When you plan a getaway in Branson, look forward to toe-tapping music, scenic views of the Ozark Mountains, and diverse attractions perfect for visitors of all ages. This southwestern city in Missouri is lined with theaters, museums, and amusement parks. Book a stay at a Branson vacation rental today, then venture out to try out these top activities in the city.
1. Meet the Stars at the Hollywood Wax Museum
You don’t have to travel to California to see the stars. Branson is home to the Hollywood Wax Museum, a two-story specialty museum that features wax figures of stars such as Johnny Depp, Jamie Foxx, and Gwyneth Paltrow, as well as classic favorites that include Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, and Elvis Presley. Take a guided tour to learn more about the celebrities and snap a photo with your favorite star.
2. Slide and Splash at White Water
At White Water Branson, an island-themed waterpark, the thrill seekers in your family can brave the slides or relax in the lazy river for the day. This 13-acre recreational water park is ideal for families wanting a day of fun in the sun or singles looking to relax in the private cabanas poolside. Don’t leave the park without a dip in the wave pool, and be sure to stop in the gift shop for a souvenir.
3. Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Opt for a mind-blowing day of browsing through 450 artifacts, wacky interactives, and unique artwork at Ripley’s Believe It or Not, located just minutes from your Branson vacation rental. This museum with eight galleries includes a spinning vortex tunnel, a 22-foot-tall car parts robot, and even a vampire-killing kit. When you need a few hours of eclectic fun, take a self-guided tour to see if you believe the wonders right before your eyes.
4. Get Up Close and Personal With Wildlife at Branson’s Promised Land Zoo
Head over to Branson’s Promised Land Zoo to view live animal shows, feed newborn animals, or chat away with the parakeets. This privately owned zoo gives your family the chance to take a private encounter tour, join the foot safari, or even pet a kangaroo.
5. Spend the Day at Silver Dollar City
Visit an amusement park that takes you back in time during your Branson vacation. A trip to Silver Dollar City transports your family back to the 1880s. See more than 100 craftsmen demonstrating how to carve wood, make pottery, and blow glass, then ride one of the 40 thrilling rides or roller coasters. With more than 12 restaurants, the park offers plenty of variety at mealtime. Be sure to check out the schedule of live shows.
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6. Enjoy a Show on the Showboat Branson Belle
Hop on board the Showboat Branson Belle for a toe-tapping time with a view of the Ozark Mountains. This water-based boat show features performances that incorporate comedy, magic, and dance into your evening. Enjoy a full-course meal and a show when treating your family to a night on the town in Branson.
7. Catch a Thrill on a Zipline
Travel just seven miles north to soar above the trees and take in the beauty of the Ozarks. Located within Wolfe Creek Preserve, Branson Zipline Canopy Tours hosts eco-tours, zipline excursions, and a free-fall ride from the top of a 100-foot platform.
8. Race Around the Track
If your family feels the need for speed, sign up for a zip around the track at The Track Family Fun Park. Challenge the kids to a race on go-karts, get wet and wild on the bumper boats, or show off your athletic ability at the batting cages. The Track is also home to a 240-passenger Ferris wheel with 16,000 lights, ideal for an evening ride.
9. Tour the Branson Auto and Farm Museum
Old car enthusiasts flock to the Branson Auto and Farm Museum to see the hundreds of restored vehicles and tractors on the grounds. From a 1942 Harley Davidson motorcycle to a 1958 Cadillac Biarritz, there is always something new to see at this museum known for changing its inventory frequently.
10. Dine at Dixie Stampede
Take a break from cooking at your vacation rental and head over to Dixie Stampede for a full meal and a thrilling show. The 35,000-square-foot arena offers an interactive evening complete with horse riding stunts, comedy acts, and maybe even a dancing chicken, all performing while you enjoy a four-course meal.
11. Learn More About Fishing
While you can certainly try your hand at fishing on the lake in Branson, you can perfect your strategy with a trip to the History of Fishing Museum. Featuring more than 40,000 pieces of artifacts, this museum offers tourists a look at one of the largest collections of boats, rods, reels, and antique fishing lures.
12. Attend a Holiday Festival
Time your Branson vacation during the winter months to see Branson’s Gift of Lights, a traditional display of Christmas lights. Drive through the display that opens at dusk from November through the end of December each year, or take the kids through the 12 Days of Christmas display. The festival also includes a dinosaur park, Noah’s Ark, and monkeys for the kids to see.
13. Glide Through the Streets on a Segway
Roam freely through the streets of Branson to see the sights while riding on a Segway, rented from Branson Segway and Adventure Center. Sign up for a session with a professional trainer before roaming the track, designed specifically for Segways, that is nestled on top of the hillside so you can enjoy the view.
14. Float Down the James River
A trip to Branson in the summer months calls for some relaxing fun in the sun and on the water. Rent canoes or tubes from James River Outfitters in nearby Galena. Float on your own along the James River, or opt for a guided tour. This facility provides your family with restrooms and showers upon your return.
15. Fly Above Branson with Chopper Charter Branson
Soar above the river, the attractions, and the trees when you sign up for a helicopter ride with Chopper Charter Branson. Take a tour of Branson for a few minutes, or charter the helicopter to a nearby area to diversify your fun.
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