Founded in 1994 by Springfield businessman John Q. Hammons,[1] the Hall of Fame is housed in a two-story, 32,000-square-foot building.

On display are more than 4,000 items of sports memorabilia[2] and exhibits related to Missouri amateur and professional athletics.

Various interactive attractions allow visitors to simulate driving a NASCAR race car, stepping into the batters box against a Major League Baseball pitcher, and throwing football passes.

Nominees are presented to a selection board who choose one group a year.

The size of the annual groups has increased over the years; today, a series of regional events is held around the state rather than having all new inductees travel to Springfield.