Branson skyline (Photo: iStock)
Many of the beloved attractions in Branson, Mo, closed for several months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under state-issued guidelines, businesses have either reopened or made announcements on reopening plans.
Although AY Publisher Heather Baker has been to Branson numerous times, she is excited to return to some of her favorite places with her family.
A day at Silver Dollar City in Branson is a bucket list staple. World-class coasters, 1880s-inspired adventures and entertainment await beginning June 13 and 14, two days reserved for season pass holders to make reservations. Reservations need to be made for any visit to Silver Dollar City. The brand-new $23 million Mystic River Falls Raft Ride, which will take adventurers on a rafting journey through Ozarks waterways, is scheduled to open later this summer. Season passes are currently available for the 2020-2021 season.
“My husband and two kids always want to go to Silver Dollar City every time we visit Branson. We are so excited about the new water raft ride, Mystic River Falls! It is definitely on our list of things to do,” says Baker.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a family-favorite filled with thrilling moments and unforgettable performances. While witnessing 32 horses and professional riders execute stunts and friendly competition, visitors can also enjoy a four-course feast right at their seats.
For Baker, Christmas is the best time to go because of the extravagant show.
“Anytime we go to Dolly Parton’s Stampede, though, I always stock up on the original creamy soup to bring home. I love it!” she says.
If you are looking for an educational moment within the Branson attraction scene, consider checking out the Titanic Museum Attraction at 3235 W. 76 Country Blvd. Upon arrival, visitors will have the opportunity to experience what it was like to be a passenger aboard the Titanic with a full-sized replica of the Titanic’s Grand Staircase, sloping decks and hundreds of artifacts. Reservations must be made for the museum.
Baker says, “it is a must for every family to do not only because it is educational, but it is also a unique experience. You can actually experience the Titanic through the eyes of one of the survivors or deceased, which one will you be?”
Located at 2115 W. Hwy 76, the Branson Coaster is North America’s first-ever double alpine coaster. It additionally features a high-flying swing and Guy Fieri’s Branson Kitchen and Bar, which is currently not open.
“The Branson Coaster is a thrill for any age. This is always a fun ride!” Baker says.
If you are searching for a Branson activity to do at night, take a trip to the Branson Mountain Adventure Park to ride the longest and fastest alpine mountain coaster. You can soar through the sky with a colorfully lit coaster track to aid your fun in the evening. Can’t make it at night? All the fun is still available during the day at the park on 935 Hwy 165.
“You definitely have to go at least once at night. The colors and lights are amazing to look at on the ride,” Baker says.
To those unafraid to fly, try the Skycoaster super swing at The Track Family Fun Parks on 3388 Green Mountain Drive in Branson. The 100-foot-tall Skycoaster swing is a twist on skydiving and hang-gliding that offers the best views of Branson. If you are looking for a rush of a lifetime during your stay in Branson, this 70-mph adventure may be the experience you need.
Another one of the places Baker loves to visit is Hollywood’s Wax Museum on 3030 W. 76 Country Boulevard to get up close and personal with the wax versions of America’s favorite celebrities.
“I love to see what new wax celebrities the museum has. It also has cool props that visitors can put on and take pictures with iconic celebrities,” says Baker.
Be sure to also explore the maze of mirrors while at the museum!
Branson meets innovation with Wolfe Mountain’s Snowflex experience. Featuring the most massive synthetic tubing run in the United States, Snowflex is a snow-inspired escapade located in the beautiful Ozark mountains at 2339 US Hwy 65.
“As soon as we arrive, the kids always want to go to the Snowflex. Grab your tube and slide down as many times as you want!” Baker says.
Get behind the wheel of an ATV and take to Branson’s backwoods with Shepherd of the Hills. Featuring a lesson on ATV safety and a 30 minute guided tour on Shepard of the Hills trails, this excursion is sure to be a safe adventure for all.
Baker says, “my son’s favorite part about this is driving the ATV through the woods and getting muddy. It is an outdoor adventure where we all get messy and have fun!”
With close proximity to Arkansas and a plethora of social-distancing and kid-friendly activities, Branson is a destination all families will love this summer.
READ MORE: Branson Officials Vote to Reopen City
