but more noticeable. A fresh coat of paint throughout Plaster Stadium helped brighten the venue, the suite-level entry foyer received a complete overhaul and the press box got a facelift as well. What’s Next Construction beginning this fall will bring significant renovations to McDonald Arena, located on the north side of Plaster Stadium. Plans include new locker rooms, training rooms, weight room

and equipment rooms, along with the tunnel connecting the facility to the stadium. The tunnel is expected to open for the 2027 season, bringing back a piece of Plaster Stadium tradition with a dramatic entrance onto the field while also giving the program a more modern way to handle its day-to-day operations. Missouri State plans to continue expanding premium seating opportunities in the coming years. Renovated suites, additional club seating and other premium experiences are all part of the longterm vision as the university continues investing in the future of its FBS football program for players and fans.

While many of the improvements are inside the stadium, some of the biggest changes happen long before kickoff. Game day stretches well beyond the football field. Tailgating at Missouri State has become more popular, with parking lots surrounding Plaster Stadium filling with fans on both sides of Grand Street. Ransdell expects those gatherings to continue expanding as attendance increases. Nearby, BearFest Village has become another centerpiece of the pregame experience, giving fans a place to gather before heading into the stadium. This space includes music, food, games, attractions and a “Bear” garden. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

The Long Way

G A M E D AY S

2026 Missouri State Football Schedule Sat., Sept. 5 Texas A&M University (ESPN) College Station, Texas | 6 p.m. Sat., Sept. 12 (Home Opener) Lindenwood University (ESPN+) Springfield | 6 p.m. Sat., Sept. 19 (Home) Marshall University (CBS Sports Network) Springfield | 5:30 p.m. Family Weekend With stadium upgrades and affordable tickets, Missouri State aims to fill the stands.

Sat., Sept. 26 Southern Methodist University (ESPN Platforms) Dallas, Texas | TBA

Keeping Game Day Within Reach Affordability remains part of the plan as well. Ransdell emphasizes that attending a Bears football game continues to be an accessible option for families looking for weekend fun. “It’s not an expensive endeavor to come to a Missouri State football game, and it’s going to be family fun,” Ransdell says. With four Saturday home games and two midweek contests on the schedule this season, there will be multiple op54

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

portunities for fans to experience the improved atmosphere firsthand. The transformation is still underway, but it’s clear Missouri State is building a game day experience designed to bring Springfield together and give fans a reason to turn Saturdays at Plaster Stadium into a tradition. “The more light that we can shed on Missouri State, the more light that we can shed on Springfield and the entire southwest Missouri region,” Ransdell says.

Thu., Oct. 8 Western Kentucky University (CBS Sports Network) Bowling Green, Ky. | 6 p.m. Wed., Oct. 14 (Home) Kennesaw State University (CBS Sports Network) Springfield | 6:30 p.m.

Tue., Oct. 20 University of Delaware (ESPNU) Newark, Del. | 6 p.m. Tue., Oct. 27 (Home) Sam Houston State University (ESPN2) Springfield | 7 p.m. Sat., Nov. 7 Florida International University (ESPN Platforms) Miami, Fla. | 3 p.m. Sat., Nov. 14 (Homecoming) New Mexico State University (ESPN Platforms) Springfield | 2 p.m. Sat., Nov. 21 Jacksonville State University (ESPN Platforms) Jacksonville, Ala. | 1 p.m. Sat., Nov. 28 (Home) Liberty University (ESPN Platforms) Springfield | 1 p.m.

Because Design Matters Experience the materials. Meet the experts. Start your next project with confidence. 1364 N. Kelly Ave. Nixa, MO | uniquetile.com | 417.725.5515

Expansive collection of porcelain that seamlessly adapts to large surfaces

UNIQUE TILE

The only stone fabricator in Southwest Missouri that is accredited by the National Stone Institute

Interior Design Center with top furniture, fabrics, area rugs, wall covering, window treatments and more

1350 N. Kelly Ave. Nixa, MO

resourceroom.us | 417.725.4000

The Long Way

Wake up with a beautiful view at Mill Creek (left) and Petit Jean State Park (below).

Camping With a View When you want more out of a camping trip than just the tent and s’mores, book a spot at one of these four campgrounds that offer breathtaking settings. We even tell you which sites to pick for the best experience. BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

love exploring the ozarks wilderness more than just about anything, but waking up sweating inside a big plastic oven (a.k.a. a camping tent) is a hard sell for me. It’s uncomfortable, and it’s a whole lot of work. My kids have been asking to do some camping this fall, and my husband and I are eager to comply. But let’s be real: The campsite is going to have to offer a pretty stellar cherry on top to make a camping trip worthwhile for me. What I’m looking for is a view. A payoff. A gorgeous spot where I can sit and enjoy my morning coffee and marvel at something beautiful. Luckily for me, the Ozarks delivers. We’ve already established that I’m no camping professional. But Sony Hocklander, whose byline you’ve seen in many 417 Magazine stories about the great outdoors, is an avid RV camper. I asked her to suggest her favorite places to camp with a view, and here are her top Ozarks-area suggestions—each tried and true, and each offering a beautiful place to wake up and greet the day. 56

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Steel Creek Campground 2 hours south of Springfield Go For: Peaceful bluff-side Buffalo National River views Recommended Campsites: Reserve a higher-numbered site for the shortest walk to a dip in the river. That end of the campground is in excellent proximity to Rushing Hole, a gravel bar that’s great for swimming—with

P H O TO S B Y S O N Y H O C K L A N D E R

GREEN SPACES

Mill Creek Campground 1 hour south of Springfield Go For: Glorious Table Rock Lake views Recommended Campsites: Anything on the peninsula. There are several campsites on this chunk of land that juts out into the lake, but sites 43 through 45 are on the very tip for maximum scenic views. Facilities and Fun: Mill Creek Campground has a swimming beach and boat ramp plus a playground and volleyball and basketball courts. The spot has 67 sites for tent or RV use, a picnic shelter, shower houses, drinking water, a dump station and electric hookups. How to Book: Go to recreation.gov and search “Mill Creek (Missouri).”

the 200-foot-tall Roark Bluff in the background. If you want more privacy while still being within walking distance of a swim, opt for a lower-numbered site. Facilities and Fun: Steel Creek Campground has 26 tent sites available and 13 sites for RVs with stock animals (because horseback riding is a popular activity in this area). There are no electric hookups at this more bare-bones site, but there are flush restrooms and drinking water. How to Book: Visit recreation.gov and search “Steel Creek Campground.”

1/3H PAGE AD

Petit Jean State Park Campground 3.5 hours south of Springfield Go For: Serenely still Lake Bailey views Recommended campsites: Any spot on Camp Area A will put you on the Lake Bailey side of the campground. On that loop, sites 16, 19 and 21 accommodate both tents and RVs and are right on the water. Facilities and Fun: Petit Jean State Park is home to 144 campsites. Depending on the site type, amenities can include electricity, water and sewer hookups. There are also some yurts near Camp Area A. Outside the campground, this state park has a lot to offer, from beautiful stone Civilian Conservation Corps cabins to pools and playgrounds. How to Book: Visit reserve.arkansasstateparks.com and choose Petit Jean State Park from the dropdown menu. Bull Shoals-White River State Park 2 hours southeast of Springfield Go For: Scenic White River views Recommended Campsites: You can’t go wrong here, as there are waterfront sites along the White River–facing side of all four camping loops. Use the map view when reserving to scope out campsite pics and make sure you get one along the water. Facilities and Fun: This Arkansas state park is located just over the border from Missouri, and it offers a combo of great trout fishing on the White River and kayak and canoe rentals for a float trip experience. There are 109 campsites at Bull Shoals-White River State Park campground, many of which offer electricity, water and sewer hookups. How to Book: Visit reserve.arkansasstateparks.com and choose Bull Shoals-White River State Park from the dropdown menu.

1/3H PAGE AD

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

PROMOTION

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT BUSINESS

Chandler G. Lyon, John N. Vaughan, Kara N. Ransom, Nathaniel J. Poivre, Cameron G. Jones, Lora J. Wright

Lifetime Planning for Every Generation

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

properly in place. Instead of wrapping things up after the paperwork is finished, the team stays alongside clients for the long haul, helping keep estate plans current as families grow and priorities shift. The greatest reward, the LifeGen attorneys say, comes when clients leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. When clients say they finally understand their options and have peace of mind, it reminds the team why they do this work. In the end, it’s about helping families feel understood and ready for whatever life brings.

LIFEGEN LAW GROUP

417-823-9898 LIFEGENLAWGROUP.COM 1983 E. SEMINOLE ST., SPRINGFIELD

P H O TO B Y K AT Y S T. C L A I R

LIFEGEN LAW GROUP knows estate planning can feel overwhelming. That’s why they prioritize building relationships and helping clients feel at ease through the estate planning process. LifeGen Law Group has served southwest Missouri since 1993, recently rebranding after many years as Parks & Jones to better reflect its growing team and mission of Lifetime Planning for Every Generation. Their people-first approach carries through every meeting. The attorneys take time to get to know each family’s unique situation, break down complicated legal concepts, and create a plan that fits their goals. The firm’s process is intentionally personal. Clients receive a complimentary 90-minute consultation, a visual walkthrough of their estate plan, and continued guidance after documents are signed to help ensure every detail is

The Long Way

P H O TO S BY T E S S A C O O P E R , B R A N D O N A L M S, C O U R T E SY M I L E 6 TA P R O O M , T H E P I N B A L L S O C I A L C L U B

Treasure Hunting Make a stop at Calm & Collected Mercantile (304 E. Jackson St. #6E, Willard) to browse a thoughtful mix of antiques and vintage finds. It’s the kind of place where you never quite know what you’ll walk out with, but you’ll be glad you stopped in.

MAIN STREETS

Slowing Down in Willard

In Willard, a short drive leads to a full day of coffee, trail wandering, local bites and small businesses that make the town easy to spend time in.

Get Outside Hit the Frisco Highline Trail at the Willard trailhead and head toward Bolivar for an easy stretch of paved path that shows off the Ozarks. At mile 6, just across from the Willard Trailhead, you’ll find the 1908 Bank Robbery kiosk, which shares the story of two historic robbers who made their escape on a handcar down the railroad tracks. If you’re passing through on a Friday evening, stop by the farmers market near the trailhead to browse local goods. Find the Frisco Highline Trail map at ozarkgreenways.org.

BY JORDAN BLOM QUIST

ust 10 miles northwest of downtown springfield sits Willard, Missouri—a charming, unassuming town filled with character. It’s a town that’s easy to overlook but well worth a visit. Willard is an ideal destination for a day trip or an afternoon visit. If you are looking to spend the day, we have each stop planned out for you.

Coffee First, Always Not only will a stop by The Hive (304 E. Jackson St #5E, Willard) bring a smile to your face because, well, coffee, but also because of the people serving it. The cafe provides employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping employees build valuable skills that prepare them for future careers. Along with specialty coffee drinks, the menu includes breakfast favorites like biscuits and gravy and avocado toast, plus lunchtime options such as chicken salad and french dip sandwiches.

Grab A Bite Stop in at Mile 6 Taproom (115 E. Jackson St., Willard) for a post-trail bite and drink. The spot is a spin-off of Springfield BrewCo, bringing the same local energy in a more laid-back setting. It’s a natural place to refuel after time on the Frisco Highline Trail. Friendly Competition End the day in Willard at The Pinball Social Club (406 S. Miller Road, Willard), the newest spot on this list and an easy way to wrap up your visit on a fun note. Owned by Matt and Cassie Darst, the space has pinball machines and occasional tournaments, making it just as fun for a quick stop as it is for a longer stay. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

The Long Way

TRAVEL

Pictured Rocks Beauty meets adventure in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where kayaking, rock-hounding, hiking and soaring colorful coastal bluffs abound at a nearly 14-hour drive from Springfield.

or an unforgettable scenic adventure, it’s hard to top Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Spanning 42 miles between Munising and Grand Marais along the Caribbean-like coastal waters of Lake Superior, the national lakeshore is famous for its colorful sandstone cliffs, which soar 50 to 200 feet above lake level. Last September, we finally saw the breathtaking rocky coast for ourselves, while also exploring mighty dunes, roaring waterfalls, rock-strewn beaches and maritime culture. 60

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Kayaking Pictured Rocks If you only have a day, spend it viewing the bluffs of Pictured Rocks from the water. Book a boat tour, or better, a guided sea kayak outing as we did. Nothing I’ve done compares to paddling along multi-colored bluffs and rock formations in the crystal-clear coastal waters of Lake Superior. The bluffs’ streaky color is a result of seeping groundwater and minerals. It’s so unusual that the land was protected in 1966 with the first-of-its-kind designation under the National Park Service.

P H O TO C O U R T E SY U P P E R P E N I N S U L A M I C H I G A N

B Y S ON Y HOC K L A N D E R

P H O TO S BY S O N Y H O C K L A N D E R , ST E P H E N R O S S

Several companies in Munising offer guided tours, including Pictured Rocks Kayaking, which combines a boat tour with paddling along the most popular five miles of bluffs. Two-person kayaks are launched from the boat and assigned to small groups led by guides. Our favorite sights included the soaring Petit Portal Arch (also called Lover’s Leap), immense Rainbow Cave, Indian Head Bluff, Chapel Cove and the iconic 250-year-old lone white pine tree on Chapel Rock. At the end, we paddled to the boat— which had been following kayakers—for an easy ride back to shore. Grand Sable Dunes, Sable Falls & Grand Marais Most visitors to Pictured Rocks stay near Munising on its western end or, as we did, near Grand Marais to the east. A natural bay, a marina, two range lighthouses, soaring dunes and a wide rock-strewn shore are a few Kayaking reasons to visit the tiny town of (above) is one of Pictured Rocks’ Grand Marais. biggest draws, It has several accommodaas is Spray tions, a grocery store, the Grand Falls (below). Marais Tavern and the Lake Superior Brewing Company. Don’t miss the Pickle Barrel House, a funny little museum and historic landmark. Rock hunters love Agate Beach, a great sunset spot that stretches from town to the dunes. We stayed in the town’s Woodland Park Campground. Two miles west of Grand Marais, trails to Sable Falls and Grand Sable Dunes make a nice introduction to the Pictured Rocks adventure. Each is about a halfmile hike, out and back. The Grand Sable Dunes Trail leads through a pine forest, then up onto the dunes for a fantastic view. The trail to Sable Falls includes a 168-stair boardwalk with several viewing platforms. Beyond the falls, the trail descends to the beach where Sable Creek flows into Lake Superior. We paired these trails with an easy day exploring the town, beach, bay and Grand Sable Lake. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

The Long Way

Petit Portal Arch, a.k.a. Lover’s Leap (right), is a favorite destination for kayakers.

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

The Au Sable Light Station complex includes old lightkeeper quarters, a boathouse, a fog signal building and once-used lantern fuel storage buildings. Operational since 1874, the tower still has its original Fresnel lens, although solar-powered lights are used today. Tour the Lighthouse Tower for a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. Miners Castle, Waterfalls and Munising After a brief stop near Twelve-Mile Beach, we headed for the Miners Castle Scenic Overlook. This small park features bluff-top trails that hug the coast, with several overlook views of stained cliffs and one of Pictured Rocks’ most popular sights: Miners Castle. Named for its turret-like formations, you can view it from afar or follow a trail to see it up close. A side trail leads to Miners Beach. Down the road, we hiked a one-mile round-trip trail to the dramatic Miners Falls, which drops 40 feet into a narrow gorge. About 20 minutes farther, a trail to Wagner Falls Scenic Site is even easier, at a 10th of a mile. The in-town, flood-damaged Munising Falls trail remains closed, but the nearby visitors center is worth a stop, as is

Sand Point Beach, a lovely spot to catch a sunset. Munising has more accommodations and campgrounds than Grand Marais. It also features the city dock, a pair of range lighthouses, boat tour companies (including some that explore shipwrecks or Grand Island), mountain bike trails and more. Plus, you’ll find small shops, breweries, a winery and lots of restaurants along the South Bay coast. Don’t miss trying a pasty (pronounced pass-tee). We dined at Muldoons Pasties & Gifts, known for its award-winning Danish pasty, a U.P. specialty. The original consists of beef, potatoes and root vegetables enclosed in a pastry crust. Other options include chicken, veggie-only or a dessert pasty. The small gift shop sells maple syrup, fudge and other goodies—a win-win. After dinner, we drove an hour back to Grand Marais. Chapel Falls and Chapel Rock With more than 100 miles of trails in Pictured Rocks, we planned a longer hike in the remote Chapel Basin. Several routes start from the parking lot, which fills up early. We chose the 6.9-mile out-and-back trail to see Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach.

P H O TO B Y S T E P H E N R O S S

Log Slide, Hurricane River & Au Sable Light Station Plan a full day to explore the scenic drive—County Road H-58—between Grand Marais and Munising. After paying a park fee at the Grand Sable Visitors Center, our first stop was Log Slide, a short trail and overlook on the western edge of Grand Sable Dunes. At this historic remnant from the 1800s timber industry, cut logs were once launched down a wooden chute here to the lake below. The top of this trail yields an impressive view of the wide-open dunes to your right and the Au Sable Light Station in the distance to your left. Our next stop was Hurricane River at the edge of Lake Superior. After exploring the river where it flows under a pretty bridge into the lake, we followed an old road/trail, parallel to the beach, toward the Au Sable Light Station. About two-thirds along the trail, a sign points toward the remains of three easily viewed shipwrecks half buried in sand. Leaving the trail for the rock and driftwood-strewn beach, we passed by the ship remnants while heading to Au Sable Point. From there, we climbed a steep set of cut-log steps to the blufftop and lighthouse.

Northern lights (left) may be visible in the Upper Peninsula, rivaling other beauties like Sable Falls (above).

GET THERE

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

P H O TO S BY S O N Y H O C K L A N D E R , @ M I L E S O F Y E L L O W L I N E S

Distance from Springfield 875 to 930 miles

Hiking through the forest with a beautiful fern understory, we encountered the first overlook to see Chapel Falls flowing down a steep embankment. The trail soon leads to the top of the waterfall and a second overlook. (For a 2.8-mile roundtrip hike, turn back here.) Continuing the trail, we reached the coast and a cliff-top view of Chapel Rock, enshrouded in fog. From there, the trail descends to another view of Chapel Rock before crossing a bridge over Chapel River, where it empties into Lake Superior at Chapel Beach. After a picnic lunch on the beach, we hiked back the same way, leaving fog behind as we stopped for a second view of Chapel Falls.

Chasing Northern Lights We checked the apps. We followed solar reports. And we hoped—prayed!—to see the northern lights while traveling so far north. Finally, on our last night while sitting around the campfire, we checked again: Yes, they were happening! We hustled to a beach view where other campers had gathered. At first, the lights were most apparent via phone pictures. But as the night grew darker, the lights grew stronger, filling the horizon and overhead. We could clearly see them with our naked eyes. Excitement grew as campers descended to the beach where the northern lights danced. We watched in wonder as green

Drive time 13 hours to Munising; nearly 14 hours to Grand Marais By air Fly into Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (MQT) Where to stay Around Munising (west side) or Grand Marais (east side)

lights swirled in waves and ribbons. It was the perfect end to our Pictured Rocks adventure. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

FULL PAGE AD

YOUR HOME, OUR PASSION.

At Home FEELS LIKE HOME

Layered With Love MARIAM SAEED BRINGS A BLEND OF HER PAKISTANI HERITAGE AND BRITISH DESIGN TO HER WEST SPRINGFIELD HOME WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM HER FRIENDS. B Y HE ATHER KOHLER PH OT O G RAPHED BY BRANDON ALM S

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

At Home

The main living area’s earthy colors (left) contrast with vibrant decorations like blue ceramics (below).

ariam saeed never studied interior design. In fact, she is a critical care doctor at Mercy Hospital, but her ability to take a seemingly unremarkable home and transform it into something that reflects her past and makes everyone feel transported is truly extraordinary. In just six months, Saeed overhauled her three-bedroom home with just paint, wallpaper, lighting, hardware and lots of fabrics. “I wanted my house to be a reflection of me,” Saeed says. “I wanted it to reflect my journey. It’s all my chapters.”

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Saeed gravitated to earthy, muddy tones for the main living area, mirroring mud houses. “They’re very cultural in Pakistan,” Saeed says. “In many villages, they make their homes out of mud, and it’s something I’m familiar with. And this anchors me to my roots and reminds me of home.” The power of paint came through when Saeed enlisted Brushworks417 (brushworks417@gmail.com; 417-755-9497) to paint almost every inch of the home. A rich rust was used on her kitchen cabinetry, helping to tie into the large-scale Schumacher wallpaper in the living and dining area. Saeed worked with local design and historic renovation gurus Amy Boyd and Cindy

Homer (417-224-3228) for collaboration. “Amy and Cindy were really helpful with paint colors and wallpapers,” Saeed says. “We share the same taste, so we got along really well.” Homer and Boyd helped source furnishings and finishes, lighting, rugs, textiles, wallpaper and decor, and they coordinated with contractors and installers. Boyd says Mariam came to them with a lot of ideas, which they then helped to expand—bringing the vision into motion. Saeed wanted her spaces to feel historic, timeless, layered and useful, so she poured herself into designing each specific space of her home, but she gave herself space to let it naturally come together. “I’m pretty much

a maximalist,” Saeed says. “I wanted small pieces but many things.” Layers feel effortless, and the mixing of florals, stripes and checks all come together, creating something that carries your eye around, delighting you as you go. “Mixing, it’s very forgiving,” Saeed says. “I did not buy everything with a specific idea in mind. I just know what I like.” Right off the living room is one of Saeed’s favorite rooms, a violin studio and home office with a large, picturesque window and panel-styled wallpaper from Mind the Gap. On the same side of the home is the primary suite that Saeed transformed with a dusty pink paint and a large four-poster bed. A gorgeous secondhand floral rug anchors the space, and striped draperies seem to make her ceiling go on forever. “I wanted it very girly,” Saeed says. Clockwise from top “I painted the bathroom a darker right: the home’s shade of pink as well.” Although primary suite, Saeed’s home holds a variety of violin studio/ home office, and antique and new lighting, her Pakistani room. bedroom is home to several stunning antique sconces she purchased for a steal. Saeed loves hosting overnight guests and having pajama parties, and she has the most picture-perfect guest bedrooms to accommodate her friends. Each room has a name, the first being called the “Pakistani room” with a large, vibrant mural from Milton & King on the wall and beautiful hand-painted art. “I first saw this picture on the internet, the first place. And even though she’s far and it stayed with me,” Saeed says. “I evenfrom home, she has found a great comtually commissioned it as an oil painting on munity here in the Ozarks. She knew she canvas by a painter in China.” The room’s wanted room for the people she loves bed is made up effortlessly with an array of and enjoys hosting barbecues and lots of layered linens. Saeed favors GreenRow for potlucks. “I cook a lot, all the traditionlinens, and she mixes custom pieces in for al Indian dishes and lots of potlucks,” that layered look. Bridge Upholstery and Saeed says. “I love Pakistani food.” Drapery (202 E. Commercial St., Springfield; Many of the items you see in Saeed’s 417-429-1243) created a lot of her custom home are rooted in some sort of memdraperies and plushy cushions. ory or past experience, like her large The mix is especially apparent in the othselection of blue and white pottery. “I er guest room, dubbed the “British room,” grew up seeing blue and white,” Saeed which is filled with block prints and ruffles. says. “I try to buy an antique whenever “I wanted everything to feel welcoming,” I can, but I’m not above buying a piece Saeed says. “It’s full of laughter and parties. I from Target.” Saeed puts an emphasis don’t feel alone in this house.” on buying quality pieces, even if they Her social nature and love for entertaining aren’t one-of-a-kind. She loves antique her friends is what drew her to her house in brass fixtures, hardware and beautifully

stitched cushions. “I love frills,” Saeed says. “I wanted a mix of modern and traditional. That’s just me. It has chapters.” The whole design process for Saeed was so much more than picking out pretty things. She really went on a journey, discovering what she wanted to immerse herself in in her daily life. “To me it’s about slowly discovering parts of my personality and finding my voice,” Saeed says. “I still carry a lot of the quiet traditions I grew up with—the respect, the silence, the customs that shaped me.” MORE ONLINE

Visit 417mag.com to view more photos from Mariam Saeed’s lovely Springfield home.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

At Home

PEEK INSIDE

Modern Grace, French Soul STRATEGY AND PURPOSE CAME TOGETHER IN THIS PROJECT FOR A LOCAL FAMILY THAT LOVES TO ENTERTAIN AND HAVE FUN. BY HE ATHER KOHLER

atalee stinson of stinson building company’s (4578 n. 22nd St., Ozark; 417-880-6278) favorite detail of this full house renovation her team completed isn’t the custom cabinetry, the stunning quartz and quartzite countertops or even the massive island. It’s the way the home flows from room to room. “Every room feels connected, the gathering spaces feel inviting, the original character of the house still shines through despite the modernization,” Stinson says. “When people walk in and instantly feel inspired and at home, that’s the result of hundreds of small decisions working together.” 68

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

When the homeowners first reached out to Stinson Building Company, they knew they wanted to modernize their home while still honoring the home’s French country architecture. “Rather than gutting it and starting from scratch, we embraced some of the home’s best existing features, like the exposed beam work and original hickory floors,” Stinson says. “By refinishing and incorporating those elements into the new design, we were able to create a fresh, updated interior that still honors the home’s history and charm.” For a family that loves to entertain, each living and dining space was created with that in mind. “Beyond the aesthetics, the homeowner’s dream was really about creating a home that brings people together,” Stinson

P H O TO S B Y L E I G H W I T H K I D S I ST E R C R E AT I V E C O

A cohesive style flows through the home, including the living areas (left) and bathroom (above).

Member FDIC

“I think if this home had a personality, I’d describe it as effortlessly welcoming.” —Natalee Stinson

says. “They host large groups of people often, so having large, open gathering spaces that felt welcoming and functional was their top priority.” With lots of places for guests to sit and relax, the large island wasn’t treated as one. According to Stinson, it’s 100% a working island, which allows the homeowners more workspace in the kitchen and space to cook for the large groups they often host. The details of this remodel help elevate it in so many ways. Beautiful plumbing fixtures from Harry Cooper Supply (605 N. Sherman Parkway, Springfield; 417-865-8392) align with the traditional side of the home, and the countertops by Favrstone (5311 N. 23rd St., Ozark; 417-374-7416) really enhance the beautiful cabinetry by Concepts By Design (4123 N. State Highway H, Springfield; 417725-3400). Favrstone is also responsible for the beautiful marble and quartz details in the showers. An original stone fireplace was lightened up by adding a German schmear, which aligned with the European style of the home. “We really worked on lightening everything up to make it all feel more modern,” Stinson says. With a better foundation for the family’s more modern furnishings and art and more spaces to seat guests and gather around tables, the future of this once very traditional home now walks the line between traditional and modern in a way that feels very easygoing. “I think if this home had a personality, I’d describe it as effortlessly welcoming,” Stinson says. “Like someone who has a great sense of style and makes everyone feel comfortable the moment they walk through the door, it’s elevated without feeling formal.”

1/3H PAGE AD Honoring the past while building the future. 334 E Walnut & Jefferson (800) 667-5202 online @mypcb.com

Where community began and continues to grow. This historic landmark of downtown Springfield is the future home of our market headquarters in Southwest Missouri. Phelps County Bank, proudly serving our communities since 1963.

Where every event is in season. Sign up for Datebook, your weekly shortcut to the best things happening around 417-land.

417mag.com/ /newsletters

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

PROMOTION

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT BUSINESS

Seated: Bailie Latz, Nathan Vaughan, Axel Garcia, Sydney Limpus Standing: Matt Bower, Jerrod Harmon, Tucker King, Steven Baker, Westin Gann

Where Banking Meets Community

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Jerrod Harmon and Westin Gann and Operations Manager Bailie Latz, First Midwest Bank is committed to supporting the schools, families and organizations that make Springfield a vibrant community. The team is always ready to listen, guide and help customers achieve their financial goals. Proud to call Springfield home, First Midwest Bank looks forward to growing alongside the community. Stop by and experience what makes First Midwest Bank a fresh, modern approach to banking.

FIRST MIDWEST BANK

417-350-1311 ONEMIDWEST.COM 2540 E. SUNSHINE ST., SPRINGFIELD member FDIC | *Terms and conditions apply.

P H OTO BY B R A N D O N A L M S

With deep Missouri roots and a presence in 12 communities statewide, FIRST MIDWEST BANK expanded into Springfield in 2023, transforming a former bank building at 2540 East Sunshine into a modern, state-ofthe-art banking facility. Since opening, the bank has offered a full suite of checking, savings and lending solutions designed to help families and businesses thrive. Highlights include an indexed money market account, a high-interest commercial checking account and competitive lending rates tailored to meet a wide range of financial needs. In 2025, First Midwest Bank partnered with Greenlight, a debit card and app for kids and teens, offering this innovative financial tool for free* to First Midwest checking customers. Led by Community Bank President Matt Bower, alongside expert team members including Commercial Lenders

At Home

IN THE GARDEN

Built by Hand, Grown With Heart On a picturesque Ozark property, one couple has turned their passion for craftsmanship and flowers into a business rooted in creativity, beauty and the land they love. BY HE ATHER KOHLER

P H O TO S BY K AT Y S T. C L A I R

hat happens when a mother-nature-loving couple decides to go into business together? Well, you get a mix of feminine homegrown floral arrangements and masculine handmade wood home goods that combine to create the “yin and yang business” Walnut & Bloom (@walnut_and_bloom; 757-652-2030). This is the new venture of Amy and Alan Taylor. Alan, who retired from the Navy after 20 years, is an engineer and was looking for something creative he could do from home. So the couple decided to expand their garden and begin selling hand-picked bouquets alongside wooden goods like bowls, utensils, lamps, furniture and other unique gifts that Alan makes in his workshop. Amy and Alan added 10 new cedar beds to their already large garden to make room for cut flowers and plan on adding more for fall bulbs.

“Alan really taught himself how to do all the woodworking,” Amy says. “He’s always tossed around the idea of us selling flowers and starting a business, so this is our first year of giving it a go.” Working from home, doing what they love and really enjoying the process was a big draw for the creative couple. Alan works from his wood shop on the property while Amy tends to the raised beds that are now full of blooms ready for customers to enjoy. For their first year, the couple is growing some of their personal favorite flowers like zinnias, sunflowers, strawflower, yarrow, daisies, aster and dahlias. “We got hundreds of all different dahlia tubers,” Amy says. “They are not as common, and I just love them.” The couple has seen a real demand for items made with Missouri walnut, so Alan uses a lot of walnut from their property. “I like many types of wood,” Alan says. “Walnut is my favorite.” 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

MODERN MOTORCARS.COM

WHERE QUALITY DRIVES EVERYTHING.

Professional detailing and protection for every ride. From deep-clean detailing to Gtechniq ceramic coatings and LLumar window tint, Modern Motorcars Detail helps your vehicle look better and stay protected. IDA-certified craftsmanship, clear pricing, and trusted local service in southwest Missouri.

417-881-3080

Proud Partner of

SCAN HERE TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Your Backyard. Built to Last a Lifetime. DECKS ͤ PATIOS ͤ PORCHES & MOR E Archadeck of Springfield is committed to building outdoor spaces that endure. We use high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail to craft beautiful and functional areas designed for a lifetime. Your satisfaction is our guarantee.

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Complimentary Design Consultation

417-742-8686 Archadeck.com

Locally Owned & Operated

Interior Design By

D E N I S E KAY W R I G H T “[Alan] could literally build or make anything. I always get asked about my wood heart necklace he made me.” —Amy Taylor

2/3 V PAGE AD Photo by Starboard & Port

Alan brings a lot of unique ideas to the business, including wooden jewelry. “He could literally build or make anything,” Amy says. “I always get asked about my wood heart necklace he made me.” When creating his home goods, there are no computers, templates or CNC machines, so Alan’s pieces are always one-of-a-kind. Alan hopes to do more custom projects for customers, like a custom keyboard box he recently finished for musician Katie Shelton of The Mixtapes. The couple is excited to see what their venture could grow into, but they’re really enjoying all the perks of keeping things small, purposeful and genuine at the moment. “There’s lots of benefits of the garden to the property,” Amy says. “It makes everything look more magical.” This fall, Amy and Alan will be busy planting loads of fall bulbs they ordered from Holland like daffodils, tulips and even pink daffodils. “I’d love to do a D.I.Y., cut what you need event for people in the future,” Amy says. In the meantime, you’ll find a variety of Alan’s wooden home goods available for sale at Camp Flea Antique Mall + Vintage Market (1900 W. Elm St., Ozark; 417-581-2575) along with small bundles of their floral arrangements on the weekends. “I really want the bundles to be an affordable grab-and-go thing for people,” Amy says. “I always love having fresh flowers in my house, and I think lots of other people do too.”

DKW Designs Welcome Home Thoughtful design for the way you live dkw.design • 417-350-4520 • denise@dkw.design

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

FULL PAGE AD

PROMOTION

FINANCIAL PROFILES

These local financial advisors offer personalized guidance to help clients achieve financial goals, secure their future and navigate economic uncertainties. This section highlights leaders dedicated to client success, prioritizing trust through transparent advice and comprehensive strategies.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

FINANCIAL PROFILES

PROMOTION

Standing: Vialet James, Scott Taylor, Paula Doughtery, Heather Ince; Seated: Dalton Cloyd, Sam Ackermank

A PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISORY PRACTICE OF AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC

417-877-0252 AMERIPRISEADVISORS.COM/ PAULA.J.DOUGHERTY 1525 E. REPUBLIC RD., SUITE B-125 SPRINGFIELD

Ameriprise Financial is not affiliated with any religion or faith-based financial advisor organization. Ameriprise Financial does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney. Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the U.S. Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.© 2026 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

or over 30 years Achieve Private Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, has helped clients achieve their dreams for today, tomorrow, and well into the future. They break your financial goals into doable steps, taking the uncertainty out of planning and helping you live the life you’ve earned. They are led by Chief Executive Officer of Achieve Private Wealth Paula Dougherty, MBA, CFP®, CKA®, BFA™, APMA®, CRPC™, ChFC®, CLU®, Private Wealth Advisor; J. Scott Taylor, CFP®, CRPC™, Financial Advisor; Chief Operating Officer of Achieve Private Wealth Sam Ackerman, CFP®, BFA™, CRPC™, APMA® Financial Advisor; Heather Ince, CRPC®, Financial Advisor; Associate Financial Advisor Dalton Cloyd; and Office Manager Vialet James. Each advisor specializes in providing a comprehensive approach to financial planning including wealth management, portfolio construction, rebalancing, and investment management strategies. Additionally, they specialize in the areas of retirement planning and risk management strategies, as well as assisting clients with choosing employee benefits that fit their needs. Achieve Private Wealth helps 417-landers work to achieve their financial goals based on what is truly important to them. They are here to help you adapt to any changes you face along the way and formulate plans for both the expected and unexpected. Call today and start working with an advisor. Your brilliant future starts here.

P H O TO BY K AT Y S T. C L A I R

ACHIEVE PRIVATE WEALTH

FINANCIAL PROFILES

PROMOTION

Front row: Alex Henson, Jeni Wirth, Patty Johns, Diane Homan, Andrea McKinney, Renee Gross, Linda Bower; Back row: Matthew Suarez, Lacey Davis, Chris Ollis, Joe Atkisson, Jason Smith, Pete Harris, Justin Setser, Beth Koppang, Kaicee Willis, Jamie Hickerson, Ryan Hurn

CENTRAL TRUST

P H O TO C O U R T E SY C E N T R A L B A N K

417-883-3838 CENTRALTRUST.NET 3333 S NATIONAL AVE FL 3, SPRINGFIELD

Member FDIC | NMLS #407985

entral Trust provides tailored wealth management solutions designed to help individuals, families, businesses and nonprofit organizations confidently navigate every stage of life. Their services include investment management, financial and retirement planning, trust and estate administration, legacy planning, tax review, business succession planning, retirement plan management and nonprofit and foundation services. With a combined 325 years of experience and an average of 20 years per advisor, the team is committed to delivering trusted guidance and long-term financial strategies that evolve alongside each client’s needs. Central Trust works with a wide range of clients, from emerging professionals focused on building wealth and establishing strong financial foundations to high-net-worth individuals seeking wealth preservation and advanced estate planning strategies. What truly sets Central Trust apart is their belief that there is a distinct difference between “service” and “services,” and they prioritize both. Their relationship-driven approach emphasizes listening, responsiveness and personalized attention while offering sophisticated financial solutions tailored to complex needs. At the heart of the firm is a strong client service culture rooted in one simple goal: to consistently meet and exceed client expectations while helping families preserve and transfer wealth for generations to come. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

FINANCIAL PROFILES

PROMOTION

Standing: Monte McNew, Todd Larsen, Tiffany Montgomery NMLS #854654; Seated: Zilian Falig NMLS #1589930, Misty Covvey NMLS# 475073, Heather Ramsey NMLS#640369, Kathy Qu NMLS#1730876

417-520-0239 GBANKMO.COM 2144 E. REPUBLIC RD., SUITE F200, SPRINGFIELD

Investment products offered through Guaranty Bank’s Wealth Management & Trust Services Department. Not FDIC Insured. No Bank Guarantee. May Lose Value. Not a Deposit. Not Insured by any Federal Government Agency.

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

ounded in 1913, Guaranty Bank continues to operate with a community mindset and a highly personalized approach to wealth. Its team provides customized investment management, financial planning, private banking accounts and tailored lending solutions, built around each client’s specific goals. Nothing is cookie-cutter. Every strategy is designed to reflect the individual sitting across the table. Clients work directly with their banker, who remains accessible and responsive on their schedule. Meetings happen where and when they make sense, giving clients flexibility and control over their time. As a fiduciary, the bank places clients’ best interests front and center, proactively presenting options and offering a concierge level of service that simplifies complex financial decisions. The ideal client is someone ready to be intentional about their financial future and open to a close advisory relationship. Many are busy professionals, business owners or families who value expert guidance and want a trusted partner to manage the details of their wealth so they can focus on what matters most. For the team, the most rewarding part of the work is the relationships built along the way. Finance is personal, and Guaranty Bank treats it that way.

P H O TO BY K AT Y S T. C L A I R

GUARANTY BANK

FINANCIAL PROFILES

PROMOTION

Seated: Jonathan Robertson, Tricia Yim, Sumer Tripp, Candice Reed, Kate McNary; Standing: Lauren Southern, Matthew Williams, Molly Higdon, Aiden Moxness, Stephen Smith, Andy Drennen, Jennifer Moore, Kirsten Morgan

SIMMONS BANK PRIVATE WEALTH

P H O TO BY K AT Y S T. C L A I R

417-875-5267 SIMMONSBANK.COM 4625 S. NATIONAL AVE., SPRINGFIELD

Investment and Insurance Products are: Not FDIC Insured • Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed By, Simmons Bank or Any of Its Affiliates • May Go Down in Value

or more than 120 years, Simmons Bank - Private Wealth has been working with individual clients, businesses, family foundations, endowments and charitable organizations to provide fully coordinated planning and advisement to address their complex financial needs. Locally, their team of over a dozen specialized professionals provides comprehensive wealth solutions to clients and manages roughly $1.5 billion in assets. Investment management is not just about finding the best stock or bond. Each individual has specific goals, risk tolerances and return objectives. Uniquely specialized investment managers take the time to understand those needs before the first security is purchased. Once investment objectives are determined, the team builds out a sophisticated, disciplined and diversified investment portfolio that is designed to meet their client’s needs. In order to exceed their client’s financial goals, they create a plan. Financial and estate planning involves defining long-term objectives, implementing a plan and periodically assessing the results. Whether a client’s goals include retirement, charitable giving, business succession, protecting assets or leaving a legacy to the next generation, a team of planning experts can help navigate the changing legal and tax landscape to ensure goals are met. Effective financial management is crucial to protecting and managing wealth, supporting the financial security of your loved ones, and building your personal legacy. They’re here to protect what you’ve built with customized trust and estate planning services for you and your family. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

FINANCIAL PROFILES

PROMOTION

Brandi Luna, Skyler Petruccelli, Jay McIntyre, McKenna Sweet, Skylar Smith

417-882-4300 KPMWEALTHADVISORS.COM 1445 E. REPUBLIC ROAD SPRINGFIELD

Disclaimer: Registered Representatives offering securities through Cetera Financial Specialists LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Cetera firms are under separate ownership from any other named entity. *For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, please consult with your legal advisor. Neither Cetera Financial Specialists LLC nor any of its registered representatives may provide legal advice.

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

PM Wealth Advisors specializes in helping clients develop sound financial strategies. They educate clients about financial concepts and products and take the mystery out of investing, insurance, estate conservation and preserving wealth. KPM Wealth Advisors offers a vast array of wealth management services to help families build, preserve and leave a legacy. They help clients manage their finances, develop a strategy, stay on track and better understand the big picture of both long- and short-term financial goals. Planning for the future starts today. It’s important to work with advisors who will put the client at the center of their investment strategy by listening to their goals, dreams and challenges and providing customized solutions. KPM Wealth Advisors’ service approach is hands-on and personalized, fostering lasting relationships built on trust and collaboration. With dedicated advisors supported by a skilled team of tax, accounting, trust and estate,* and investment professionals, clients receive the kind of attentive, friendly service needed from a financial planning firm.

P H O T BY K AT Y S T. C L A I R

KPM WEALTH ADVISORS

FINANCIAL PROFILES

PROMOTION

ARVEST WEALTH MANAGEMENT

P H OTO C O U R T E SY A R V E ST B A N K

417-885-7244 | ARVEST.COM SPRINGFIELD

Front row: Robin Cole, Registered Sales Assistant; Ryan Rodgers, Client Advisor; Back row: Randy Lyons, Senior Client Advisor, SVP; Justin Giles, Client Advisor, VP

Working with a team of trusted financial experts is vital when planning for the future. With Arvest Wealth Management, individuals, families, businesses and institutions alike can get the support they need to build, manage, protect and transition their wealth. By focusing on understanding each client’s financial goals, Arvest Wealth Management advisors can provide customized advice and comprehensive solutions. In every stage of life, Arvest Wealth Management is dedicated to preparing you to handle major life events. To meet with a client advisor or trust officer in Springfield or the surrounding areas, call 417-885-7244, or find a client advisor at arvest.com/wealth.

NOW ACCEPTING

NOMINATIONS

PRESENTED BY

BIZ417.COM/WWMB

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

Autumn in the Ozarks means a few things: treetops dotting the watercolor hills with gold and vermilion, nippy breezes occasionally punctuated by ballpoint rain and—importantly—people gathered in town squares for decades-old fall festivals, each offering its own taste of 417-land games, fun and flavors. Read on for some of our favorites. B Y A LY S S A RON E Y ILLUS T R AT ION S B Y S Y D N E Y A R LT

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

P H O TO BY M T KOPRHGOTO AN G L ERAA PPH HEORT O G R A P H Y

Guests spot classic cars in the parade (left) and fresh apple butter is the star of Apple Butter Makin’ Days (below).

Ooey Gooey Apple Butter Galore

pple butter makin’ Days is consistently ranked one of the best festivals in southwest Missouri. Mount Vernon, an otherwise small town, brings in throngs of people for this weekend-long event. You could say its main draw is the apple butter—which is made on site by volunteers, who stir the caramelized, sticky brown gold in copper kettles for hours on end—but Apple Butter Makin’ Days offers so much more than the festival namesake. Take, for instance, its entertainment lineup. From Friday to Sunday, the buzz of

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

crowds has a built-in metronome from the rhythm of the festival’s seven concerts. The festival also has activities a-plenty. The highlight for many—including the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s executive director, Brittni Bates—is the food. Among her favorites are The Coquettes’ apple dumplings and ice cream, the Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association’s steak sandwiches, the Missouri Veterans Home’s ribbon potatoes, the Mount Vernon Rotary Club’s fried Oreos, Summit Baptist Church’s pork rinds, Mount Vernon FFA’s roasted corn and Miller Lions Club’s fish and chips. Oh, and the Mount Vernon Band Booster

Club’s fried pickles. “I don’t know what is in that batter, but it is better than any fried pickles you can get anywhere,” she says. But back to the apple butter. When visiting, you simply must stop by the apple butter making demonstrations. Around the clock, stirrers tend to the copper kettles, ensuring the apple butter gets to the perfect consistency and doesn’t burn. You can even have a go at stirring, using the long wooden paddles used by the festival’s apple butter virtuosos. Then sample Mount Vernon Christian Church’s many apple butter varieties—and don’t forget to leave with a jar of your own!

P H O TO S BY M O R G A N L E A P H O TO G R A P H Y

One of southwest Missouri’s most popular festivals, Apple Butter Makin’ Days draws in over 100,000 guests annually, who come back for the free activities, down-home feel and delicious food.

Fruit of the Labor Republic’s Pumpkin Daze festival centers around all things pumpkin—from food to contests.

Under clear autumnal skies, 417-landers gather in Republic to bask in the orange fruit. The reason is partly the contests—for which similar size-based ones are held in categories like watermelon, sunflower and tomato—and partly the food. Though many festival goers are quick to stock up on pumpkin-based desserts like creamy pumpkin pies and even fluffy pumpkin pancakes, there is plenty of classic festival fare too, for those who lean not into pumpkin-and-spice-andeverything-nice aspirations.

While the schedule for the two-day festival isn’t yet out, last year’s festival experience was fully loaded with live musicians, vendors and a giant kids’ zone with a playground, laser tag and human hamster balls. While many experiences cost an additional fee, entry to Pumpkin Daze is free—something that makes it one of 417-land’s more time-honored and endearing traditions. Shop for mums (below) or the perfect carving pumpkin (below left) at Pumpkin Daze.

P H O TO SBY BYT K MPOHROTO G A NG LREAAP H PE HR O TO G R A P H Y

here is nothing as synonymous with fall in the United States as the pumpkin. The fruit, like our country, is storied, omnipresent and, well, big. In fact, the biggest pumpkin ever grown weighs in at 2,819.3 pounds, the title belonging to a British behemoth named “Muggle.” While the contest pumpkins on display at Pumpkin Daze may not clock in at well over a ton, it is not uncommon for them to weigh in at well over 1,000—as is the case with Landon Hough’s 1,241-pound winner during last year’s festival. The festival began with pumpkin growers in mind. In 1991, local farmers started the event to show off their prized gourds. Pumpkin Daze would become an official site for the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, putting them on a global database that tracks international prizes. In 2021, as a testament to the festival’s smash-hit status, Pumpkin Daze was moved from Main Street, Republic, to J.R. Martin Park.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

A garbage truck got all dolled up for the annual Black Walnut Parade.

Grand Ole Parade… on Steroids

T Controlled Chaos The Black Walnut Festival in Stockton, Missouri, is a tasteful and slightly nutty take on classic fall festivals, celebrating all things black walnut for its 66th year.

very year at the Black Walnut Festival, thousands of green balls resembling young black walnuts are loaded into a tractor. The crowd, lining the street, looks on at the organized chaos about to ensue, with the tractor sitting atop a near-90-degree hill overlooking Stockton City Park. And then… the balls are off, tumbling down the hillside’s built-in Plinko Board! Members of the crowd hope the balls will tap any number of prize-winning objects. This is because at the beloved Nut Roll, festival goers can purchase raffle tickets, entering their names into a spreadsheet that generates numbers matching with certain balls. The festival organizers, Stockton Lake Sertoma Club, give all festival proceeds back to youth in the community, including with the Nut Roll. Townsfolks have become experts in wrangling in chaos in the 66 years that the festival

SEPTEMBER 2026

has been around, bringing in 6,000 to 10,000 people annually. The Black Walnut Festival began as the Fiesta Festival in the 1930s before rebranding to the Black Walnut Festival in 1960s, largely due to the presence of the Hammons Black Walnuts processing company in Stockton. With black walnuts being the name of the game, the festival has, of course, black walnuts galore. The seemingly ubiquitous nuts can be found in a variety of once-a-year treats, including black walnut ice creams, black walnut fudge and black walnut kettle corn. Visitors can bring in collected nuts to Hammons Black Walnuts during this time to be entered into a contest and can learn all about the nut with signage across the park. Though the festival has many standard components of fall festivals with lots of live music, carnival rides, a parade and church-led free games for kids, the humble black walnut is what sets the festival apart.

417MAG.COM

he crisp autumn air wafting the thick aromas of smoking turkey legs. Orange maple leaves scattering, dancing around your feet. And in the distance, a hum, gradually raising its pitch and volume. Could this be the wind, too? No: It’s the brass of a marching band steadily stalking into the Carthage town square. The Carthage Maple Leaf Festival, though thematically aligned with the namesake tree, is anchored by the music and movement of Parade Day. When the festival was held 60 years ago in 1966, it was originally a marching band competition. That’s when the town movers and shakers said they had to up the ante the following year by honoring the tree the town was known for. “Carthage is known, as part of their charter, as America’s Maple Leaf City,” says Julie Reams, president and CEO of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce. “There are maple leaf

The Maple Leaf Festival fills Carthage’s historic square with festivities.

trees everywhere. It is beautiful here in the fall, just absolutely beautiful, with lots of colors. These individuals came together and said, ‘let’s celebrate this fall festival.’” The remnants of the original marching band festival live on during and after the 2-milelong parade, one of the longest and largest in the region. Beforehand, the beds of trucks are filled to the brim with candy—and yet still manage to run out before the parade’s end. “I’ve had businesspeople contact me, ‘How much candy do I need? How many bags?’” Reams says. “I’m like, you need to be weighing it by the pound.” The marching band plays on at the high school until around midnight. The festival’s massive parade is just one of many offerings, though. The nine-day-long festival has barbecue, chili and taco cookoffs, an outdoor concert Friday night with Members Only, a car show, a Renaissance fair and even a chicken pageant! Catch this essential Ozarks festival in early October.

P H O TO S BY M O R A G N L E A P H O TO G R A P H Y, C O U R T E SY C A R T H A G E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Sixty looks good on Carthage Maple Leaf Festival, as the small-town staple goes all out for its anniversary, spotlighting its parade and abundance of activities.

30 Years of Japanese Culture in the Park The Sister Cities of Springfield Association and Springfield-Greene County Park Board team up for the 30th year of the Japanese Fall Festival.

P H O TO S BY M O R G A N L E A P H O TO G R A P H Y, C O U R T E SY S P R I N G F I E L D - G R E E N E C O U N T Y PA R K B O A R D

izumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, part of the Springfield Botanical Gardens, is an idyllic escape from city life. Merging centuries-old Japanese design traditions with local and Japanese flora, the park takes a livelier turn the weekend after Labor Day as it welcomes in throngs of visitors for its annual Japanese Fall Festival. This year’s festival is an extra special 30-year anniversary. Lisa Bakerink, executive di-

rector of the Springfield Sister Cities Association, says the organization, alongside the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and the Botanical Society of Southwest Missouri, helped with the development of the stroll garden 40 years ago. The Springfield Sister Cities Association is known for its long-standing relationships with sister cities Tlaquepaque, Mexico, and Isesaki, Japan, the latter informing the garden’s development. Ten years after the garden was constructed, the association, in partnership with the park board,

held the first festival, a candlelight stroll in the garden. The festival has since grown, bringing in Japanese food trucks, Isesaki delegates, handson cultural activities and entertainment. This year’s headline entertainment is the award-winning dance troop Uzumaru, who showcase a Japanese dance style called yosakoi. Uzumaru informs this year’s festival theme, as did the headliners of years past.

Among the festival vendors, there is a tea cafe in the garden (with tea ceremonies requiring pre-registration) and the opportunity for visitors to try on cotton kimonos with assistance. The festival charges admission fees, which are posted on the festival website.

Uzumaru brings the art of Yosakoi dance to the stage at the Japanese Fall Festival.

Made at Home

The Ozark Craft Fair offers autumn décor, handcrafted gifts and more.

the tops of white tents become a canopy under the midday sun. You’re not sweating, but the strawberry lemonade you’re holding is. At Ozark Craft Fair, each one of the approximate 650 spaces has something new to step into, something—as the cliche goes—for everyone. It’s the perfect place to stock up on seasonal decor, all the way through Christmas. Despite the range of the 350 vendor offerings at the free open-air craft fair, the Ozark Utopia Club runs a tight ship.

Most vendors bring in homemade goods, and none of the food vendors may bring in alcohol—something festival co-director Kay Johnson says is important for maintaining a family-friendly environment. What started as a ham and bean dinner by the Utopia Club has evolved into the sprawling park craft fair today. From then to now, the mission has always been to put community first, donating all their money to charitable agencies in Christian County and Ozark.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

A blacksmith shapes metal during Fair Grove’s Heritage Reunion.

Tried and True in the late 1970s, the wommack mill in fair Grove, Missouri, was falling apart. The steam-driven mill, built in 1883, was overgrown with grass in such a way that a teenage Mary Terry just thought it was an old barn. That’s when Jerry Thomas and Dean Manning stepped in, hoping to purchase and restore the mill using funds from a fall festival. “Back then, we didn’t even block off the streets or anything,” Terry says about the first Heritage Reunion. “And at that time, I cooked over an open fire, chili and fried fish.” Now, the festival has grown substantially, with almost 300 booths of homemade crafts, quilts and more. Kids can participate in butter churning, Money in the Straw, corn shelling and stick mule races, and all can watch historical demonstrations. “As you go to any place, you get those smells and those sounds and the smiling faces,” Terry says. “Everybody’s having a good time.”

pioneer days in mountain view, missouri, was started 36 years ago by Irma Drake Anderson, who wished to raise money for murals around town. The festival paid homage to the town’s founding, which took place following the establishment of a post office in 1879, by honoring its founders. Nowadays, the festival has over 100 vendors. While the festival no longer celebrates specific founders, there are quite a few competitions and activities its organizers keep alive, including a car show, a parade, a quilt show, heritage demonstrations and live performances ranging from vocal groups to bluegrass to clogging. Mountain View Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tanya Miller says she loves seeing people go all out with costumes. She says that people should make the journey to Mountain Grove to see some small-town charm and hospitality. 88

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

P H O TO S BY M O R G A N L E A P H O TO G R A P H Y, C H U C K T R A V E R S

Lost and Found

Apple butter is made the traditional way at Pioneer Days in Mountain View.

Your Guide to Fall Festivals in the Ozarks Fall Season Festivals Cedar Fest Saturdays in October, Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, bigcedar.com/seasons/cedar-fest If you know Big Cedar Lodge, you know they go all out for for their seasonal festivals, and the fall season is no exception. Go on a tram ride, tie dye, paint pumpkins, jump around the bounce house and soar down the giant slide. Bonus: Cedar Fest is open to the public, not just Big Cedar guests, and there are two ticket price points. Must-taste: Pumpkin ravioli from Devil’s Pool Restaurant Must-do: Go for a ride to the pumpkin patch on the Big Cedar Tram Fall on the Farm

P H O TO BY T K P H OTO G R A P H E R

Select dates during August 29–October 31, Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery in Brighton, gardenersorchardandbakery.com This festival in Brighton has all the family-friendly fall festival staples, with a corn maze, kiddie games and a pumpkin patch. Plus, the orchard is the site of apples ripe for the picking, complemented with a variety of apple-centric treats available for purchase—including apple cider floats. Must-taste: Apple cider donuts Must-do: Pick your own apples in the orchard

Harvest Fest Saturdays and Sundays in October, Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park in Springfield, parkboard.org/531/HarvestFest Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park’s Harvest Fest is a Springfield staple. Pet cute baby animals, get lost in the corn maze, pick out a pumpkin and indulge in traditional fair foods like lemonade and funnel cakes. Must-taste: Funnel cakes (bring someone to share!) Must-do: Corn maze Harvest Festival September 11–October 31, Silver Dollar City, silverdollarcity.com/theme-park/festivals/harvest-festival Fall festivals are already great—now, pair them with one of America’s best theme parks, and you have a match made in heaven. Your admission to Silver Dollar City grants you access to this whimsical fall experience, complete with gigantic pumpkins, artisans at work and, of course, truly epic rides. Must-taste: Pumpkin chili with cornbread crumble Must-do: Watch master pumpkin carver Barry Brown in action Japanese Fall Festival September 11–13, Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden in Springfield, peacethroughpeople.org/events/japanese-fall-festival The Springfield Sister Cities Association hosts this annual festival at Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. Soak in the zen of the garden alongside cultural performances, food and crafts influenced by Springfield’s sister city herself, Isesaki, Japan. There are plenty of food vendors offering everything from mochi to sushi, and a children’s area offers kiddos a chance to see their names printed in Japanese characters.

brings the boom. Alongside craft vendors and food trucks, the festival has fun contests, including a baking contest and a fan fave Punkin Chunkin’ contest.

Must-taste: Handheld sushi rolls from Koji Kitchen

Pets & Pumpkins Family Festival

Must-do: Watch headline dancers Uzumaru

October 24, Park Central Square in Springfield, petsandpumpkins.com

Must-taste: Kettle corn Must-see competition: Punkin Chunkin’ Must-do: Drop by the car show

This one-day festival in Springfield’s Park Central Square showcases some doggone good costumes in its walking parade contest. All participants, including kiddos and pets, have a $2 admission fee, which goes toward local nonprofit animal and children’s organizations.

Maple Leaf Festival October 9–17, Historic Square in Carthage, carthagechamber.com/maple-leaf The Carthage Maple Leaf Festival goes far beyond its sweet-and-simple namesake. It’s known for its 2-mile-long parade and huge assortment of festival vendors. Carthage is also home to a Butterball factory, so don’t miss the company’s giant smoked turkey legs at the festival.

Must-do: Walking parade Shepherds’ PumpkinFest September 12–October 31, Shepherd of the Hills in Branson, theshepherdofthehills.com/shepherds-pumpkinfest

Must-taste: Giant Butterball turkey legs Must-see competition: Taco Tuesday cookoff Must-do: Watch the gigantic parade Marshfield Harvest Days September 18–19, Webster County Square in Marshfield, festivalnet.com/12511/ marshfield-missouri/festivals/marshfield-harvest-days For a cutesy down-home fall festival experience, Marshfield Harvest Days

Nestled in the ever-scenic Shepherd of the Hills, Shepherds’ PumpkinFest is built-in fun for the whole family with pumpkin painting, fire pits, bounce houses and barnyard animals. For an additional fee, you can enjoy add-ons like the Pumpkins Aglow night walk and gem mining. Must-taste: Brisket Melt from Shepherd’s Grill Must-do: Spooky hayride

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

Sycamore Creek Fall Roundup Saturdays and Sundays from October 3–November 1, Sycamore Creek Family Ranch in Branson, sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com Take your family to the Sycamore Creek Fall Roundup, which screams positive fall vibes with a barnyard, corn maze, live music, corn bins and fire pits. Be sure to purchase your digital tickets one day in advance, as tickets purchased the day of may not show up in the system. Must-taste: Apple cider slushies Must-do: Get buried to your toes in the corn bins the corn bins

Harvest Festivals

Apple Butter Makin’ Days

Weston, about 40 minutes north of Kansas City, throws this massive free-admission festival. Bring some cash and good walking shoes with you for this sprawling apple-themed festival. Must-taste: Apple dumplings Must-see competition: Porch decorating contest Must-do: Look for Johnny Appleseed and Bigfoot Apple Fest September 18–19, Marionville City Park in Marionville, marionvilleapplefest.com Marionville, Missouri—famous for its white squirrel population—puts on this darling apple-themed festival. This year’s theme is all-out Americana with “Stars, Stripes, & Apple Bites.” Must-taste: Locally grown apples and peaches

October 9–11, Lawrence County Courthouse Square in Mount Vernon, mtvchamber.com/apple-butter-makin-days.html

Must-see competition: Apple pie baking competition

Apple Butter Makin’ Days, located in Mount Vernon, Missouri, lets visitors watch people make apple butter the old-fashioned way. The free festival draws in huge crowds, who stay for the many competitions, live entertainment, craft and shopping vendors and food offerings.

Black Walnut Festival

Must-taste: Caramel apple butter Must-see competition: Weiner dog races Must-do: Help stir the apple butter in the copper kettles Worth the Road Trip: Applefest

Must-do: See the white squirrels that are native to the area

September 24–26, Stockton City Park in Stockton, facebook.com/theblackwalnutfestival Stockton, Missouri, home of Hammons Black Walnuts, puts on this truly nut-rageous festival every year. Expect tons of typical festival activities and fare alongside oncea-year black walnut treats. Must-taste: Black walnut ice cream Must-see competition: The Nut Roll Must-do: Bring in your own black walnuts to Hammons Black Walnuts

October 3–4, downtown Weston, westonmo.com/applefest2024

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Cider Days September 19–20, historic Walnut Street in Springfield, facebook.com/ciderdays Springfield’s quaint historic Walnut Street hosts Cider Days every year. The beloved event kicks off the season, complete with lots of hot and cold cider, live performances and tasty eats from local food trucks. The main attraction, though, is the huge variety of local artists and crafters whose work is on display and up for sale in booths all along Walnut Street. Entry is $5 per person. Must-taste: Well, the apple cider, of course! Must-do: Watch local dance performances Worth the Road Trip: Hermann Oktoberfest Every weekend October 2–November 1, Hermann, visithermann.com/oktoberfest-in-hermann The historic German town of Hermann, Missouri, truly puts on an Oktoberfest to remember. For the entire month of October, the town transforms to celebrate its German heritage for a one-of-a-kind festival experience. Must-taste: A stein’s worth of craft beer Must-see competition: The Lederhosen & Dirndl contest Must-do: Listen to traditional German music by Loehnig German Band Hollister Grape Festival October 10, historic Downing Street in Hollister, hollisterchamber.net/grape-and-fallfestival It’s not every day that you can visit a grape-themed festival; in fact, this one-of-a-kind festival is only around for one day in Hollister, Missouri, so

catch it while you can. What makes this festival truly stand out is the ability for participants to get their toes wet… with grape stomping. Must-taste: Hurts Donuts (a true 417-land classic!) Must-see competition: Dogs Gone Grape Pup Pageant Must-do: Grape stomp Oktoberfest in the Ozarks September 19, Mother’s Brewing Company in Springfield, facebook.com/ mothersbrewingco The lawn at Mother’s Brewing Company in Springfield swells up with people in festive garb for the brewery’s annual Oktoberfest event. Try some local beer (like the seasonally appropriate Oktoberfest brew), listen to live music on the lawn and visit with friends in a casual, festival environment. Must-taste: Local beer Must-do: Listen to live music National Heirloom Expo September 27–28, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds in Mansfield, rareseeds.com/ heirloom-expo After spending years perfecting their festival game, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds is hosting the National Heirloom Expo, combining the exposition with the farm’s October harvest festival. Buy seeds from the nation’s best heirloom companies and try tons of tasty plant-based foods— plus, the stacked produce makes for a great photo op. Must-taste: Plant-based lunches from Baker Creek’s farm-to-table restaurant Must-do: Participate in a seed swap

Oktoberfest at 4 By 4 Brewing

Must-taste: Pumpkin pancakes

September 19, 4 By 4 Brewing in Nixa and Springfield, 4by4brewingcompany.com

Must-see competition: Pie eating contest

4 By 4 Brewing brings Germany to 417-land with its take on Oktoberfest. Come in costume and exercise your hands in advance for a stein-holding contest. While you’re there, enjoy the brewery’s expansive outdoor space that’s perfect for beergarden-style fun Must-taste: Bratwurst with sauerkraut Must-see competition: Stein holding Must-do: Visit the pop-up market Persimmon Days Festival October 17–18, Sparta Roller Park in Sparta, spartapersimmondays.com Perhaps no fruit better encapsulates the tastes of fall than the persimmon, and Sparta, Missouri, has a whole fall festival dedicated to the velvety orange fruit. Try some persimmon baked goods, or bring the kids to stock up on candy at the festival’s Trunk or Treat event.

Must-do: Watch the tractor pull Seymour Apple Festival September 10–12, downtown Seymour, seymourapplefestival.com Seymour Apple Festival has some of the best festival shopping around, with plenty of options from the Seymour Merchants Association. The schedule tends to be jampacked with apple-themed contests, a turtle race and square dancing.

For plenty of line dancing, music and more, this jovial festival packs a punch. Jampacked with fun contests, good food and more, this free-admission festival in Gainesville, Missouri, is a can’t-miss.

Must-taste: Chocolatedipped cheesecake on a stick Must-do: Stock up on Halloween decor before it’s too late Shakin’ in the Shell Fest

Must-taste: Chocolatecovered bacon

Chamber Park in Shell Knob, shellknob.com/events/ shakin-in-the-shell

Must-see competition: Outhouse races

Date: September 11–12

Must-do: Nighttime square dancing

Must-see competition: Pet show at the gazebo Must-do: Listen to live music

Must-taste: Barbecue nachos

Must-taste: Hand-dipped corn dogs

Art Festivals Art in the Park Sequiota Park in Springfield, springfieldarts.org/events/ art-in-the-park Date: October 10–11

Must-do: Drop by their Trunk or Treat Pumpkin Daze

Must-taste: Cinnamon rolls at All Saints Anglican Church

Must-see competition: Cornhole tournament

September 17–19, historic town square in Gainesville, hootinanhollarin.com

Shell Knob, Missouri, puts on the live music festival and classic car show combo in the fall. What’s more, there is usually a beer garden and full festival activities, all with phenomenal music as the backdrop.

Southwest Missouri Art Guild puts on this “for artists, by artists” festival in the beautiful Sequiota Park every autumn. Look at some incredible artwork and talk to its makers in person.

Must-taste: Persimmon pie

Hootin an Hollarin

covered. The local craft fair generally has 350 vendors who have to abide by strict standards to ensure you’re getting a quality product.

October 2–3, J.R. Martin Park in Republic, republicpumpkindaze.com

Must-do: Buy affordable art copies

Republic Pumpkin Daze is a smash hit for a reason. See gigantic pumpkins, often weighing in at over 600 pounds, compete for first place, as well as gargantuan watermelons, tomatoes and sunflowers.

Ozark Craft Fair Finley River Park in Ozark, ozarkcraftfair.com

Pioneer Days September 26, First Street in Mountain View, chambermvmo.com/events-1

Must-see competition: Pooch Palooza Must-do: Hear the live music

Historical Festivals

Must-do: Get in costume Wilder Days Festival

Heritage Reunion September 26–27, Wommack Mill in Fair Grove, fg-historical.org/heritage-reunion Fair Grove, Missouri, first threw this festival in 1977 to raise funds to purchase the deteriorating Wommack Mill. Now on its 49th year, the Heritage Reunion honors the past with a parade Saturday morning at 10, live music, oldtimey activities for the kids and handiworks for purchase. Must-taste: Grandma Sue’s Lemonade

Date: October 2–4

Must-see competition: Stick racing

For year-round seasonal decor and more by local artists, Ozark Craft Fair has you

Must-do: Listen to live music at the mill

Pioneer Days in Mountain View combines small-town charm with a range of quirky events. The festival recognizes the legacy of the town founders with events like quilt shows and performances.

September 25–26, Laura Ingalls Wilder Home/ Museum and town square in Mansfield, wilderdaysfestival. com Mansfield, Missouri, honors beloved Little House on the Prairie author Laura Ingalls Wilder with Wilder Days. In the spirit of her books, there is a Little Laura and Farm Boy Contest and historical dress—plus, you can tour the author’s home and museum. Must-taste: Pulled pork sandwiches Must-see competition: Little Laura and Farmer Boy Contest Must-do: Tour the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

OOPER

s ruck ood t f f ly o eet rtain d's fl it ce n , a e y. l g ota nalit t 417 re fo e rs o a p Wha u n q i in s p for lacks makes u They're a great avenue for trying new-to-you cuisine, whether it's international food from a far-off corner of the world or an outlandish topping combination on a burger. Many of the food trucks around here have a solid and reliable home base, like Metro Eats in Springfield, Lera

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Family Farm in Branson or a parking lot in a bustling shopping center. There are also special weekly food truck gatherings, like on Tuesday nights at Turners Station Mercantile or Food Truck Friday in Central Park in Carthage. But part of the allure of a food truck is obviously its mobil-

ity, and nothing beats the surprise when you see your favorite one at the brewery or a special event. We did our best to track down as many of our region's must-try food trucks as we could for this feature, and we hope it inspires you to branch out and try them by the dozens.

P H O TO S ( O P P O S I T E PA G E ) B Y B R A N D O N A L M S, C O U R T E SY E L S A LV A D O R P U P U S E R I A Y M Á S, S I M P LY B E T T E R

BY TESSA C

Clockwise from top left: El Salvador Pupuseria Y Más owner Herson Aparicio and family; potstickers, cream corn and more from The KBQ - Korean BBQ Bowls; owners Luis and Manon Pantaleon of Tortuga Torta Sandwiches; coconut chia pudding bowl at Simply Better

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

Owning any food or beverage business keeps you on your toes, but running a food truck is an entirely different game. We caught up with Luis Pantaleon, owner of Tortuga Torta (3867 S. Campbell, Springfield), to learn about a typical day in his life from prep service to teardown.

Luis Pantaleon's alarm clock usually goes off at 7 a.m., but the day of the week determines how quickly he heads out the door. On days when he has lots of prep work or truck maintenance to accomplish before opening, you'll usually find him already there by 7:30 a.m. Today is a Saturday, which means it's going to be a busy morning prepping for the weekend rush. He arrived early to marinate the meat, prep some of the fresh toppings he was running low on, and double check that he had enough of his custom-made loaves from Leslie's Mexican Cafe & Bakery. Once he warms up all the torta presses, it's time to prepare a fresh batch of guac with help from his employee and sister, Selena Pantaleon. Working in the restaurant industry has always been a family affair for the Pantaleons, 94

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

and Luis was already displaying an entrepreneurial spirit at age 14. "My dad worked as a prep cook in a kitchen for a really long time," he says. "I would go to his job after school, and while I was waiting, I would just start rolling silverware and ask for five bucks to do the servers' side work." As soon as he turned 15, the owner of the restaurant offered him a more official job, and that marked the start of his career in the food scene. While he has since explored working in some other industries over the past two decades, something has always brought him back. When the opportunity to open his own food truck came about, he immediately knew tortas were what he wanted to focus on. Luis moved to the States from Mexico when he was 4, and eating out at Mexican restaurants with his parents was one way he loved connecting with his roots. And whenever they'd visit a new one, he always wanted to try their tortas first. "There's just something comforting about a torta," he says. It seems like 417-land definitely agrees with his take on these Mexican sandwiches. He opens at 11:30, and his first customer arrives just a few minutes later. By the way she is studying the menu, you can tell it's her

P H O TO BY B R A N D O N A L M S

All in a Day's Work

first time visiting the food truck. But by the jovial, warm way Luis greets her, it would have been easy to mistake her for a regular. After she places her order, she explains that one of the neighboring businesses she visited recommended it to her. From outside the truck, you can hear Luis whistling while he works and the sizzle from meat hitting the grill. He and Selena work in tight quarters, but they're experienced at it. All their movements seem almost choreographed. The next customer arrives just a couple of minutes later, but she immediately knows what she wants. She tells Luis she's been seeing videos about his tortas all over TikTok, so she drove more than an hour to try them. She requests to try all his housemade salsas, and Luis gladly grants her this request as a thank you for making the trek. It's a beautiful, sunny day, so this pattern of customers lining up will continue pretty consistently throughout the lunch rush, and it will be a healthy mix of newcomers and loyal regulars. But no matter how busy it gets, Luis will take his time with each one and make every order with care. Once they catch a break after the lunch rush, Luis and Selena whip up a pair of tortas for themselves. But the camera eats first—they've got to get that social content. Some days, even Luis isn't in the mood for a torta. That's why he loves calling up a fellow food truck owner to strike up a lunch trade every once in a while. Luis takes a short break around 3:30 p.m., but when 5 p.m. rolls around, it's show time again for the dinner rush. He closes the truck for the evening at 8 p.m. and spends around 30 minutes doing some basic cleaning. Tomorrow, Luis will do it all again, and come Monday, he'll be restocking inventory, scrubbing down the grills and deep cleaning the torta presses so everything is ready for opening on Tuesday. It's a busy rhythm of life, but Luis wouldn't have it any other way.

Food Trucks A to Z The 417-land food truck scene has significantly grown over the past few years. Here’s an A to Z index of some of the must-try ones to add to your punch card or invite to your next event, but just know there are still plenty more where this came from.

417 SIMPLY BETTER instagram.com/417simplybetter The menu: Organic smoothies, healthy brunch offerings and local coffee, all packed into one bright red truck. Order this: A cacao smoothie with a coconut chia pudding bowl ALPINE SHAVE ICE facebook.com The menu: Aside from what’s obviously in the name, you can also come expecting other treats like lemonade, cotton candy, sweet tea and frozen bananas coated with chocolate and crushed Oreos. Order this: Black cherry shaved ice topped with cream

P H O TO C O U R T E SY S I M P LY B E T T E R

AM DONUTS AND COFFEE facebook.com/amdonutsandcoffee The menu: This truck serves good drinks and donuts, while also doing good for the community. It employs people with disabilities who will whip up a cup of joe, lemonade or Italian cream soda to pair with your donuts. Order this: A cold brew coffee with a bag of assorted donuts BENTO BOX LLC facebook.com The menu: Filling island-inspired food with bright flavors dominates the menu here. You’ll find offerings that lean Hawaiian, but also some Japanese cuisine. Order this: The Japanese curry

BOSS HOG’S STREET EATS facebook.com/ggbbqbosshogs The menu: This truck dishes out burgers and grilled sandwiches, with some surprising offerings thrown in. Want a basic smash burger? They can do that. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try the peanut butter and strawberry jam burger. Order this: The grilled pimento cheese sandwich

for the fried fish of course, but it will be the perfectly seasoned fries that will make you a regular. Order this: Fish & Fries (ask for extra sauce)

THE CHOP SHOP BURGER facebook.com/thechopshopburger The menu: The main draw here is definitely their burgers. (They offer five types). But they have something for everyone, thanks to their loaded tater tots and nachos, plus a special kids’ menu filled with PB&J, grilled cheese and sliders. Order this: The mushroom burger

FURIOSA’S NOMAD KITCHEN instagram.com/furiosasnomadkitchen The menu: Fusion tacos that marry different world cuisines dominate the menu, but they also offer salads and soups if that’s what you’re craving. Order this: Sichuan 5 spice mushroom taco

DOGGY STYLE HOT DOGS facebook.com/doggystylefoodtruck The menu: Gourmet hot dogs topped with delicacies like mac and cheese, pulled pork, barbecue sauce and ranch. Order this: The Jack Russell DOWN SOUTH FRIED FISH CO facebook.com/downsouthfriedfishco The menu: This business is so popular that it takes two trucks to keep up with the demand. You’ll come

EL SALVADOR PUPUSERIA Y MÁS 417pupuseria.com The menu: A classic Salvadoran pupusa lineup, plus tamales, quesadillas and burritos. Order this: A trio of bean and cheese pupusas

THE.HIBACHI. EXPERIENCE facebook.com The menu: Although The. Hibachi.Experience has a brick and mortar location now, you can still catch the truck making rounds all over 417-land. The menu follows a buildyour-own format where you choose your protein, sauce and sides. Order this: Pork bulgogi with ginger sauce THE HIBISCUS JERK HUT facebook.com/thehibiscusjerkhut The menu: Delicious flavors straight from the Caribbean. Some are as authentic as they come, like the Jamaican slowbraised oxtail. Others have an American flair, like alfredo shrimp pasta. Order this: The curry chicken patty THE INFINITE KITCHEN facebook.com The menu: Burgers and grilled sandwiches galore, plus loaded fries that definitely work as a standalone meal. Just be sure to save room for the dessert of the day, especially if it’s the peach cobbler. Order this: Pulled pork loaded fries

JOEBIRD’S BBQ joebirdsbbq.com The menu: All the barbecue classics, plus the perfect sides to pair with it. You can order meat by the half pound or pound, or try it in a sandwich. Order this: Tri-tip sandwich with pit beans KNEADING JOY facebook.com/kneadingjoyllc The menu: As you probably could have guessed from Kneading Joy’s name, this food truck is a bakery on wheels. Be sure to place your bread order on Wednesdays to reserve your loaf, and then pay a visit to the truck to claim it. Order this: The herb and cheese loaf THE KBQ - KOREAN BBQ BOWLS facebook.com The menu: This food truck’s namesake offering is obviously their bowls filled with beef, pork or Korean fried chicken. But they also have some great wildcards, like their Korean nachos and K-dog. The KBQ loaded fries are a must-try (and indulgent) option. Order this: The Gogi Q Bowl

GHIOTTO EATERY AND CATERING facebook.com/ghiottoeatery The menu: Fresh Italian food in pasta, sandwich and dessert form, all house-made with love. Order this: Grandma Sylvia’s Pasta Salad GOOD PIZZA COMPANY facebook.com/goodpizza417 The menu: New York– style pizza that lives up to the name. They’ve got the classics like cheese, pepperoni and meat lover’s, but also signatures pies. You can order by the slice or take home a whole pie. Order this: The supreme

Simply Better

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

LALO’S TACOS facebook.com/lalostacosspringfield The menu: Come for authentic Mexican street food like tacos, tortas, tamales and sopes—with eight meat options. Order this: A fleet of assorted tacos LONDON CALLING PASTY COMPANY facebook.com/londoncallingpastycompany The menu: London Calling has both a Pasty Food Truck and a Fish & Chip Food Truck, so be sure to track down the right one depending on what you’re craving. Either way, you’re in for

some authentic cuisine from across the pond. Order this: The Bangers and Mash Pasty MÓNICA’S MEXICAN facebook.com The menu: Were you a fan of the fried tacos they served at Maria’s Mexican Restaurant back in the day? If so, you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to this truck, which serves tacos made with the same recipe by the same owner. Order this: The carnitas fried tacos NATHALIE AFRICAN FOOD facebook.com The menu: Authentic African food served à la carte. Think fufu with egusi tilapia or chicken seasoned with all the right spices. Order this: Pilau rice served with goat NOT’CHO ORDINARY TACO facebook.com/notchoordinarytaco The menu: Fusion street tacos with something for everyone on the lineup. You’ll find offerings with

toppings inspired by various world cuisines, like Hawaiian teriyaki with shrimp and pineapple pico and Korean bulgogi with kimchi. Order this: Neverfake Cheesesteak

fare. The two burgers alone are far from average with toppings like garlic-smashed potatoes and housemade chipotle sauce and jalapeños. Order this: Divine Honey Lime Quinoa Salad

POP IT LIKE IT’S HOT popitdirtysoda.com The menu: Super colorful dirty sodas that show off straws decked out with shiny pompoms and candy. Order this: Stacey’s Mom

THAT SHAVED ICE, LEMONADE & BAKEAWAY facebook.com/ksfamilyhomestead The menu: America’s favorite indulgent food. Think nachos, donuts, freshly squeezed lemonades and shaved ice. Order this: Loaded nachos with a limeade

QUENCHERS facebook.com/drink. quenchers The menu: The most creative dirty soda combinations that sometimes don’t sound like they should work together, but definitely do. We’re talking sprite with green apple, caramel and cream and Dr. Pepper and pickle juice (yep, you read that right). Order this: Apple Jacks REE CREATIONS facebook.com The menu: This is the food truck for people who love very flavor-forward

TINGA TACOS facebook.com/ Tingatacos The menu: All of the best selling signature street tacos that you know and love from the downtown brick-and-mortar Tinga Tacos location. But if you’re in the mood for a build-your-own situation, you can order a customized round of tacos, nachos or a bowl. Order this: The Pig Bowl TORTUGA TORTA tortugatortas417.com The menu: Mexican sandwiches stuffed with delicious fillings and pressed to look like turtle shells. And they taste just as delicious as they look. This spot also offers nachos and nachitos (a.k.a. a smaller portion of nachos) as well as chilaquiles and a few homemade salsas. Order this: The Al Pastor TWISTED CLASSICS facebook.com The menu: Every offering here could be described as a new American with, you guessed it, a twist. Take the Bash Burger for example, which is a classic burger topped with all the toppings you’d expect, but also bacon jam. Order this: Pork belly watermelon tacos

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

VINE PAIRINGS facebook.com The menu: This is one of the few trucks in town with a license to serve all of your favorite adult beverages. They also offer starters, sandwiches and salads designed to pair with your drink of choice. Order this: The blackberry lemon old fashioned with the roasted tomato and hummus toast W.H. FARM CAFE FEED WAGON facebook.com/whfarmcafefeedwagon The menu: Double patty smash burgers and hearty sandwiches that will leave you stuffed for hours. Order this: Pimento bacon cheeseburger XURROS CO. xurrosco.com The menu: Xurros (spelled the Catalan way) that taste just like the ones they make in Barcelona. These fried delights come filled, coated or ready to dip in chocolate. Order This: Nutella-filled xurro YALLTERNATIVE EATS Metro Eats, instagram. com/yallternativeeats The menu: Come expecting burgers and hot dogs, but like you’ve never had them before. We’re talking hot dogs wrapped in bacon and served with lettuce, tomato and mayo, and patties topped with queso cheese and taco seasoning. Order this: The Black Veil ZIEGLER BBQ CO. facebook.com/zieglerculinary The menu: Referred to as the “Smoke Wagon,” this truck slings out Central Texas-style barbecue with wood-fired meats and house-made sides. Order this: A three-bone rib meat plate with the loaded potato salad

P H O TO C O U R T E SY T I N G A TA C O S

LAE’S AUTHENTIC EGG ROLLS facebook.com/laesauthenticeggrolls The menu: If you’re someone who fully believes eggrolls and spring rolls should be the main event of the meal, you’ll love this truck. You can order a combo plate of three rolls or skewers, and they’ll add some fried rice. Order this: The deepfried egg rolls

What’s the best way to familiarize yourself with the food truck landscape in 417-land? Throw yourself in the deep end with a food truck crawl. Here’s your itinerary for exploring them day long. SIP + SAVOR COFFEE CO. facebook.com/sipandsavorcoffeeco, 1320 W. Skyline Ave., Ozark Go for: Coffee to start your day Sleeper hit: The Onyx Brown Sugar Delight

I L L U S T R AT I O N BY M I K AY L A B R O W N

ANGELICA’S FARM TO TABLE angelicasfarm2table.com Go for: A lunch you’ll look forward to The one sandwich to rule them all: Smoked Caramelized Onion & Havarti Grilled Cheese

SWEET N SNOW Metro Eats, 2463 W. Sunshine St., Springfield Go for: A cool-down dessert Worth the brain freeze: Mango Taiwanese shaved snow with strawberry drizzle and lychee popping boba

LIVELY LEMON LEMONADE facebook.com/livelylemonlemonade Go for: Fresh-pressed lemonade with tasty flavor add-ins like lavender, all served out of an adorable pink-and-white striped bullet trailer. Best go-go juice: The Creamsicle

BADA BING WING COMPANY facebook.com/badabingwingco Go for: An indulgent dinner It’s weird, but it works: Bada Bing Mac Chicken Sandwich

I LOVE TACOS TAQUERIA facebook.com/ILoveTacosTaqueriaSpringfield Go for: A spicy morning meal to awaken your taste buds Best messy bite: 417 Breakfast Plate

THE CRÊPE SHACK facebook.com/spgcrepeshack Go for: A little mid-morning treat Holy crepe, this one is good: The Strawberry Fields

WHATEVER YOU WANT facebook.com/whateveryouwantfood, Metro Eats, 2463 W. Sunshine St., Springfield Go for: A late-night Saturday bite The thing you should want: A cashew chicken Chinese burrito

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

FULL PAGE AD

PROMOTION

LET’S GO

P H O TO C O U R T E SY C I T Y O F H E R M A N N

FA L L R E G I O N A L T R AV E L G U I D E

Find the perfect spot for a fun-filled day trip or a weekend getaway. It’s the perfect time of year to get out there and explore. Experience Missouri and Arkansas natural beauty, outdoor action, compelling history, world-class museums, local shopping and more!

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

LET’S GO REGIONAL TRAVEL GUIDE

PROMOTION

transformation and crisp evenings invite visitors outdoors. At Big Cedar Lodge, autumn is more than a season. It is an opportunity to experience the natural beauty, adventure and traditions that make the Ozarks unforgettable.

Enjoy scenic river views, catch the sunset, and dine right along the riverside in St. Charles, MO.

EXPERIENCE FALL IN THE OZARKS

September offers the best of both summer and fall. Warm daytime temperatures still encourage lake adventures, while cooler evenings signal the arrival of fall. Guests can spend mornings on Table Rock Lake before unwinding with sunset views overlooking the rolling Ozark Mountains.

ST. CHARLES

FESTIVALS AND FUN

636-946-7776 DISCOVERSTCHARLES.COM

As the summer heat gives way to the cooling winds of autumn, St. Charles, Missouri, transforms into a haven of fall colors and holiday events. Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, this charming historic city invites visitors to celebrate the season’s splendor with memorable experiences. RIVERSIDE STROLLS & HISTORIC CHARM

What once was the final stop for explorers to gather supplies before heading out west is now a brick-lined Main Street full of unique shops, boutiques and restaurants. Visitors are invited to “Hit the Bricks” to learn more about the legendary characters that made St. Charles what it is today.

St. Charles’ event calendar is full, but truly comes alive in the autumn and winter. Don’t miss signature festivals like Saint Charles Oktoberfest, Legends & Lanterns®, and the 50th Anniversary of Saint Charles Christmas Traditions®. These celebrations promise memorable experiences for kids of all ages. SIP AND SAVOR

Indulge in Missouri wines with a trip out to Historic Missouri Wine Country. Visitors will delight their palates with award-winning wines while taking in the Instagram-worthy rolling hills of the Femme Osage Valley. This is a perfect way to unwind and savor the flavors of the season. Autumn in St. Charles is the perfect time to discover the history, beauty and excitement that this charming city has to offer.

LATE-SUMMER LAKE ADVENTURES

Lake activities remain a major attraction at Big Cedar Lodge throughout early fall. Families can enjoy boating, kayaking and paddleboarding at a slower pace after the peak summer crowds have departed. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent conditions on Table Rock Lake, while Lady Liberty Cruises offer a relaxing way to take in the changing scenery. ELEVATED OZARKS ADVENTURE

Top of the Rock provides some of the most spectacular views in the Midwest. Visitors can explore the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail, play a round on world-class golf courses, or simply enjoy panoramic vistas stretching across the Ozarks. As autumn colors emerge, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, creating memorable photo opportunities around every bend.

FESTIVALS AND FUN

Discover all the colors that autumn has to offer as you explore Frontier Park. Sandwiched between the Missouri River and the Katy Trail, Frontier Park is a picturesque setting for family picnics or romantic dates. Enjoy the views from Main Street restaurants with patios that overlook the park, perfect for visitors to enjoy local eats and beautiful days. INDOOR ADVENTURES

If you’re a truly adventurous spirit, head over to Climb So iLL to tie into the ropes or hop on some boulders; there’s a climbing terrain for every age and ability. If you’re interested in a more passive activity, stop by the Foundry Art Centre and explore their worldclass galleries or visit with a resident artist. 100

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

CELEBRATE CEDAR FEST

Celebrate the arrival of autumn with Cedar Fest Saturdays at Big Cedar Lodge. Kicking off in October, the autumn-inspired festivities transform the resort into a showcase of Ozarks traditions, family-friendly activities and all the charm of the region. FALL TRADITIONS FOR EVERY AGE

BIG CEDAR LODGE 800-225-6343 BIGCEDAR.COM

As summer gives way to fall, the Ozarks enter one of their most beautiful seasons. Golden sunlight stretches across Table Rock Lake, forests begin their colorful

Pumpkin decorating, tram rides to the pumpkin patch, hayrides, live entertainment and evening bonfires with s’mores under the stars are just some of Cedar Fest’s highlights. A SATURDAY WORTH GATHERING FOR

One of the most popular attractions is Cedar Fest Festival, welcoming both over-

P H O TO C O U R T E SY S H U T T E R S TO C K

OUTDOOR COLOR AND BITES

FULL PAGE AD

}¹Ó¥ ÚüÓöêĎưưư Ó îÚ Ñü ¶ ÑÚê¥Ƶ Plan Your Trip Today

|¹î¹öÚê 1Ó¯Ú ¥Óö¥ê ůűŭưűŲųưŪűűū

|¹î¹ö.¥êÑ ÓÓư ÚÑ

LET’S GO REGIONAL TRAVEL GUIDE night guests and day visitors. Families can enjoy pumpkin decorating, seasonal crafts, hayrides, live entertainment and activities designed for all ages. As evening settles in, guests gather around crackling bonfires for s’mores and outdoor movie nights under the stars, creating memories that feel timeless. LUXURY MEETS THE OUTDOORS

For travelers seeking a deeper connection to the outdoors, Camp Long Creek offers an elevated glamping experience that combines adventure and comfort.. Located along the shores of Table Rock Lake, Camp Long Creek features luxury tents, shepherd’s huts and cozy cabins that place guests close to nature without sacrificing modern conveniences. A PEACEFUL LAKESIDE ESCAPE

Autumn is an ideal time to experience Camp Long Creek as cool mornings invite you to sip coffee on a private deck while overlooking the lake. Days can be spent hiking, biking or paddling along the shoreline, while evenings are best enjoyed

around a fire pit beneath a canopy of stars. The setting feels peaceful and secluded, yet guests remain connected to all of the dining, entertainment and outdoor experiences available throughout Big Cedar Lodge. ADVENTURE MEETS RELAXATION

What makes a fall getaway at Big Cedar Lodge so memorable is its seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. One moment might be spent exploring a Cave Trail at Top of the Rock or cruising across Table Rock Lake. The next could be gathering around a bonfire at Cedar Fest or unwinding lakeside at Camp Long Creek. PLAN YOUR VISIT

For those seeking an authentic Ozarks escape, autumn delivers the region at its finest. Vibrant foliage, outdoor recreation, seasonal celebrations and luxury accommodations come together to create a destination unlike any other. At Big Cedar Lodge and Top of the Rock, fall is not merely something to observe. It is something to fully embrace.

PROMOTION

BIG CYPRESS LODGE 800-223-3333 BIG-CYPRESS.COM

As cooler temperatures arrive and travelers begin planning fall getaways, few destinations offer an experience as unexpected as Big Cypress Lodge in Memphis. While many visitors heading south have Nashville, Beale Street or SEC football on the itinerary, tucked inside one of America’s most recognizable landmarks is a retreat all its own. Located within the iconic Memphis Pyramid, Big Cypress Lodge blends outdoor adventure, architectural wonder and rustic luxury to create a getaway unlike anywhere else. From the outside, the Pyramid stands as a striking landmark along the Mississippi River. Step inside, however, and guests are transported into a world of towering cypress trees, rustic charm and wilderness-inspired design. Suspended above Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, the 103-room lodge creates an atmosphere unlike any traditional hotel experience in the country. STEP INSIDE THE PYRAMID

Accommodations range from cozy lodge rooms to treehouse-style retreats featuring screened porches, fireplaces and handcrafted details that reflect the spirit of the outdoors. Every stay blends comfort with adventure, offering guests a chance to relax while overlooking the expansive indoor landscape below.

Beyond the guest rooms, Big Cypress Lodge is filled with memorable experiences. Visitors can take the Sky High Ride, the Nation’s tallest free-standing elevator, up to the Lookout for breathtaking views of downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River. The newly reimagined Lookout offers a spectacular setting to take in the skyline, while on-site dining, bowling, shopping and attractions make the iconic Pyramid a destination where guests can enjoy a fun-filled weekend without venturing far.

Big Cypress Lodge blends outdoorsy charm with upscale comfort in the heart of Memphis.

102

SEPTEMBER 2026

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Fall is an especially inviting time to visit. Comfortable temperatures make exploring Memphis enjoyable, while evenings are perfect for unwinding with panoramic city

417MAG.COM

P H O TO C O U R T E SY B I G CY P R E S S L O D G E

RUSTIC COMFORT, ELEVATED

LET’S GO REGIONAL TRAVEL GUIDE

PROMOTION

views. With complimentary shuttle service to downtown attractions, guests can easily discover the city’s rich music, culinary and cultural scene. A NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE MEMPHIS

For visitors from the Ozarks looking for something beyond the ordinary, Big Cypress Lodge offers a fresh perspective on Memphis—combining the excitement of the city with the spirit of the outdoors in a destination that truly stands apart.

CITY OF HERMANN 573-789-0771 VISITHERMANN.COM

Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, Hermann, Missouri, often referred to as “Missouri’s Rhineland,” offers timeless charm, history and breathtaking scenery. Known as the heart of Missouri Wine Country, Hermann invites visitors to step into a world where rolling vineyards, historic architecture and warm hospitality create an unforgettable experience.

EXPLORE, DINE & DISCOVER

For outdoor enthusiasts, Hermann offers hiking trails, riverfront parks, RV & tent camping and easy access to the Katy Trail, perfect for biking or leisurely walks. Foodies will delight in local dining spots serving hearty German American fare, farm-to-table cuisine and spirits from six distilleries in the city limits. PLAN YOUR VISIT

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a wine-or whiskey-tasting adventure or a peaceful getaway, Hermann offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Be it raising a glass on a sunlit patio or exploring the town’s storied past, it’s the ideal destination to unwind and savor life’s simple pleasures.

KANSAS CITY NORTH 816-407-3620 GONORTHKC.COM

A FRESH VIEW OF KANSAS CITY A TOWN STEEPED IN HISTORY

Founded in 1837 by German settlers, Hermann has beautifully preserved its Old-World roots. Stroll through the quaint downtown, where 19th-century brick buildings house boutique shops, antique stores and cozy accommodations. History lovers can explore the Deutschheim State Historic Site and Historic Hermann Museum, offering a glimpse into the lives of early German immigrants. CELEBRATE EVERY SEASON

Hermann is known for its lively festivals celebrating German heritage, culture and community spirit. Maifest includes street vendors, German music and dancing. The summer season transforms Hermann during the Plein Air Festival in June, where artists from around the country visit and paint landscapes for competition and for sale. Each event offers a warm, welcoming, and unforgettable experience. Christmastime in Hermann is like a Hallmark movie, with German Christmas Markets, the German Bake Sale, pipe organ concerts, and the Lantern Walk.

Go North KC invites visitors to explore the welcoming communities, local flavors and unexpected adventures found throughout the Kansas City North region. Here, a weekend getaway can include everything from outdoor recreation and history to family attractions, live entertainment and one-of-a-kind shopping. ADVENTURE STARTS HERE

Visitors can spend the morning boating or hiking at Smithville Lake, step into Missouri history at the Jesse James Birthplace or enjoy the thrills of Worlds of Fun. Head west to stroll the charming streets of historic Weston, sample wines and spirits or take in live music under the stars at Riverside’s Morton Amphitheater. MADE FOR A WEEKEND AWAY

Whether planning a family escape or a couples’ weekend, the Northland makes it easy to create an itinerary that feels relaxed, affordable and distinctly local. Along the way, discover locally owned restaurants, breweries, boutiques, museums, parks and welcoming communities ready to make any visit memorable.

STAY CLOSE, EXPLORE MORE

With convenient access to Kansas City International Airport and everything the metro has to offer, Go North KC keeps visitors close to the action while giving them room to explore. YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE IS NORTH

The next Kansas City adventure starts north. Find events, attractions, dining and trip inspiration at GoNorthKC.com.

WARRENSBURG 660-262-4611 VISITWARRENSBURG.COM

The quiet calmness of Central Missouri sets the stage for a memorable and relaxing escape, a much-needed reprieve from the stresses of modern life. Spend time with the people you care about most—and yourself. The Warrensburg area offers the serene settings needed for such a getaway. EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS

Head into the outdoors and wander through Knob Noster State Park, a stunning backdrop to explore more than 21 miles of trails. Anglers will discover waterways teeming with trophy bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish, the perfect setting to reel in another story to share with family and friends. DISCOVER LOCAL CREATIVITY

All over Warrensburg, murals and sculptures embody the creative spirits that have passed through this small city. At the Gallery of Art Design on the University of Central Missouri campus, browse exhibitions spotlighting artists from around the world. SHOP AND SAVOR DOWNTOWN

Afterward, peruse locally owned shops around the city’s historic downtown. At Magnolia Market, for example, fill up on wholesome eats and sweet treats before browsing the general store’s collection of gifts and keepsakes. PLAN YOUR VISIT

Discover the many ways this cozy town is poised to make big memories. Plan your getaway to Warrensburg, Missouri—learn more and plan your trip at VisitWarrensburg.com. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

103

Kansas City Kansas City DISCOVER A DIFFERENT SIDE OF

Morton Amphitheater in Riverside, MO

GO NORTH. STAY LONGER. EXPERIENCE MORE.

Tiffany Gr

eens Go

lf Course

Parkville, MO

e, MO

ke, Smithvill

Smithville La

Just minutes north of downtown, you'll discover a region filled with family adventures, award-winning breweries, scenic parks, charming downtowns, shopping, live entertainment, history, and unforgettable dining. Plan your trip today! Scan now. .com

1/2H PAGE AD

104

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

FULL PAGE AD

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

Taste This

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

Paul’s Breakfast House serves a giant 3-pound cinnamon roll.

DIG IN!

A Blast From the Past

Paul’s Breakfast House brings over-the-top dishes and a playful theme to the Branson strip, making it an entertaining stop for your next morning meal. B Y K AT IE P OL L OC K E S T E S PHOT OG R A PHE D B Y B R A N D ON A L M S

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

107

TasteThis

hen paul’s breakfast House first opened in Branson, we were excited to hear that it was owned by the same team that runs Billy Gail’s (a.k.a. Branson’s beloved breakfast joint that has been feeding hungry diners since 1995). That could only mean one thing: These folks know breakfast. The vibe could not be more different than Billy Gail’s, though. Instead of a down-home country kitsch setting, Paul’s Breakfast House leans hard into its 1980s theme. The restaurant is painted in pink, yellow and teal designs that reminded me simultaneously of Saved by the Bell, Solo jazz cups and the outfit I wore as I danced to Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire” in my second-grade talent show circa 1990. Menu items are named with twists on ’80s pop culture. Case-in-point: There’s an appetizer called Rick Rolls (breakfast eggrolls with fillings like bacon and avocado) and an omelet called The Material Girl. And like everything on the Branson strip, there’s a bit of showmanship at play here. Over-the-top enormous menu items tested the limits of what my family could consume—and my 13- and 10-year-old kids thought this was particularly entertaining. We started our meal by sharing The Big Wheel: a 9-inch, 3-pound cinnamon roll that’s topped at the table with warm cream cheese icing. We did not need 3 pounds of cinnamon roll. No one “needs” 3 pounds of cinnamon roll. But we took the challenge. T RY I T

Paul’s Breakfast House 3009 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson 417-320-1144, paulsbreakfasthouse.com Open Sunday–Thursday 7 a.m.–3 p.m., Friday–Saturday 7 a.m.–9 p.m.

108

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

Although the novelty of that giant cinnamon roll was a lot of fun, we found ourselves wishing it were a bit softer and gooier inside. The flavor was spot-on, though. And the icing was my favorite part because its cream cheese tang cut through the sweetness and kept me reaching for more bites. On to our main courses. My husband and kids all stuck to breakfast fare. Eloise went for the Fruit Stripe Stick, a shockingly enormous 12-inch-long piece of French toast, which looked like an entire loaf of bread that had been thickly sliced the long way. It was topped with four kinds of fruit and a whipped cream swirl. She was in heaven. Eli ordered The Hotline Heat skillet made with scrambled eggs, chorizo, jalapeños, onions and peppers, all topped with Cholula cream and cheese. Like the French toast Eloise ordered, it was far too large to consume in one sitting.

Oliver got one of his favorite foods: smoked salmon on an everything bagel. At Paul’s, this dish comes with pickled red onions and fat fried capers, plus an herbaceous schmear of cream cheese. The dish also came with a super-super crispy (in the best way) slab of hash browns, and a side of eggs any way you like them (hard-boiled for Oliver). After that luscious cinnamon roll, I needed something lighter, so I ordered the Berry Harvest Salad. Then, to ruin that bit of healthful goodwill for myself, I went ahead and ordered a side of one biscuit with thick sausage gravy. It was worth it.

THE SWEET SPOT / BY TESSA COOPER

Sugar & Spice buttery cardamom crumb top that makes it so addictive. And like pretty much every pastry on the menu here, the texture is 10/10. Order a smooth maple latte to pair with it, and make sure to thank us later.

P H O TO C O U R T E SY E U R A S I A C O F F E E C O .

In terms of our favorite local fall traditions, the return of the pumpkin cardamom bread to Eurasia Coffee Co. definitely makes the list. This bread is generously spiced and loaded with pumpkin, but it’s the crunchy,

Pumpkin spice bread at Eurasia Coffee Co.

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

109

TasteThis

HOMETOWN HIT

A Tasty Home Run

A historic Miller destination is serving up steaks, sweets and stories. BY T E S S A COOPER

ust about a 30-minute drive outside of Springfield lies The Dining Hall Steakhouse and Event Center, a hidden gem with a rich history in Miller, Missouri. When the current owners purchased this former Mickey Owen Baseball School site in 2023, they knew the main dining area would make an incredible steakhouse and event center. The building still show-

cases the original oak wood milled on the 80-acre property. The Dining Hall’s name is a little nod to the space’s past purpose, and historic photos and memorabilia from the past 66 years line the walls, keeping history alive. When it comes to food, the steaks are definitely the main draw. The

16oz Bullpen Ribeye pairs well with the Dugout Old Fashioned, but save room for a slice of made-from-scratch pie or cobbler. The business is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 10 p.m., and you can also book the space for a private event.

WORTH IT / BY TESSA COOPER

The catfish, collard greens and mac and cheese are all very popular offerings at Mama G’s Kitchen, and the Soul Food Tacos on the menu marry all three. Each order comes with a trio of tortillas stuffed with all the above and topped with a housemade buttery mild sauce.

110

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

When owner Gloria Hairston came up with the idea for these over-the-top tacos, she wasn’t quite sure how they would turn out. So, she put them to the taste test with her staff, who absolutely loved them. Now that they’re on the menu, the rave reviews just keep piling up.

P H O TO S BY T E S S A C O O P E R , B R A N D O N A L M S

Tacos With Soul

FLAVOR BOMB | BY TESSA COOPER

Salad You’ll Actually Crave

P H O TO BY K AT Y ST. C L A I R ; I L L U S T R AT I O N C O U R T E SY S H U T T E R STO C K

There’s an art to crafting the perfect salad. You need a variety of textures and flavors that are meant for each other. Here’s a fave.

COCKTAIL HOUR / BY TESSA COOPER

Tastes Like Team Spirit

f you’re planning on heading to a Missouri State University Bears football game this season, The Order is the perfect place to pregame the tailgate or enjoy a victory round. When you order the Vandiroar, 10% of your purchase goes to the

MSU Athletics program. It’s a refreshing game day drink that features a duo of Planteray Original Dark Rum and Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaica Rum. The Anguousta bitters ground it, while the Amaretto, tart cherry and lime brighten it all up and make it an easy drink to sip.

Billiards of Springfield is probably not the first place that comes to your mind when you’re deciding where to grab a salad for lunch. But it is the place where you’ll find one of the most delicious ones around. Allow us to introduce you to the Harvest Salad, a wonderful mix of greens, bacon, Craisins, Mandarin oranges, walnuts, Parmesan cheese and croutons, all doused in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Be sure to add on the fried chicken bites if you really want to make it a filling meal, and allot some time to play some pool with your pals (it’s complimentary with your lunch purchase).

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

111

TasteThis

Poached to Perfection After a day of apple picking, turn your harvest into a delicious dessert with this easy poached apple recipe. B Y T E S S A C OOPE R

112

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

P H O TO BY B R A N D O N A L M S

IN THE KITCHEN

pple picking season is finally upon us. If you’re searching for something easy to make after you’ve put in the hard work of collecting your lot, look no further than poached apples paired with a scoop of ice cream. We asked Kyle Davis, talented pastry chef and owner of Buttermilk, to share his recipe with us. He designed it to pair perfectly with a scoop of his business’s namesake buttermilk ice cream (available for takehome by the pint). It’s a simple way to bring fall flavors to your table. RECIPE

Easy Poached Apples With Ice Cream RE CI PE BY KYLE D A VIS

Ingredients 4 apples (Pink Lady or Granny Smith) cored and cut into halves 2 cups of white wine (Chardonnay or Riesling) 1 cup water ½ cup of white sugar 3 cinnamon sticks 3 cloves* 1 vanilla bean Zest of 1 orange To Prepare Set apples aside and combine all other ingredients in a medium pot. Bring to a simmer. Place apples in the liquid, in a single layer, and cover with a cartouche. Simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, just until the apples are tender. Once tender, pour the apples and the liquid into a pan and let rest. Serve chilled alongside a scoop of ice cream. *Tip from Davis: Feel free to experiment with adding different spices and herbs to this recipe, like dried chamomile or even pink peppercorns. Garnish with rose and violet petals.

Years

Celebrating

of Creating Beautiful Homes Spaces International Award-Winning Residential & Commerical Interior Design Team

Specializing in

Custom Furnishings, Window Treatments, Area Rugs, Flooring, Lighting, Art and Accessories

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

113

PROMOTION

Scallop Crudo Ariake 417-501-1675 | 1110 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield ariakesushirobata.com

Plate Mini Pot Roast The Garrison 802 Finley Farms Ln., Ozark | 417-210-6644 finleyfarmsmo.com/eat-drink/the-garrison

114

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

PROMOTION

The Plate

Truffle Chicken Tortellini

45 oz. Beef Ribeye Tomahawk

Mountain Top Grill 1250 Golf Club Dr., Hollister 417-339-5424 bigcedar.com/dining/mountain-top-grill

Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale 417-339-5320 | bigcedar.com/dining/osage-restaurant

Seared Salmon The Ozark Mill 417-210-6644 | 802 Finley Farms Ln., Ozark finleyfarmsmo.com/the-ozarkmill-restaurant

Get the dish before everyone else. Sign up for TableTalk and get your weekly scoop delivered every Tuesday. 417mag.com/ /newsletters

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

115

Dining Guide our dining guide features a select list of restaurants in the Ozarks. The magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants, 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. KEY

$ = less than $10, $$ = mostly $10–20, $$$ = $20 or more 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 an outdoor entertainment area. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Waffle Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, pretty desserts and boba tea at Keikeu, burgers at MO Slider Company, British pasties at London Calling, shaved ice at Sno Biz, poke bowls at Fresh Poke, barbecue at Uptown Hog, pizza at Classic Pizza Co., and more. $–$$ L  d

116

SEPTEMBER 2026

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. $   dK

BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL 3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3685919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-7325077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-7253777; 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 juicy fried pork tenderloin. $d

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. $$    d

417MAG.COM

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, onion, pickle and Baaad sauce. $   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, from tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd to the sausage roll served with pickles. $   CAFE CUSCO 234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com Peruvian. This menu is packed with dishes inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger and the Lomo Saltado. $$   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 a full night of fun plus food all in one building.There’s lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. We love the hot pretzel. It’s a crowd-pleaser. $  

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS 2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8819736; 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’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair. $–$$ B   d

BIG WHISKEY’S Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for buffalo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Don’t miss the burgers, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. $$    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.

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 with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. $–$$   d CELLAR 417 15058 Business Highway 13, Branson West, cellar417.com Bistro fare. With a great wine list and a huge deck overlooking the gorgeous Ozarks hills, this is a great spot to sip and eat with friends. A lot of the dishes have an Italian flare. Try the cacio e pepe or confit chicken. $$–$$$   d CELLAR+PLATE 2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. $$  d CHATEAU GRILLE 415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille offers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. $$$   d

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE 601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800 Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a coffee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store? Cherry Picker Package + Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. We’re fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie. $    d CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP 107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com American. With 28 beers on tap and chicken and waffles on the menu, it is easy to see the appeal of this rustic-but-comfortable restaurant and bar. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. $    d DERBY DELI Temporary address at the Frisco Building: 3253 E. Chestnut Expy., Springfield, 417-823-3551 Bistro fare. This eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Simply Green salad topped with a scoop of tarragon chicken salad. Try the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. $    DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. Brunch is served on Sundays. $$–$$$   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 farmto-table quality. Don’t miss the chocolate cobbler for dessert. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that offers up some delightful homemade ice creams and sorbets. $$   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 rosemary pound cake. $$$  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 offers must-try dishes like the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales, the blackened mahi mahi entree and excellent wagyu burgers. $–$$  

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 (especially the burger topped with blue cheese). One of our favorite things to order is the grilled salmon with sweet potato fries. $   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. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). $$    d FIRE & ICE 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com Global cuisine. This spot (located inside The Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dryaged steaks and Angus beef and has a menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger. $$   d

HARVEST RESTAURANT 8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com Farm-to-table. 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. Our tip: Order whatever seafood option is currently on the menu. $$$  d HY-VEE 1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8818224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com American and more. This is a great place to find something for every member of your family—even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and burgers. $–$$ B  

JW’S KITCHEN 2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997 British and American Southern. This tasty spot comes from the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire. It features excellently prepared 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 fried chicken or roasted Scottish salmon. $$   D LA ROUX BISTRO 300 E. Commercial St., Springfield, larouxbistro.com Cajun/French/Ozarks cuisine. The menu at this unique spot is a fusion of flavors from Louisiana with a French inflence and southwest Missouri roots—all in a restored 1885 building brimming with character. Reserve a seat in the beautiful Phenix Vault room downstairs if you can. $$– $$$  D MAMA G’S KITCHEN 2463 W. Sunshine St., Ste. 124; 210 S. Market, Ste. 124; Springfield; mamagkitchen.com Southern. Mama G’s Kitchen started out with a spot at Metro Eats (the Sunshine Street location). Now, they’ve added a second outpost (the Market St. location). Come here for comforting dishes like fried pork chops, catfish, meatloaf and more. $$ L  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. We love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new to be excited about. $$$  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, tostones, street tacos and tons more. We love the jicama taco with coconut shrimp. $$   NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE 2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. $$    NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY 1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com Deli and bakery. This full time bakery offers 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, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread. $ 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, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the delicious top-notch steaks that are on the menu here, too. $$–$$$   d

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

117

TasteThis

Dining Guide

THE ORDER at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn left 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. Brunch is excellent here too. $$–$$$  OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topoftherock.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 cocktails menu always offers created and delicious options. $$$   THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their onsite apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer. $$–$$$   d PALM & PADDLE GRILLE 2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com Caribbean. Everything has an island flair here. The coconut shrimp is a must-try, and so is the mango-habanero chicken. Their tasty jerk chicken is a filling option for the tiki tacos, along with jerk shrimp and carne asada. $$–$$$   d 118

SEPTEMBER 2026

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 offers several tasty salad options. Check website for seasonal hours. $$   REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM 2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-5974569, rebar-taproom.com. American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include charbroiled oysters, duck bacon wontons, pizza, wings and more. There are several burgers, like the Hoglager BBQ Burger. $$    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. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including flash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini. $$$  SHOW ME CHUY 1410 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715357, showmechuy.com Italian-Mexican fusion. This fusion spot offers Italian options like pasta carbonara, Mexican options like bright-and-fresh shrimp aguachile and combos of the both cuisines. For example, the penne poblano features rigatoni pasts in a poblano sauce with Mexican cheese. Brunch is served on Sundays. $    417MAG.COM

SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN 3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables 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, but recently we’ve loved the Ooo Mami Tacos filled with seared sashimi-grade tuna. $$  

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 with goat cheese, apples, honey and arugula and thyme. $$   

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 (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake. $–$$  

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE 3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com At this Texas-style barbecue spot, brisket is king. If you’re in a sandwich mood, try the City Smokestack, piled high with brisket, pulled pork, pork belly and your choice of sausage (we recommend Texas hot links). $–$$   d

THE TABLE 610 Prospect Ave., Springfield, thetable. restaurant Bistro fare. This beautiful eatery features lovely decor, a nice patio area and great eats all day. For breakfast, try the Figgy Toast. Later in the day, don’t miss the street corn dip appetizer or the brown sugar cured salmon entree. $–$ $    d TEA BAR & BITES 621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417883-2462, teabarandbites.com. Bistro fare. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. $   d

BARBECUE

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. $–$$   GETTIN’ BASTED 2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. We can’t get enough of the pork tacos appetizer. $–$$  

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 it’s still going strong. The Ozark spot and has become just as popular. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. $ FIRST WATCH 2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com Go traditional with a plate piled with crispy bacon, eggs and toast. Or order something more creative. At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls, lemon-ricotta pancakes and lots more. $   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, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. $ 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. The cardamom buns are luxurious comfort food. We love the mousse cakes, the macarons and the strawberry pancakes—or the shakshuka when we want something savory. $ d

SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE 1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913730-6224, 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. $  

CHINESE CORNER 21 1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417-771-5666, corner21sgf.com This restaurant’s menu offers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuan-style meals. Try braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and more. $   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 stuff. 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. The General Tso’s chicken is our favorite, with the perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors. $–$$   LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD Multiple locations, lucyschinesefood.com Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree, a side and fried rice. But if you’d rather eat something mega-spicy than something fried, order the hot chicken. $  

TRIPLE EIGHTS 1710 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-832-8889 The mapo tofu is a must try, with its rich and spicy sauce. The Sichuan Maocai stew is worth a taste too. $  

COFFEE SHOP FARE ARCHITECT COFFEE 1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030; 1300 E. Battlefield; architectcoffeeco.com This Instagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side offers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. $   D BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR 217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommascoffee.com This spot offers coffee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. $    d

Hours: Sun: 11:00am–5:00pm Mon–Fri: 11:00am–8:30pm Sat: 11:00am–9:30pm

Discover David’s Special and other delights at Leong’s Asian Diner, Springfield’s culinary gem. Enjoy authentic flavors, friendly service and a legacy of delicious Asian cuisine. 1540 W. Republic Rd., Springfield 417-887-7500 | leongsasiandiner.com

CAFE CUBANO 3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso Aside from all of the delicious coffee drinks, the real must-try item here is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. $    CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE 1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, classicrockcoffee.com This coffee shop offers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel). $    d

Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a 417-land favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. Experience vibrant flavors, festive ambiance and authentic Mexican cuisine! Hours: Sun.–Thurs: 11:00am–9:30pm Fri.–Sat: 11:00am–10:00pm

Carthage, Joplin, Republic & Springfield habanerosmexicancantina.com

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

119

TasteThis

Dining Guide

THE COFFEE ETHIC 124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, thecoffeeethic.com Try the single-origin coffee, brewed one cup at a time, or any of the delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic, $ d DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY 1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmulecoffee.com Dancing Mule does a really good cappuccino that’s made just right. Try the apricot pecan scone. $ 

ECHELON COFFEE 2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739; echeloncoffee.com This coffee shop has excellent espresso drinks, pour-over and more. Try The Formation (espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey). $    d

KINGDOM COFFEE 211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100 ; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com The coffee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the cortado. $    d

EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE 445 E. Commercial St., culturecstreet.com In addition to carefully crafted cups of coffee, there are excellent lunch items, like the smoky chili. $d

MUDHOUSE COFFEE 323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield; 5401 N. 22nd St., Ozark The coffee is always fantastic here, and Mudhouse also offers a wide variety of teas. The cheesecake is a must-try! $   

THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR 2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950 Asian fusion. This wholefoods cafe offers organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. The real draw here is the Mexican-Korean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. $    d THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS 840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com The menu includes classic coffee and tea offerings plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). As for drinks, we love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. $   d

DELIS

TRY IT NOW

New Must-Try South Indian Eats Up until recently, I can’t say I’ve ever tried southern Indian cuisine. And if it weren’t for the newly opened Nastha South Indian Foods, I don’t know if I ever would have gotten to try it. They invited me to come try several items off their menu, and all the spice-forward dishes were an absolute delight to my taste buds. This new food stand is located inside Bombay Bazaar (1915 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield), which is a treasure trove of a market filled with Indian spices, snacks and produce. When I arrived, they greeted me with a cup of chai made with fresh ginger and spices, and it was so amazing that I may just start going there weekly for it. I got to sample a large portion of the menu, but for now, let’s unpack one of the main draws of the menu: the dosas. This popular southern Indian street food is a bit like a savory crêpe, and it’s made with a fermented rice and lentil batter. My favorite one was the Masala dosa, which was filled with potatoes doused in spices. Although I ate quite a bit, I didn’t feel overly stuffed. As Nirav Patel, co-owner of Bombay Bazaar, explained to me, most of the Indian restaurants around here serve northern-style Indian cuisine. This is much heavier than southern style to accommodate their farming lifestyle and cold winters. Southern Indian cuisine is a bit lighter and reflects a more temperate climate. I left with a new appreciation for this type of food and feeling like I got a little social studies and geography lesson. —Tessa Cooper

120

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

THE ALMIGHTY SANDO SHOP 208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-422-0912 The sandwiches on the menu here are excellent, with options like The Mighty Burg (smash patties, garlic-bacon mayo, white American cheese), The Hamela Anderson (ham, Swiss cheese, candied jalapeños), several vegetarian options and more. Bonus: There’s a walk-up window. $  D d J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI 1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8871148, queencitydeli.com Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches (order them wet to get plenty of luscious jus). You can’t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich that’s incredibly meaty—piled high just like they do it in New York City delis. $  

MYTHICAL ‘WICH 113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another Branson favorite: Gettin’ Basted. It offers a selection of bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. $   D 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. Be sure to try the sandwich specials (also known as the secret sandwiches). $  d

DESSERTS ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our staffers love the key lime pie in the summer, and pumpkin pie in the fall). Try the classic Ozarks Turtle sundae. $ d BUTTERMILK 1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield, instagram. com/buttermilkrules Ice cream. Pastry chef Kyle Davis has brought madefrom-scratch ice cream to the Rountree neighborhood. Fun flavors include espresso ice cream and seasonal sorbets. $ d HURTS DONUT 1231 E. Sunshine St., 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. Try a maple-bacon bar. $

F R E S H N E W S IP S

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. Any of the pies made with rhubarb are superb. $–$$ 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 oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. The apple fritter is a favorite too. $ d

DINERS 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 serves overflowing bowls of chili and a few other yummy diner options (like burgers). $    DRUFF’S 331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdruffs.com Grilled cheese. Druff’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor. $   

INDIAN INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL 2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com We loved the karahi lamb and the mushroom aloo matar. Stop by for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays to try the buffet. $$  

INDIA PALACE 1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5270 The huge menu here offers Indian favorites and fun flavors you may not have tried. We love the pani puri appetizer, the samosa chaat and the lamb rogan josh. $$   NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR 3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050 Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. $$   TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT 1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573 There is a variety of naan, many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun. We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi. $$   d

ITALIAN AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING 3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta entree with seafood in a spicy tomato sauce. $$$   d BAMBINO’S CAFÉ 1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com The Poppa is a popular pasta dish with Italian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato-cream sauce. Salads here have homemade dressings. $   d

A Zero-Proof Mocktail Lounge Remember CB Social House at 314 S. Patton Ave. in downtown Springfield? One of our favorite aspects of this concept was the stunning space, which has now sat empty for far too long. But that’s about to change! Devan and Bryson Head, owners of Yallternative Eats, have partnered with a new business named Vine & Vibes to open a zero-proof mocktail lounge and events center in the space. And in even better news, they plan on offering late-night eats too. Construction on the space has already begun, and they plan on opening soon. —Tessa Cooper

PICCOLO 107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo.com When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things off with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings). Don’t miss the cannolis. $–$$   d

JAPANESE ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA 1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai offers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. Try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. For dessert, get the matcha crème brûlée. $$–$$$   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. $$$ 

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE 3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, 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

CRAFT SUSHI 251 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3195887, facebook.com/ craftsushi At Craft 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. Anything with the raw salmon is a hit as well. $$  

GILARDI’S 820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of goat cheese polenta. $$$  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. And then there’s that drool-worthy deep-fried lasagna. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. For dessert, we love the chocolate torte and the rich and delicious tiramisu. $$ 

HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR 3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, 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 off the sushi menu and try some of the entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango-jalapeño ahi tuna entree. $$– $$$  

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

121

Dining Guide

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. $$   KAI 306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaiafterdark.com This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. It has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls— so you know it’ll be delicious! $$–$$$   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 soft-boiled egg added. $  

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. $$  

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. $$  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. We love the kimchi chigae. $  

A GLOW UP

The Place To Be Vantage always makes for the perfect night date spot for obvious reasons, but there are two major draws to heading there that you might not already know about. For one, they have a fun concept on the south patio called The Terrace. This area features an exclusive cocktail menu and tabletop games like mahjong, chess and cards. Secondly, they have a membership program called the Vanguard Card. For a one-time fee of $50, you get complimentary valet parking, two glasses of sparkling wine and signature house-made chips and seasonal dip at every visit. You’ll also get early access to special events and experiences. Not sure about you, but I’m sold. —Tessa Cooper

122

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

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. You can also find ramen, beef bulgogi dishes and much more. $   d

MEDITERRANEAN CRAVE MEDITERRANEAN CAFE 1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com There’s so much good stuff on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. $$–$$$   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 soft pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. $   THAT LEBANESE PLACE 338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677 Any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stuffed grape leaves appetizer. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. $–$$  

MEXICAN 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 stuffed with beans $  

HABANERO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT + CANTINA Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com Orginally in Carthage, this Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other cities. Don’t miss the quesabirria tacos with consomme for dipping. $$   LA PALOMA 3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com This spot offers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with pic de gallo and chipotle sauce. $–$$   d LUNA MODERN MEXICAN 2925 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-3501006, dineluna.com This spot serves delicious Mexican options like guacamole made tableside, fried plantains, quesabirria tacos, spicy Yucatan shrimp (our fave!) and lots more. $$   d MEXICAN VILLA Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net This spot is a favorite among Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. $   d OXO BAR & GRILL 2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. $$    d

SEÑOR JULIAN MEXICAN BAR & GRILL 3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120 This restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. $–$$   TEAM TACO 1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com Let the little ruby-red building near Pickwick Avenue and Cherry Street be your guiding beacon to flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its taco menu. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco. $   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 Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam for a saltysweet combination. $   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. $   

PIZZA ARRIS’ PIZZA 1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, arrispizzaonline.com Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be sure to order the Athena pizza Start your meal with bruschetta. $–$$  

I L L U S T R AT I O N BY G R A C E C H I P L E Y - T H O M P S O N

TasteThis

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 spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. $–$$   CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com Wood-fired. It’s all about perfect pizza paired with champagne at this spot. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, this pizza is something like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitanstyle. Try the Hotter Than Jacquez pizza with smoke mozzarella, bacon, pepperoni and jalapeños. $$  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. $–$$   d MASO PIZZA BAR 3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047 Wood-fired. We are big fans of the pizza here, withtasty options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. $$  d

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 woodfired pizza cooked in a brick oven. Head there on a nice day to take advantage of all the backyard games. $$   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 and more. $ $

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. We really like the salads here. $–$$  

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 offer a rotating menu of small plates. $–$$   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 is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our favorite thing there: any pizza that includes bacon. $  

PUBS & BARS BEFORE & AFTER BREWING 2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandafterbrewhouse There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with zero-proof cocktails. The loaded hot pretzel is an indulgence, and they serve tasty boards that feature high-end tinned fish as the centerpiece. $$  

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB 137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com This rum bar serves handcrafted cocktails and a made-from-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. The pizza specials are always a win. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliably well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $   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, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their headquarters hosts monthly Supper Club dinners, seasonal cocktail events and more. $$–$$$

Southern

grub Sports Pub GEORGIAMACS.COM | 417.319.5770 1440 E. REPUBLIC ROAD | SPRINGFIELD

LOCAL PUB LEGENDARY POURS

UNCLE BENTLYS PUB & LOUNGE 417-881-2389 4123 S. NATIONAL AVE | SPRINGFIELD

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

123

TasteThis

Dining Guide

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY 260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; rooftopvantage.com This rooftop bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield. 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 RESTAURANT SWITCH-UP

Meet Branson’s New Euro-Inspired Cafe If you’ve ever been to 417 Vintage Market in Branson, you know this three-story treasure trove also has a coffee shop. But what you may not know is that there have been some big changes there. They’ve rebranded it from Commercial Street Coffee to LUMIÈRE Coffee & Café and moved it from the middle level to the bottom floor. It looks just like a slice of Europe with its charming front façade, marble-top bistro tables and perfect mood lighting. They’ve got all the essentials of a little Parisian café on the lineup, so we plan on heading there soon for a croissant and a cappuccino. —Tessa Cooper

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. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the Office Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$   LINDBERG’S TAVERN 318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com This storied watering hole offers hearty dishes, excellent burgers, specials that are always creative, and a Sunday brunch that’s reliably delish. $   d 124

SEPTEMBER 2026

THE ROYAL 1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, theroyalmusichall.com This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-crafted cocktails, 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. $  SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY 305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-8328277, springfieldbrewingco.com Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. $$    d 417MAG.COM

SEAFOOD & FISH CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL 815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com Come for a menu packed with excellent seafood. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. There are also some great entree salad options. $$–$$$   ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in super-fresh fish dishes made with trout that’s caught on the property. $   

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 offerings 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. $$$  d FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse. com The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stuff). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. $$$ 

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB 1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8865466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com Steaks are prepared perfectly here. The stuffed peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer—trust us, you need to taste those things! They are stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. If you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. $$–$$$   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. $$$   WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE 1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. $$$  WILL’S CHOP HOUSE 2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8696947, willschophouse.com The menu here features wagyu and Japanese A5 steaks, along with seafood dishes inspired by New Orleans and South Texas. The Gulf Flounder Opelousas is a must-try option. $$$  D

TEA ROOMS

THAI

BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM 1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe. com Try the chicken salad sandwich that comes served on freshly baked cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette. Another favorite: The gigantic couscous salad that’s loaded with tons of fresh veggies and topped with bold feta cheese. $ 

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. $–$$  

MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE 211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus desserts. You can get tea service for two (with a tiered tray and everything!). After you eat, visit the adjoining antique store. $  SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM 107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331 The homemade desserts are to die for at this beloved tea room that’s long been a staple in the town of Ozark. When you get there, be sure to order your dessert quickly before the one you want runs out— like you might want to order them before you order entrees! As for your entree, don’t miss the fresh veggie sandwich, the brightly flavored traditional strawberry soup or the creamy chicken salad. When you are finished eating lunch, spend some time exploring the antique shop that’s attached to Spring Creek Tea Room. $ 

RAMA THAI CAFÉ 2808 S. Campbell Ave.; 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. $–$$   d THAI THAI CUISINE 1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com Thai Thai Cuisine offers really great Thai food and a sweet staff. It’s perfect for when that Thai craving strikes while you’re visiting Branson! The panang curry is one of our favorite dishes there. It’s delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$   THAI SQUARE 307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-7715300, facebook.com/ Thaisquare307 From the folks who owner Rama Thai (and located just around the corner from it), Thai Square offers an excellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, but the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are both tied for a close second. $$  

THAILAND STATION 1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net Find all your favorites (curries, stir fried noodles and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. We love the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. $  

Experience the

Finest

VIETNAMESE BÁHN MÌ & ME 3405 E Battlefield Road, Suite 124, Springfield, 417-590-8500 This tasty spot is owned by a mother-and-daughter duo from Vietnam. Their banh mi sandwiches (in both classic and unexpected varieties) are the star of the show, but we love all the coffee drinks just as much. They are made using a Vietnamese phin, and the one with ube cold foam is to-die-for. $– $ $ B   HONG YEN 301 W. Battlefield., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. 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. $   d PHO KIM 3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 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. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup. $  

Hours Monday–Saturday: 4:30–11 p.m. Sunday: Closed

Lunch Hours

Monday–Friday: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

417-501-1675 1110 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

125

FULL PAGE AD

Midwest Goodbye the

P H O TO BY T E R E S A S I M P S O N

HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.

Beauty & The Beast It was a tale as old as time at Springfield Ballet’s spring performance, Beauty & The Beast. Pictured: Belle Davis, Allison Hilt and James Hilt Continued on p. 128 >>

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

127

PROMOTION

The Midwest Goodbye

People Pics

Beauty & the Beast Springfield Ballet presented Beauty & the Beast, a timeless tale of kindness and love. Audiences entered an enchanted world of entertaining characters as Beauty encountered them on her journey to meet and get to know the Beast in this original ballet.

Date: May 15

Benefiting Organization: Springfiled Ballet Location: The Landers Theatre

Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Missouri Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, The Center for Plastic Surgery - Dr. Robert & Kathy Shaw, Macaroni Kid, Springfield Ballet Guild, Cynthia Hollander, Parkcrest Dental Group, Wil Fischer Companies, glOh Studio

1. Marisa Gower and Abe Hammar 3

2. Cassy Cochrun and Ashley Fleming

4. Kadence Miller and Andrea Miller 5. Christina Rucker and Jessica Johns 6. Andy & Connie Eck 4

128

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

7. Mollie & Jared Crawford

P H O TO S BY T E R E S A S I M P S O N

3. Richard Sewell and Melina Batycki

PROMOTION

Date: June 4, 2026 Benefiting Organization: Citizens Memorial Hospital

Medical Excellence Golf Classic This fundraiser was an 18-hole, four-person scramble that supported the CMH Medical Excellence Scholarship Fund. Proceeds helped provide educational opportunities for future healthcare professionals and support healthcare in the communities CMH serves.

Location: Silo Ridge Golf & Country Club Sponsors: 417 Magazine SGC Foodservice, JE Dunn Construction, Employee Benefit Design, LLC, Triumph Medical Supplies, Craig Lehman Shelter Insurance, CloudWave, SGC Foodservice and JE Dunn Construction

1. Mike Parson, Mark Beem, Don Koenig and Kelly Parson 2. Corey Rich, Brady Vestal, Mark Cobb and RD Vestal

3. Curtis Adams, Wyatt Larimer, John Ward and Shawn Stockton 4. Keith Bode, Mark Hogan, Mike Mjelde and Steve Triplett

P H O TO S BY RYA N KO W A L S K I

5. James Jones, Josh Edge, Tim Branstetter and Jeff Moore 6. Matt Evans, Andrew Peterson, Logan Watters and Robbie Bryant

7. Chuck Venable, Jeremy Cassidy, Justin Horn and Zach Horn

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

129

PROMOTION

130

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

PROMOTION

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

131

PROMOTION

132

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

PROMOTION

417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

133

The Midwest Goodbye

WHERE’S 417?

Bring 417 Magazine on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home.

4 1

1. Estes Park, Colorado Gayle and Frank Cornella 2. Kansai International Airport, Japan Lisa Marks

134

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

3. Caribbean Cruise Missy Dumler, Lillie Baker, Nick Jimenez, Lyndsey Cunningham, Caleb Cunningham, Ellen Gray, Tammie Jimenez, Kevin Jimenez

4. Maui, Hawaii Bob and Lisa Stovall 5. Nixa, Missouri Amria searches for some lunchtime inspiration.

6. Wimbledon, England Elaine Maddux, Elizabeth VanFosson 7. Garden District, New Orleans, Louisiana Jordan Blomquist, Megan Johnson, Logan Aguirre, Lucy Aguirre, Katy St Clair

8. Gooafoss Waterfall, Iceland Amy Cauley 9. La Cabana Resort, Aruba Sharyn Davis, Jeanny Emily

10. Loiboriset, Tanzania Carl Hutchison, Randy Mayes, David Compere, Anne Keckeley Brown

Take a snapshot with the magazine, and send us 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. 417MAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

135

The Midwest Goodbye

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice Rickey Bekemeier and Derek Stokes, two lifelong friends, have been copper kettle stirrers for the Mount Vernon, Missouri, Apple Butter Makin’ Days festival for years, using the original Bekemeier family recipe. B Y A LY S S A RON E Y

Q How would you describe your roles in the festival? Derek Stokes: We cook apple butter every day of the festival. At least one kettle, sometimes two kettles during the day. But [festivalgoers] like to see the old-fashioned way they used to cook it back in the early 1900s.

Derek and Terri Stokes prepare apple butter in a traditional copper kettle.

“FESTIVALGOERS LIKE TO SEE THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY THEY USED TO COOK IT BACK IN THE EARLY 1900S.”—DEREK STOKES

136

SEPTEMBER 2026

417MAG.COM

What does the process of making apple butter the old-fashioned way look like? R.B.: You start with about three or four gallons of water, and then you start adding the peeled apples. And then it takes about six to seven hours cooking in the copper kettle before the apples will cook down. Then you add your cinnamon and sugar, and then it usually takes about a couple more hours after that. So, real simple recipe. If you’ve done it enough, it gets a thick little glaze on top, and the apples, sugar, cinnamon get all caramelized and turn that really reddish-brown pretty color. Cooking it in the copper kettle will do that. If you cook it in a steel kettle or a different kind of kettle, it won’t have that pretty red-brown color or the taste.

P H O TO C O U R T E SY M O U N T V E R N O N C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

In terms of the original Bekemeier recipe, do you know the story behind that? Rickey Bekemeier: Our family had always cooked apple butter years back, probably from the ’30s or ’40s on. I guess this opportunity came along to be able to cook it for [Apple Butter Makin’ Days]. But our family, a lot of times, would be cooking apple butter, butchering chickens and doing all kinds of stuff for our get-togethers.

It Takes A Village TO HELP YOU FIND & FEEL AT HOME.

FULL PAGE AD

Experience Matters

Staging Experts

Skilled Negotiation

Community First

Smooth Transactions

Your Real Estate Team. Here for you, every step of the way.

Janet Parsons: 417-844-6600 | Jeanna Edwards: 417-818-2000 | springfield-homes.com

FULL PAGE AD