Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO

500 W. Sunshine StreetSpringfield, MO 65807
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Starting at
$36.00
Total Price: $36.72 (USD)
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

Overview

Discover Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO, an immersive 350,000-square-foot attraction blending conservation, education, and awe-inspiring exhibits. Enjoy access to both a world-class aquarium and an extensive wildlife museum with over 1.5 miles of trails and 800+ species. Perfect for all ages!

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Good To Know

  • This one-of-a-kind fish and wildlife attraction features immersive wildlife exhibits and marine life spanning 350,000 square feet with over 1.5 miles of trails.
  • Located next to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, about 45 minutes north of Branson.
  • Experience 4D dioramas of extreme wildlife habitats, including the Native American Hall, Theodore Roosevelt’s Cabin, National Parks​, and more.
  • The Aquarium Adventure is included in admission and showcases 35,000 life fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
  • Start your visit at the Aquarium lobby and enter through the Nature's Best Photography exhibit.
  • Allow at least 3 to 4 hours for this experience.
  • Last guest entry is 15 minutes before closing.
  • Fun for kids of all ages, as well as adults who love nature and adventure.

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Diana K. Tripster User Profile Image

Diana K.

The reviews say it, and I agree - it doesn't get better than this and it's in the middle of America! Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is the largest immersive wildlife attraction in the world. Explore a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium adventure showcasing 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles and birds and a wildlife museum offering a tour of the wildest places on earth. The 350,000-square foot experience features more than 1.5 miles of immersive trails and exhibits.

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Description

Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium consists of an all-new 1.5-million-gallon aquarium adventure showcasing 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds, as well as immersive wildlife galleries that bring visitors eye-to-eye with the greatest collection of record-setting game animals ever assembled. Located 45 minutes from Branson and adjacent to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, the 350,000-square-foot experience celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water. Explore over 1.5 miles of immersive galleries that take you into the natural habitats of the animal kingdom. Get up close and personal with big game and other mammals in the Wildlife Galleries and dive into the ocean world in the Aquarium Adventure.

Aquarium Adventure
Introducing a new aquarium that plunges guests into a thrilling tour of the world’s underwater habitats with more than 35,000 animals. Visitors will encounter over 800 species of sharks, rays, jellies, eels, sports fish, and more as they are transported to some of the wildest aquatic habitats on earth.

Set sail on a voyage spanning the world’s oceans, lakes, and streams and come face-to-face with sharks, rays, jellyfish, eels, eagles, and otters, plus giant game fish from around the world that belong on every angler’s bucket list.

Learn by taking a look inside! Peek inside pop-up bubbles and come eye-to-eye with fish inside their habitats like piranhas, neon tetras, and more.

Wildlife Galleries
Go eye-to-eye with exotic wildlife! Travel around the world during your visit to the Wonders of Wildlife Galleries. State-of-the-art 4D dioramas will completely surround you with the sights, sounds, and smells of the planet's most extreme wildlife habitats. Each environment features meticulous attention to detail, including massive hand-painted murals, native foliage, and special effects that deliver the chill of the Arctic and the dry sun of the African Savanna.

Get closer than ever before with the world’s largest collection of record-setting big game animals like deer, elk, bear, bison, caribou, moose, muskox, antelope, sheep, and more, set amongst dioramas that transport you to the native environments of the species.

Special Exhibits: Wonders of Wildlife offers a variety of temporary exhibits drawing from both the museum’s own archives and collections from leading institutions around the world. Check back often to see what’s new!

Year of the Bird
Wonders of Wildlife is honored to host the exhibit, "Year of the Bird," in partnership with the National Audubon Society and Ducks Unlimited. Take flight in this exhibit as you learn of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act passed by Congress years ago to protect birds from meaningless killing. It is the most powerful and important bird protection law ever passed. In honor of the act’s centennial, nature lovers around the world joined forces to make 2018 the “Year of the Bird,” committing to protect birds today and for the next 100 years. This exhibit is located in the Wildlife Galleries.

Nature’s Best Photography
The museum includes a dedicated space for Nature's Best Photography, showcasing award-winning images from various competitions. This exhibition highlights the beauty and diversity of wildlife and natural landscapes.

The museum collaborates with Nature's Best Photography to host photography contests, encouraging both amateur and professional photographers to capture and submit their best nature photographs.

Through its exhibitions and programs, Nature's Best Photography at the museum emphasizes the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship, inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world.

Nature's Best Photography enhances the visitor experience at Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife by combining stunning visual art with important messages about nature and conservation.


Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium Reviews

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IllinoisKate1
Illinois
"All three generations loved this attraction"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed December 15, 2024 NEW
Wow, we walked away with such fond family memories. It's pricey but can easily spend 4-5 hours here. We have a couple items where it could be improved: have more signs of what fish, reptiles....etc are in the tanks. Also, need a better map how to navigate in the aquarium building. Grandpa took the elevator while we took the escalator and we both ended up in different areas. Thankful that an employee brought him to us. This is a place we will return every 3-4 years as the children grow up.
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StacyD7175
Ozark, Missouri
"This review is for the service only and not the Aquarium "
TripAdvisor user rating 1.0 out of 5
Reviewed November 27, 2024 NEW
Usually I really enjoy this place but we bought passes this year and not happy with the service. We bought the free refill cups and one of the grandkids lost the lid so I asked for another lid after standing on line 10 minutes and the gal said she would have to ask her manager. Manager said no. The grandkids spilled the drink throughout the aquarium. They made a mess accidentally throughout. This review is not for the aquarium but for the help we couldn't receive. Will not buy family passes again nor the expensive refill cups. How hard would it have been to give a lid?
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810onyxf
"Waste of time and misinformed employees"
TripAdvisor user rating 1.0 out of 5
Reviewed November 25, 2024 NEW
We have been trying to bring my daughter for 3 days in a row. We drove 20 hours because this has been one of her dreams to visit your aquarium. We went Saturday at 5pm as soon as we arrived. We were told that it would take 3 hours to complete the walk and with your aquarium closing at 7 we wouldn't be able to complete the tour. preferably come back another day atleast 3 hours before 7pm. We tried again yesterday Sunday 24th when we were done running our errands around 230. Arrived at 4pm and we're told the exact samething. Today Monday 11/25 we called ahead of time and was transfered to the aquarium representative she said if we came in at 3 it was okay because your aquarium takes the last visitor 15minutes before closing at 5pm. That's when I inquire about being told, yall closed at 7pm and she gave me the correct hours. On our way which is less than a mile, my husband called again to confirm that we could come in at 3 and we could do the aquarium tour. And once again, we were transfered to the aquarium center and was told "Yes you can come in and complete the tour" "Since our last customer we're allowed to take it's at 15 minutes before closing" we get there to the aquarium section and was told that 3pm is too late to do the tour and come back another day. We mentioned the phone conversation and the representative denied the details given to us. Stating that we won't be able to complete the tour because the aquarium closes at 5pm and that no one is allowed to join the tour 15 minutes before closing neither. Seems like your employees are confused with their job guidelines or there's some kind of miscommunication between your employees. I won't put pass that 1 of them really dislikes her job. I've worked in retail my whole life. Seen misinformed employees, rude employees and lazy ones. Never leave a review or complaint. Because it can cause someone's livelihood but this is insane, since we drove 20 hrs to get told NO every single time. At this point my daughter is discouraged and doesn't want to go anymore. Never seen her so hurt over being not allowed to visit your center. And yes I will share this experience in every platform and review websites. Not to hurt your business, but hopefully someone will listen and help your employees get informed better in their job roles and fix this issue. We leave tomorrow night. And as much as a country loving family and fans of bass pro shops this was enough for me to not visit or shop in any of your stores again.
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gottacoupon
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
"Words cannot describe it, mind-blowing FANTASTIC! Highest recommendation given."
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed November 02, 2024
Really cannot put into words how amazing this place it! Just when you think you might be approaching the final exhibit, there's another corner with more to explore. We have been twice recently and each time we allow 3 hours and it's not enough time. Everything is exceptional from the artwork, to the trophies, to the live animals, the aquarium and more. Pet a stingray and allow time at the end for the kids and the creative to color their own materpiece and watch it swim across on the BIG screen. Such a hit for everyone in our group! We LOVE going here when visiting the area. Wo well done and highest quality experience. Cannot say enough good about it. Check online for discounts, recommend the "happy hour" price.
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annpL7213KB
Walker, Louisiana
"Something special for everyone in your group"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed October 28, 2024
Johnny Morris is the founder of Bass Pro. This whole spectacle is built around the Bass Pro store n Springfield, and it is amazing! There are many different facets to it, and there is something for everyone's interest. So, the Bass Pro is the best one you have ever been in. No charge for that. There is plenty of free parking. Then, there is the NRA National Museum and National Archery Museum. Both are free, part of the Bass Pro complex, and truly interesting, if rifles and bows and archery are your thing. Displays of historic rifles are beautiful. Children would probably not be very interested in these. But hunters would totally enjoy them. Also, free, is a part of the complex dedicated to Bass Pro involvement in Nascar, including some of his race cars. Very cool! In addition, also free, is an area showcasing Johnny Morris' family life and the evolvement of Bass Pro. Also interesting to adults mostly. And then, there is the rest of the complex that cost my husband and me $40 a piece to go through. So very worth it! All in all, it took us about 6 hours to take it all in. The ticketed area its comprised of: 1. Johnny Morris wildlife Museum....an amazing taxidermy collection of animals from around the world, emphasizing Morris' dedication to conservation. This was our favorite area. Included are national trophy deer and bass collections of interest to any hunter, along with wildlife from around the world. Conservation is the emphasis. 2. Museum dedicated to the American Indian. Beautiful and touching. My personal favorite area. 3. FedEx special collection of national award winning wildlife photographs. Don't skip it! 4. The Aquarium. Probably the favorite of kids of all ages. The aquarium was fun, but we have seen equal or better. The cafe in the aquarium area was excellent. Watching the penguins swim next to us while we had lunch was fun. All in all, totally worth whatever it cost you to enter. There is something of great interest to everyone in your group.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Where is Wonders of Wildlife located?

The conservation-themed Wonders of Wildlife attraction is located in Springfield, Missouri at 500 W Sunshine Street, next to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters.

Are the Wildlife Galleries and Aquarium Adventure two separate tickets?

They are both included in the single-day Wonders of Wildlife ticket.

When is the best time to visit?

We recommend visiting during the late fall and winter months, excluding holidays. If visiting in the spring or summer months, we recommend visiting Monday through Thursday.

How long does it take to explore the galleries and aquarium?

Allow about 3 to 4 hours to explore Wonders of Wildlife. The Wonders of Wildlife complex contains over 1.5 miles of trails, including a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium. Wear a good pair of shoes to accommodate for walking.

Is this museum appropriate for kids?

Absolutely, bring the whole family! Kids will enjoy exciting, interactive experiences, while adults explore handcrafted exhibits and fascinating displays. Please note that children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Where do I park?

Free parking is located across the Wonders of Wildlife and Bass Pro Shops campus. ADA-accessible parking is available in front of the primary entrance at 1935 S Campbell, as well as outside the Aquarium’s Great Oceans Hall at 500 W Sunshine. Both entries also offer space for pick-up and drop-off access. Overflow parking is available at the Cherokee Street entrance to Outdoor World located on the south side of the building.

Is Wonders of Wildlife wheelchair and stroller accessible?

Yes. Wonders of Wildlife is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly (push-style only) with elevators available throughout. Wagons or wagon-style strollers are not permitted in the museum due to narrow walkways. Ample seating is available in various areas of the Wildlife Galleries and the Aquarium Adventure. Lawn and camping chairs are not permitted.

Does Wonders of Wildlife offer wheelchair, scooter, or stroller rentals?

Yes, wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers are available to rent during your visit for a nominal fee, and manual wheelchairs are available free of charge. All rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I take pictures inside the museum?

Yes! However, flash photography is prohibited. Guests are encouraged to take as many photos and videos as they would like of all shows and experiences.

Are dining options available?

Yes, there are two dining options on site: Fish Tales Café and the Shipwreck Snack Bar. Fish Tales offers grab-and-go items such as soups, sandwiches, pizza, and salads, as well as gluten-free options. Shipwrecks offers popcorn, slushies and bakery items. Wonders of Wildlife is also conveniently located next to Hemingway’s Blue Water Café, a dine-in experience at Bass Pro Shops.

Can I leave the museum and return on the same day?

Definitely! You are welcome to leave and come back during the day. Re-entry will require proof of purchase, such as your ticket stub and/or receipt.

Are there accommodations for nursing mothers?

Yes. A mother’s nursing room is available in the Great Oceans Hall, near the Hemmingway boat, toward the gift shop exit. Additionally, changing tables are provided in every restroom.