The Best Around Branson
Dogwood Canyon
DogWood Canyon Nature Park covers 10,000 acres with 6 miles of paved walkways along with 9 miles of nature trails. We visited in the spring, and walked the paved path throughout the park. We saw a number of crystal-clear streams and unique bridges. The park is stunning and extremely well-cared for. The park has a number of activities from tram tours and fishing to horseback riding.
Silver Dollar City
In 2016, my husband and I visited Branson over Thanksgiving weekend. We went to Silver Dollar City the Friday after Thanksgiving, arriving right around when the park opened. Upon entering the park, we found a bakery and enjoyed some cinnamon rolls and coffee for breakfast. Afterwards, we strolled through the theme park, stopping in various shops and watching craftsmen work. The highlight was riding the popular Fire in the Hole. We left the park early in the afternoon to rest and get some lunch, then we came back in the evening (using our same ticket). At night, we stood near the large Christmas tree and admired the Christmas parade along with the many lights.
Dining in Branson:
On each of our Branson trips, we have made a trip to Billy Gail’s located off Hwy 265. The long-time restaurant is known for their pizza-sized pancakes (which are SO GOOD!). The food is great, and service is always fast and friendly. Go early to avoid a wait though. You won’t be disappointed!
We have dined at Arnie’s Barn and the Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock in Big Cedar. During our Thanksgiving weekend visit to the Branson area, we made reservations for the Thanksgiving dinner buffet at Arnie’s Barn. The menu included turkey, dressing, prime rib, ham, potatoes, salad, and much more! Not to mention was a large selection of pies and desserts. More recently we dined at the Osage Restaurant for their Easter brunch buffet (mimosa’s & bloody mary’s included!) Again, there was a large selection of food from breakfast items to cheeses and salads, as well as lunch items. And, the dessert table was plentiful with carrot cake muffins, pastries and more. We were stuffed when we left!
We stopped in Gettin’ Basted BBQ on the Branson strip to place a to-go order on a previous springtime visit to the Branson area. It was bustling inside with a wait to be seated. We place our order inside and they had our food to us within 15 minutes. Everything we had was delicious!
Mr. G’s Chicago Pizza was also on our list one evening in Branson during our spring of 2021 trip. We placed our pizza order to go and enjoyed a beverage at a bar-top table while we waited. Our order took about 20-25 minutes but the pizza was excellent!
Hollister
On our latest Branson visit, we went to the town of Hollister. Their downtown street is very quaint but has shops, restaurants, and even an inn. We found Turkey Creek Brewery one sunny afternoon to enjoy some beverages. On the following evening, we dined inside Downing Street Pour House, which has the same owners as Gettin’ Basted (mentioned above). In 2016 we dined at Hook & Ladder Pizza, which is still on the main street in Hollister.
Where to stay?
We have used VRBO to rent a cabin in Branson Cedars. The cabins are always clean, cozy, and located in a quit area. And, the ones we have stayed in are also dog-friendly!
Branson Wheel
The Branson Ferris Wheel was once Chicago’s Navy Pier Ferris Wheel. It moved to Branson in 2016 and has 40 gondolas. We took a ride on the Ferris wheel late one afternoon. We were able to see the Branson strip below along with the beauty of the Ozarks.
Inspiration Tower
Shepherd of the Hills has an Adventure Park along with Inspiration Tower. The tower has an observation deck, where you can see over 90 miles on a clear day. The tower also features the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider. We purchased tickets in advanced for a set time to go on the Ziprider. Prior to our ride, we took the glass elevator to the deck. The views were stunning! And, the Ziprider was an amazing experience!
Bear Creek Wine and Beer Co.
On our last two visits to the Branson area, we have been to Bear Creek Wine Company. Along with wine tasting, the locally owned winery has a handful of beers that they brew. On both visits we have listened to live music, either on their patio or inside. On the latest stop here, we enjoyed one of their fresh-baked pizzas and a salad. They recently renovated the inside of their large building and we were there the week after it opened. It’s very nice!
Dolly’s Stampede
On our most recent trip to Branson, we went to the popular dinner attraction, Dolly’s Stampede. Upon arriving, we walked down the Horse Walk admiring the beautiful horse breeds that take part in the show. Once inside the theater and seated, the waiter came by to take our drink orders. Then, the live entertainment began. The show consisted of trick riding, pig races, aerial performers, magic acts, comedy, a canine relay, and more. Throughout the show, our dinner was served. The menu consisted of creamy vegetable soup, rotisserie chicken, pork loin, corn on the cob, potato, and a biscuit. Additionally, an apple turnover was served for dessert. The stampede was entertaining indeed!
Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
The Keeter Center is a restaurant, lodge, and event venue. It is also one of the workplaces that full-time students can work at to help pay their college tuition. We visited the coffee shop inside the Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks. We had delightful scones and cinnamon roll lattes, and purchased some fresh-baked cookies to take home with us. We also walked around and visited the gift shop inside. On our next visit, we will have dinner at the restaurant – the menu looks fantastic!
Branson Landing
On the waterfront of Lake Taneycomo is Branson Landing. It offers shopping, dining, and entertainment. We have been to the Branson Landing on a few visits. One visit was in the evening, where we were able to catch the fountain show, which is done every hour.
Tanger Outlets
The outlet mall in Branson has a variety of brand name stores. We found a few great sales here. It’s also safe and easy to maneuver from store to store.
The Branson Strip
Many rides and shows are located all along Highways 76, which runs through Branson. It’s known as “the strip” because some of the well-known and biggest attractions. I’ve been coming to Branson since I was a kid. I can remember going to the Baldknobbers show off the highway. Today, Branson remains a family destination with a variety of attractions and entertainment.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase (at no additional cost to you).
