Branson Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Branson Travel & Tourism, Free Branson Travel Guide Online

Branson Travel Guide: Discount & Cheap Branson Travel & Tourism, Free Branson Travel Guide Online

Surrounded by pristine lakes and framed by majestic mountains, the beautiful wooded region of the Ozarks known as Branson, Missouri, offers great fishing, swimming, golf and boating along with big time family entertainment. Branson attracts millions of visitors each year, primarily families and retirees, and has become an increasingly popular destination choice for vacationers from around the world. Not only is it home to some of the best names in entertainment, such as Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede, the Showboat Belle and the Scenic Railroad; it also boasts unique attractions such as a hot air balloon ride over the city.

Branson offers four individual seasons with summer being the busiest. Each season has something to offer, making any visit memorable. One must-see popular attraction is the Dolly Parton Dixie Stampede. Designed by Dolly herself, it offers a great show with music and entertainment, great family fun as well as a good hometown meal. Many attractions in the Branson area close in winter, but those that remain open are often less crowded then.

If adventure is more to your liking, why not consider a hot air balloon ride above the city? It's truly a unique experience and one that will be remembered for a lifetime. Day or night, there is always something taking place in Branson. Hand clapping, foot stomping, laughter-filled shows are a mainstay of Branson, and there are over 70 of them from which to choose.

One can select from patriotic American music, magic, country music, oldies, gospel, bluegrass, family variety shows, comedy, acrobatics and many, many, more. The choice is yours. Overall, the town targets its offerings to its core audience of families and seniors and will most appeal to those seeking a wholesome atmosphere and middle-of-the-road entertainment. No matter what type or style of family centered show interests you, Branson has it.

In Branson, many of the noteworthy sights and attractions combine elements of Ozarks history and culture with modern technology. Silver Dollar City, for example, preserves the culture of the Ozarks through musical presentations, crafts demonstrations, storytelling and conservation efforts. The region's past is also the focus of the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Outdoor Theatre, a theme park and dramatic production based on Harold Bell Wright's novel set in the Ozarks at the turn of the 20th century.

The signature film at Branson's IMAX Entertainment Complex, Ozarks Legacy and Legend, has a historical component, telling the story of a fictional Ozarks family during the period 1824-1950. The Ralph Foster Museum at College of the Ozarks contains a wide variety of items representing the Ozarks' heritage.

With its hometown feel, great entertainment and beautiful scenery, Branson is truly a vacationer's paradise. So, pack your bags and "come a visitin". Branson is waiting with a friendly hello, a multitude of sights, attractions, great food, warm hospitality, great scenery as well as some of the most enjoyable entertainment found anywhere.

Branson Attractions: Branson Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Branson Travel & Tourism, Free Branson Travel Guide Online

Ride The Ducks

2320 West Highway 76

Branson, MO 65616

417-334-5382

Hours: Tours depart frequently, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Learn a little and laugh a lot as you enjoy 80 minutes of entertainment and information while touring Branson on a Duck. See famous Country Music Boulevard, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, Table Rock Lake and Powerhouse and a spectacular scenic view from the top of Baird Mountain. Finally, SPLASH into Table Rock Lake for a relaxing cruise--all on board one amazing vehicle.

Ripley's Believe It or Not

3326 W. Hwy 76
Branson, MO 65616
417-337-5300

Hours: March 15 - December 15, 9am – 11pm, 7 days a week; December 16 - March 14, 9am – 7pm, 7 days a week. Some early dates in January are closed for maintenance. Call for specific dates.

Admission Charged

Did you know the worst earthquake in American history actually took place in Missouri? In 1812 an earthquake measuring more than 8.0 on the Richter Scale occurred at New Madrid, Missouri. This earthquake made the Mississippi River run backwards for three days and made church bells ring In Philadelphia! The building at Ripley's reflects that odd event. See this and much more.

Showboat Branson Belle

4800 State Highway 165
Branson, MO 65616
800-775-2628

Hours: Cruises vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

A great Branson lake attraction, the Showboat Branson Belle features a popular musical show on each cruise with a salute to favorite family musicals. The Showboat Branson Belle departs from its home site at White River Landing on Table Rock Lake three times daily, with each cruise presenting a three-course meal and a show.

Silver Dollar City

399 Indian Point Road
Branson, MO 65616
800-952-6626

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Step back in time to an 1880's America where you'll experience a celebration
of crafts and wholesome family fun around every corner. With thrilling rides and attractions, fantastic festivals, entertaining shows as well as unique shopping, Silver Dollar City is an award-winning theme park that truly appeals to kids of all ages.

White Water

3505 W. Hwy 76
Branson, MO 65616
800-277-8587

Hours: Open May – September, call for additional information

Admission Charged

White Water is truly a water-wonderful family adventure! The 12-acre water park, located on Highway 76, has a large variety of water rides and attractions. The most adventurous members of the family can experience thrills such as Tropical Twister and Paradise Plunge. The little ones will be right at home on Splash Island and Raintree Island with colorful slides, shoots, nozzles and sprays. At White Water, the beach is within reach!

Branson Scenic Railway

206 E Main Street
Branson, MO 65615
417-334-6110

Hours: Open March – December, call for exact days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Ride on a 40-mile roundtrip excursion thru Ozark foothills and tunnels and experience the luxury of rail travel from yesteryear. Learn the history of the area as you cross bridges and trestles.

Celebration City

1383 State Hwy 376
Branson, MO 65616
417-266-7300

Hours: Open March – October, call for exact days and hours of operation

Admission Charged
Celebration City is built with your family in mind! You can experience over 30 rides and attractions, a boardwalk full of games, one-of-a-kind shopping, dining at uniquely themed restaurants and Branson's exclusive nightly laser, fireworks and music spectacular.

Hollywood Wax Museum

3030 W. Highway 76
Branson, MO 65616
800-720-4110

Hours: Open daily at 8:00am, year round

Admission Charged

This unique and exciting attraction takes visitors of all ages on a personal stroll down memory lane, recapturing special moments with old friends from movies, television, music, sports and history.

IMAX Entertainment Complex

3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway
Branson, MO 65616
800-419-4832

Hours: Vary by day and attractions, call for additional information

Admission Charged for certain attractions and shows

Shows, shopping, food, live entertainment and big screen movies; the IMAX Entertainment Complex has something for everyone.

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

2901 Green Mountain Drive
Branson, MO 65616
417-336-6606
Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Fun for the whole family. Enjoy a unique round of challenging miniature golf.

Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum

3950 Green Mountain Drive
Branson, MO 65616
417-339-1900

Hours: Open year round, call for exact hours of operation

Admission Charged

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans always wanted a museum to house the memories of all their years together. Roy says, "Welcome to The Roy Rogers - Dale Evans Museum. We've had a lifetime of Happy Trails full of love, laughter, and sometimes sorrow."

Come see their personal treasures.

Veterans Memorial Museum

1250 W State Highway

Branson, MO 65616

417-336-2300

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

The Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson, Missouri is a national tribute to the brave men and women who defended our liberties during the 20th Century. A visit to the museum is a powerful, emotional experience. As you wander the great halls of the museum you'll be captivated by the stories of these men and women who gave us so much. The museum is filled with the most incredible collection of wartime exhibits covering the heights and depths of human experience.

Antique Toy Museum

3609 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO 65616
417-332-1499

Hours: Vary, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Experience the joy of toys from days gone by at this unique museum.

American Presidential Museum

3107 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO 65616
417-334-8683

Hours: Open daily, except Monday, call for exact times

Admission Charged

From George Washington to George W. Bush - America's Presidency comes alive at the American Presidential Museum. Experience the American Presidency first hand: sit in the Oval Office, step aboard Air Force One and view many exciting historical events. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the democratic process that built America's foundation. From our founding fathers through today's challenges, our Presidents have led our country through trying times and triumph.

Branson Balloon

3218 Shepherd of the Hills
Branson, MO 65616
417-336-6060

Hours: Open daily, weather permitting

Admission Charged

Experience hot air balloon rides at their best. Daytime passengers enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over Branson and the surrounding natural beauty of the scenic Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake. At night, the balloon is lit up and riders experience a peaceful journey skyward above the city lights.

Fantastic Caverns

4872 N Farm Road 125
Springfield, MO 65803

417- 833-2010

Hours: Open 7 Days a Week throughout the Year except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day, call for exact times

Admission Charged

50-minute guided tour follows an ancient underground riverbed filled with massive formations. The cave stays a comfortable 60 degrees year-round. Because you ride and never walk, Fantastic Caverns is especially convenient for parents with small children, seniors and physically challenged visitors.

Nearby Attractions

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

2038 West State Hwy 86
Lampe, MO 65681

Located 28 miles from Branson
417-779-5983

Hours: Call for exact days and hours of operation

Admission Charged
Dogwood Canyon offers a variety of outdoor activities that such as walking trails, hiking trails, back country jeep tours, trout fishing and fly fishing guides and clinics, horseback riding and tram tours.

Talking Rocks Cavern

423 Fairy Cave Lane
Reeds Spring, MO 65737
800- 600-2283

Hours: Open every month except January, 7 days a week, 9:30am – 6:00pm.

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

Admission Charged

When Truman Powell first set eyes on this discovery, he declared it to be the most amazing and uniquely decorated cave in America. Today you can experience the beauty of these thousands of formations that lay beneath the surface.

Wonders of Wildlife

500 West Sunshine
Springfield, MO 65807

Located one hour from Branson
877-245-9453

Hours: Open 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. daily, Closed Christmas Day

Admission Charged

The Mission of the American National Fish and Wildlife Museum is

to educate, inform and entertain visitors concerning the value of fish and wildlife, to foster appreciation for the heritage of hunting and fishing, and to motivate each person to take a personal involvement in the conservation of our outdoor resources.

Sports

Table Rock Lake

417-334-4101

Table Rock Lake offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, sightseeing, hunting, skin diving, fishing, and water sports such as swimming, boating, water skiing etc.

Bull Shoals Lake

Convenient access to Bull Shoals Lake is provided within 20 minutes of down town Branson

501-425-2700

Bull Shoals Lake offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, sightseeing, hunting, skin diving, fishing, and water sports such as swimming, boating, water skiing etc.

Lake Taneycomo

417-334-2263

Lake Taneycomo's clear cold waters provide some of the finest trout fishing available anywhere in the world. The Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout that ply the waters of Lake Taneycomo provide a year round fishing experience that is exciting as well as varied. From Fly Fishing and artificial only fishing in Lake Taneycomo's Trophy Trout Area, near her Headwaters, to bait fishing outside of the Trophy Trout Waters, Lake Taneycomo offers Rainbow and Brown Trout fishing at its best all year round.

Branson Events: Branson Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Branson Travel & Tourism, Free Branson Travel Guide Online

Branson area shows deliver a world of great music performed by world-class entertainers. It's almost impossible to select Branson's best shows as the choice depends on the visitor's favorite! Country, pop, swing, classical, rock n' roll, stirring patriotic or gospel music… Branson area shows deliver a world of great music performed by world-class entertainers. Audiences can also see mystifying magic, hilarious comedy and breathtaking dance shows. Boasting more theater seats than New York's Broadway theater district and even Las Vegas, Branson offers great shows morning, afternoon and evening. What better way to start a day then tapping your toes and laughing out loud?

Here is just a sampling of some of the most popular shows:

Dixie Stampede

1525 West Highway 76
Branson, MO 65616

800-520-5101

Admission Charged

Dixie Stampede began as a dream for Dolly Parton. With over 30 horses, dozens of cast members and seating for 1,000 around a 35,000 square-foot arena at each facility, Dixie Stampede is Dolly Parton's own creation. "I wanted to recreate the family fun of my childhood, when we'd gather for a friendly competition and enjoy a more-than-filling meal," says Dolly Parton. "With the grand entertainment of our horses and performers, along with a delicious meal, Dixie Stampede is the Most Fun Place to eat anywhere."

50's At The Hop

Playing at Jim Stafford Theatre
3440 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO65616
800-434-5412

Admission Charged

You'll have a rollickin', rock-n-roll time with Branson's Original 50's show where you can "Splish, Splash" with "Dream Lover", "Peggy Sue" and "Jim Dandy". The "50's At The Hop" show is fun, fun, fun!

Jim Stafford

Playing at Jim Stafford Theatre
3440 West Highway 76
Branson, MO65616
417-335-8080

Admission Charged

The whole family gets the Giggles at Jim's action-packed, fun-filled show with hilarious comedy, sensational music and spectacular special effects. Branson's Biggest Kid at Heart shares his toys, including a real 3-D Virtual Thrill Ride, black light magic & more. A visit to Jim's World is an experience of a lifetime!

Yakov Smirnoff

Playing at Yakov Smirnoff Theatre
470 State Hwy 248
Branson, MO65616
800-33-NO-KGB

Admission Charged

There ought to be a caution sign as you enter the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre in Branson, Missouri. It should read "Warning! Hold on to your seat ‘cause this guy is about to blow you away with dynamite comedy!" This ‘guy' of course is Branson's Two-Time Comedian of the Year, Yakov Smirnoff, the famous Russian Comedian. He delivers explosive laughter in a show filled with brilliant special effects, dazzling dancing, heartfelt moments, and just plain fun. Yakov's entire show is packed with comedic tall tales and witty perceptions, funny facts and huge laughs.

Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers

Playing at Welk Resort Theatre
1984 State Hwy 165
Branson, MO65616
800-734-5515

Admission Charged

Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers have forged a new musical standard for vocal harmony, raw talent and showmanship while topping the music charts with hit-after-hit.One of the first-class acts in Country Music, the Gatlin's have 15 Top-Five hits including their #1 hits All The Gold In California, Houston (Means I'm One Day Closer To You) and I Just Wish You Were Someone I Loved plus Broken Lady, Night Time Magic, I Don't Wanna Cry and more.

Spirit of Dance

Playing at Branson Variety Theater
2701 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO65616
888-GO-BRANSON

Admission Charged

A mainstay show in Branson, this breathtaking production combines Irish dance with dramatic styles from around the world to create a thrilling show that will take your breath away. Spirit of the Dance is an astounding beautiful spectacle for all dance enthusiasts. Spirit of the Dance is one of the most successful shows ever to originate in Ireland. It stars the Irish International Dance Company, one of the most dynamic dances troupes in the world.

Broadway! The Star-Spangled Celebration

Playing at Branson Variety Theater
2701 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO65616
888-GO-BRANSON

Admission Charged

This fast paced high-energy show will take you on a musical journey to New York City and Broadway. It is a spectacular dazzling musical extravaganza with a cast of over twenty-five singers and dancers that light up the town. Imagine listening to over fifty different musical selections taken from more than thirty of the biggest Broadway musicals of all time.

The Baldknobbers Jamboree

Playing at Baldknobbers Theatre
2835 W Hwy 76 Box 1
Branson, MO65616

417-334-4528

Branson's first show features traditional and new country, gospel and patriotic music and hilarious comedy, all combined in a show that's great for the entire family. It's the show that started it all in 1959!

Events

February

National Freedom Day

Usually held in early February

Location varies

417-337-VETS (8387)
This ceremony celebrates the precious gift of freedom that America enjoys like no other nation in the world.

March

NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Championship

Held in mid-March, call for exact dates

Location: Keeter Gymnasium, College of the Ozarks
417-334-6411
The top from NAIA Division II basketball teams from across the nation compete for the NAIA Divison II Men's Basketball Championship.

Annual Film IMAX Festival

Held in

mid-March, call for exact dates
Location: Ozarks Discovery IMAX Theater
417-335-4832
The Annual IMAX® FilmFest is kicking off the season of new giant-screen IMAX® adventures in the Ozarks Discovery IMAX® Theater in Branson. The festival features four limited engagement IMAX® films, plus one "favorite" IMAX® adventure. All are presented on a screen five times larger than movie theaters with 44 speakers surround sound.

April

Praise Weekends

Usually held in early April, call for exact dates

Location: Silver Dollar City
800-952-6626
During Praise Weekends, visitors can experience a unique 3-day weekend of praise, worship music and old-time fun. Praise Weekend features choirs and choral groups performing on stages throughout the park in a celebration of faith.

Branson Fest

Usually held in early April, call for exact dates

Location: Lawrence Welk Champagne Theatre
888-493-1222

Admission Free, except for "Super Shows"

Spring in the Ozarks and the quasi start of the Branson theatre Season with a five-day showcase event. Features area theatres and attractions, arts, cultural displays and business expo, and fabulous food and fun for all.

The Ozarks 100

Usually held in mid-April

Location: Shadow Rock Park, Forsyth-Branson, MO
417-335-2634 ext.225
Share in this memorable, fun and worthwhile weekend! This exciting one-day road cycling event is for people with various cycling experience, offering 3 different routes that go through the beautiful Mark Twain National Forest.

Kewpiesta

Usually held in mid-April

Location: Bonniebrook, Ramada, Dixie Stampede, Home Cannery Restuarant
417-561-1509
The Festival for those loving Kewpie Dolls. Events scheduled at various locations in Branson.

Main Street Hoops 3 on 3 Street Basketball Tournament

Usually held in late April

Location: Downtown Branson
417-334-1548
Amateur basketball tournament on the street. Proceeds benefit local youth and Downtown improvement projects.

April – May

World Fest

Held most of April and May

Location: Silver Dollar City
800-475-9370
One of America's largest international festivals, World-Fest, features performers presenting the music, dance, costumes and culture of their native lands and their foods and crafts.

May

Armed Forces Day

Held in mid-May

Location: Branson Area
417-337-VETS (8387)
Three days set aside to honor our nation's active duty military and their families. This includes special recognition for Fort Leonard Wood and Whiteman Air Force Base.

Plumb Nellie Days, Annual Hillbilly Festival & Craft Show

Usually held in mid-late May

Location: Downtown Branson
417-334-1548

Admission Free
Crafters from around the Midwest join in this Ozarks heritage event that celebrates our tradition of fine hand-crafted products. Arts and Crafts are exhibited under tents. Outdoor entertainment, games for children.

June

Bluegrass Festival

Usually held in early June

Location: Shepherd of the Hills
800-653-6277
This 3 day event features Bluegrass bands from all over the country.

Mardi Gras In Branson

Usually held in early June

Location: Festival Grounds, 1700 W. Hwy.76
A Louisiana Celebration, succulent Cajun foods, arts and crafts, Cajun Dancers and Cajun and Zydeco Bands from Louisiana.

Early June-mid August

National Kids' Fest

Location: Silver Dollar City
800-475-9370
More than other 100 hand-on activities throughout the park for kids of all ages to enjoy.

Taney Country Fair

Usually held in mid-June

Location: Forsyth, MO
417-546-2741

July

Hollister's 4th of July Fireworks Display and Celebration

Held on the 4^th of July

Location: Historic Downing Street in Hollister
417-334-3050
Entertainment, children's activities, and food start at 5:30 PM with Fireworks starting at 9:30 PM (Dusk). One of the best viewing areas is along Business Hwy 65 in Historic downtown Hollister.

Fireburst -Fireworks Display- Kimberling City

Held on the 4^th of July

Location: Kimberling city
417-739-2564
One of the areas most outstanding Fireworks Displays. Can be viewed by boat or car. Call for info on best viewing location and specific starting time.

Crafts, Food, fun In The Park - Fireworks Display

Held on the 4^th of July

Location: Rockaway Beach Lakefront
800-798-0178
Crafts, Food, fun In The Park. Viewable from Lake Taneycomo. Display starts as dusk but call for specific times and best viewing positions.

Ozark Empire Fair

Usually held the end of July

Location: Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Springfield, MO
417-833-2660
Areas biggest Fair.

August

Cruisin' Branson Lights

Usually held in mid-August

Location: Branson USA Jct Hwy 76 and 376
800-366-2912
See more than 2,000 classy, customized, restored and hot rodded vehicles as they converge on Branson, Missouri.

Old Time Fiddle Contest

Usually held in late August

Location: old Branson Highschool Gymnasium, Sixth Street and Maddux
417-334-1548

Hear some of the country's best fiddle players as they compete.

September

Annual Autumn Daze Craft Festival

Usually held in early September

Location: Downtown Branson at Awbery Parking Lot behind Dick's 5 & 10
417-334-1548

Hours 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is free!
The Annual Autumn Daze Craft Festival. Held in the heart of downtown; over 150 crafters

Compton Ridge Campground Fiddlers Convention

Usually held in mid-September

Location: Compton Ridge Campground, Hwy 265
417-338-2911
Fiddlers play tunes on stage in the Gathering Place.

Annual "Run Wild For Habitat"

Usually held in mid-September

Location: Table Rock State Park on Missouri 165 south of Table Rock Dam.
417-335-2015
Annual "Run Wild For Habitat" fund-raiser to benefit Mountain Country Habitat for Humanity. A 3.1-mile run and 2-mile walk.

Rockaway Beach's Fall Festival

Usually held in mid-September

Location: Lakefront, Rockaway Beach, MO
800-798-0178.
Rockaway Beach's Fall Festival, is fun for folks of all ages. It includes a chili cook-off, craft and food vendors, horseshoe pitching contests and a bluegrass concert, and a live talent show.

September – October

Festival of American Music & Craftsmanship

Held most of September and October

Location: Silver Dollar City
800-952-6626
This Festival combines the very best of crafts, music, and food into one memorable experience that can proudly claim "Authentically made in the U.S.A.,"

October

Annual Cowboy Trade Day

Usually held in early October

Location: Wild Eye Ranch
417-357-6346
A variety of items to buy, sell or trade, including, horses, mules, stock dogs, new and used tack, guns, horse drawn wagons, buggies, horse trailers, western art, and more.

Fright Night

Held in late October

Location: Dogwood Canyon
417-779-5983
A special Halloween experience.

November – December

Branson Area Festival of Lights

Held most of November and December

Location: Festival of Lights Parkway off Bee Creek Road
800-214-3661
Spectacular 2 - 1/2 mile long drive with thousands of lighting displays.

Trail of Lights

Held most of November and December

Location: Shepherd of the Hills
800- 653-6288
A spectacular drive through display of lights, sound and motion presented in a setting that makes it unique in all the world.

Ozark Mountain Christmas

Held most of November and December

Location: Throughout the Branson Area
800-214-3661
The Branson Area celebrates Christmas with holiday-themed shows, special Christmas events, great shopping values, and spectacular lighting displays.

November

Annual Veterans' Day Parade & Ceremony

Held

annually on Veterans' Day
Location: Downtown Branson
417-337-8387
Veterans' Day Parade & Ceremony. Parade begins at 11 a.m. with a ceremony honoring veterans in historic downtown Branson. Sponsored by local veterans' organizations.

December

Annual Adoration Parade & Lighting Ceremony

Usually held in early December

Location: Historic downtown Branson
417-334-4084
Festive night-time parade and Adoration with the lighting ceremony starting at 5:30 PM. Over 70 marching units and floats, decorated in lights and holiday themes.

Branson Facts: Branson Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Branson Travel & Tourism, Free Branson Travel Guide Online

Population: 6050

Elevation: 722 feet above sea level

Location: Branson is located in Southwest Missouri, approximately 40 miles south of Springfield and 11 miles north of the Arkansas border.

Land Area: 16.2 square miles

Time Zone: Central Time Zone (when it's noon in Branson, its 1:00pm in New York City and 10:00am in Los Angeles

Weather:

Climate:

Local Seasons:

The most visited time of year is the summer when children are out of school, the weather is perfect and all of the attractions are open. Also, Holidays tend to become quite busy as visitors enjoy the fine array of special decorations and activities. The slowest time of year is the month of January. If you are looking for a less crowded environment, peaceful surroundings, and low cost, this is the time to visit. Each season has something to offer. In the spring, the weather is exquisite for any type of activity. With temperatures during the day reaching the high 70's F and lows at night in the 50's, it's the perfect time for visiting many of the great attractions and outdoor activities the city has to offer. The fall brings with it Nature's finest in an array of colors, changing each day and bringing new breathtaking sights. There is snow in winter but it rarely stays on the ground for long. When it does, it makes a "picture postcard" environment for everyone to enjoy. This is a perfect time to take in one or more of the nationally known theater shows. Summer bustles with activities but with average temperatures in the mid-70's F, there is no reason not to enjoy as many of the numerous attractions and events taking place. Speaking of events, there is something of unique interest taking place almost every month of the year. No matter when your travel plans are to visit, Branson has a season just for you.

How to Get There:

Branson is located in Southwest Missouri, approximately 40 miles south of Springfield and 11 miles north of the Arkansas border. The area can be accessed by using the major north/south arteries of highway 65 and 13. Highway 65 is the main road leading from both Springfield to the north and Harrison, Arkansas from the south. Table Rock Lake, Kimberling City, and Silver Dollar City can be accessed from Highway 13 on the west side of Branson.

Branson is approximately 250 miles from St. Louis and 220 miles from Kansas City. From St. Louis, travelers come on Interstate 44 west to Highway 65 south. Most of the traveling is done on four-lane freeways. From Kansas City, travelers have a number of options; however, about half of the travel time is on two-lane highways.

By Air:

Springfield/Branson Regional Airport

Located approximately one hour northwest of Branson.

5000 W Kearney
Springfield, MO65803
417-869-0300

This regional hub airport offers service from many of the national airlines as well as certain regional carriers.

M. Graham Clark Airport

Located just south of Branson on the College of the Ozarks campus.

110 W Adams Street Suite 204
Branson, MO65616

417-334-6411

Mainly for small planes.

Ground Transportation:

Most of the major car rental companies serve the airport and the area in general

By bus/train:

Service is not provided to Branson by Greyhound or Amtrak

Getting Around Town:

The best way to get around town is by personal or rental car. With so many things to see and do, a car is a necessity in Branson.

National Holidays

New Year's Day, January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January

President' Day, the third Monday in February

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May

Independence Day, July 4

Labor Day, the first Monday in September

Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25

New Year's Eve, December 31

Branson Kids Activities: Branson Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Branson Travel & Tourism, Free Branson Travel Guide Online

Dixie Stampede

1525 West Highway 76
Branson, MO 65616

800-520-5101

Hours: Up to three shows are shown daily, depending on season. Call for additional information.

Admission Charged

Dixie Stampede began as a dream for Dolly Parton. With over 30 horses, dozens of cast members and seating for 1,000 around a 35,000 square-foot arena at each facility, Dixie Stampede is Dolly Parton's own creation. "I wanted to recreate the family fun of my childhood, when we'd gather for a friendly competition and enjoy a more-than-filling meal," says Dolly Parton. "With the grand entertainment of our horses and performers, along with a delicious meal, Dixie Stampede is the Most Fun Place to eat anywhere."

Jim Stafford

Playing at Jim Stafford Theatre
3440 West Highway 76
Branson, MO65616
417-335-8080

Admission Charged

The whole family gets the Giggles at Jim's action-packed, fun-filled show with hilarious comedy, sensational music and spectacular special effects. Branson's Biggest Kid at Heart shares his toys, including a real 3-D Virtual Thrill Ride, black light magic & more. A visit to Jim's World is an experience of a lifetime!

Ride The Ducks

2320 West Highway 76

Branson, MO 65616

417-334-5382

Hours: Tours depart frequently, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Learn a little and laugh a lot as you enjoy 80 minutes of entertainment and information while touring Branson on a Duck. See famous Country Music Boulevard, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, Table Rock Lake and Powerhouse and a spectacular scenic view from the top of Baird Mountain. Finally, SPLASH into Table Rock Lake for a relaxing cruise--all on board one amazing vehicle.

Ripley's Believe It or Not

3326 W. Hwy 76
Branson, MO65616
417-337-5300

Hours: March 15th - December 15^th, 9 a.m. until 11 p.m. 7 days a week; December 16th - March 14^th, 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. 7 days a week. Some early dates in January are closed for maintenance. Call for specific dates.

Admission Charged

Did you know the worst earthquake in American history actually took place in Missouri? In 1812 an earthquake measuring more than 8.0 on the Richter scale occurred at New Madrid, Missouri. This earthquake made the Mississippi River run backwards for three days and made Church bells ring In Philadelphia! The building at Ripley's reflects that odd event. See this and much more.

Showboat Branson Belle

4800 State Highway 165
Branson, MO65616
800-775-2628

Hours: Cruises vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

A great Branson lake attraction, the Showboat Branson Belle features a popular musical show on each cruise with a salute to favorite family musicals. The Showboat Branson Belle departs from its home site at White River Landing on Table Rock Lake three times daily, with each cruise presenting a three-course meal and a show.

Silver Dollar City

399 Indian Point Road
Branson, MO65616
800-952-6626

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Step back in time to an 1880's America where you'll experience a celebration of crafts and wholesome family fun around every corner. With thrilling rides and attractions, fantastic festivals, entertaining shows as well as unique shopping, Silver Dollar City is an award-winning theme park that truly appeals to kids of all ages.

White Water

3505 W. Hwy 76
Branson, MO65616
800-277-8587

Hours: Open May – September, call for additional information

Admission Charged

White Water is truly a water-wonderful family adventure! The 12-acre water park, located on Highway 76, has a large variety of water rides and attractions. The most adventurous members of the family can experience thrills such as Tropical Twister and Paradise Plunge. The little ones will be right at home on Splash Island and Raintree Island with colorful slides, shoots, nozzles and sprays. At White Water, the beach is within reach!

Branson Scenic Railway

206 E Main Street
Branson, MO65615
417-334-6110

Hours: Open March – December, call for exact days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Ride on a 40-mile roundtrip excursion thru Ozark foothills and tunnels and experience the luxury of rail travel from yesteryear. Learn the history of the area as you cross bridges and trestles.

Celebration City

1383 State Hwy 376
Branson, MO65616
417-266-7300

Hours: Open March – October, call for exact days and hours of operation

Admission Charged
Celebration City is built with your family in mind! You can experience over 30 rides and attractions, a boardwalk full of games, one-of-a-kind shopping, dining at uniquely theme restaurants and Branson's exclusive nightly laser, fireworks and music spectacular.

Hollywood Wax Museum

3030 W. Highway 76
Branson, MO65616
800-720-4110

Hours: Open daily at 8:00am, year round

Admission Charged

This unique and exciting attraction takes visitors of all ages on a personal stroll down memory lane, recapturing special moments with old friends from movies, television, music, sports and history.

Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum

3950 Green Mountain Drive
Branson, MO65616
417-339-1900

Hours: Open year round, call for exact hours of operation

Admission Charged

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans always wanted a museum to house the memories of all their years together. Roy says, "Welcome to The Roy Rogers - Dale Evans Museum. We've had a lifetime of Happy Trails full of love, laughter, and sometimes sorrow." Personal treasures are displayed.

American Presidential Museum

3107 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO65616
417-334-8683

Hours: Open daily, except Monday, call for exact times

Admission Charged

From George Washington to George W. Bush - America's Presidency comes alive at the American Presidential Museum. Experience the American Presidency first hand: sit in the Oval Office, step aboard Air Force One and view many exciting historical events. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the democratic process that built America's foundation. From our founding fathers through today's challenges, our Presidents have led our country through trying times and triumph.

Branson Balloon

3218 Shepherd of the Hills
Branson, MO65616
417-336-6060

Hours: Open daily, weather permitting

Admission Charged

Experience hot air balloon rides at their best. Daytime passengers enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over Branson and the surrounding natural beauty of the scenic Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake. At night, the balloon is lit up and riders experience a peaceful journey skyward above the city lights.

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