Best Things to Do in Branson

Branson is the perfect place for a quick trip with the family! There are enough things to do to entertain everyone in your party. From hiking, to relaxing on the water, to golf cart canyon tours and dinner shows, you'll leave feeling rejuvenated and wishing you had more time to explore the area. 

Here are the things you need to do when you visit, in no particular order.

Check out the Golf Cart Ride through the Lost Canyon Cave 

 This is hands down my favorite excursion in Branson! We rented two golf carts for my family 6, including my husband, son, parents and brother. My 2 year old loved being able to help drive the 2.5-mile woodland path over streams and bridges, stopping at both a butterfly garden and a scenic overlook called Eagle Pass. Shortly into the trip, the trail dips into the Lost Canyon Cave, wherein lies the one-of-a-kind bar that is located inside the mountain itself. It is a must see!

Take a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway

Having a rainy day, or wanting to see some of the Beauty of the Ozark Mountains without having to drive yourself? Have kiddos who are obsessed with trains? Then definitely check out the Branson Scenic Railway! On this vintage passenger train, you can enjoy a scenic ride or a four-course candlelight dinner excursion, departing from the historic 1905 depot in downtown Branson. You’ll enjoy viewing wildlife and sights not accessible by car, including old abandoned communities only found on railroad maps, and beautiful Ozarks’ views. Trains take off 11:30am or 2pm. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance, because they do sell out!  

Stroll down Main Street in Branson's Historic District

Be sure to check out Downtown Historic Branson and all the charm it has to offer. As you stroll down Main Street, you'll be immersed in history and surrounded by hundreds of quaint shops to find the perfect souvenir or gift for loved ones back home. When you're ready to take a break from shopping, be sure to pop into Sugar Leaf Bakery & Cafe for breakfast, lunch or a sweet snack. Also be sure to ride on the FREE TROLLEY! Best way to get around the downtown area, and kids love the ride.

Enjoy a boat ride on Table Rock Lake

Rent a boat for a couple hours or a full day and enjoy the views from the water! This is a nice way to take a break from hiking or shopping. Choose from slide boats, wake boats, ski boats or luxury pontoons at rates beginning at $150 for a two-hour excursion. You can also rent Wave Runners or even a professional fishing guide! This is one both the kids and adults will love.

Ride the Branson Alpine Coaster 

The Branson Alpine Mountain Coaster is the first thrill ride of its kind in the Branson area. This family friendly coaster uses the hilly topography of the area to provide the fun and excitement your next visit to Branson needs. The unique aspect of a mountain coaster is that it utilizes the natural terrain to make it go, instead of manufactured lift towers. Gravity speeds you down the hill through turns, dips and helixes at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.

Enjoy the Scenery and Take a Hike

Located in the heart of Branson, be sure to check out the Cotton Rock Falls. Follow the sidewalk near the entrance of the Days Inn by Wyndham. This is an relatively easy hike to see beautiful waterfalls. Another popular one is the Bluff Trail to Cave. It is a moderate hike that features waterfalls and lots of caves to explore throughout the trail. Also consider driving over to the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. It is 35 minutes from Branson and does cost to get in, but it is an easy 6.2 engineered waterway experience, with Asphalt the entire way. With so many hiking options in Branson, I would definitely recommend downloading the "All Trails" App. It is easy to navigate and helps you to find the perfect trail for you!

Other ideas for your stay in Branson

If you are looking for thrill riding, be sure to check out the Silver Dollar City. This 1800s theme park has a ton of rides and attractions, unique dining and over 100 demonstrating craftsmen. There are also a ton of museums including Ripley's Believe it or Not, The Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. Branson is also home to multiple dinner shows like the Dolly Parton Stampede, or the WhoDunnIt Hoedown. No matter what you're looking to do, you can find it in Branson, Missouri.

Recommended Places to Stay

Big Cedar Lodge:

This is home to the Golf Cart Canyon Ride and has some of the most beautiful scenery located right on the property. Included with your stay are a variety of activities including state of the art fitness center, lazy river, kiddie pools, kayaks, canoes, miniature golf, shuffle board and sand volleyball. Cottages and cabins range from $300 a day to $5,000 a day. 

Still Water Resort: 

Sitting directly on Table Rock Lake, and located minutes away from Silver Dollar City, this resort offers the perfect escape for everyone in the family. This resort offers Oasis Plunge Waterslide & hot tub, swimming pools with waterslides, mini golf, paddleboard's & kayaks, aqua cycles, cane fishing, volleyball & basketball courts, and hiking trails. Condos range from 1 bedroom to 3 with prices from $150 a night to $500 a night.

As always, if you're looking to book a trip, be sure to reach out to me at leann@traveletp.com. I'm happy to give you more recommendations and my services are always free. When looking to book a vacation, remember to book with your local travel agent!