Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Flagship
The original, massive Bass Pro Shops flagship store, offering immersive wildlife exhibits, aquariums, and a vast selection of outdoor gear.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Flagship
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The original, massive Bass Pro Shops flagship store, offering immersive wildlife exhibits, aquariums, and a vast selection of outdoor gear.
"It's a destination in itself, with free museums and aquariums that captivate visitors of all ages."
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Look Up for Surprises! 👀
Many amazing displays and details are overhead. Don't forget to scan the ceilings and upper levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Immersive Wildlife Museums
Throughout the store
Explore fascinating, free museums showcasing taxidermied animals and natural habitats. A must-see for all ages!
Vast Aquariums & Water Features
Throughout the store
Marvel at numerous large fish tanks and aquariums teeming with aquatic life. Look up to discover hidden wonders!
Extensive Outdoor Gear Selection
Retail floor
From boats to boots, find everything for hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures. Even non-outdoorsy types are impressed!
Unique Themed Decor
Throughout the store
Experience the wilderness theme with impressive taxidermy, rustic decor, and a truly immersive atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for a Full Day of Exploration
Comfortable Shoes Are a Must
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Look Up for Surprises! 👀
Many amazing displays and details are overhead. Don't forget to scan the ceilings and upper levels.
Free Museums Included! 🏛️
Enjoy the impressive wildlife exhibits and aquariums at no extra cost. A major highlight for visitors.
Great for All Ages! 👨👩👧👦
Even if you're not into hunting or fishing, the exhibits and scale of the store are fascinating for everyone.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Look Up for Surprises! 👀
Many amazing displays and details are overhead. Don't forget to scan the ceilings and upper levels.
Free Museums Included! 🏛️
Enjoy the impressive wildlife exhibits and aquariums at no extra cost. A major highlight for visitors.
Great for All Ages! 👨👩👧👦
Even if you're not into hunting or fishing, the exhibits and scale of the store are fascinating for everyone.
Plan for Several Hours ⏳
This is more than a store; it's an attraction. Allow ample time to explore fully.
Check for Special Events 🎉
Bass Pro often hosts events, from holiday displays to fishing clinics.
Explore the Clothing Department! 👕
Discover surprisingly cute and underrated apparel, including crewnecks and matching sets. +2
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Flagship as a unique and immersive experience, far exceeding expectations for a retail store. The free museums and aquariums are standout features, captivating guests of all ages, even those not interested in outdoor sports. While the sheer size can be overwhelming, most find it a well-laid-out and fascinating place to spend hours.
"We had an amazing time. We went through all the exhibits, it took all afternoon and was well worth it.
I would suggest if you have any health issues be aware there is lots of walking,they do offer scooters.
This was the 4th Bass Pro property we have gone to and each one is different and wonderful. We love the exhibits and museums, they are Outstanding! We are not fishermen or hunters but we love Bass Pro."
Gwen Carpenter
"What a fabulous place to visit! So much to marvel at! There are several free museums or other if you want you can pay to enter the Wild Life museum.
You can certainly spend a few hours walking around and looking at everything! Remember to look up!"
Irene Estlund
"Worth the stop—even if you’re not an outdoorsy type.”
This location is huge and packed with everything from boats to boots. The staff were friendly, and the layout made it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Loved the museum and aquarium touches—they add a lot of character. Great for families, gearheads, or anyone curious about outdoor life. Just plan for at least an hour (or three)."
MJ Lavy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The flagship store is located in Springfield, Missouri. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. If you're flying in, Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) is the closest airport, about a 15-20 minute drive away.
Public transportation options may be limited depending on your starting point. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access to the store.
The store is over 500,000 square feet, so wear comfortable shoes! Maps are usually available, and the layout is designed to guide you through different sections. Don't hesitate to ask staff for directions.
Springfield, MO, offers other attractions like Fantastic Caverns and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (which is connected to Bass Pro).
Yes, parking is generally free and plentiful at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Flagship store.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to browse the retail areas, see the aquariums, and explore most of the exhibits is free. Some specialized museums might have an entry fee.
Hours can vary, but typically the store is open daily from morning to evening. It's always best to check the official Bass Pro Shops website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Many of the wildlife exhibits and aquariums are free to explore. However, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, which is connected, typically requires a separate ticket.
Generally, pets are not allowed inside the store, except for service animals. Check their specific policy if you plan to bring a service animal.
Yes, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium has its own entrance, often adjacent to or connected with the Bass Pro Shops.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect extensive wildlife dioramas, large aquariums with live fish, and fascinating displays of outdoor gear. It's designed to immerse you in the outdoor experience.
Absolutely! Kids love the aquariums, the taxidermy displays, and the sheer scale of the store. It's a highly recommended family destination.
The Springfield, Missouri location is considered the original and flagship store, boasting over 500,000 square feet of retail space and attractions.
Yes, the flagship store often features a wide selection of boats, kayaks, and other large outdoor equipment for sale.
Definitely! The unique displays, large aquariums, and themed decor provide plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are typically restaurants or cafes within the store, offering a place to refuel during your visit.
Dining options often include casual fare, American classics, and sometimes themed menus related to the outdoor experience.
Yes, there are usually options for quick bites, coffee, or espresso drinks available within the store.
Menu availability varies by restaurant. It's best to check the specific restaurant's menu on-site or online for dietary options.
Prices are generally comparable to other casual dining establishments. It's not considered overly expensive for the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The large aquariums, detailed wildlife dioramas, and the overall rustic, wilderness-themed interior offer numerous photo opportunities. Don't forget to look up!
Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the merchandise and displays. Some visitors enjoy showcasing the unique graphic tees.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permission.
Given the varied lighting, using a phone with good low-light capabilities or a camera with adjustable ISO and aperture will be helpful. Consider using a wider lens for the large displays.
The massive fish tanks, the detailed taxidermy scenes, and the entrance areas often serve as popular spots for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a full day of exploration, as there's plenty to keep kids entertained. Comfortable shoes are essential for everyone, and the store offers scooters for those who might need them. The sheer scale and variety of displays ensure that even picky eaters will find something to marvel at.
💰 Budget Travelers
While shopping for gear can add up, you can easily spend a fulfilling afternoon just exploring the exhibits. Pack your own snacks or enjoy affordable dining options within the store to keep costs down. It's an attraction that provides significant value for zero admission fee.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles, especially looking up at the ceiling displays and down into the tanks. The variety of textures and natural elements provides a rich subject matter. Be prepared for varied lighting conditions, which can be challenging but also rewarding for skilled photographers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Scale of the Flagship
This flagship location is renowned for its sheer scale and the integration of entertainment and education. Visitors can spend hours exploring the vast array of hunting, fishing, boating, and camping equipment, but the real draw for many is the extensive collection of free-to-enter museums and massive aquariums. These features transform the shopping trip into an adventure, showcasing wildlife dioramas, live fish, and the natural beauty of the outdoors.
The store's design itself is an attraction, featuring rustic architecture, impressive taxidermy displays, and themed environments that transport visitors into different natural settings. It's a place where families, outdoor enthusiasts, and the simply curious can find something to marvel at, making it a unique retail and entertainment hub.
Beyond Retail: Museums and Aquariums
The aquariums are another major highlight, featuring large tanks filled with a diverse range of fish and aquatic life. These underwater worlds provide a captivating visual experience, often drawing crowds of all ages. The sheer number and size of these tanks contribute significantly to the store's reputation as an attraction rather than just a retail outlet.
While many of these attractions are free, it's worth noting that the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, a separate but connected entity, offers a more in-depth, ticketed experience. However, the free exhibits within Bass Pro itself are more than enough to fill several hours of exploration and provide significant value for visitors.
Fashion and Fun: The Bass Pro Apparel
Many users express their 'obsession' with Bass Pro's clothing, noting the quality and trendy designs. The graphic t-shirts, in particular, are often praised for their creative artwork, featuring everything from nature scenes to humorous slogans. The brand's aesthetic often blends outdoor themes with a casual, streetwear vibe, making it appealing to a broader audience beyond just outdoor enthusiasts.
When shopping for apparel, some advice suggests sizing up for a more relaxed fit, especially for sweatshirts and sets. The clothing department is often described as 'underrated,' suggesting that many visitors might overlook it in favor of the more prominent outdoor equipment sections.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit