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Robert W. Plaster Stadium - home of Missouri State in Springfield, MO
NCAA FBS

Robert W. Plaster StadiumSpringfield, Missouri

Missouri State

👥
Capacity
17,500
🏆
Conference
CUSA
📅
Opened
1941
🌱
Surface
FieldTurf

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📖About Robert W. Plaster Stadium

Robert W. Plaster Stadium is the home of Missouri State football in Springfield. Nestled in the heart of campus, the stadium provides a classic Mid-American football setting as the Bears prepare for their move to Conference USA.

🏛️History

Origins

Opened in 1941 as SMS Stadium. It was renamed in 1991 following a significant donation from Robert W. Plaster.

Major Renovations

2014Underwent a major transformation, shortening the track to bring the west grandstand closer to the field and adding a new upper-level deck.

Notable Moments

Sep 1941Hosted the first game at the newly opened SMS Stadium.
2025Missouri State officially moves to the FBS and joins Conference USA.

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

The West Grandstand offers the most modern seating and puts you closest to the action. For the best view of the campus skyline, sit in the upper levels on the west side.

Parking Tips

Campus parking garages (BearPark North and South) are reliable options. Surface lots 18 and 22 are directly adjacent to the stadium but require gameday passes or fees.

Game Day

Experience the "BearWalk" where the team enters the stadium. The stadium's location on the main campus walkway makes for a very integrated, high-energy gameday environment.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

The Where House Bar

$$

Unique craft cocktail and draft bar located inside the Metro Eats complex. Great local atmosphere.

📍 3.5 miles2463 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807

💡 A bit of a drive from the stadium, but worth it for the craft selection and food truck environment.

Southbound Bar and Grill

$$

Popular local live music venue and sports bar with a full gameday menu.

📍 6.2 miles5739 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65810

💡 A favorite for fans throughout Springfield. Great for post-game celebrations and live music.

🍽️Restaurants

Civil Kitchen

$$

Downtown Springfield favorite offering high-end comfort food and creative cocktails in a modern industrial setting.

📍 1.4 miles107 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806

💡 Try the 'Hot Chicken'—it's one of their signature dishes. Perfect for a pre-game or post-game meal downtown.

SPLIT Social Kitchen

$$

Modern eatery known for innovative plates, fresh ingredients, and a great social atmosphere.

📍 2.8 miles3027 E Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65804

💡 Highly recommended for their ever-changing menu and excellent brunch.

Bambino's Cafe

$

Cozy, neighborhood Italian cafe tucked away in a residential area near campus.

📍 0.2 miles1141 E Delmar St, Springfield, MO 65807

💡 A true local gem within walking distance of the stadium. The 'Bambino' pasta is a classic.

🏨Hotels

Hotel Vandivort

$$$$

Springfield's premier boutique hotel, located in a beautifully restored historic building downtown.

📍 1.2 miles305 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806

💡 The best stay in the city. Make sure to visit the rooftop bar (The Vantage) for great views of downtown.

Walnut Street Inn

$$$

Charming historic Bed & Breakfast located just steps from the Missouri State campus.

📍 0.6 miles900 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806

💡 Perfect for those who want a quiet, personalized stay within walking distance of Plaster Stadium.

🎭Attractions

Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

Free

The massive flagship store of Bass Pro Shops, a true 'Grandaddy of All Outdoor Stores' with waterfalls and aquariums.

📍 2.1 miles1935 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807

💡 Even if you're not an outdoorsman, it's a must-see Springfield institution. Plan for at least 2 hours.

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

$$$$

World-class aquarium and wildlife museum adjacent to Bass Pro Shops, voted America's best aquarium multiple times.

📍 2.1 miles500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807

💡 An incredible indoor adventure. It's very large, so give yourself plenty of time to explore everything.

🅿️Parking Options

🅿️

Plaster Stadium Adjacent Lots (18 & 22)

$20
Lot📍 0.1 miles

💡 The most convenient lots for gameday, but they fill up very fast. Credit/Debit or prepaid is best.

🏢

BearPark North & South Garages

Free-$10
Garage📍 0.4 miles

💡 BearPark North is often free for gamedays, providing a safe and covered option within a short walk of the stadium.

Suggest a Tip

Know a great bar, restaurant, hotel, attraction, or parking spot near Robert W. Plaster Stadium? Share it with us.

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References

Content sourced from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and official team sites. Additional information verified against public sources.