One of the most distinctive parts of Springfield is its downtown where dozens of restaurants, boutiques, night clubs, a library, local history museum, theaters and other activities are available. Walnut Street is on the National Register of Historic Places, along with The Landers Theatre and Gillioz Theatre.

The newest section is on the south and southeast side of the city. This is where many of the chain stores and restaurants are. The prices for hotel rooms are also highest in this area.

The north and east sides of town offer better deals on hotels and have a little bit of local charm.

Farther southeast, it seems the city is growing and this is where the newest retail is and where things are the most upscale.

A word of caution for drivers:  Going west on 60 from 65 south, watch out for the railroad tracks right at the bottom of the exit.  It is hard to see until you actually get to the tracks.  Surprise! You think you are on a real expressway and then all of a sudden there is a train.