Blue Springs, MO is located 20 miles east of Kansas City. Easily accessible from I-70, I-40, and Highway 7, Blue Springs, MO is easily accessible. Historically, Blue Springs was a stopping off place for settlers heading west. They were drawn to the small town because cool, fresh water was available for travelers from a spring, arising from the Little Blue River, which is where the name Blue Springs comes from. The city incorporated on September 7th 1880, which predates the incorporation of Kansas City. Franklin Smith, an early settler from Virginia, was instrumental in much of the community development. He established a post office in 1845 which was named after the settlement.The railroad from Chicago and Alton came through Blue Springs. This was a great opportunity for expansion and led to a decision to move from the original settlement near the springs to the area of the railroad station. This was one mile east of the springs and positioned the small town to continue its development as a rural trading post, providing goods and materials for westward bound travelers.
The small town has grown rapidly in recent years growing from a population of about 6800 in 1970 to 55,000 people today. One of the highlights of Blue Springs is the Fall Fun Festival, which takes place in mid- September. The Fall Fun Festival is now in its 41st year and provides many family oriented events. There is a parade, a carnival, and petting zoo for the kids. There are also two different stages for music and karaoke, with a contest for local bands and dancers. Food of all kinds is available throughout the weekend and a good time is sure to be had by all.In addition to the Fall Fun Fest, the Blue Springs family YMCA offers many activities families can share including sports, games, and educational opportunities. The city also boasts a wide variety of restaurants and hotels for travelers visiting the Kansas City metro area. The Blue Springs, MO business directory and the Blue Springs, MO yellow pages are great resources for a complete listing of many of the local activities and restaurants.
Written by Lyndsey Morgan
