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Best things to do in Branson

Branson is fully open and ready for tourists. As it is centrally located, Branson is also easy to access by car as road trip vacations are becoming more popular. 

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Branson, I have it all right here.

I didn’t realize just how popular Branson is until I lived there. I have had friends from all over the country tell me that they see commercials for Branson all the time.

Families travel from all over the country (and sometimes other countries!) to see what this small, Missouri town has to offer.

Branson is an affordable place to visit, with accommodations ranging from simple hotels to upscale vacation resorts.

Branson’s central location makes it driveable from many states and easy to access from everywhere else thanks to its small airport.

Branson has a lot to offer, and it can get overwhelming if you aren’t sure where to start. These are, in my opinion, the best things to do in Branson with kids, in no particular order.

1. Dolly Parton Stampede

We have been going to Dolly Parton Stampede for several years and the kids absolutely love it. The regular food is really good, and the show is great. They also have gluten-free and vegetarian meal options.

I can’t say that the alternative meal options are amazing, but they are decent and it’s very nice to have the options instead of not eating!

While I’ve only been to the Christmas show, I’ve only heard great things about the regular show too. Make sure to go early for the pre-show, it’s worth it!

2. White Water

White Water had to make it onto my best things to do in Branson list. If you’re visiting Branson in the summer, it’s a must-do! The park is especially fun for older kids.

It can be a little crowded in the summer, but it’s worth it to be able to cool off. If you’re looking to visit White Water and Silver Dollar City, you can save money by purchasing a combo pass.

3. Fritz Adventure

Fritz Adventure offers something for the whole family from obstacles course to climbing and even a skydiving simulator. Don’t worry, it’s fun for the littles of the family too! 

This is a very popular Branson attraction so make sure to purchase your tickets before your trip. I recommend purchasing them with Viator as they offer a “best price” guarantee and free cancellation. 

4. National Tiger Sanctuary

The Tiger Sanctuary is located slightly outside of Branson, but it’s definitely worth the drive. Many of the residents are rescued from circuses or private owners who couldn’t properly care for them.

Unlike many zoos or animal attractions in the area, this is one place that truly cares about the well-being of the animals who live here.

I recommend the feeding tour, as it is always fun to watch them eat! In addition to large cats, there are also small cats, dogs, alligators, and many other animals that live on the property.

5. Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City is definitely #1 for the best things to do in Branson in my opinion! We always buy season passes and we love going every year.

It’s a fun theme park, set in the 1880s.  If you’re lucky enough to be in Branson around Christmas, you will want to check it out for the lights alone!

If you’re visiting in the summer, you can cool down on the water rides or with a trip into the cave. The food at Silver Dollar City is actually pretty good for theme park food.

You can also bring your lunch into the park, something that most theme parks don’t let you do! There is plenty of fun to be had for all ages at Silver Dollar City.

Another thing that sets Silver Dollar City apart from other theme parks is free parking!

You can pay for upgraded parking, but you’ll have to walk either way so you might as well take advantage of the free parking and take the tram. Click here for the best pricing on tickets plus free cancellation.

If you’re interested, you can check out what to do at Silver Dollar City to learn more.

6. Mini-golfing

One of our favorite things to do in Branson is mini-golfing. My boys recommend Dinosaur Canyon, although Pirate’s Cove is also at the top of our favorites list.

Go-Karting is another fun, family-friendly option. You’ll find many, many different options for mini-golfing and go-karting in Branson.

7. Have your pictures taken together

If you’re traveling to Branson for either a large family gets together or just a family vacation, feel free to check out my photography site at www.amyfillingerphotography.com to inquire about availability. 

Even if I am traveling and not available, I have a wonderful associate photographer who specializes in family photos.

8. Ziplines

Ziplines are a lot of fun for older, adventure-loving kids and adults. Branson has several great zipline adventures including:

• Zipline Canopy Tour at Shepherd of the Hills Homestead Adventure Park
• Vigilante Extreme Ziprider at Shepherd of the Hills
• Ridge Runner Zipline Tours in Reeds Spring

9. Branson Dinosaur Musuem

The dinosaur lover in your family might enjoy the Branson Dinosaur Museum. This is a smaller museum and you won’t spend all day here, but it’s a dream for any dinosaur fan. 

10. Branson Alpine Mountain Coaster

If you’re not up for a full day at Silver Dollar City but want a little bit of a thrill, check out Branson Alpine Mountain Coaster. 

Mountain Coasters are fairly new in Branson but have been a big hit with families. 

The best things to do in Branson with kids

In my opinion, these are the best things to do in Branson for families. That being said, it is certainly not an all-inclusive list! 

If you’re looking for fun for the adults, Stone Hill Winery and Mount Pleasant Winery both have tasting tours.  Did I mention that they’re right across the road from each other? You’re welcome.

Where to stay in Branson

There are so many great hotels in Branson that I had to write another post about it. Check out the best hotels in Branson. 

Have you visited Branson or have you thought about it? I’d love to hear about your experience. 

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