We live in Springfield, but we went to a state park in Arkansas. Not too far of a drive, highly recommend.

The lord giveth, and he kept on giving didn't he!

Can't speak for the dating scene, but I grew up on the West Coast and I've enjoyed Springfield so far.

There's a lot of open minded people and cool little niche communities, great food scene, community events here and there depending on what you're into.

As far as meth heads, bigotry and religous assholes that shit exists everywhere. I experienced drug addicts growing up in Washington state that would make a Missouri meth head blush. And WAY more crazy homeless people.

There's a lot of fun to be had here, and cool cities to explore only several hours drive away in any direction. Don't believe the haters.

Everything at Boskys fucking slaps, but be ready to pay a higher price for it.

Golden Girls Rum Club or Sweet Boys for the young and hip.

The Flea, Skinny Slims for dive-ish vibes.

Lindbergs and other bars on Commercial Street for a laid back vibe with a more chill energy than downtown areas.

Second this. Everyone there does a solid job, and vibes are chill and unpretentious.

I hear what your saying but I don't think that's the intention. It's more that Bass Pro is associated with conservatives, who tend to be pro life especially in the Mid West.

When they see a symbol generally associated with their values that says something they don't agree with it's a funny little "gotcha" moment. It's the same concept as the MAGA hats that say "Made you look, Black Lives Matter."