The American National Fish and Wildlife Museum, doing business as Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium, also known as Wonders of Wildlife Zooquarium or just Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, Missouri, showcases more than 225 species of live animals, fresh and saltwater aquariums, interactive displays and educational programs. The facility, designed by Cambridge Seven Associates, opened on November 2, 2001. The attraction closed in December 2007, with the announcement of a planned expansion that would have increased the square footage of the facility by 58 percent, at a cost of $25 million. Subsequently, museum representatives have announced a much more ambitious expansion, at a cost of about $80 million. They expected to open the Conservation Education Center by the end of December 2011, with the rest of the museum planned to be open by December 2012. As of March 2017, the museum is planned to reopen on September 21, 2017 as America's Wildlife Museum & Aquarium. Additions to the planned museum include the incorporation of the International Game Fish Association Hall of Fame, currently based in Dania Beach, Florida, and the display of the Boone and Crockett Club's North American Heads and Horns Collection of big game mounts, currently housed at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming.
Our family loved this place. Our son is 1 1/2 and it kept his attention. Not only do they have the aquarium, they also have some wildlife.
When I had asked people if the price was worth it every single person said that it was worth that and more. Once I went I completely understood why. The place was HUGE! The exhibits were unique and very well taken care of. Good for all ages and it is stroller and wheelchair friendly. There are two sections. Always start with the aquarium first and I would recommend being there when they open. We spent about 3 hours going through the aquarium section at the pace of a 2 year old. It is all on a one way path so do not feel like you will miss anything. Once you get through the aquarium we had lunch at the cafe right by where you buy your ticket. It is reasonable and they have good kid options. Then we entered the actual Bass Pro shop to get to the Wonders of Wildlife part. They did such a good job with their exhibits and the history there is impressive. We spent probably 2 hours walking through that. After all that walking we then shopped for a couple of hours in the actual store. Again, it is totally worth it and we will defiantly be going again.
A great place to take the kids! The museum offers a massive oceanic environment to enjoy, underwater tunnels to see marine life, and historic boating vessels. You'll also see wildlife here too.
We think a visit here is a must-do when you're in Springfield.
Worth the trip by itself. Amazing. Grandkids loved it.
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Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium
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