Last month we decided to take a road trip as a family to Branson, MO. Branson is one of those places that I’ve had on my list of vacation ideas for some time now, even though it’s not that far from us – we just had never taken the time to visit.
This summer we took the time and spent several days in Branson with the boys enjoying all the fun activities there are! We stayed at an amazing resort, had fun and ate some awesome food. If you’ve considered taking a Branson vacation with your kids – you NEED to do it!
I’m going to share our favorite things with you to help plan your trip!
Where to Stay
Welk Resort – After our road trip down to Branson, the first thing we did was check into our hotel. If you’re anything like me, after you’ve been on the road for a long time all you want to do is get to your hotel and hope that it’s a clean and relaxing place – am I right?
We were beyond pleased with Welk Resort for many reasons. It was incredibly spacious. My kids had their own suite attached to our massive suite. My first thought was, this is a place where we could have a family vacation with my parents and siblings. There’s enough space for everyone to spread out!
Plus, there’s a full kitchen and table large enough to sit at least four people. Not to mention the back porch that has additional seating! There’s little corners and places for everyone.
Our bedroom had a fireplace a separate back porch door and a massive bathroom! Space was not limited here – I cannot stress that enough!
Where to Play
Just down from our lodge (still part of Welk Resort) there was a waterpark with a nice big waterslide and swimming area for the kids. We spent lots of time just lounging and enjoying ourselves!
Dixie Stampede – Our first night in Branson we went to the Dixie Stampede. It’s a dinner show of the best kind. You have the chance to watch a horse show while you eat with your hands. Make sure you go hungry – the amount of food you get is crazy! It’s so delicious too – you’ll want to eat every last bite!
Silver Dollar City – What trip to Branson is complete without a trip to Silver Dollar City? Of course we picked one of the hottest days of the year to visit, but even though it felt like 106 degrees outside – we had so much fun!
The roller coasters are nothing short of crazy! I mean that in the best way though – you know if you’re a roller coaster person you want them big and crazy! These absolutely deliver! My youngest guy was thrilled he was tall enough to ride everything!
Silver Dollar City is an internationally awarded 1880s-style theme park located in Branson, Missouri, that features over 40 thrilling rides & attractions, live shows & concerts, 100 resident craftsmen demonstrating America’s heritage crafts, award-winning food and 60 unique shops – all sitting atopone of Missouri’s deepest caves. World-class festivals and events are showcased from spring through Christmas – during which the park is illuminated with over 5 million lights!
Track 4 – This is going to be one of your kids favorite stops. There’s a little of everything – go Karts, Ferris Wheel, Bumper games, arcades and more. We went intending to just stop in for a few minutes and a couple hours later we left. There was so much to do! Just look at this Highrise Go Kart track! Make sure you add this to your list!
Ride the Ducks – My boys were thrilled with this because they were actually able to steer the boat after we went in the water. They loved it! I loved it because we had some great views of Branson and it was such a relaxing ride!
Ride through the scenic Ozarks. Climb to the top of the Mountain (aboard our Duck, of course). Discover the history behind some of America’s unique military vehicles. Splashdown and Cruise Table Rock Lake. Drive the duck, if you want. Quack along with the captain and the music aboard this 70-minute Ozark adventure.
Showboat Branson Belle – Our last evening in Branson we had a relaxing cruise with a three course meal along with some amazing singing entertainment on the Branson Belle. I was worried my kids may not be as excited about this as I was – but they loved it! It was the perfect end to our trip!
The Showboat Branson Belle located in Branson, Missouri, is unlike anything else in the area, presenting three unique experiences in one unforgettable 2-hour cruise. During your journey aboard this majestic 1890s-style paddle wheeler, you’ll cruise the beautiful waters of Branson’s Table Rock Lake. 4 grand wrap-around decks afford you the opportunity to take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding Ozarks scenery. Once seated in the 3-level atrium, you’ll savor a delicious three-course meal prepared fresh for you in the ship’s galley.
Where to Eat
Billy Gail’s – If you’re looking for a little hidden treasure of a place to eat – you need to stop here. The atmosphere is amazing and so is the food. My son ordered a pancake that was bigger than his plate! It was so cool! You know your day is going to be awesome when you have this kind of a start!
Pasghetti’s – If you are looking for an Italian Restaurant, we have the perfect place for you! Branson’s Pasghetti’s is a brand new family-owned and locally operated restaurant.
They are an Italian Restaurant, but so much more than that. Branson Pasghetti’s features themed dining rooms throughout the restaurant. They serve a variety of delicious Italian favorites, including our signature Pasghetti & Meatball plate. Our fun, family-friendly establishment is quickly becoming an all-time locals and visitors favorite. Be sure and check out our Ferris wheel located in the restaurant, as well as a game room for the kids.
Check out these other delicious Branson Dining Ideas!
There’s still plenty of time this summer to plan a quick family get away to Branson, MO! You’re sure to have a blast with everything they have to offer! Be sure to stop over and check out Explore Branson for more awesome adventures to be had in Branson!
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