When you live an hour and a half away from Branson, it becomes your “go-to” place for quick family getaways! Or, if I am honest, it becomes a great place to spend some time alone as a couple. Branson has a little bit of something for everyone in every age group.
Branson Attractions
Family attractions abound, such as Silver Dollar City, White Water, Ride the Ducks, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, Branson’s Wild World, The Branson Ferris Wheel, and much more. You can also find mini-golf and go-karts at many locations along the strip.
Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City is a great theme park for young and old. There are thrill rides for the kids, and shows and shopping for the less adventuresome. Younger children also have great opportunities for fun. Read more about our Silver Dollar City experiences in the summer here.
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
The Sheperd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is a popular destination for younger children, and it’s free! Just bring some quarters and a cup for the trout food.

Ride the Ducks
Riding the Ducks is a great way to see Table Rock and the surrounding area. You can also board a Duck at the Branson Landing.

Branson’s Wild World
Branson’s Wild World is a great place to spend a hot afternoon or a rainy day. Read more about our experience here.
The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure
The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure is another great place to cool off or get out of the rain. You will be in awe of the peacefulness you experience while watching butterflies fly around you. Read about our day at the Butterfly Palace here.
Table Rock Lake
If you enjoy water sports, Table Rock Lake is waiting for you to jump right in!

Campbell Point near Shell Knob
If you’d like to get away from the hustle and bustle of Branson while enjoying Table Rock Lake, check out Campbell Point about an hour away. Here is our experience at Campbell Point near Shell Knob.
Branson Shows

You’ll have a great time tapping your feet in some of Branson’s greatest shows, such as Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Sight and Sound Theatre, The Haygoods, Dixie Stampede, and Six. Shows in Branson are appropriate for the whole family. Dixie Stampede also includes dinner!
Clay Cooper’s Country Express
We had a great time at Clay Cooper’s show. To read about our family’s fun-filled night, click here.
Sight and Sound Theatre
Branson’s Sight and Sound Theatre is an experience like no other. These Broadway-style shows will amaze you and touch your heart. Read about our family’s experience with Moses here.
Branson Dining

Your taste buds will also love Branson! Be sure to check out some of our favorites like Grand Country Buffet and McFarlin’s. We also like to eat outdoors next to the Taney River at Branson Landing. Though it’s a chain restaurant, we really love Saltgrass at the Landing. Chain places in town are plentiful, and we often eat a meal at Cracker Barrel, Godfather’s Pizza, Rib Crib, or Montanna Mike’s when we’re in town.
Branson Lodging
We have been going to Branson for years, and we have found some great mom and pop places to stay. These places are not luxury accommodations, but they are clean and we have alway had great service. They are also budget-friendly, especially compared to many chain hotels in town. We recommend Angel Inn near the IMAX, Classic Car Motor Inn, Whispering Hills, and Deer Run Motel if you want to stay next to Silver Dollar City.
Branson Shopping
For shopping, don’t miss Downtown Branson where you’ll find Dick’s Five and Ten, a Branson tradition! Branson Landing is also a great place to stroll in the evening and shop. We also enjoy shopping at the Tanger Outlets, and we never miss a stop at the Disney Store!
You can also find some great information on these message boards, 1Branson.com. Just click on the forum to read about many experiences people have had in Branson. I’ve been a member for several years.
I hope you have a wonderful trip! It’s like a second hometown to us. Have fun making adventures happen in Branson!