Theme & Amusement Parks in Springfield

Usually when animals and drive-throughs are combined, it either involves a movie about precocious chimps or is nothing more notable than a dog snoozing in the back seat while its owners grab a burger to go. But at Wildlife Safari, silver screens and slumbering dogs are nowhere in sight. Instead, the park plays host to visitors who drive through the winding grounds to catch up-close glimpses of its inhabitants—more than 550 wild animals. Bison, zebras, and giraffes roam the wide-open surroundings, living in harmony with tigers, lions, and bears who spend their days making macramé welcome mats. Founded by Frank Hart in 1972, the park has helped to protect endangered species while educating the public about them and their important roles in the fragile ecosystem.

Splash! at Lively Park provides Oregon residents with safe, warm year-round access to watery fun. The venue features a waterslide, a flooded basketball court, lap pool, and a wave pool, amongst more relaxing activities such as splashing in the pool or enjoying a hot tub. Splash! participates in local outreach programs, such as providing swimming lessons for every fourth-grader in the Springfield school district. The enormous space accommodates rentals for events with up to 1,000 people, dishing hot eats to fill bellies from its concessions stand. During warmer months, the outside playground and sundeck provide places to soak up sunshine and feel the sea-driven breeze.