Play for free in this indoor playground while enjoying coffee, snacks, and lemonade in a family-friendly setting. www.facebook.com/thecastlecourtyard
Missouri Institute of Natural Science
2327 W. Farm Road 190, Springfield, MO
See a triceratops up close and explore cool fossils and minerals at the Missouri Institute of Natural Science, fun for the whole family! www.monatsci.org
Christian County Museum
100 E. Elm St., Ozark, MO
Step back in time at the Christian County Museum! Kids and parents can explore local treasures and stories together. www.ccmohistoricalsociety.com
Springfield Mural Walk
Available at various locations in Springfield, MO
Explore Springfield’s mural scene! Discover 40 murals around the city, perfect for photo ops and a fun outdoor tour. www.springfieldmo.org/blog/post/40instagrammable-murals-around-springfield
First Friday Art Walk
Available at various locations in Springfield, MO
Explore art, music, food, and fun at the First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Springfield! Free, self-guided, and happening the first Friday of every month. www.springfieldarts.org/ first-friday-art-walk
“Free Family Fun” continues on page 9
Graddy
AY H US
World’s Largest Fork
2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, MO
See the giant 35-foot fork in Springfield! Once the tallest in the world, it’s still the heaviest at 11,000 pounds. www.roadsideamerica.com/story/12188
Branson Landing
Fountain
Show
Branson Landing
Stroll the scenic boardwalk and watch the free daily water, fire, light, and music show at the town square. www.bransonlanding.com/pages/fountains
Mother’s Garden
941-85 S. Jefferson Ave. , Lebanon, MO
Enjoy a free self-guided stroll through the beautiful outdoor sculptures and art installations.
Sparky Downtown Trolley
Downtown Branson, MO-12 stops
Hop on the free trolley to explore Downtown Branson, Branson Landing, and the Convention Center with convenient looped service year-round. www.ridesparky.com/ how-to-ride-the-trolley
“Free Family Fun” continues on page 12
LEARNING BEYOND WALLS!
After over 25 combined years in education, there was a moment when our founders, Kim Brubaker and Katie Eisenhour, realized a devastating fact: children spend their days sitting still, memorizing information, and rushing from one assignment to the next — yet they aren’t truly learning. We wanted something powerfully different. Something richer, more meaningful, and deeply connected to childhood.
That desire led us to create Academy 1776, a project-based farm school.
Education goes beyond textbooks and desks here. Our belief is that children learn best through real-world projects, outdoor exploration, entrepreneurship, hands-on experiences, and meaningful relationships. Whether they are planting in the garden, caring for animals, building structures, or working together to solve problems, students are actively engaged in learning that feels purposeful and alive. Children need room to wonder, create, and explore to grow into confident individuals who know how to think, not what to think.
The most meaningful learning happens when students are personally invested. Worksheets and computer programs will never foster that kind of investment. However, give students a mission using the same lessons and their learning skyrockets! Project-based learning means that students are given a task to complete or a problem to solve. Through research, trials, lessons, and communication, students develop problem-solving skills, while simultaneously building resilience and strong work ethics. For example, we asked incoming students what they would like to manage on the school farm. Boom! Instant investment! From businesses, turkeys, and a pumpkin patch, they’re already thinking about their goals and how to teach and share it with one another. This is the type of learning children won’t get in a traditional school setting.
Education shouldn’t be about funding and test scores. It should build character, resilience, curiosity, faith, leadership, and a lifelong love of learning. We want students to leave our school not only academically prepared, but also confident, capable, and compassionate young men and women. That is the heart behind our school — and the reason we are so passionate about this journey.
Route 66 Museum
915 S. Jefferson Ave., Lebanon, MO
Explore a 1950’s gas station, classic diner, antique car, and Route 66 memorabilia on a free self-guided tour. www.lebanon-laclede.lib.mo.us/66museum/route-66-museum-home
Dewey Short Visitors Center
4500 Historic Hwy. 165, Branson, MO
Explore interactive exhibits, watch a short lake history film, enjoy kids’ activities, and take in stunning views of Table Rock Lake. www.explorebranson.com/profile/ dewey-short-visitor-center/299
Chick-fil-A Story Time
3700 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO
Every Wednesday 8:30am (only when Springfield school district is in session). www.facebook.com/cfasglenstone
Shepherd of the Hills
Fish Hatchery
483 Hatchery Rd., Branson, MO
See 700,000+ trout, watch an educational video, explore interactive exhibits, feed fish, hike scenic trails, and enjoy a picnic. www.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/ places/shepherd - hillsconservation-education-center
Sculpture Walk
Available at various locations in Springfield, MO
Discover Springfield’s outdoor “museum without walls”! Sculpture Walk Springfield showcases rotating public sculptures each year, adding art, beauty, and fun to the city. www.sculpturewalkspringfield.org
“Free Family Fun” continues on page 13
Kids workshop - while Supplies last (ages 5-12)
2104 E. Independence St., Springfield, MO
Join us every first Saturday of the month at The Home Depot. www.homedepot.com/c/kids-workshop
Rutledge-Wilson
Farm Park
3825 W. Farm Road 146, Springfield, MO
Explore animal barns, playgrounds, trails, a fishing pond, native prairie, and gardens while experiencing authentic farm life on 207 acres. www.parkboard.org/farmpark
Splash Pads
• Howard Smith Community ParkStrafford
• Nixa Community Center - Nixa
• Jordan Valley Park - Springfield
• Downtown Park - Monett
• Rogersville Parks & RecreationRogersville
• Cribbs Family Youth Park - Bolivar
• Boswell Park - Lebanon
Kids Bowl Free Program
• Century Lanes - Nixa
• Table Rock Lanes - Reed Springs
• Andy B’s Entertainment - Springfield
• Enterprise Park Lanes - Springfield
• Sunshine Lanes - Springfield
Kids ages 2–15 can enjoy 2 free bowling games every day all summer long. Registration required at Kids Bowl Free. Check your participating location for exact dates and availability.
Cool off this summer at local splash pads featuring fountains, sprinklers, and water fun the whole family can enjoy!
Drowning is
accidental cause of death for ages 1-4
We are a full-service animal hospital and welcome both same-day urgent cases as well as pet patients in need of routine medical, surgical, reproductive care and dental care. SPECIALTY SURGERY AND DENTISTRY
We are a full-service animal hospital and welcome both same-day urgent cases as well as pet patients in need of routine medical, surgical, reproductive care and dental care. SPECIALTY SURGERY AND DENTISTRY
MONDAY
Rebar Kitchen & Taproom
2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO
All day, get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
Amigos Mexican Restaurant
2259 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO
All day, kids ages 10 & under receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink NOT included.
Pasta Express
Three locations, Springfield, MO
From 3–9pm, kids receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink included. Dine- in only.
The original Comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
The Roost Bar & Grill
4216 S. Cox Rd., Springfield, MO
2025 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO
2510 S. State Hwy. MM, Republic, MO
From 6 PM–close, get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
Village Inn
Springfield, Republic, and Ozark, MO
From 10 AM–close in Springfield and all day in Republic and Ozark, kids ages 9 & under receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink NOT included.
“Kids Eat Free” continues on page 17
Tuesday
Big Whiskey’s
Ozark, Branson, Republic, Nixa, and Springfield, MO
From 5-9pm, receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
Pizza Ranch
2259 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO
All day, kids ages 10 & under receive one free kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink NOT included.
Prima’s Mexican Kitchen
Springfield and Ozark, MO
All day, kids 10 & under receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink NOT included.
The original Comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
Bistro 160
1897 N. State Hwy. CC, Nixa, MO
50% off kids meal with adult entree. 10 & under.
Bob Evans
801 W. Main St., Branson, MO
From 4-9pm, receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
“Kids Eat Free” continues on page 30
U-PICK FARMS!
Fun, Fresh & Best Of All Local!
Find A U-Pick Farm Near You!
Amber Lane Farm
3088 E. Farm Rd. 88, Springfield, MO
Riverdale
Berry Farm LLC
889 W. Riverdale Dr., Nixa, MO
High’s Berry Farm
879 Crabapple Rd., Ozark, MO
Tindle Family Farm
635 State Hwy. JJ, Sparta, MO
Rausch’s Blueberries
21655 Hwy. H, Monett, MO
Gooseberry
Bridge Farm
177 Elm Grove Rd., Rogersville, MO
Sunshine Valley Farmstand
8125 State Hwy. AD, Rogersville, MO
Missouri Berries
2097 S. State Hwy. PP, Republic, MO
Swiss Berry Patch, LLC
13920 W. State Hwy. TT, Republic, MO
B Berry Farms
96 Dusty Dr., Elkland, MO
Persimmon Hill Farm
Gourmet Foods
367 Persimmon Hill Ln., Lampe, MO
Pa’s Posey Patch
21501 Farm Rd. 1120, Cassville, MO
Exeter Corn Maze LLC
20946 Farm Rd. 1057, Exeter, MO
Murphy Orchard
255 U.S. Hwy. 60, Marionville, MO
Gardener’s Orchard
4455 W. Farm Rd. 2, Brighton, MO
IronGate Berry Farm
16225 Johnson Rd., Eldridge, MO
Black & Blue Berry Farm
5313 S. Farm Rd. 241, Rogersville, MO
Ozark Mountain Orchard
2949 Pleasant View Rd., Highlandville, MO
Tasty Acres
Strawberries & More
3495 E. State Hwy. AA, Springfield, MO
Big money lessons start with everyday moments. From first savings goals to first debit card swipes, give your child the tools to build smart money habits with confidence.
2026 FIREBURST FIREWORKS
OVER TABLE ROCK LAKE
Enjoy one of the area’s most spectacular fireworks shows!
LOCATION: Kimberling City Bridge
INDEPENDENCE DAY @ BRANSON LANDING
Featuring a live concert and spectacular fireworks show!
LOCATION: Branson Landing
RED, WHITE & BOOM
Fireworks, bounce houses, laser tag, & free swimming at the pool!
LOCATION: Main St. Mt. Vernon FAMILY FUN PLANNER
AMERICA’S 250TH DOWNTOWN CELEBRATION
Celebrate America’s birthday with live music, family fun, and patriotic festivities!
LOCATION: Downtown Lebanon
MARSHFIELD’S INDEPENDENCE DAY
Enjoy three days of family fun, live entertainment, great food, and patriotic festivities for all ages!
LOCATION: Webster County Square
7/3 5:15- 9PM
7/5
MAKE TIME FOR ONE MORE SUMMER TRIP
By: Ladona Weathers, IMO
Our pick for a back-to-school getaway is Table Rock Lake. It is close to Springfield, easy to get to and gives families a simple way to enjoy one more trip before the school year begins.
HERE’S WHY TABLE ROCK LAKE IS A SMART CHOICE FOR FAMILIES.
1. START WITH LAKE TIME.
Table Rock Lake is the main reason families visit. Plan time for swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking or simply relaxing near the water. The lake stays comfortable for swimming until late September, so families can enjoy the water with smaller lake crowds after the busy summer season.
2. ADD A FEW FAMILY-FRIENDLY STOPS.
There are several attractions nearby that work well for kids and families. Talking Rocks Cavern offers cave tours, gemstone panning, mini golf and nature trails. The Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum in Branson West gives families a chance to learn more about American history and heritage. Silver Dollar City is also close to the lake and offers rides, shows, food and fun for all ages.
3. CHOOSE A PLACE TO STAY THAT
FITS
YOUR FAMILY.
Staying a couple nights can make the trip feel less rushed
VisitTableRockLake.com lists several types of lodging, including resorts, cabins, condos, vacation homes, campgrounds and houseboats. Families can search for places near the lake, near Silver Dollar City or close to other activities they want to enjoy.
A back-to-school getaway does not have to be complicated. With a little planning, families can enjoy time on the water, explore nearby attractions and make a few more summer memories before the school year begins.
For where to stay, what to do and trip ideas, visit VISITTABLEROCKLAKE.COM.
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
7/4
11AM9:30PM
FREEDOM & FIREWORKS
Fun activities for kids of all ages!
LOCATION: Monett South Park
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
7/4
9:30-10PM
4TH OF JULY FIRE & THUNDER FIREWORKS
Celebrate with a fun-filled annual fireworks show that’s perfect for the whole family to enjoy!
LOCATION: Shell Knob Bridge
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
7/47/11
TIMES VARY
LACLEDE COUNTY FAIR
Enjoy fair fun with carnival rides, live entertainment, delicious food, & activities for all ages! Prices vary!
LOCATION: Lebanon Fairgrounds
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
FIRST ON FRONT
Bring the whole family out for live music, food trucks, & a fun-filled community celebration!
LOCATION: Cassville Aquatic Center
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
MOVIES IN THE PARK: MINECRAFT MOVIE (PG)
Enjoy a magical movie under the stars! Bring blankets & chairs!
LOCATION: McCauley Park
ROAR EXPO
7/10 6-9PM
7/25 BEGINS AT DUSK
Featuring bounce houses, a petting zoo, free haircuts & more!
LOCATION: Republic Community Center FAMILY FUN PLANNER
CINEMA
8/1 3-7PM
LOCATION: Gillioz Theatre FAMILY FUN PLANNER
SUNDAYS: JUMANJI (1995) (PG)
Catch this free movie at the historic Gillioz Theatre!
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
SWEET SUMMERTIME FLOAT
Experience a guided float on the James River! Followed by an ice cream bar! $15 per person!
LOCATION: Lake Springfield Park
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
KIDS FREE FISHING
Kids 15 & under enjoy FREE fishing at Roaring River State Park!
LOCATION: Roaring River State Park
8/2 2PM
8/8 5:307:30PM
8/15 7AM-8PM
TUESDAY CONT.
Palm and Paddle
2515 S. Campbell Ave. Suite 400, Springfield, MO
All day, get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Can not be used with other offers.
Coyote’s Nixa Grille
807 N. Main St., Nixa, MO
From 5–8pm, receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink NOT included.
Ruby Tuesday’s
Springfield and Branson, MO
From 5pm–close, children 10 & under receive one FREE kids meal with the purchase of a full-priced adult entrée. Kids drink included.
The original Comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
Hip Pocket Pizza Parlor
1132 S. Ash St., Buffalo, MO
From 4-8pm, receive one FREE kids meal per family. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
HuHot
2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO
All day, get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. 10 & under.
Beaks Bar & Grill
110 Dempsey Dr. #J, Rogersville, MO
All day, get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
“Kids Eat Free” continues on page 41
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
8/18
2-6PM
BIG SUMMER BLOWOUT
High-energy family event packed with games, inflatables & more!
LOCATION: Springfield Little Theatre
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
8/218/22
TIMES VARY
CRANE BROILER FESTIVAL
Enjoy a fun-filled day with vendors, live music, carnival rides, & Crane’s Famous Chicken Dinner!
LOCATION: Crane City Park
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
8/278/29
TIMES VARY
MILLER FALL FESTIVAL
Enjoy live entertainment, vendors, food, parades & fun games!
LOCATION: Main Street Miller
SHOOT LIKE A GIRL
A unique experience to learn about shooting sports & archery!
LOCATION: Bass Pro Shops
8/288/30
TIMES VARY
MOVIES IN THE PARK:
SUPERMAN (2025) (PG-13)
Enjoy a magical movie under the stars! Bring blankets & chairs!
LOCATION: McCauley Park
20TH ANNUAL CLEVER BANDS
CAR & TRUCK SHOW
A day with amazing cars, trucks, bounce houses & fun activities!
LOCATION: Clever High School
60TH ANNUAL BILLINGS COMMUNITY FAIR
Bring the whole family out for fair fun in Billings!
LOCATION: Billings City Park
FUN PLANNER 9/49/5 TIMES VARY
SEYMOUR APPLE FESTIVAL
Celebrate with live music, food, vendors, all types of apples, contests, & family fun for all ages!
LOCATION: Seymour Town Square
FUN PLANNER
CONWAY COMMUNITY DAYS
A fun-filled weekend with a free carousel, raffles, & family fun!
LOCATION: Conway Community Center
9/109/12 TIMES VARY
9/119/12
TIMES VARY
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
9/119/12
TIMES VARY
MISSOURI CELTIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES
Celebrate local heritage with a lively festival! Prices vary.
LOCATION: Dallas County Fair Grounda/Buffalo City Park
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
9/12
11AM-7PM
12TH ANNUAL MO FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Come hungry to the Missouri Food Truck Festival in Springfield!
LOCATION: Ozark Empire Fairgrounds & Event Center
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
9/12
7PM
CASSVILLE ROTARY CLUB DEMOLITION DERBY
Get ready for a high-energy action packed night!
Kids 5 & under get in FREE!
LOCATION: Bill Hailey Arena
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
9/12
3PM
HILLBILLY DAYS
Hillbilly Days is back! Don’t miss the 3pm parade & festival!
LOCATION: Main St. Reeds Spring
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
9/13
2PM
CINEMA SUNDAYS: COCO (PG)
Catch this free movie at the historic Gillioz Theatre!
LOCATION: Gillioz Theatre
BLUEGRASS ON THE SQUARE
Enjoy a lively bluegrass festival with live bands, food trucks, & fun activities for all ages!
LOCATION: Greenfield’s Corner of Main & College
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
MOVIES IN THE PARK: HAROLD & THE PURPLE CRAYON (PG)
Enjoy a magical movie under the stars! Bring blankets & chairs!
LOCATION: McCauley Park
FAMILY FUN PLANNER
SHOW ME REPTILE SHOW
Explore a family-friendly expo with reptiles & exotic animals! Prices vary.
LOCATION: Ozark Empire Fairgrounds
9/19 5PM
9/26 BEGINS AT DUSK
9/26 10AM3:30PM
upcoming fall events with environmental services
Boo At the bin
Thursday, Oct. 22 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
at the bOO bin bOO at bin the at Franklin Avenue Recycling Center (731 N. Franklin Ave.)
Join us for the 4th annual Boo at the Bin for a family-friendly night of fun! A variety of equipment, activities and treats will be available to help families learn about recycling and other city resources. Dress up in your favorite costume.
Pumpkin Smash Pumpkin Smash
Saturday, Nov. 7 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Yardwaste Recycling Center (3790 S Farm Rd. 119, Brookline)
Bring your shriveling pumpkins to be dropped from a fire truck or to smash on your own for some fun with pumpkin recycling.
Learn more by following:
WEDNESDAY
Buffalo Wild Wings
900 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield, MO
From 5pm–close, kids 12 & under receive one 50% off kids meal with the purchase of an adult entrée. Kids drink included.
Andy B’s
Springfield and Branson, MO
All day, kids 12 & under receive one FREE kids meal with every menu item purchase of $9 or more. Kids drink included.
Whole Hog Café
Multiple locations, Springfield, MO
From 5pm–close, receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
The original Comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
Cabos Bonitos
Grill
& Cantina
3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO
Receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included. Be sure to reference the Kids Directory when checking out.
Boone’s BBQ Barn
5260 S. Scenic Ave., Bolivar, MO
Get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only.
“Kids Eat Free” continues on page 42
THURSDAY
The Catfish Cafe
1210 S. Ash St., Buffalo, MO
From 4–8pm, receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
Double E Burger & Ice
Cream Shoppe
339 Kentling Ave., Highlandville, MO
All day, kids 12 & under receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchase of $5.99 or more. Dine-in only. NOT valid with other offers or coupons. Kids drink included.
The original Comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
Saturday
Rosie Jo’s Cafe
1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, MO
After 4pm, kids 10 & under receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink included.
Weekends
Qdoba
All locations, MO
All day, kids 12 & under receive one 50% off kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink included. Child must be present.
“Kids Eat Free” continues on page 57
Found on Facebook!
Aurora MO & Surrounding Area
Babysitting Community
A community for finding reliable babysitters and childcare providers.
417 Moms
A welcoming community for 417-area moms to connect, share, and support each other.
417 Mom Group
A 417 moms community for advice, playdates, and friendship.
Nixa Moms
A Nixa moms community to connect, chat, build friendships, and stay updated on local events.
417 Moms - Go, Plan, Do
A community of moms sharing local activities, events, and ideas for fun family memories.
Walking Mamas of Springfield MO
A moms group focused on walking, staying active, and enjoying time outdoors with kids.
La Leche League of Springfield, MO
Monthly breastfeeding support meetings for parents and parents-to-be.
Springfield Moms on the Run
A supportive community for women focused on fitness, fun, friendship, and a healthy lifestyle.
Springfield, Missouri Moms
A Springfield moms community for friendship, parenting support, and connection.
417 Crunchy Moms
A 417-area community for naturalminded moms to connect, share, and support each other.
Making Mom Friends (Missouri)
A supportive space for local moms to connect online and in person, build friendships, and find community.
Kid Connection- A Homeschool Social Club
Connect with local parents to socialize homeschooled kids through group activities and meetups.
Branson Mamas
A Branson-area moms community to connect, share advice, and stay updated on family-friendly events.
Springfield Special Needs
A community for individuals and families to connect and find disability resources, services, and support.
“Mom Groups” continues on page 47
Found on Facebook!
M.O.C.H.A (Moms of Children who Have Autism)
A local moms community for playdates, moms’ nights out, and supportive connection.
The Mom Walk CollectiveSpringfield, MO
A welcoming moms community to connect, share support, and build your village.
417 Mom Meetup
A friendly moms community to meet up, connect, and share local get-togethers.
Moms Group Lebanon
A Christian moms community focused on friendship, faith, and monthly meetups during the school year.
MomCo
A faith-based moms community for connection, growth, and local fellowship.
Branson Moms Connect
A Branson-area moms community to connect, share ideas, and build friendships through playdates and meetups.
Repmo Mamas- Republic, MO
A Republic-area moms community to connect, share advice, and support each other.
”Hey
girl, are you free?” *Springfield, MO area*
A Springfield-area community to connect, make friends, and enjoy social activities and outings.
417 Christian Crunchy Moms
A faith-based 417 moms community focused on natural living, shared values, and support.
Moms Around the Grove
A NW Greene County community for moms, and caregivers to connect, share resources, and join local events.
417 Progressive Parents
A 417-area parenting community focused on inclusive, evidence-based, judgment-free support.
Moms Of Bolivar
A Bolivar-area moms community to connect, share advice, and support each other.
EVERY MOM at Clever First Baptist
A monthly moms’ meetup with guest speakers, childcare, brunch, and coffee for support and connection.
Lebanon
Missouri Mom Friends
A Lebanon-area moms community to connect, build friendships, and support each other.
Get lost in the maze, pick your own sunflowers, and enjoy a full day of farm fun with pumpkin painting, giant slides, and cozy bonfire treats!
County Line Farm
6610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO
Pick your own pumpkin straight from the vine, test your aim with pumpkin paintball, and get lost in the corn maze at this family-owned fall favorite!
Murphy Orchard
255 U.S. Hwy. 60, Marionville, MO
Experience a true taste of Marionville at this beloved family orchard, offering a bounty of fresh produce and pumpkins all through September and October!
Fieth Family Farm
1663 E. 490th Rd., Bolivar, MO
Climb into the treehouse, zip down inflatable slides, and explore a variety of mazes for a fall festival experience the kids will never forget!
Fassnight Farm
1366 S. Fort Ave., Springfield, MO
Located in the heart of Springfield, Fassnight Farm offers an easy stop for pumpkins, gourds, mums, and seasonal fall décor, all in one convenient place!
Aurora Maize 20591 County Rd. 2200, Aurora, MO
Hunt zombies from an army truck, sing karaoke in the Big Barn, and conquer the five-acre corn maze for an unforgettable day of farm-style thrills!
Gardener’s Orchard
4455 W. Farm Rd. 2, Brighton, MO
Conquer the corn maze, dive into the ball barn, and ride the hay wagons for a full day of family memories and freshpicked pumpkins!
“Corn Mazes & Pumpkin Patches” continues on page 53
McKenna Family Farm
3265 State Hwy. F, Branson, MO
From bouncing on giant pads and racing in gerbil wheels to navigating pallet mazes, every corner of this farm is built for non-stop Family fun!
Pickin’
Patch Farm
22813 Hwy. ZZ, Marionville, MO
Your one-stop shop for fall décor and fun, featuring pumpkins, mums, and corn stalks alongside classic hayrides and a family-sized corn maze!
Get ready for a full day of fall fun featuring a giant corn maze, hayrides, a 150’ two-lane slide, apple cannon, jump pillow, tractor pull, corn pits, games, photo ops, and so much more!
Campbell’s Maze Daze & Pumpkin Patch
177 Carob Rd., Clever, MO
Whether you’re navigating the maze or picking the perfect pumpkin, this is your go-to spot for classic fall memories & group fun!
Ozark Nightmares
Haunted House
22599 Hwy. 32, Lebanon, MO
Enjoy classic tractor-pulled hayrides and a corn maze by day, then stick around for the ultimate thrill in their haunted house and spooky nighttime maze!
Hale’s Harvest
4193 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO 1579 U.S. Hwy. 60 E., Republic, MO
Whether you’re in Springfield or Republic, grab your pumpkins and stay for the adorable photo ops and hand-picked autumn decorations!
The Pumpkin Patch at 83 & Vine Farm
1171 E. 412th Rd., Bolivar, MO
Hop aboard the train to the pumpkin patch for a day of ‘play town’ adventures, giant hayloft slide, and two custom playgrounds for all ages!
Exeter Corn Maze
20946 Farm Rd. 1057, Exeter, MO
From its spooky roots to its magical pumpkin patches, this family-owned destination is the perfect place to get lost in a corn maze and create enchanting autumn memories!
Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park
3825 W. Farm Rd. 146, Springfield, MO
Hop through the bounce houses, ride a pony, and visit the petting zoo before taking a trip to the pumpkin patch!
TEACHING KIDS ABOUT MONEY STARTS AT HOME!
At AGCU, we believe financial education is one of the most valuable gifts parents can give their children. While we provide financial services for families, our passion goes beyond banking—we want to help the next generation build healthy money habits that last a lifetime.
Many adults can remember their first lesson about money. Maybe it was saving allowance in a piggy bank, earning money through chores, or setting aside funds for something special. Those simple experiences often become the foundation for future financial decisions. One of the easiest ways parents can teach financial responsibility is through four basic concepts: Save, Share, Spend, and Earn.
Saving helps children learn patience and goal setting. Sharing teaches generosity and compassion. Spending wisely encourages thoughtful decisions. Earning helps kids understand the connection between work and reward.
These lessons don’t require complicated budgets or financial expertise. Some of the best conversations happen during everyday moments—at the grocery store, while planning a family outing, or when a child receives birthday money.
Children learn by watching the adults around them. When parents model healthy financial habits and talk openly about money, kids gain confidence and develop skills they can use throughout their lives.
The goal isn’t to raise financial experts overnight. It’s to help children build a strong foundation that will serve them well in the future.
SUNDAY
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Springfield & Nixa Locations
All day, receive one FREE kids meal with every $15 adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included.
King’s Asian Chef
1336 N. Glenstone Ave. , Springfield, MO
All day, get one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée or combo purchased. Choose from junior-size cashew chicken or sweet and sour chicken. Limit three FREE kids meals per table. Dine-in only. Kids drink NOT included.
Slim Chicken
1941 Elm St., Lebanon, MO
All day, receive one kids meal for $2.99 with each adult entrée purchased. Kids drink included.
Social BTB
101 S. Main St., Nixa, MO
All day, receive one FREE kids meal with each adult entrée purchased. Choose from a grilled cheese sandwich or twopiece chicken tenders, served with a half order of fries. Kids drink NOT included.
Moe’s Southwest Grill
2212 W. Hwy 76, Branson, MO
DID WE MISS ONE?
All day, receive one FREE kids meal with every adult entrée purchased. Dine-in only. Kids drink included. guide in the Ozarks!
The original Comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
KD Directory
Your Go-To Business Listings
Cafés
Mochas and Meows
3265 Falls Pkwy. V, Branson, MO (417) 598-5195 www.mochasandmeows.com
Childcare
Kids Inn Childcare
1511 E. Lark St., Springfield, MO (417) 368-0076 www.kidsinnchildcare.com
Community Resouces
The Arc of the Ozarks
1501 E. Pythian St., Springfield, MO (417) 864-7887 www.thearcoftheozarks.org
Greene County Library Center
4653 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO (417) 882-0714 www.thelibrary.org
Springfield Conservation Nature Center
4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield, MO (417) 888-4237 www.mdc.mo.gov
Nova Center of the Ozarks
1311 E. Woodhurst Dr., Springfield, MO (417) 889-3121 www.novacenteroftheozarks.org
Safe Kids Springfield
1965 S. Fremont Ave. Suite 240, Springfield, MO (417) 820-6671 www.safekidsspringfield.org
YMCA - Ozarks Regional
323 N. Patton Ave., Springfield, MO (417) 862-8962
www.orymca.org
Dental
Expedition Pediatrics
Dentistry & Ortho
1250 E. Walnut Lawn St., Springfield, MO (417) 719-7862
www.expeditiondental.com ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!
Entertainment & Attractions
Andy B’s - Branson
405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, MO (417) 213-8631
