Wouldn’t you love a vacation somewhere fancy and fun-filled to help you relax? Branson is the place for you!
Starting from theaters, theme parks, and immersive natural beauty on every side, Branson is known worldwide to be the live music capital, and it’s on the bucket lists of more and more Americans every year.
Branson is located in the very heart of the Ozark Mountains for hiking, camping, and horseback riding; Branson is renowned as one of the Midwest’s most popular (and still underrated) tourist destinations.
It welcomes about 7 million avid tourists annually.
Having about 100 different shows to choose from, award-winning restaurants, thrilling rides at Silver Dollar City, and the shimmering waters of Table Rock Lake, the variety of things to do in Branson (MO) is no surprise.
Join us as we explore some of the fun things to do in Branson:
Fun Things to Do in Branson (MO)
1. Visit Fritz’s Adventure
Fritz’s Adventure is the perfect way to spend a fun, action-packed day with the kids in Branson.
Fritz’s Adventure is located just 10 minutes from downtown and adjacent to Dolly Parton’s Stampede. It is a large indoor area that can be used all year round.
This popular attraction is filled with thrilling rides and attractions for all ages, from thrilling multi-level high ropes courses to slides, underground tunnels, jungle gyms, and laser mazes.
2. Tour the City With Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City started from its humble beginnings as a small town attraction to its current status as an internationally recognized amusement park; it has something for everyone.
Countless live shows with over 40 thrilling rides, attractions (including a handful of world-class roller coasters), and special events all year round, all with his 1880s theme.
There’s no denying that Silver Dollar City is an absolute must-visit.
Not sure where to start? Outlaw His run has a top speed of 100 km/h, which is heart-pounding.
A trip to Marvel Cave takes you up to 300 feet below the surface.
Thunderation, on the other hand, is a runaway mine train that offers spectacular panoramic views of the Ozarks.
If you’re visiting before Halloween, don’t forget to put the annual Thanksgiving on your list.
Silver Dollar City started from its humble beginnings as a small town attraction to its current status as an internationally recognized amusement park; it has something for everyone.
Countless live shows with over 40 thrilling rides, attractions (including a handful of world-class roller coasters), and special events all year round, all with his 1880s theme.
There’s no denying that Silver Dollar City is an absolute must-visit.
Not sure where to start? Outlaw His run has a top speed of 100 km/h, which is heart-pounding.
A trip to Marvel Cave takes you up to 300 feet below the surface.
Thunderation, on the other hand, is a runaway mine train that offers spectacular panoramic views of the Ozarks.
If you’re visiting before Halloween, don’t forget to put the annual Thanksgiving on your list.
3. Zipline and See the City From Branson Inspiration Tower
At over 230 feet tall (the highest point in southwestern Missouri), the tower offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, great views of this bustling Ozark city.
Located at the top of the tower, accessed by a spectacular glass-floor elevator, you can see 90 miles ahead on a clear day.
For a little more excitement, ride the Vigilante Extreme Zip rider. An exhilarating ride that takes a seated rider down a tower at a whopping 45 mph.
Things to Do in Branson (MO) at Night
1. Enjoy Some Live Music
With over 60 venues offering everything from country whistling to stand-up comedy, there’s sure to be something on this list of must-see shows.
Locals flock to Dick Clark’s retro-themed American Bandstand Theater, where the best impersonators (think Elvis, Whitney Houston, and the Blues Brothers, to name a few) take the stage nightly for the Legends in Concert show.
Taking a moment away from Country 76 Boulevard, Pierce Arrow combines side-splitting comedy with some of the greatest tunes from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
While Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers, fronted by Branson’s own Mabe family, have been dishing out great laughs and even better live music.
2. Experience Branson Landing Fountain Show
Located on Branson Landing Boulevard, a scenic promenade along the Taneycomo Lakefront, the Branson Landing Fountain Show is a multi-million dollar extravaganza that features exciting fire displays, light, music, and water.
The fountain stands at the foot of the dynamic town square and shoots water 120 feet into the air combined with vertical fire cannon shots.
The show takes place every hour on the hour Monday through Saturday from noon to 10 pm. and on Sundays from noon to 9 pm., weather permitting.
Branson Landing Fountain Show is usually accompanied by musical favorites such as the Star Spangled Banner, Candle in the Wind, Living on a Prayer, and other popular music selections.
3. Don’t Miss a Thing at Fun Mountain at Big Cedar Lodge
Fun Mountain is one of those amazing attractions that offers an exceptional experience for all family members.
Look forward to non-stop fun and games at this remarkable indoor family entertainment facility at Big Cedar Lodge Resort in the Ozark Mountains.
Regardless of the weather, kids and adults alike will have tons of fun playing underwater-themed bowling, riding a bumper car, playing laser tag, or climbing a rock wall.
Fun Mountain at Big Cedar Lodge has a great game arcade to keep you entertained throughout your visit.
Outdoor activities at Fun Mountain include golf, fishing, shooting, lake cruises, water sports, horseback riding, and much more.
Things to Do in Branson (MO) For Couples
1. Tour the T-Rex at the Dinosaur Museum
The Dinosaur Museum is only a few years old but is already on Branson’s must-see list.
More than 50 cast replica dinosaurs (including the ever-popular Tyrannosaurus Rex) and ancient fossils from around the world are displayed, all presented with information about when they lived and how they died.
This small but huge museum is a treasure trove for dinosaur lovers of all ages.
2. Visit the Table Rock Lake
One of the three Great Lakes near Branson, with 800 miles of shoreline and pristine fishing, Table Rock welcomes all.
Catch a fish (bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill can be found everywhere), rent a kayak, charter a boat, or hit one of the many beaches.
Hikers head for the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail. Nature lovers should camp at Table Rock State Park or sign up for scuba diving and mountain biking adventures.
For the romantic, the Showboat Branson Belle is perfect.
Aboard the paddle steamer, he offers three-course dinner cruises year-round, with live music and entertainment (not to mention stunning views from the deck).
3. Play Golf at Shoot for the Stars Mini-Golf
A simple yet always fun way to spend an afternoon, mini golf is one of the best activities for all ages and abilities.
Branson’s Shoot for the Stars Mini-Golf does just that. As the name suggests, this place combines 18 holes of outdoor golf with the glitz and glamor of Tinseltown.
As you pass by some of Hollywood’s most famous landmarks (designed to illustrate the real stages of a Hollywood career, from being featured to earning a star on the Walk of Fame), you’ll find the Capitol record, the Chinese theater, the Hollywood Bowl and many other famous landmarks.
Things to Do in Branson (MO) For Kids
1. Take Them to the Aquarium at the Boardwalk
Kids who love the sea and aquatic life will love the Aquarium at the Boardwalk.
You’ll marvel at the giant, shiny octopus mascot crawling around the building before your family enters.
In the depths of the facility, there are many marine-themed collections and interactive exhibits that will allow you and your child to meet a variety of fish and aquatic animals.
There is the magical Jelly Infinity Room, Water Tunnel, Mermaid Palace, and Kelp Forest.
The touch pool is also popular as children can meet the harmless and gentle stingrays, sharks, and crabs wading in the shallow water.
Another exhibit of focus at the Aquarium at Boardwalk is the coral reefs.
A facility that aims to spread awareness of these important marine species and encourage visitors to help with conservation efforts.
2. Let Them Play at the Toy Museum Complex
The largest toy museum complex in the world will probably appeal more to adults who want to relive their childhood with toys from the past.
But children will also love it because it is a house full of toys.
The complex has six museums, each with its own theme or collection.
There are more than a million toys in these facilities, some dating back to the 19th century.
Most of them may be from the past, but that doesn’t mean that kids today can’t play with them anymore.
The exhibits are mostly interactive, so it can be a fun way to teach your kids how to use the toys you grew up with.
Not only is it a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but it’s also an opportunity to bond with your kids over the things you once loved.
3. Let Them Ride the Branson Mountain Coaster
Are you looking for a unique and customizable ride for you and your kids?
The Branson Mountain Coaster is a special ride that offers scenic views of the Ozark Mountains and thrilling descents into the alpine forests.
First, you will drive to the highest point of the track with many opportunities to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Then comes the descent; gravity will accelerate you as you travel downhill.
Fortunately, you can control your speed and direction, especially if things get too intense for you or your child.
The coasters also turn into a magical ride at night when the track is lit with multi-colored lights, creating a stunning and incomparable sight.
Make sure it’s part of your itinerary – your kids will love you for it.
Indoor Activities to Do in Branson (MO) For Adults
1. See the Talking Rocks Cavern
A local favorite, Talking Rocks Cavern is a million-year-old geological wonderland.
This natural limestone cave in Branson West offers fascinating (and slightly spooky) guided tours through a maze of caves and crevasses.
Outside the caves, you’ll find picnic areas, miniature golf, playgrounds, several crawl mazes, numerous nature trails, and lookouts to enjoy all that Stone County offers.
2. Make it Out of Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors
Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors is a heart-wrenching, maze-like adventure set in the heart of Branson, next to Ripley, that’s simultaneously mysterious, mystical, and delightful.
With walls, ceilings, and floors all made of mirrors, Hannah’s will definitely lower your spatial skills as you try to rescue Princess Hannah of Savannah by manipulating twists and turns most excitingly.
3. Check Out Lightning McQueen at the Branson Celebrity Car Museum
Where Hollywood meets the Midwest, the Branson Celebrity Car Museum showcases more than 100 instantly recognizable cars from famous movies and TV shows worldwide, plus a little bit of automotive history.
From Scooby-Doo’s Mystery Machine to Back to the Future’s DeLorean, plus Lightning McQueen and Mater from Disney’s Cars, there’s no shortage of head-turning cars from the Fast and Furious franchise.
Romantic Things to Do in Branson (MO)
1. Visit the Branson Butterfly Palace
The Branson Butterfly Palace is a must for nature lovers and a nice break from the busy downtown waterfront.
This charming indoor garden is home to over 1000 exotic butterflies, fluttering freely in a tropical-like setting.
Gardens in large greenhouses filled with exotic flowers and plants, these beautiful creatures flapping from tree to tree (sometimes even landing on outstretched arms), providing natural nectar
Stroll through this unique attraction that also includes a Rainforest Discovery Center with live reptiles and a mirror maze for little ones.
Don’t miss the 3D movie “Flight of the Butterflies” for a breathtaking monarch butterfly migration experience.
2. Spend Time at Moonshine Beach
Moonshine Beach is a popular spot for sandy picnics and sunbathing. An outdoor oasis on the shores of Table Rock Lake, where calm waters provide plenty of opportunities for a swim.
Just a 20-minute drive away, there’s a playground to keep the little ones entertained and plenty of outdoor tables and barbecue areas for when your tummy is rumbling.
Plus, our proximity to the Dewey Short Visitor Center Recreation Area means there’s plenty to see and do nearby.
3. Check Out Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
A family attraction in dozens of cities across the United States (and beyond), this interactive museum and auditorium is the ultimate destination for tourists,
With hundreds of different exhibits, fun facts, and mind-boggling optical illusions to surprise, amaze and entertain (and is housed in a building that appears to split in two), Ripley’s has eight galleries to keep guests busy all through their visit.
Not sure where to start? Military His Marvel exhibits are Branson’s own, but Super His Fans, with his laser tags, interactive mazes, and Smash Dash, his zone, are fan favorites.
Free Things to Do in Branson (MO)
1. See the Hollywood Wax Museum
A surefire way to brighten up your social media feeds with images of celebrities, musicians, sports stars, and more, the Hollywood Wax Museum is a popular spot for visitors of all ages.
With more than 100 life-size wax figures, including Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles, and Lady Gaga, the museum is open daily and has plenty of photo opportunities.
Tip: Experience the 5D Chaos Castle after meeting the lifelike heroes!
2. Take a Walk at the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area
A 140-hectare natural park in the middle of the tourist bustle (thus serving as an easily accessible green space for those wanting a quick getaway).
The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area offers a breath of fresh air with towering trees, waterfalls, hidden caves, and abundant wildlife.
It features approximately six miles (6 miles) of hiking trails (from easy to challenging) and numerous bike paths that weave through and around rocky terrain.
This discreet spot is perfect for those who want to get lost in the great outdoors.
Wear sturdy shoes as you descend the 339 steps to Lake Tanikomo. Peek inside the caves if you venture the Bluff Trail.
3. Experience Nature at the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
Dogwood Canyon, located in the stunning, lush natural town of Ramp, about a 35-minute drive from Branson, is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with dozens of hiking trails through 10,000 acres of diverse landscape.
You can also try cycling.
At Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, you can observe deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat, fish for trout, explore caves, and take an outdoor tram ride for wildlife tours.
Cheap Things to Do in Branson (MO)
1. Explore the Titanic Museum
In the heyday of luxury sailing, the acclaimed Titanic Museum near the city’s Dangerous Zone delights guests with engaging, interactive exhibits that take guests on a journey back to 1912.
More than 400 relics of her from the shipwreck are displayed in nearly 20 galleries, including recreated dining room and bedroom suites.
Visitors can learn about the famous White Star Line flagship and see what the unfortunate passengers were like.
Not your usual museum, a stand-in crew will dress up in period costumes and interact with visitors for an immersive and fun adventure.
2. Board the Branson Scenic Railway
The Branson Scenic Railway offers a great way to enjoy the Ozarks, where Missouri’s long-standing icons meet enchanting nature.
This train departs directly from downtown and winds through beautiful countryside with views of everything from pristine lakes and rushing rivers to dense forests and rugged hills on a 40-mile (40-mile) round trip.
Choose from the Northern Route. Travel through the Missouri countryside past the town of Galena and the beautiful James River Valley.
The South then opens into northwestern Arkansas via the Barren Fork Trestle.
Either way, sitting in a meticulously restored historic railroad car from the late 1930s to early 1960s takes you through the rugged landscapes of the Midwest and lets you step back in time.
Can’t decide when to leave? Autumn takes the magic to another level when the leaves turn bright reds and oranges.
3. See Kangaroos at Branson’s Promised Land Zoo
Spread across 75 acres of Ozark natural landscape, the Promised Land Zoo is not only famous but also home to over 500 animals from around the world.
It has been rated not only as one of the top 25 zoos in America but also as one of the best and regularly ranked as one of the zoos in the Branson era.
The Branson’s Promised Land Zoo is home to everything from lions and tigers to lemurs, sloths, camels, and kangaroos.
This zoo brings you the closest you can get to some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.
The Promised Land Zoo houses a wide variety of exotic plants and trees and offers a beautiful and peaceful nature walk in the heart of Branson.
Are you looking for something special? RTV guided tours offer a half-day safari-like adventure. The Christmas lights drive-thru adds another must-see magic.
Cool Places to Visit in Branson (MO)
1. Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum
While not as famous as some of Branson’s other attractions, the Ancient Ozarks Museum of Natural History (founded by Bass Pro Shop founder Johnny Morris) is worth a visit.
Learn about the region’s diverse geology, its evolution, and all the prehistoric creatures that once called Missouri and America home, including the saber-toothed tiger and short-faced bear.
Housed in a beautiful building on the Top of the Rock (the highest point in the area overlooking Table Rock Lake), this museum explores local Native American culture, early settlers, the Old West, and the Civil War era.
There are exhibits on the topic. , what makes a morning of learning and entertainment.
2. The Shepherd of the Hills
This action-packed attraction, an outdoor theme park centered around live performances, is a hit with families.
The show tells the story of the first settlers in the Ozarks and weaves in themes of faith, love, and patriotism that are as relevant today as ever.
With live music, stunts, horseback riding, and more—not to mention the Shepherd of the Hills Inspiration Tower—it’s a fun way to while away for a few hours.
Plus, there’s plenty of shopping and dining to keep you busy before or after the show!
3. Shipwrecked Treasure Museum
Revealing the secrets of the deepest recesses of the oceans, the Shipwreck Museum is packed with authentic salvaged treasures from shipwrecks worldwide.
Visitors can learn about the causes of some of the world’s most famous shipwrecks by watching documentaries from National Geographic and the Discovery Channel before exploring salvaged items spanning several centuries from the Roman Empire to World War II.
Many hands-on touch screens, simulators, games, and other interactive activities exist.
Some key exhibits include ancient coins, arrowheads, beads, historical weapons, and precious porcelain and silver ingots from World War II.
Conclusion
Branson offers fun for the whole family; from thrilling rides to weird museums, there’s something for everyone!
Follow our checklist of things to do in Branson (MO) and have yourself a memorable weekend.
