American National Fish and Wildlife Museum - Springfield MO Wildlife Park Zoo Museum

The official name, the American National Fish and Wildlife Museum in Springfield, is simply too long. Operating as Wonders of Wildlife for the last several years, almost since its inception, in fact, the museum houses more than 225 varieties of live animals as well as saltwater and fresh water aquariums. The aim of the museum is to replicate the habitat of the Ozarks to bring the public closer to wildlife for the long term benefit of both.

The facility opened in 2001. It was partially funded and solidly supported by John Morris, the founder of Bass Pro Shops. The museum cost $52,000,000 to construct and is massive, clocking in at 92,000 square feet. Many of the latest zoo-keeping tricks were leveraged to give a rich, interactive experience to future visitors.

Some of the more well-known features of the Wildlife Museum are the Community Pond, Out to Sea and Archery exhibits. The Community Pond is built so that visitors can look at a Missouri pond from underneath and study the different levels of fish and pond dwellers. Out to Sea is a 225,000 gallon saltwater aquarium with a variety of exotics. The Archery exhibit is actually a part of the Archery Hall of Fame.

The museum also puts on a variety of programs. The programs are designed to share and grow care for wildlife and the habitats animals live in most of their lives. There are programs for children as well as adults with interest in wildlife protection. The programs combine concern for the environment with animal rights.

The American National Fish and Wildlife Museum keeps regular hours, with the exception of being closed for major holidays. Portions of the museum are open year round, even in in poor weather. Admission is less than $10 on average, and tours are available. Visitors should estimate that it will take 1.5 - 2 hours to do the museum, aquarium and grounds.