City Guide: Springfield

     Springfield is the birthplace of the historic Route 66, America’s first major highway.

     From the outset of ''America's main road'', Springfield saw the biggest share of prosperity from its wayside location. The city broke away from its small town past for the opportunities of an influential metropolis.

     You can discover the significance of Springfield only during your stay in the city. From cheap hotels in Springfield to luxury offers all are available at Booked.net. Check them out, they are listed with maps, photos and secure forms at our website.

     Route 66 didn't bring the hopes of Springfield laying a claim to future transportation hub to fruition. The road was removed from the Highway System in 1985, but Springfield wasn't going back to where it had started.

     The city made efforts to promote its image of a culturally vibrant destination. The idea paid off with success thanks to several famous personalities who glorified their hometown. Brad Pitt, a world famous actor spent all his childhood Springfield's green surroundings, while the presence of showman Bob Barker is still immortalized at the street named in his honor.

     Since then Springfield has become a city of more than three million overnight stays. But tourists are lured to the city for more than its Hollywood endorsements, but its strong historical heritage and beautiful architecture.

Attractions include;

- Fantastic Caverns, the most popular attraction that serves as a cave to ride in a tour vehicle

- Springfield Nature Center maintains biking and hiking trails

- Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, the first Bass Pro store in America

- The Dickerson Park Zoo, a home to 450 animals

     After Springfield was incorporated in 1838 it became a point of turbulence. In 1838 it was part of the route of Cherokee forced relocation to Indian territories and Springfield saw numerous deaths during this Trail of Tears. During the civil war the city was divided and served as the site for major battle including 5,400 Union troops and 12,000 Confederates. In addition the world's first recorded shoot-out took place in Springfield. The conflict between “Wild Bill” Hickok and Dave Tutt converted Springfield into the cradle of the Wild West.

     Today Springfield serves for more peaceful goals like sightseeing. The main east/west thoroughfare of Route 66 has converted into a location for guided tours and tourists. Annually millions visitors come to the city to savor details of its glorious past, so you should book a hotel early at Booked.net.