Uncovering Unique Attractions and Hidden Gems in Branson Missouri
Theme parks, live shows, water parks, dinner shows, golfing, or shopping, Branson, Missouri is the perfect place for the whole family to spend a couple of days, a week, or even longer.
💫 Best Things To Do in Branson MO
Are you looking for a fun escape to recharge and reconnect with friends and family and plan your Branson vacation?
Here we will list great options for the entire family.
We have visited many times just in the past 10 years and always have a great time.
Both my sons and their in-laws own timeshares right on Table Rock Lake.
So today we will be sharing our tips and tricks, the best places to visit, and top attractions, and share the links to the websites so you get the best deal possible.
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🗺️ Trip Planning
You don’t need vacation planners or vacation packages when you can plan everything right from the comfort of your own home (with our tips of course!)
Whether looking for theme parks, live shows, water parks, dinner shows, golf courses, or shopping at the Tanger outlets, Branson is the perfect place for the whole family to spend a couple of days, a week, or even longer.
There is so much to do and such an amazing place, that you won’t be disappointed.
And no matter how many times we have been there, each and every time, we find something new to see and do.n
It was our 4th visit before we discovered Branson Landing.
And just this past year, we heard about the Top of The Rock Golf Cart Tour.
We weren’t even visiting Branson, but we made a detour on our trip across the United States in our RV to specifically visit the Bat Bar.
In this blog post, let’s talk about what makes Branson so special.
It’s an experience not easily forgotten!
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🎶 About Branson, Missouri
Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains in southwest Missouri, Branson is the live entertainment capital of the world.
It sits 210 miles southeast of Kansas City, 253 miles southwest of St. Louis, 263 miles northwest of Memphis, and 170 miles north of Little Rock.
Find out more at ExploreBranson.com.
Branson Landing
Branson Landing has stores, restaurants, a musical fountain show, and so much more that is a mile and a half long.
Fly across Lake Taneycomo on Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront Zipline.
Eat at Paula Deen’s famous restaurant where food is served family style.
Be sure to go hungry because you can eat as much as you want of the food you order but you can’t take it home.
Stop in at Smith Creek Moonshine.
And have a Frozen Caramel Apple cocktail while you are there. You won’t be disappointed!
Be sure to take some moonshine and more home with you.
Silver Dollar City Amusement Park
Silver Dollar City is an amusement park with roller coasters that will get your adrenaline going.
I am surprised by the number of people that have never heard of Silver Dollar City.
They don’t know what they are missing.
Showboat Branson Belle
Owned by Silver Dollar City, the Showboat Branson Belle is a dinner cruise where you can enjoy a three-course meal while enjoying live entertainment.
Located on beautiful Table Rock Lake, this interactive tour adventure will show you a breathtaking part of Missouri that you simply can’t get anywhere else.
With its signature two-hour voyage complete with music, entertainment, and activities galore, it is no wonder why so many travelers have been looking forward to this wonderful floating oasis.
Once on board, guests are treated to captivating views as they slowly make their way on the water while taking in all that Mother Nature has to offer.
So whether you’re looking for a great dinner aboard an old style paddle wheel boat or just some fun on a summer day, come cruise on Table Rock Lake aboard the Showboat Branson Belle all while eating a delicious dinner!
Titanic Museum
Everyone knows the story of the Titanic. At the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson, MO, you get to really feel what it was like inside the ship as if you were one of the passengers.
Travel back in time and explore the legendary Titanic like never before! Branson’s Museum Attraction is an awe-inspiring journey through history.
It features 400 real artifacts from that fateful voyage, plus a touchable iceberg, 28-degree water to bravely dip your hands into, and exclusive access to its grand staircase.
Embark on this remarkable experience today. You aren’t allowed to take pictures inside which is why I only have one of the outside.
A tangible reminder of what it was truly like aboard the world’s most famous luxury liner.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Get ready for a fun-filled night at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede.
A dinner show that features a four-course feast. Step into a slice of the old- South and explore lush landscaping adorned with lavish floral butterflies.
Make your way to the world-famous horse walk. Each stall is uniquely labeled with its own name and breed.
Join in on the fun of Canine Capers. An action-packed event that features rescue dogs running a relay with Fly-Ball racing, obstacle courses, and high jumps. It’s sure to be an exciting experience!
From the moment you enter Dixie Stampede, you are welcomed into a wild west saloon vibe complete with beautiful Southern belles.
They are more than happy to take a picture with you and chat away.
In the pre-show area, they provide delightful beverages and snacks to tantalize guests before their evening of entertainment begins.
They even have virgin drinks for their younger visitors who will be delighted to enjoy them out of a special souvenir boot mug!
Top of the Rock Bat Cave
Top of the Rock is renowned as one of Arkansas’ most extraordinary destinations and definitely a hidden gem of Branson, Missouri.
Located in Ridgedale, MO., it is only 11 miles south of Branson.
Step out onto the observation deck.
It offers a unique 2.5-mile journey by a two-seater or four-seat golf cart.
You drive through winding woodland paths, crossing streams and bridges to reach its destination, Eagle Pass Lookout.
As if that wasn’t enough to get you excited, Top of The Rock also offers the experience of a lifetime inside its Lost Canyon Cave where you will find a bat bar.
Don’t worry, we didn’t see any bats, lol.
Here you drive through and order your favorite bat drink.
Continue on the golf cart path where you see waterfalls, a butterfly garden, and more.
Take the shuttle to the top and visit the chapel where weddings are performed. We were there earlier in the day and it wasn’t open yet.
I guess that means we have to go back. 😉
Cover the cameras because you may even drive through a waterfall.
The Butterfly Palace
Discover a world of beauty, wonder, and wildlife at the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure in Branson!
Venture through the rainforest on an exciting self-guided adventure.
Come face to face with over 1,000 live butterflies from their native habitats.
Nourish them by hand-feeding them nectar flowers for a chance for up-close encounters with these beautiful creatures.
Plus you can explore educational butterfly videos or take part in action-packed activities like navigating the Banyan Tree Maze or Mirror Maze while admiring exotic reptiles that call this place home.
Don’t miss out!
Hollywood Wax Museum
The iconic main drag in Branson Missouri is overflowing with entertainment and attractions, but one you won’t want to miss is the Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center!
Get up close & personal with your favorite celebs at this museum of stars.
Plus take a selfie next to their famous King Kong replica.
For an unforgettable experience visit Hollywood Wax Museum in Branson and see King Kong which will never come down from its perch!
Branson Tracks
You need a few days just to enjoy all that Branson Tracks has to offer.
More than just go-cart tracks! Although they are a lot of fun.
Play laser tag, and mini golf, enjoy bumper rides, and the Branson Ferris Wheel, and get lost in the arcade.
Make this a top priority on your list while visiting Branson.
More Fun Attractions
Here is a list of more fun things to do.
- Zipline Canopy Tour
- Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
- Harold Bell Wright – World’s Largest Toy Museum
- Promised Land Zoo
- Dick Clark Legends in Concert
- Sight and Sound Theater
- Sunday Buffet Brunch at the Keeter Center
- White Water Water Park
- Branson Shows
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not
- Branson Scenic Railway
- And more!
🚍 Where to Stay in Branson Missouri
Branson Missouri RV Parks
There are many RV parks in the area. It all depends on how close you want to be to the main attractions.
Silver Dollar City Campground
When we visit in June, we wanted to be close to the kids at Stormy Point Village. So we opted to stay at Silver Dollar City campground.
Silver Dollar City campground has everything you need for a magical outdoor experience!
Choose from cozy cabins, tent camping spots, or RV sites with 30 and 50amp hook-ups.
These come complete with water/sewer connections plus picnic tables and fire rings to create the perfect place under the stars in one of America’s favorite theme parks!
I will post pictures of the campground upon arrival.
Turkey Creek RV Park
We stayed at Turkey Creek RV Park in Hollister, MO when we visited Top of the Rock.
Turkey Creek is an Escapees park which means you get a discount if you are an Escapees member.
Experience the breathtaking beauty and serenity of nature at Turkey Creek RV Park, located in Hollister, Missouri.
Only a mile and a half away from Branson Landing. Here you can fly fish right outside your door or spend time exploring three gorgeous lakes nearby!
The dog park is huge and there is also a spot for storage for oversized trailers and such.
With incredible views, and amazing amenities, plus Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock Lake, and Bull Shoals lake offering outdoor activities for any level adventurer, this campground is sure to make vacation dreams come true!
Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park offers tent and RV camping spots, 30 and 50 amp available along with sewer and water.
🛌 Lodging Options in Branson Missouri
Welk Resorts is a popular choice. Located minutes away from all the attractions Branson, MO has to offer without dealing with pesky traffic.
Enjoy being close enough yet far enough away from it all on your next trip!
Relax amidst the majestic Ozark mountains and enjoy the resort’s luxury amenities, all within minutes of bustling attractions.
Who knew that golf carts were even around back then?
Make a splash with your family at The Splash-a-Torium: 10,000 sq ft of aquatic park fun that includes heated pools, hot tubs, and even a 117-foot water slide!
Looking to take it easy? Enjoy vibrant entertainment right on site with performances from the Welk Resort Theatre.
Then refuel before heading back out again via Stage Door Restaurant.
🧳 When Will You Visit Branson Missouri
We are heading to Branson once again in June and hope to have more new places for you to visit for an unforgettable adventure.
I would love to someday visit Branson on Christmas Day as I hear it is beautiful during that time of year.
It’s the perfect place to kick up your feet, explore nature, discover entertainment attractions, and find adventure.
From going on an exciting excursion at Silver Dollar City Theme Park or discovering a magical show from world-renowned entertainers, this Midwest getaway offers something for everyone!
It’s no wonder why beautiful Branson is considered to be one of the fastest-growing vacation destinations in America.
And even the kids love it!