Mansfield MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mansfield, Missouri.
1. Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum
LITTLE HOUSE HERITAGE
Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum offers visitors a chance to tour the homes where the beloved author wrote her famous 'Little House' books. The site features original family artifacts, preserved living spaces, and a rock house, creating an immersive pioneer-era experience. Fans of American history and literature appreciate the detailed exhibits highlighting Wilder's life and times.
2. Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company
PIONEER GARDENS AND SEEDS
Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company is a destination for gardeners and plant enthusiasts, featuring extensive trial gardens, greenhouses, and a vibrant pioneer village. The site hosts seasonal festivals and events that attract visitors from across the country. Guests can browse the famous seed shop and enjoy a day in a recreated historic rural community.
3. Bakersville Pioneer Village
HISTORIC RURAL VILLAGE
Bakersville Pioneer Village is a lovingly recreated 19th-century rural town located at the Baker Creek Seed headquarters. The village features original-style buildings, heritage breeds of livestock, and hosts educational demonstrations and events. Visitors enjoy stepping back in time to learn about Ozark pioneer life.
4. Mansfield Cemetery
HISTORIC RESTING GROUNDS
Mansfield Cemetery is a notable landmark in Mansfield, best known as the final resting place of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family. The cemetery is a quiet, reflective space where visitors pay their respects to these literary icons. The graves are easy to locate, and many fans visit to honor Wilder's lasting legacy.
5. Laura Ingalls Wilder Public Library
LITERARY COMMUNITY HUB
Laura Ingalls Wilder Public Library serves as a center for literature and local history, with collections celebrating both the author and the Mansfield community. The library features showcases of Wilder's books and mementos, as well as public computers and resources. It is a favorite stop for visitors looking to learn more about the area's culture and history.
6. Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch (SMORR)
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE PARK
Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch (SMORR) provides premier off-roading experiences on hundreds of acres of rugged Ozark terrain near Mansfield. Off-road enthusiasts enjoy a variety of trails for 4x4s and Jeeps, ranging from beginner routes to challenging rocky climbs. The ranch also offers camping facilities, making it a favorite for adventure seekers and families.
7. Mansfield Historical Society & Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Mansfield Historical Society & Museum preserves and displays the artifacts and stories of Mansfield's past. The museum features exhibits on local pioneers, businesses, and daily life in earlier eras. Visitors can explore memorabilia and photographs that showcase the town's unique heritage.
8. Town Square
COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE
Town Square in Mansfield serves as a picturesque green space and a hub for community events, markets, and gatherings. The area is ideal for a leisurely stroll, photography, and enjoying the small-town atmosphere. With its views of surrounding countryside and charming local shops, it's a pleasant spot for relaxation.
9. Wilder Laura Ingalls Home Rock House
ROCK HOUSE HOMESTEAD
The Wilder Laura Ingalls Home Rock House is the second home built by Laura and Almanzo Wilder, located near Mansfield. This stone cottage is preserved as it was during the Wilders' residency and is featured on guided tours. It is an essential stop for fans interested in experiencing the daily life of the famous author.
10. Wright County Library
COUNTY LIBRARY RESOURCE
Wright County Library in Hartville is a central resource for residents and visitors seeking books, archives, and community programs. The library's collection includes regional history and practical resources for all ages. Its programs and events help foster literacy and cultural engagement in the area.
11. Baker Creek Seed Store
HEIRLOOM GARDEN SHOP
The Baker Creek Seed Store is renowned for its extensive selection of heirloom seeds, gardening supplies, and helpful staff. Located within the pioneer village, the store is a favorite among homesteaders and gardening enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the historic ambiance while shopping for unique plant varieties.
12. Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
OUTDOOR RETAIL LANDMARK
The Original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Springfield is world-famous for its massive selection of outdoor gear and immersive store displays. Shoppers enjoy exploring the aquariums, wildlife dioramas, and specialty shops housed within the store complex. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventure.
13. Laura Ingalls Wilder Home Museum
AUTHOR'S LIFE MUSEUM
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Home Museum showcases personal artifacts, manuscripts, and memorabilia related to the author and her family. It offers visitors a deeper understanding of the 'Little House' legacy and the history of pioneer life in the Ozarks. Exhibits appeal to all ages and celebrate Wilder's enduring influence on American culture.
14. Bakersville Chicken Coop
HERITAGE POULTRY EXHIBIT
Bakersville Chicken Coop is an authentic heritage poultry exhibit located behind the seed store at Bakersville Pioneer Village. The coop houses a variety of breeds, providing an educational opportunity for visitors to learn about historic farming practices. It is especially popular among families and school groups.
15. Branson Landing
WATERFRONT SHOPPING AND DINING
Branson Landing is a vibrant waterfront development offering a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options along scenic Lake Taneycomo. The site features a boardwalk, live music, and a dazzling water and fire show. It is a popular day-trip destination for visitors to the Mansfield area seeking urban excitement and variety.