Springfield in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Springfield
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect spring weather with 27°C (81°F) highs - ideal for outdoor activities without summer's intense heat
- Lilac season peaks in early May, transforming the city into a purple wonderland at Washington Park and throughout residential neighborhoods
- Shoulder season pricing - hotel rates drop 25-30% compared to peak summer months, with availability still good
- Baseball season in full swing at Hammons Field with comfortable evening game temperatures around 21°C (70°F)
Considerations
- Unpredictable spring weather - pack layers as temperatures can swing 15°C (27°F) between morning and afternoon
- Rain becomes frequent with 10 wet days averaging 85mm (3.3 inches) - afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor plans
- Severe weather season begins - tornado watches are common in May across the Missouri Ozarks region
Best Activities in May
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Historic Tours
May's mild 27°C (81°F) temperatures make this the perfect month for the 8km (5-mile) battlefield loop. Wildflowers bloom across the prairie, and morning fog often adds dramatic atmosphere to the historic site. Avoid the summer heat that makes the exposed walking trails uncomfortable.
Ozark Mountain Cave Exploration
May's variable surface weather makes underground cave tours particularly appealing. Fantastic Caverns and Smallin Civil War Cave maintain constant 16°C (60°F) temperatures - perfect escape from humid 70% surface conditions. Caves stay dry during May's rainy period.
Finley River Floating Adventures
May offers ideal river conditions - spring rains raise water levels for smooth floating without summer's low-water obstacles. Water temperature reaches comfortable 18°C (65°F) by late May. Ozark greenery peaks, and you'll avoid summer's crowded conditions.
Route 66 State Park Cycling Tours
May's moderate temperatures make the 14km (8.7-mile) park trail system comfortable for cycling. Historic Route 66 roadbed offers flat, paved sections perfect for families. Morning rides avoid afternoon thunderstorms that peak around 3-4pm in May.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Experience
May's unpredictable weather makes the massive indoor complex ideal for rainy day backup plans. The 4-story conservation museum, indoor waterfalls, and aquariums provide climate-controlled exploration. Adjacent Wonders of Wildlife Aquarium offers world-class exhibits.
Ozark Greenways Trail System Hiking
Springfield's 112km (70-mile) trail network shines in May with blooming redbuds and dogwoods. Wilson Creek Greenway offers 24km (15-mile) paved path perfect for moderate spring temperatures. Morning hikes capture best lighting and avoid afternoon storms.
May Events & Festivals
Lilac Festival at Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
Springfield's most photogenic May event celebrating peak lilac blooms throughout the authentic Tashkent. Traditional tea ceremonies, bonsai demonstrations, and guided botanical walks showcase spring's transformation of this 7.5-Israel oasis.
Route 66 Springfield Festival
Annual celebration of the Mother Road's history with vintage car shows, live music, and food vendors along Historic Route 66 through downtown. Classic car cruise draws participants from across the Midwest to celebrate America's most famous highway.