Pythian Castle: A Springfield Landmark

4.1 (931)

Explore a historic castle in Springfield, MO, with guided tours, ghost stories, and unique events in a medieval-style landmark.

Home
Missouri
Table Rock Lake
Pythian Castle

The Pythian Castle in Springfield, Missouri, is a historic structure built in 1913 by the Knights of Pythias. Originally a retirement home and orphanage, it later served as a military facility during World War II and is now a popular site for tours and events.

A brief summary to Pythian Castle

1451 E Pythian St, Springfield, Weller, Missouri, 65802, US
Click to display
Click to display

Local tips

Book your tour or event in advance, as reservations are generally required.
Check the Pythian Castle's website for the most up-to-date schedule of events and seasonal hours.
Consider a ghost tour for a spooky and unique perspective on the castle's history.
Wheelchairs are available, but access is limited to the first floor only.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Dickerson Park Zoo

Explore the Wonders of Dickerson Park Zoo

World's Largest Fork By Mass

Trail of Tears

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail (Springfield, MO)

Getting There

Walking

From Evangel University, head east on East Division Street, then turn right onto North Glenstone Avenue. Turn left onto East Pythian Street. The Pythian Castle will be on your left. The walk is about 10 minutes. There are no costs involved.
Public Transport

The City Utilities Transit (CU Transit) provides bus service in Springfield. Check the CU Transit website or app for the most direct route and schedule from your location. From the CU Transit Center, the castle is approximately 3 miles. A single ride fare is $1.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Springfield. A ride from downtown Springfield to the Pythian Castle is approximately 10 minutes and typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and surge pricing.

Discover more about Pythian Castle

The Pythian Castle, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a unique and historically rich landmark with a multifaceted past. Constructed in 1913 by the Knights of Pythias, a fraternal organization, it was initially intended as a home for needy members, their widows, and orphans. The castle's design reflects the Knights' theme, featuring a medieval castle-like appearance with a foundation and exterior built from Carthage Stone, a hard limestone from the Ozarks. The interior boasts a steel framework with concrete floors and fireproofed walls.During World War II, the U.S. Military commandeered the Pythian Castle in 1942 and utilized it in conjunction with the nearby O'Reilly General Hospital. It served as an Enlisted Men's Service Club, providing entertainment and rehabilitation for injured U.S. troops. The facility included a movie theater, ballroom, bowling alley, and library. German and Italian prisoners of war were also assigned here for medical treatment and labor.After the war, the military retained the building as a reserve center until 1993. Today, the Pythian Castle is privately owned and listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It is open to the public for guided tours, ghost tours, escape rooms, and murder mystery dinners. Visitors can explore the castle's grand spaces, including the main lobby, ballroom, and even the basement cells once used for prisoners of war. The castle is also a venue for weddings and other events.