Fun Things to Do in Branson Missouri with Kids
Planning a family vacation? Look no further than Branson, Missouri—a perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway with kids. Branson offers a plethora of attractions and activities tailored to the entire family, promising endless fun and cherished memories. We have an awesome list of things to do in Branson Missouri with kids so you have an amazing vacation. There are so many fun things to do in Branson that are perfect for the whole family.
Things to do in Branson Missouri With Kids
When you are working on planning your trip to Branson with kids there are many places that you will want to see and do. From a theme park and interactive museums, to outdoor adventures, and captivating live shows, Branson has it all. This vibrant city nestled in the picturesque Ozark Mountains has something to delight kids of all ages.
We took a road trip for our Branson Missouri trip and it is a trip that the kids all still talk about. We made it a road trip and drove from Pennsylvania to Branson with a few stops along the way.
With how long the drive was we wanted to make sure we had some fun along the way. We stopped at Lincoln Boyhood Memorial, Santa Clause Indiana, and Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky on our way there.
On the way home we made sure to drive thru Chicago so we could stop at Portillo’s and grab some Hot Dogs and chocolate cake shakes.
You can read below the things to do in Branson with kids our 5-Day Branson Itinerary.
If you are wanting to bring home souvenirs that is not a struggle at all, every place we visited had gift shops.
Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City is an amusement park that offers a blend of thrilling rides, entertaining shows, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions. It provides a nostalgic and immersive environment that celebrates the history and heritage of the Ozarks. It is a popular destination for families and visitors seeking fun and adventure in Branson.
The theme park offers a wide variety of attractions, including thrilling rides, live entertainment, craftsmen demonstrations, and interactive experiences.
Some of the notable rides include Outlaw Run, a wooden roller coaster; Time Traveler, a spinning coaster with a vertical drop; and WildFire, a looping steel coaster.
One of the unique aspects of Silver Dollar City is its focus on preserving traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can observe skilled artisans demonstrate blacksmithing, glassblowing, pottery making, candle making, and other crafts.
Silver Dollar City is also home to Marvel Cave, one of the oldest attractions in the area. While visiting you can take guided tours through the cave, exploring its formations and learn about its history and geology.
If you love watching shows then you will love the range of live shows, musical performances, and theatrical productions. These shows highlight various genres like country, bluegrass, gospel, and comedy. The park’s theaters host multiple performances throughout the day, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.
We spent 2 full days of our trip to Branson at Silver Dollar City. This large amusement park has so much to do, that you do need at least 2 days there.
If you are going during the summer months the Silver Dollar City White Water Waterpark is something you will want to add to your list of fun. This large waterpark has water rides, water slides, and waves. It is perfect for a hot summer day.
Locations: 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson, MO 65616
Get Tickets here.
The World’s Largest Toy Museum
This was one of my kid’s favorite stops. They all enjoyed walking around the museum. Everyone loved seeing all of the toys and seeing how far toys have come over the years. It was also a great way to add some history learning while having fun.
The world’s largest toy museum is a great place for toy enthusiasts, collectors, and families to visit. It offers a fascinating look at the evolution of toys throughout history. The museum provides an interactive and nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages.
At The World’s Largest Toy Museum in Branson, there are numerous things to do and see that will make everyone have fun. Each themed exhibit takes you on a journey through time. The exhibits showcase everything from Barbie dolls and Star Wars memorabilia to model trains and vintage board games. My kids loved the interactive displays and hands-on activities.
When visiting plan for 2-3 hours.
Get Tickets here.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner show
This dinner show is perfect for the whole family. It is entertaining while you enjoy a delicious meal.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Show is a popular dinner and entertainment attraction located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Branson, Missouri. Created by the legendary country singer Dolly Parton, the show offers guests a unique combination of live entertainment, thrilling performances, and a delicious four-course meal.
The show takes place in a large arena-style theater designed to resemble a Wild West rodeo arena. The audience is divided into two sections, usually called the North and South, which compete against each other in a friendly rivalry throughout the evening.
While enjoying the entertainment, guests are served a delicious four-course meal. The menu typically includes a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked barbecued pork loin, creamy vegetable soup, homemade biscuits, corn on the cob, herb-basted potato, and a dessert. Special dietary needs can be accommodated upon request.
Get Tickets here.
Hollywood Wax Museum
Visitors to the Hollywood Wax Museum in Branson can explore various themed sections that encompass different genres and eras of Hollywood. From classic movie stars to modern-day icons, the museum aims to capture the essence of the entertainment industry through its wax figures.
The Hollywood Wax Museum in Branson is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. It offers a chance to “meet” and interact with some of the most beloved and influential personalities from the world of film, television, music, and sports. It provides a unique and memorable experience for fans of all ages who want to get a taste of Hollywood glamour and star-studded history.
In addition to posing with the wax figures, visitors can also learn interesting facts about the celebrities displayed through informative plaques and displays. The museum provides an interactive experience, allowing guests to take photos alongside the figures and even mimic famous poses or scenes.
Get Tickets here.
Shoot For the Stars Mini Golf
Shoot For the Stars Mini Golf is a popular miniature golf course located in Branson, Missouri. The course stands out with its unique theme centered around Hollywood and the entertainment industry. It offers a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.
The mini golf course is designed to resemble the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Each hole is creatively themed and incorporates elements inspired by famous movies, iconic landmarks, and Hollywood symbols. As players make their way through the course, they encounter various obstacles, ramps, and challenges that add excitement and difficulty to the game.
Get Tickets here.
Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors
Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors in Branson, Missouri is a unique and immersive attraction that combines the challenge of a maze with the wonder of a hall of mirrors. The mirror maze is an entertaining and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.
The Maze is based on the fictional story of Princess Hannah of Savannah, who is trapped in a maze by an evil witch. You will need to navigate through the maze and help rescue Princess Hannah. As you make your way through the twists and turns of the maze, you will encounter various mirrored pathways and reflections that create an illusion of infinite corridors.
This was definitely a fun experience and one that all of the kids enjoyed.
Get Tickets here.
Castle of Chaos 5D Movie
The Castle of Chaos 5D Movie is an interactive and thrilling attraction located in Branson, Missouri. It offers a unique combination of a 3D movie, an interactive shooting gallery, and immersive special effects to provide visitors with an exciting and immersive experience.
The 5D experience is enhanced by additional sensory effects, such as wind, vibrations, and special lighting, which further immerse visitors in the adventure. The combination of the 3D visuals, interactive shooting gallery, and sensory effects creates a multi-dimensional experience that engages all the senses.
Get Tickets here.
See a Show
There are so many different shows that you can see when you are in Branson. From comedy shows to family entertainment and more the amount of shows that you can see will seem as if they are unlimited.
You can opt for going on the Showboat Branson Belle which gives you a fun dinner cruise with a variety of shows. I went on that one when I was a kid with my parents and remember it being a ton of fun. We couldn’t squeeze that into this trip, but we did go and see the Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show which was amazing and the kids all loved it.
Get Old Time Photos Taken
I have wanted to do as a family for a long time was to get Old time photos done. While we were in Branson I saw that they had a place not too far from our villa. It was a fantastic experience and we currently have the photos hanging in my office. They are some of my favorite family photos that we have ever taken.
There are many different places in Branson where you can get Old Time Photos done. If you keep an eye out on Groupon you will see deals for them often at different locations.
Hurts Donuts
If you are looking for a way to make the kids really happy then you need to stop into Hurts Donuts. We have been to many donut places in our travels. This one had by far the best donuts we have ever had.
Hurts Donuts offers an extensive selection of doughnuts with flavors that go beyond the traditional. They are known for their over-the-top creations and inventive combinations.
We got a variety box of donuts and let the kids pick out the ones they wanted to try.
Our Things to Do in Branson Missouri with Kids Trip Itinerary
Arrival Day: We Arrived in Branson late in the evening. We unpacked the kids and brought our suitcases into the villa, and went to bed.
Day 1. After spending 3 days driving in the car to get to Branson the kids all slept in much later than expected. They then asked for a day just hanging out at the Resort doing resort activities. The Holiday Inn Ozark Mountains Resort has plenty of activities from swimming, mini golf, and tennis courts. We also needed to get laundry done and go to the store to grab breakfast items, snack items, and drinks for the rest of our time there. We grabbed pizza for dinner at Ozark Mountain Pizza and everyone ended up going to bed early.
Day 2. Silver Dollar City.
Day 3. We went on a Big Foot Expedition ride and a Scottland Cows tour, which are sadly no longer operational. However, they were run by Big Foot Fun Park, that now currently has a bunch of different family-friendly activities than they had when we visited.
Day 4. Knowing we would have a later night, we started the day a bit late for exploring. We started our day at the World’s Largest Toy Museum. Then went to Hurts Donuts for lunch (on a trip donuts can be lunch!). This evening we went to Dolly Parton’s Stampede for dinner and the show. Afterward, we headed to the Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show.
Day 5. Back to Silver Dollar City.
Day 6. In the morning we did our Old Time Photos and then lunch at Uptown Cafe. After lunch, we headed to the Hollywood Wax Museum, Mini golf, Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors, and the 5d movie.
When is the best time to go to Branson Missouri?
When you are planning a trip to Branson with kids crowds is something that you want to factor in to your travel plans. The popularity of Branson means it can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider planning your trip during the spring or fall when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are less.
Is Branson Missouri worth Visiting?
Branson is a good place to visit on a family trip and is perfect for families looking for a variety of entertainment options, family-friendly attractions, and outdoor activities. Branson is renowned for its live music shows, theaters, and performances. With a wide range of genres, including country, gospel, rock ‘n’ roll, and comedy, there’s something for everyone’s taste. It offers a wealth of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. From amusement parks and water parks to mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, and museums, there are plenty of options to keep families entertained.
Why Is Branson Missouri so Popular?
The Branson area boasts an array of exceptional attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. From world-class theme parks like Silver Dollar City to captivating museums, wineries, and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These attractions provide endless fun and entertainment for the entire family.
Where is Branson located?
Branson is located in the state of Missouri, United States. It is situated in the Ozark Mountains in the southwestern part of the state. The city is in Taney County and lies approximately 40 miles south of Springfield, Mo.
Where we Stayed
We booked a 2 bedroom villa at the Ozark Mountain Resort (Owned by Holiday Inn) in Kimberling City, Missouri. I loved that it was in a beautiful area and had lots of things for the kids to do when we needed some downtime away from the business of Branson. While being on the outskirts of the Branson City area it was close enough to everything that we wanted to do and see.
