Wilson's Creek National Battlefield preserves one of the major early battles of the American Civil War west of the Mississippi. The rolling fields, woodlots, and creek crossings make the 1861 fight easier to understand than a plaque in town ever could.
The driving loop, walking trails, and visitor centre are the core of a visit. It is outside Springfield, but historically important enough to belong in the city's travel orbit, especially for anyone following Civil War or Missouri history.