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Pythian Castle: A Springfield Landmark

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Explore a historic castle with a rich past, from fraternal home to military facility, offering tours, events, and paranormal investigations.

The Pythian Castle in Springfield, Missouri, is a historic castle built in 1913 by the Knights of Pythias. Initially an orphanage and retirement home, it later served as a military facility during World War II and is now a popular event venue offering tours and paranormal investigations.

A brief summary to Pythian Castle

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pythian Castle.

  • Book tours and events in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
  • Check the Pythian Castle website for the most up-to-date schedule of tours and special events.
  • Consider a ghost tour for a spooky and thrilling experience, as the castle is known for its paranormal activity.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours, as you'll be exploring multiple floors and areas of the castle.
  • Arrive early for your tour or event to allow time for parking, as the streets near the castle can be narrow.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Pythian Castle is located in a residential area of Springfield, a few blocks from Evangel University. If you are nearby, walking is a viable option. From Evangel University, walk north on Glenstone Avenue, then turn east onto Pythian Street. The castle will be on your right. Note that streets in the area can be narrow.

  • Public Transport

    City Utilities of Springfield provides bus service near the Pythian Castle. The closest bus stop is Pythian & Fremont (NW), a 2-minute walk from the castle. Bus routes 03, 22, and 38 stop here. A single ride fare is $1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Springfield. From downtown Springfield, a taxi or ride-share to the Pythian Castle will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Note that Uber does not offer flat rates.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 1451 E Pythian St, Springfield, MO 65802. The Pythian Castle is located near downtown Springfield. There is ample free parking available on-site. Be aware that the streets in the immediate vicinity are narrow.

Discover more about Pythian Castle

The Pythian Castle, also known as the Pythian Home of Missouri, is a unique and imposing structure in Springfield, Missouri. Constructed in 1913 by the Knights of Pythias, a fraternal organization, the castle served as a home for elderly members, widows, and orphans. The building's design reflects the Knights' theme, resembling a medieval castle with its stone facade, turrets, and arched windows.Built from Carthage stone, a hard variety of limestone, the castle's architecture incorporates Romanesque and Gothic Revival elements. Inside, the castle boasts ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and intricate details. During World War II, the U.S. Military used the Pythian Castle as an Enlisted Men's Service Club in conjunction with the nearby O'Reilly General Hospital. It provided entertainment and rehabilitation facilities for injured troops, including a movie theater, ballroom, bowling alley, and library. Some Italian and German prisoners of war were also housed there for medical treatment and labor.Today, the privately-owned Pythian Castle is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to the public for guided tours and events. Visitors can explore the castle's history through daytime tours or experience its spooky side with nighttime ghost tours. The castle also hosts murder mystery dinners, weddings, and holiday events. The castle has a reputation for being haunted, with many visitors reporting paranormal activity.

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