There’s something about a random 70 degree spring day in March that makes you want to cancel whatever you had planned and just be outside.
If you’re in the Springfield area and trying to figure out how to take advantage of a perfect weather day, here are a few of my favorite easy and local spots that are made for soaking up the sunshine.
Walk and Shop Cherry & Pickwick
If you’re in the mood for a slow, easy afternoon, start at Cherry and Pickwick.
This little pocket of Springfield has some of the best local boutiques, coffee spots, and restaurants. Park once and wander. Grab an iced coffee at Cherry Pickers or Tea Bar and Bites, pop into a few shops, and take your time.
It’s one of the simplest ways to enjoy a beautiful spring day in the Ozarks without needing a full plan. And if you keep wandering down Pickwick, you’ll pass some of the coziest, most charming homes in the Rountree neighborhood that are definitely worth the stroll.
Pickleball in the 417
When the weather hits 70, the pickleball courts in Springfield start filling up fast.
Meador Park and Phelps Grove are two go-to outdoor spots in Springfield. Whether you’re playing to win or just hitting the ball around for fun, it’s an easy way to get outside and stay active. Bring your friends or family and make an afternoon out of it at one of these local favorites.
Fellows Lake
If you want something that feels a little more outdoorsy, head out to Fellows Lake.
It’s close enough to Springfield to be convenient, but it feels like you escaped town. With over 25 miles of trails for hiking, fishing docks, picnic areas, and more, Fellows Lake has way more to do than most people realize — and the calm, family-friendly atmosphere makes it easy to spend a whole afternoon out there.
On a breezy 70 degree day, it’s hard to beat!
Kingdom Coffee + Lone Pine Trail
Grab a drink from Kingdom Coffee on Lone Pine and head to the nearby stretch of the Lone Pine Trail. It’s flat, easy, and perfect for a casual walk where you can actually talk and enjoy the sunshine. If you still have work to finish, their outdoor seating lets you soak up the weather while staying productive. And as a bonus, they truly have some of the best coffee and treats in Springfield.
It’s the perfect option when you want a change of scenery but still need to get something done.
Phelps Grove Park
Phelps Grove Park is one of the best spots in Springfield for a warm spring afternoon. The mature trees, wide open green space, and paved walking loop make it an easy place to spend a few hours outside.
If you have a hammock, bring it — there are plenty of sturdy trees that make it easy to set up and relax for a while. No hammock? A blanket and a book work just as well.
On a 70 degree day, it’s hard to find a better place to just enjoy being outside.
Living in the Ozarks means learning to take advantage of the good days. Because if you’ve been here long enough, you know 70 degrees in March isn’t guaranteed to last.
But that’s also what makes it special. The parks, the trails, the neighborhoods — they really show off this time of year. And it’s a reminder of why so many people love calling this place home.
If you ever want to find a home that lets you enjoy days like this a little more often, you know who to call.
