Travel
Things to do in Branson, Missouri
Discover the best things to do in Branson, Missouri. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, fine dining, family attractions or cozy accommodations, these activities belong on your Branson bucket list.
By Jordan Blomquist
Jun 01 2024 at 10 a.m.
Branson, Missouri, has entertainment for all ages, stunning scenery, delicious dining options and so much fun waiting for you this summer.
Having grown up in 417-land, it was always a treat to make it to Branson for a day of shopping at the Tanger Outlets, enjoying the thrills of Silver Dollar City or grabbing dinner at one of my go-to spots, Thai Thai Cuisine.
Ready to plan your trip to Branson? Read on for a closer look at some of the highlights and hidden gems the city has to offer.
Branson is known as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World."
A Little Bit of Everything in Branson, Missouri: From Silver Dollar City to Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
4100 Gretna Rd, Branson, 417-334-4084, explorebranson.com
As nature awakens and temperatures rise, this picturesque city offers all kinds of attractions and activities to captivate visitors of all ages.
What to see: A highlight for visitors is the renowned Silver Dollar City. This 1880s-themed amusement park combines thrilling rides with nostalgic experiences, offering an unforgettable journey back in time. Be sure to visit the brand new $30 million Fire in the Hole indoor family roller coaster, the largest in the Heartland.
What’s new: The Immersive Disney Animation attraction is also new to Branson and a must-visit. This cutting-edge experience transports guests into the magical world of Disney through state-of-the-art technology and storytelling.
Don’t miss: From beloved stage shows to celebrated comedians, from musicians to magicians, there are plenty of shows to choose from. Known for its live music shows, Branson has more than 100 performances that span all genres and interests, such as The Hughes Brothers, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Dustin Tavella and Sight & Sound Theatre's.
My recommendation: Dolly Parton’s Stampede is one Branson show that holds a special place in my heart. The dinner show brings back memories of annual visits with my entire family, where we’d enjoy dinner and the show and pick out souvenirs from the gift shop.
When to go: Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore this summer. Table Rock Lake is home to 14 public marinas and 24 public boat launches, making it easy to rent a boat or bring your own. That’s where you’ll find on the summer weekends!
Golf aficionados can tee off at championship courses like Branson Hills Golf Club and Top of the Rock Golf Course. Hiking and biking trails in the Henning Conservation Area and the White River Valley Trail System offer scenic exploration. Thrill-seekers can indulge in off-road adventures with Pink Jeep Adventure Tours. Whether it’s on the water, the fairways or the trails, Branson promises unforgettable outdoor experiences for all.
Tip: To make the most of your trip, be sure to utilize explorebranson.com. This resource provides insider tips, comprehensive guides and itineraries to help plan the perfect getaway.
Guests have the opportunity to relax in Birch & Willow’s lounge before and after their service.
Relax and Rejuvenate with a Spa Day
Birch and Willow Spa
4524 Gretna Rd., Branson, 417-544-0247, birchandwillowspa.com
Birch and Willow Spa, Branson’s premier luxury day spa, invites you to relax. The mother-daughter owner duo, Jodi Lilly and Jami Kysar, have a combined 34 years of licensed massage therapy expertise.
What’s new: Birch and Willow Spa is introducing a facial package. For $350, clients will enjoy a 30-minute facial coupled with a 30-minute consultation and product knowledge session. During this consultation, their skilled service provider will craft a home regimen tailored to their skin’s needs and discuss the best products for their skin type. On top of that, clients will receive three customized facials spread across three months.
Don’t miss: Amenities include a locker room equipped with robes and slippers, a dry sauna and showers stocked with shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Additionally, the spa provides a variety of services, such as hair and nail treatments, spray tans, brow and lash services, waxing, massages and facial and body treatments.
What to try: Try their Radiant Glow package, which includes a 60-minute massage, a 60-minute body wrap and a 60-minute facial.
My recommendation: During my visit, I enjoyed two Mother’s Day specials: a 60-minute massage with hot shells and a 60-minute facial with eye and lip treatments. Before the massage, we discussed the areas to focus on, specifically my neck and shoulders, so the massage therapist could give those areas some much-needed extra attention. The hot shells—used to relax the muscles—were my favorite part! After the massage, I received a facial that started with steam to prep my skin. The expert gave me skincare tips based on my skin type, performed extractions and applied several products to ensure deep hydration, and my skin has never felt better. I highly recommend starting with a massage and finishing with a facial for a well-rounded experience. They definitely don’t understate luxury at Birch & Willow! A visit to their sauna before and after the service really set the tone for a relaxing day.
Tip: “Come early and stay late,” Kysar encourages. Guests can arrive before their appointment, enjoy the sauna and lounge, and unwind in robes and slippers.
Enjoy a Staycation
Myer Hospitality
417-335-4727, myerhospitality.com
Myer Hospitality’s four Branson hotels promise quality service tailored to their guests’ needs, wherever they stay in town. All their hotels are concrete-constructed, making for quiet and safe rooms.
What’s new: The Comfort Inn & Suites owned by Myer Hospitality stands as the most decorated Comfort Inn in the brand’s history, ranking among the top 1% nationwide. Additionally, renovations are underway at the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, with plans to introduce new features in their A building.
What to try: Myer Hospitality’s hotel offers a variety of room types based on each person’s and family’s needs. All hotels have rooms that can sleep up to six people, as well as suites for a romantic getaway.
Tip: Myer Hospitality offers vacation planning and ticket services without service fees, making vacations easier and more economical. Guests can also access dining publications at all their hotels for added convenience.
My recommendation: Myer Hospitality leaves its hotel pools and hot tubs open until midnight so take advantage and relax after a day of adventure or a night out on the town.
Christopher & Banks has stylish options for summer out now.
What to Wear to Work this Summer
Christopher & Banks
300 Tanger Blvd. Suite 304, Branson, 417-527-8493, christopherandbanks.com
Christopher & Banks has been outfitting women in comfort and style since 1956. They design for women who are in search of wardrobes that reflect their lifestyle. The brand strives to create high-quality, original and affordable clothing designed in the United States and brought to customers by a team with over 150 years of combined experience with the brand.
Don’t miss: Exclusive prints and patterns, a consistent and accurate fit in sizes 4-24 and great quality at a value price are what keep cherished customers returning to shop with Christopher & Banks.
What to try: Customers have to try Christopher & Banks’ signature slimming pant collection. Available in a variety of fabrics and styles, all are designed with a flexible tummy-smoothing panel for a sleek silhouette and great fit. Customers love the denim so much they call them “magic jeans.” Also popular is the Relaxed.RESTYLED collection—where activewear and leisurewear connect—combining comfort and ease with sophistication and style.
What’s new: This season is all about comfort and style! From capris and skimmers to novelty tops in assorted prints, Christopher & Banks will be the destination for great fit and function this summer.
Tip: Visit their location in the Tanger Outlets Branson, or shop anytime online at christopherandbanks.com.
Silver Dollar City, an 1880s theme park, is home to 12 stages, over 40 rides and attractions, 18 award-winning restaurants, 60 shops and 100 resident craftsmen.
Thrills in the City
Silver Dollar City
399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, 417-336-7100, silverdollarcity.com
Silver Dollar City’s Ozark Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Arvest is a party in the streets. Find old-fashioned fun in every fold of the 1880s theme park from June 8 to August 4 with visiting performers, legendary folklore and nostalgic food.
Don’t miss: Family entertainment during the dog days of summer includes the return of The Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience. These high-flying pups will raise the “woof” and wow the crowd with cool canine tricks.
Meet up in Rivertown to beat the heat and see if the Professor can make it rain or if he’s just selling flimflam during The Rainmaker street performance. Also in Rivertown, get your toes tappin’ with the jazzy sounds of the Rivertown Ramblers who offer up a delightful dose of Dixieland. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of high-energy music and worship as the Grammy award-winning Christian rock band Newsboys takes the stage at Echo Hollow® Amphitheatre on June 15.
The City’s carefree fun goes well into the moonlight from July 13 to August 4 with Summer Nights. Guests of all ages will bust out their best moves at the Summer Nights Dance Party on Town Square each evening from 7:30–10 p.m. Enjoy extended ride hours and a fireworks finale during Summer Nights.
What to try: Guests will have plenty of food options, too, with The City’s “Summer Tasting Passport” featuring some new favorites such as grilled pineapple skewers with piña colada dipping sauce, strawberry crunch funnel cakes, chicken cobb shaker salad and more. I enjoy the classic cinnamon bread every time I visit The City.
My recommendation: I love the nostalgia that comes with a visit to Silver Dollar City. Don’t underestimate the shows at the amusement park—they’re some of the best in town! I am a big fan of comedy shows, so Frontier Follies is at the top of my list. As for rides, you might have to stand in line, but it’s worth it for Powder Keg. End the day with a Tater Twist and Clara Belle’s Cinnamon Bread, and you’ve hit all the marks!
What’s new: The entertainment and festival fare provides a beautiful backdrop for The City’s 40 rides and attractions, including the new Fire In The Hole which is sure to be a new family favorite. I cherished the previous ride for years, and I’m excited to experience the new Fire in the Hole this summer. For more info, visit silverdollarcity.com or download the free Silver Dollar City app.
The Keeter Center’s College Creamery offers classic flavors to more adventurous flavors. You’re going to want to try them all!
Indulge in Something Sweet
The Keeter Center
1 Opportunity Ave., Hollister, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu/dine/creamery
Experience the essence of summer at The Keeter Center’s College Creamery.
As temperatures soar, there’s no better way to savor the season than with a scoop of ice cream from The Keeter Center’s College Creamery. Renowned for its unparalleled flavors and top-tier quality, this is where summer dreams come true.
The day begins before dawn, with dedicated agriculture students from the College of the Ozarks® tending to Holstein, Jersey and Guernsey cows at the award-winning W. Alton Jones Campus Dairy. Fresh milk is lovingly collected, expertly pasteurized and bottled by these same students. Then, with skill and devotion, another group of hardworking students transforms this liquid gold into Nettie Marie’s Homemade Ice Cream, a tribute to a beloved figure in the College's history. It's a tradition rooted in heritage, where students earn their education through hands-on experience.
What to try: Let’s talk flavors. From the rich, creamy indulgence of espresso custard to the fruity delight of strawberry ice Cceam, there's something to please every palate. Dive into classics like Oreo mint and vanilla custard, or venture into more adventurous territory with raspberry mascarpone and coconut almond fudge. And keep an eye out for seasonal sorbets and flavors that capture the essence of summer.
Tip: For the ultimate treat, enjoy your ice cream in a homemade waffle cone or take home a batch of student-made waffle chips, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and drizzled with white chocolate. It's a taste sensation you won't soon forget.
My recommendation: My all-time favorite from The Keeter Center’s College Creamery is the banana pudding ice cream, complete with chunks of Nilla wafer in the mix. It’s also Chancellor Davis’ favorite!
Don’t miss: Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Treat yourself or a loved one with a gift card, available online at keetercenter.edu. Experience the magic of College Creamery, where every scoop tells a story of passion, tradition and hard work.
Branson Hills Golf Club has some new additions, including Club Car Fleet, featuring plush seats and GPS navigation.
Stroll the Branson Landing or Practice Your Swing at Branson Hills Golf Club
HCW Management Company
100 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-332-3400, hcwdevelopment.com
What’s new: Branson Landing welcomes four new establishments: Flaming Margarita American Kitchen, Crepes N’ Cream, Southern Living Store and Elysium—a toy and gaming store.
Swing into summer at Branson Hills Golf Club. The club introduces its new Club Car Fleet, featuring plush seats and GPS navigation. Tee times can be booked at bransonhillsgolfclub.com. Don’t forget to check out Magnolia Grille before or after golfing.
Don’t miss: The fountain shows at the Branson Landing. Guests will be amazed by the dazzling interplay of water fountains shooting 120-foot geysers and fire cannons blasting, all choreographed to light and music.
My recommendation: Don’t miss out on a fun photo op! The fountain shows are impressive to watch but also make the perfect backdrop for snapping a photo.
Additionally, Level 2 Bar, located just outside Level 2 Steakhouse, offers an exceptional selection of drinks along with the full menu from the steakhouse.
What to see: Everything at the Branson Landing—from anchor stores like Bass Pro to Belk, is complemented by 17 restaurants and over 80 retail and attractions. Plus, don’t miss the scenic boardwalk stretching along the 1.5-mile Taneycomo Lakefront.
