If you haven’t yet heard of the famous Pesto the Penguin, he’s one of Australia’s largest and most adorable young king penguins, making headlines for his impressive size and undeniable charm. When he’s fully grown, we’re rolling out the red carpet and have planned the ultimate Springfield, Missouri itinerary for him! From iconic landmarks to local favorites, here are the top spots we’d love for Pesto to visit on his big adventure in our city.
Wonders of Wildlife
At Wonders of Wildlife, Pesto can meet his fellow penguin friends in the Penguin Pavilion, explore a variety of other animal exhibits, and waddle around the aquarium’s interactive displays!
Address: 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield
Dickerson Park Zoo
Pesto can follow the zoo’s 1.2 mile trail to meet over 450 new animal friends. He can wander around the world while enjoying the beautiful outdoor setting. Play with Scuffy the donkey or feed the giraffes!
Address: 1401 W. Norton Road, Springfield
Leong’s Asian Diner
Cashew chicken is a Springfield staple Pesto has to try, especially at Leong's Asian Diner where it first originated! Crispy bits of chicken with the signature brown gravy served on a bed of rice with an eggroll on the side will make for one happy penguin meal!
Address: 1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield
Fire and Ice Restaurant
A hot spot with cool cuisine, Pesto would sure love the atmosphere at Fire and Ice. He can even enjoy a soda at the famous ice bar.
Address: 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield
Brightspeed Ice Park
Going back to his roots at Brightspeed Ice Park, Pesto can embrace his natural love for cold environments with ice skating! Don’t challenge him to a game at hockey, we heard penguins are notoriously bad at the game. No need for skates.
Address: 635 E. Trafficway St., Springfield
Kai
What’s a penguins favorite food? Fish! Pesto can enjoy fresh, expertly crafted sushi with a variety of options to choose from at Kai After Dark. A match made in aquatic heaven, and we’re pretty sure he’s approve of the seafood offerings.
Address: 306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield
Andy B’s
Have you ever seen a penguin bowl? Us either! But who’s going to stop him! While Pesto might struggle to keep his balance while bowling, there are still other activities he could partake in.
Address: 1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield
Jingle!
Taking Pesto to Jingle! this holiday season would be a perfect way to get him in the festive spirit. He’ll be sure to love the Winter Wonderland coming to Ozark Mountain, with twinkling lights, holiday music, and seasonal treats. He will feel like he’s home in the South Pole!
Address: 4400 N. 19th St., Ozark
Urban Air
Who wouldn’t like to see a penguin jump on a trampoline? Pesto might not have the best vertical leap, but his adorable little attempts at bouncing could be the sight to see. Talk about a fish out of water!
Address: 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield
Ozark Empire Fairgrounds
Pesto can experience this beloved Springfield tradition, the Ozark Empire Fair. We are sure he would love funnel cake and carnival rides. He could even win a stuffed animal to take home with him!
Address: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
World’s Largest Fork
Taking Pesto to see the World’s Largest Fork might not make a lick of sense, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. He has to see this quirky Springfield charm for himself.
Address: 2215 W. Chesterfield St., Springfield
Bass Pro Shops
There’s no better place to find Pesto some camo gear than at the original Bass Pro Shops. Be careful, he’s been eyeing the giant fish tank.
Address: 1 Bass Pro Dr., Springfield
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