Springfield, Missouri -- 164,122 people (and growing), the third largest city in Missouri and my hometown -- has been quite the well-kept secret for most of my life. Though it has grown exponentially since my childhood, the essence of it has remained the same. Home of the original BassPro, Cashew Chicken, Andy's Frozen Custard and the Springfield Cardinals, there is no other place that feels more like home or a place where anyone and everyone will be more welcome. With all the cool things there are also completely random attractions that bring about a good number of visitors, but we native Springfieldians secretly love them.

1. The Commons at Jordan Valley.

These, um, beautiful beams of light are found by Hammons Field where our beloved Springfield Cardinals play. Though it cannot be seen in the above picture, the lights are decorated with floral cuts of metal, which happen to be Dogwood, our state flower. The stones surrounding are limestone to pay tribute to the quarry which used to be in the area. The idea behind such a different work of art was represent the original grove of trees that Springfield was founded in, as well as the bamboo to tip our hat to our sister city in Japan.

2. Pythian Castle.

This castle, found in the middle of the United States, was built in 1913 by the Knights of Pythias (an adult fraternity) and later owned by the U.S. military. It was originally built as an orphanage and home for widows to men of the order. Because of its close proximity to the O'Reilly General Hospital during WWII, it was used as a rehab for soldiers and is said to have even been a place for POWs. It is now home to ghost tours, weddings and history chasers.

3. Pineapple Whip.

This is the best thing to happen in Springfield during those burning hot summer months since it opened at the Ozark Empire Fair in 1974! The line is always long and the delicious ice cream, lovingly referred to as "p-whip," is always in supply. With only a few locations in the Springfield area, Springfieldians run to them to get their fill and cry when it closes at the end of the summer. If you are in the area I would definitely suggest running by and waiting in line, though you might have to flip a coin if it's competition is Andy's frozen custard.

4. Giant french fries.

Oh, the french fry statue. Found on the grounds of the Springfield Art Museum, this sculpture "Sun Target II" is so loved by the local community that when it was said that it was going to be taken down, funds were raised to restore it instead. It has seen many little hands and feet, been covered in yarn, and has held the weight of countless adventurous visitors. It holds a place in Springfield's heart and is definitely a landmark worth protecting and giving a solid nod as you drive by.

5. A giant fork.

So obviously Springfield has a thing for the word "giant," but this fork is the real deal. It is the world's largest fork, standing at 35 feet tall, 11 tons and hidden in an area where you really can't find much to eat. It used to stand in front of a local restaurant, but after the restaurant closed the fork was moved to its new home in the corner of an ad agency's building. It is a little bit of a hidden treasure but it is still one of the most interesting things about Springfield.

6. "Springlawn" Farm (cough) Albino Farm.

A little piece of random (and somewhat terrifying) land on the outskirts of the city holds a very interesting past. It is over 100 years old and is the inspiration for some of the best scary stories in Springfield. No one is actually sure as to whether the farm owner (who scared people off his property with a shot gun) had albinism, or if it was a hospital that experimented on those who had albinism. Records show that it was built in the late 1800s, was quite extravagant, and after the last heir passed away in the '80s it is suspected that an arsonist set fire to the barn. Another fire was started in the house and very little is left. A local subdivision is starting to make its way unto the property so this interesting treasure may not be around for long.

7. Japanese Stroll Gardens.

Not the best place to be in the winter but a wonder in the spring, Nathaniel Greene park is home to the Japanese Stroll Garden. This little piece of Japan is plopped right next to a prison, but while walking along the serene paths you would never know. There is a tea house, moon bridge, pagoda, and a beautiful collection of flora and fauna. Definitely the place to be on a sunny day, especially when you want to escape from the dull world that Spring-Vegas can be at times.

8. The GreenWay Trail.

One of my personal favorite parts about Springfield is the trail that spans 70 miles. There are trail heads in many different areas and each path takes you through some of the best little pieces of heaven found in the city and surrounding areas. The goal is to create a 100 mile trail that not only preserves these special places but also forms a way to connect all the different areas. I grew up walking and occasionally running these trails and if you have never gotten the chance to explore them I would make some time to do so whether in the summer or winter. There is so much to see.

I have been lucky enough to be born and raised in such a wonderful little city and I look forward to creating a future of my own. Even if it's just a giant fork or a special place to get a treat, each random spot is worth the preservation so future generations can enjoy them to. So if you live in a little town or a big city, find those stories and special places. Go explore!