Springfield and Southwest Missouri

Springfield is Missouri's third largest city (150,000 pop.) - large enough to have just about anything you could want, but small enough to avoid most big-city problems. Missouri State is located near Springfield's downtown and historic districts, in walking distance of parks, restaurants and shops.

When it comes to the arts, Springfield shines. The Landers Theatre, Springfield Ballet and Springfield Symphony represent mainstream cultural entertainment. And Branson, the Midwest's entertainment mecca, is less than an hour's drive from Springfield. Missouri State's Tent Theatre and the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts expand your choices with top productions ranging from musicals, drama and comedy to nationally known performers. Springfield also has a thriving local music scene. You'll find the beat just a few blocks from campus, whether it's alternative rock, or new country and everything in between.

Southwest Missouri is a center for outdoor activity. Many of the state's most popular lakes and parks are less than two hours away, and some of the most scenic and cleanest rivers in the Midwest are near by. It's great country for float trips, hiking, mountain biking, water skiing, swimming, fishing and just being outdoors. Students can take advantage of Missouri State's new Outdoor Recreation Center to rent equipment for canoeing, camping and a variety of other outdoor sports. Branson, one of the most popular entertainment and shopping destinations in the country, is less than an hour's drive from the city limits.