Branson is a city in Taney County, beautifully situated in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. The settlement was named after a general store operator and postmaster, Reuben Branson, who was here in the 1880s. The city is well-known for its many entertainment establishments, and it's become quite popular among Missouri vacationers and tourists from across the country.
On your trip to this fun-filled Missouri city, many Branson attractions exist. Though it's most known for its theme parks, theaters, and other similar entertainment-focused hotspots, there are more things to do in Branson. From historic museums to natural green spaces, Branson offers a multitude of attractions to satisfy any taste. Here are the top tourist attractions in Branson, Missouri.
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The Titanic Museum is one of the most unique Branson attractions, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the historic, ill-fated ship.
The museum is built to look just like the original boat. Upon arrival, you'll be handed a boarding pass, upon which will be the name of a real luxury liner passenger.
The self-guided tour of the Titanic Museum is very informative and interesting.
You'll get to climb a huge recreation of the ship's grand staircase, explore cabins and parlors, and view over 400 preserved and recovered artifacts from when the ship sank.
Eventually, you will also learn whether the passenger whose boarding pass you hold survived the ship or not.
The Titanic Museum creates an immersive picture of what it was like to be aboard in 1912.
You can ride a real lifeboat and stick your hand into the water at a chilly 28 degrees, the same temperature the passengers endured in the ocean the night of the disaster.
The museum manages to do all this in a tasteful way, honoring those whose lives were lost.
Address: 3235 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Table Rock Lake is a 43,000-acre body of water that boasts nearly 800 miles of beautiful shoreline. Its state park is one of the most beautiful spots in Branson for recreation of all sorts.
There are over 100 resorts in the lake's area, including several campgrounds, so you're probably well aware that this is a tourist favorite!
Table Rock Lake is a man-made lake resulting from the flood-preventing Table Rock Dam construction, completed in 1958.
It has become a trendy spot for water sports enthusiasts, avid boaters, and others with similar interests. There are picnic areas, a mountain bike trail, and plenty of verdant places filled with oak and hickory trees.
Table Rock Lake State Park is divided into many different areas. One is the ever-popular Moonshine Beach near the Dewey Short Visitor Center Recreation Area.
It's perfect for water activities like fishing, swimming, boating, and diving, though not all parts of the lake allow this. You can rent equipment for such endeavors at Indian Point Marina or Table Rock State Park Marina.
Address: Table Rock Lake, Branson, MO
Also Read: 25 Best State Parks to Visit in the US
The Sight and Sound Theatres have two locations, and the establishment in Branson is a great choice.
It primarily stages Biblical-themed shows, impressively using real animals in many of its productions.
About 50 actors take to a grand 300-foot stage with expert choreography and elaborate, detailed costumes.
Each show at the Sight and Sound Theatres is family-friendly, with 2,000 comfortable seats to choose from. Each seat is well-situated, so there are no "bad" seats.
Parents with very young children who need a bit of a break when their kids kick up a fuss can head to a special glass family room with a television that streams the performance live, so you don't miss anything.
Address: 1001 Shepherd of the Hills Expy, Branson, MO 65616
You might not think a college sounds like one of the places to visit in Branson, but you'd be surprised.
The unique College of the Ozarks, also called Hard Work U, is a special college that gives its attendees a chance to graduate debt-free if they work on-campus while they study.
These students work various jobs at this innovative institution, meaning there are plenty of things to do on campus for visitors.
There are plenty of unique places to stop by at the College of the Ozarks. There's Edwards Mill, which sells whole-grain meals and flour that it grinds on-site, the delicious Dobyns Dining Hall, and more.
You can visit a Stained Glass and Candle Shop to buy items made by students or try some fresh ice cream made on campus at W. Alton Jones Dairy.
The most popular site, though, might be the Ralph Foster Museum. The eponymous Foster was a collector of various Western and Native American artifacts, and this museum was founded on that donated collection.
Here, you'll find dolls, antiques, weapons, and other objects, and there's even a research library within the museum with over 6,000 materials.
Address: 1 Industrial Pl, Point Lookout, MO 65726
Silver Dollar City is one of the best things to do in Branson and one of the country's best amusement parks. This is a unique theme park with all sorts of entertainment options and rides for all ages; all wrapped up in a welcoming and enjoyable 19th-century atmosphere that'll make you feel like you're in the 1880s.
Around 100 craftspeople demonstrate how various heritage crafts are made, from taffy pullers to blacksmiths and glassblowers to soapmakers. You can even purchase some of these items and homemade candles and candies! Of course, there are thrills to be had at Silver Dollar City, too. Cool rides like the Fire-In-The-Hole indoor coaster bring you through "town" and a fiery bridge.
There's also a lovely Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train, which brings you across Ozarks country. On top of all that, this 61-acre park also puts on plenty of shows, such as musicals, bluegrass pickers, and even gospel performers.
Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616
The Hollywood Wax Museum is a staple wherever it is, so it's no surprise that this branch is among the top Branson attractions.
You may never get the chance to take a photo with your favorite celebs in real life, but you can stage a pretty good fake meeting when you take a selfie with one of these figures. Can you fool your friends?
Here, you can "meet" the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Sandra Bullock, Tom Hanks, Ellen DeGeneres, Michael Jackson, Johnny Depp, Bruce Lee, Angelina Jolie, and Adam Sandler, among others.
Address: 3030 W 76 Country Blvd Unit A, Branson, MO 65616
Branson Landing is a 1.5-mile stretch of dining, shopping, and entertainment establishments along Lake Taneycomo.
If you're looking for an excellent place to shop till you drop, this is among the best places to visit in Branson for that purpose, with 100 or so businesses to choose from.
You can eat at great restaurants and peruse big and small brands and franchises. There are also plenty of seasonal events, such as a farmers market and summer concerts.
Branson Landing is about more than just shopping and dining, though. It also has a gorgeous lakeside boardwalk and several water fountains, each set to music, lights, and even fire for shows.
The outdoor shopping mall's fountains are particularly stunning, designed by the same people who crafted Bellagio's famous fountain, and it features fire columns and 100-foot geysers.
These shows occur on the hour every hour, weather permitting, at set times every day.
Address: 100 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson Landing, Branson, MO 65616
Also Read: Top 10 Most Amazing Fountains in the United States
Promised Land Zoo is Branson's only zoo, so it's no surprise that it's one of the most popular attractions in Branson.
Spanning 75 acres, this zoo is primarily dedicated to housing several rescue animals, with species from all over the world. Unfortunately, some of these species are endangered, too.
At the Promised Land Zoo, you can view lemurs, sloths, big cats, zebras, camels, reptiles, antelopes, giraffes, and much more! With your admission, you'll gain access to a fun and exciting drive-thru safari experience called Drive Thru Zoo.
You can also try out the Foot Safari, the interesting Animal Adventure Building, and the vibrant Parakeet Paradise!
You can get up close and personal with many animals at Promised Land Zoo. You'll be able to touch tortoises and kangaroos, feed giraffes, and see adorable baby monkeys.
Zookeepers are also eager to provide information about the animals, how they live, and how the keepers work with the different species at the zoo.
Address: 2751 Shepherd of the Hills Expy, Branson, MO 65616
White Water can be considered the sister attraction of Silver Dollar City, so naturally, it's one of the many fun places to visit in Branson.
Over 2 million gallons of water rush through this amusement park, with an impressive 13 acres to its name.
White Water has wave pools, water rides, slides, a lazy river, and a 500,000-gallon wave pool. Its fastest speed slide spans 40 feet and will make you travel a shocking 26 feet per second.
For families with young children, there's an area especially for kids called Coconut Grove, filled with fountains, buckets, and a hose jet.
With so many fun things to do, you can stay here all day and never get bored. You can buy a combined ticket for both White Water Branson and Silver Dollar City to save money on your vacation plans.
Address: 3505 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
There are few better ways to see the sights in Branson than via the Branson Scenic Railway. Each relaxing and beautiful train ride begins in a 1905 historic depot in downtown Branson.
It brings you on a beautiful round-trip spanning 40 miles, winding through Ozark Mountain's foothills.
The Branson Scenic Railway operates daily but is especially popular in winter. It celebrates the November and December festive seasons by transforming its train into the Polar Express.
During rides, Santa Claus hops on to visit, and hot cocoa is handed out to all. Some rides even include live readings of The Polar Express.
Address: 206 E Main St, Branson, MO 65616
Marvel Cave is a one-of-a-kind attraction that sits beneath Silver Dollar City Theme Park and is a must-see in Branson.
A native Osage tribe originally discovered it sometime before the 16th century, and it was later found again by Spanish explorers.
But it wasn't until 1869 that more explorers came and entered the cave to seek minerals.
They thought they'd found a cave filled with marble and knew they'd hit something worth inviting others too!
In 1894, the cave opened as Marvel Cave for tours, and it has become an official National Natural Landmark.
It boasts one of North America's largest cave entry rooms.
Each tour will bring you through the winding chambers, with a traditional lantern tour included that allows you to explore with an old-style lantern in hand.
The beauty of Marvel Cave lies in its natural, breathtaking environment.
Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616
Also Read: The Best Caves and Caverns in the USA
You might wonder what Dolly Parton’s Stampede is doing here among the attractions in Branson, far away from Tennessee.
This is an entertainment house, a theater spanning 35,000 square feet, and putting on an incredible show.
Each show sees expert riders on 32 horses that do amazing jumps and tricks and rescue dogs in a team showing off their skills in an agility course.
There are also plenty of other animal acts at Dolly Parton's Stampede, like a dancing chicken and shows involving buffalo and pigs.
But there are other great things about this attraction besides the show.
While watching, you'll enjoy a delicious meal with four superb courses in a country-style feast! With musical productions, lots of great effects, and tons of talent on display, it's a great experience all around.
Address: 1525 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Branson Mountain Adventure is a fantastic theme park that has become quite popular among Branson attractions.
It has a quad zipline that you can ride across the park and a fun gem-mining experience.
But the most popular part of this adventure park is the Runaway Mountain Coaster, a year-round thrill ride for those aged three and up, offering high speeds for virtually all ages!
The Runaway Mountain Coaster is an adrenaline-pumping attraction that hits speeds of 30 miles per hour.
It is so popular because you are in charge of your downhill speed, allowing you to decide how fast you go! Your ascent to the top is nice and slow, allowing you a great view of the surrounding area.
Once you hit the top, your drive begins through drops, curves, and climbs, most of which simply follow the mountain's topography.
The coaster boasts 5,000 feet of track through a forested hillside.
Those who are concerned about speed can make use of the simple manual break.
It's all under your control! This is the Ozarks' first mountain coaster and the longest of its kind in Branson, spanning close to a mile.
Address: 935 Historic Hwy 165, Branson, MO 65616
The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure is a fantastic spot for nature lovers, especially fans of beautiful butterflies, birds, and tropical flora.
On its own, the Butterfly Palace is one of the popular things to do in Branson.
It boasts over a thousand butterflies across 60 species, and they all live in a lovely rainforest.
When you arrive, you'll be given a flower filled with nectar to attract butterflies! New butterflies emerge from their cocoons almost daily, and you might see them "hatch"!
But what, then, is the Rainforest Adventure? It's a whole facility with plenty of things to see and do.
You can visit the Living Rainforest Science Center, which has over 25 amphibians and reptiles and lets you encounter live animals up close.
You can watch a 3D film about the migration of monarch butterflies at the Rainforest Theater.
Want to do something even more immersive? You can check out the indoor active areas that allow you to navigate fun, nature-inspired areas.
There's the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze and the Banyan Tree Bungee Adventure. It's perfect for all ages!
Address: 4106 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
With a name like Talking Rocks Cavern, it's no surprise that this is one of the spots in Branson you shouldn't miss.
This cavern maintains a lovely 63-degree temperature throughout the year, so it's perfect for heading to in hot summers.
The Talking Rocks Cavern is a stunning natural cave that lets you see the beauty of natural rock and mineral formations up close.
You'll walk 150 steps down on an hour-long tour through stairs and walkways, where you'll be told about the geology of the cave and its interesting vertical cave formations.
Address: 423 Fairy Cave Ln, Branson West, MO 65737
Ripley's Believe It or Not is an odditorium with branches throughout the country.
This one is situated in the entertainment district of Branson.
It boasts all sorts of odd and unusual artifacts from around the planet.
There are eight galleries, with 450 exhibits across them, allowing you to view animals, people, and objects of all sorts of bizarre persuasions.
Right next door to Ripley’s Believe It or Not is one of the most fun and exciting Branson attractions: Ripley's Super Fun Zone! Here's where you'll find many fun activities for all ages.
There's a Laser Tag Arena where fast-paced rounds are played with friends and family. There's an outdoor maze with interactive features and surprises around each wild corner.
There's even a shooting gallery that's Ozarks-themed!
The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area has some of the best natural sights in Branson.
Technically, though, parts of it are slightly outside of Branson.
It's a scenic, verdant nature retreat perfect for hiking, picnicking, relaxing, and getting close to nature.
The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area also has a lot of natural caves, nature trails, and rugged hills across its 140 acres.
This is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those who want to explore!
Address: 412 Owen Ln, Branson, MO 65616
Are you an active person seeking things to do in Branson with your friends, family, or other travel companions?
Check out Fritz's Adventure, an 80,000-foot indoor establishment with 19 unique and engaging features that will get your heart racing from all the exercise.
Fritz's Adventure has a ropes course, a zip line course, several slides, a water tower covered in climbing nets and chain ladders, underground tunnels, and even a climbing wall.
There are three stories of indoor excursions, with the TreeTops course being the most popular.
It boasts a whopping 11 ziplines, a laser maze, and tons more!
Address: 1425 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Families looking for fun Branson attractions are spoiled for choice with the addition of Track Family Fun Parks to this list.
This is a great entertainment venue that's all about go-kart tracks.
There are 12 different tracks, each one suited for people of different ages and experience levels, from the Kiddies and Rookies Go Karts course to the high-speed 4-story tracks for adults.
There's more than just go-karting to do at Track Family Fun Parks, though!
It has a giant Ferris wheel, bumper cars, boats, other rides, an arcade, a mini-golf course, a laser tag arena, and batting cages! You'll be occupied all day long with everything you can do here.
Address: 3345 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Yet another one of the attractions in Branson featuring amusement park thrills and fun, Bigfoot Fun Park is a fantastic Bigfoot-themed park that's great for family fun.
Its rides are undoubtedly exciting.
There's the thrilling free-falling Gravity Bomb that drops riders from 200 feet, an exciting 3D moving ride, and the Bigfoot Action Tower.
Bigfoot Fun Park also has other appropriately themed attractions, like a multi-floor maze, a mini-golf course, and even an arcade.
Kids will also love the interesting Bigfoot Discovery Expedition, as they'll get to search for Bigfoot while meeting a wide range of hairy, furry animals.
Address: 3608 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Also Read: 25 Best Amusement Parks in the US
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum is situated about 15 minutes from Branson, but it's still considered one of the many Branson attractions.
It is a haven for history buffs and those seeking to learn more about humanity's history.
The Native American exhibits are particularly interesting at the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum.
You can learn about their culture and history and view some artifacts from numerous groups and people.
You will also be able to view civil war relics, learn about the American West's heritage, and see large wildlife skeletons from now-extinct fauna.
Address: 150 Top of the Rock Rd, Ridgedale, MO 65739
Beyond the Lens! is an intriguing and interesting site, perfect for family entertainment.
As far as attractions in Branson go, this is probably one of the most fascinating.
It is filled with exhibits, great photo backdrops, and interactive games.
Spanning 30,000 square feet, Beyond the Lens features rides like the Fly Ride simulator, the 360-degree Flip Zone Bumper cars, and more.
There are plenty of immersive pop culture experiences that date back to the late 20th century.
You can also try Virtual Reality Games, Augmented Reality Games, and Escape Room experiences.
Kids might also want to hop in the exciting and fun Alien Egg Pit!
Address: 3115 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
The World's Largest Toy Museum is exactly what it says on the tin - a massive collection of over a million toys from across time, appealing to adults and kids alike.
Whether you're a collector or just curious, this is among the best things to do in Branson.
You can see the expansive Tin Toy Collection, the Train Collection that even has full-sized classic cars, the Action Figure collection, the Roy Rogers display, and the odd little assortment of Pull Toys.
Address: 3609 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Shepherd's Adventure Park is one of the most fun places to go in Branson for the whole family.
Situated in the Ozark Mountains, it offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages.
Its most popular activities are its zip lines, like the Vigilante Extreme ZipLiner that takes off from the top of the tallest structure in South Missouri, Inspiration Tower.
For those who want something less extreme, there's the Zipline Canopy Tour, which brings you through a scenic wooded area and is suitable for anyone over the age of three.
Shepherd's Adventure Park also offers a thrilling Copperhead Mountain Coaster and a challenging SkyTrek Ropes course.
Other activities include ATV rides, barns, mini-golf courses, treehouses, and a theatrical play performed live!
Address: 6021 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
The Aquarium at the Boardwalk is one of the many great things to do in Branson for families.
A mix of fun and educational information, this is a great way to learn about tropical marine life.
A mosaic octopus, vast and intricate, greets you right at the door.
There are ten zones at the Aquarium at the Boardwalk, and they're all accessed via a lovely, scenic boardwalk.
As you walk through watery tunnels, you'll see sharks and fish species in an area designed to look like an ancient, sunken city.
Beyond that is a gorgeous Coral Reef featuring vibrant marine flora and fauna thriving in their natural environments.
Remember to visit the touch pool and the Mermaid Palace - kids love those!
Address: 2700 W 76 Country Blvd Unit Aa, Branson, MO 65616
Also Read: 25 Best Aquariums in the US
The Branson Auto and Farm Museum is situated on a 2-acre space, allowing you to step back to the early 1900s.
If you're an automobile aficionado wondering what to do in Branson, look no further!
Here, you'll see gorgeous vintage cars and numerous historic tractors.
You'll view a Ferrari 360 Spider F1, an Allis-Chalmers tractor, a 1942 Harley Davidson, a John Deere tractor, and a 1958 Cadillac Biarritz.
All of these vehicles are lovingly restored to pristine condition, too!
Address: 1335 State Hwy 76, Branson, MO 65616
Also Read: Best Car Museums in The US
The Dinosaur Museum is one of the great places in Branson for people of all ages.
It contains an impressive 45 dino replicas, all "life-sized," and is both educational and fun.
All replicas were made by molding them to real dinosaur skeletons, allowing them to be as genuine as possible.
Dinosaur replicas at this museum are displayed in cool, "realistic"-feeling environments and accompanied by interpretive panels.
There are also activities like a scavenger hunt event and cool displays, such as a fossil exhibit.
Address: 3619 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
The Veterans Memorial Museum was built by Fred Hoppe, who chopped and prepared 70 tons of logs for the museum building all on his own.
He was inspired by his father, who served in the Second World War and told him many stories about his time.
He traveled and spoke to veterans for 25 years, researching as he went and collecting artifacts, then funded and opened the museum himself.
The Veterans Memorial Museum is one of the most special Branson attractions for all the hard work put into it.
There are 2,000 artifacts on display, including letters, uniforms, medals, weapons, and more.
There's even a special mural exhibit just for Hoppe's father!
Address: 1250 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
The Shipwrecked Treasure Museum is a unique museum that features many artifacts.
These items are all genuine salvaged treasures taken from real shipwrecks across the ocean.
When you enter, Discovery Channel and National Geographic documentaries will talk about the world's most well-known wrecks and what caused them.
You'll then be able to explore the rest of the museum, which is among the most unique Branson tourist attractions.
Items on display include arrowheads, ancient coins, porcelain, vintage weapons, beads, silver ingots, and World War II items.
Some of these artifacts date as far back as the Roman Empire! The museum is full of touch screens for hands-on, interactive exhibits, games, simulators, and interactive activities of all sorts.
Address: 505 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
The Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery isn't one of the more typical Branson attractions.
It's a facility for rearing trout, and the Missouri Department of Conservation runs it.
It's right below Table Rock Dam and produces a whopping 350,000 to 400,000 pounds of brown and rainbow trout every year!
Tours of the hatchery are informative, letting you view the hatchery and bringing you through one of four trails.
You'll get to fish at Lake Taneycomo and have a nice picnic if you'd like, and you'll even get the chance to feed the fish.
The visitor center is staffed by knowledgeable docents happy to answer any questions about the hatchery facility.
You can also check out the nature center or go to one of two viewing decks for a great view.
Address: 483 Hatchery Rd, Branson, MO 65616
An interactive map of the best attractions in Branson, Missouri. Use the map to explore all the top attractions.
Branson attractions offer endless possibilities for entertainment and adventure. Many attractions are designed to be family-friendly, with amusement parks and fun entertainment sites that suit people of all ages. With that being said, Branson isn't a one-trick pony! There are natural areas, parks, museums, shopping districts, and fantastic havens for flora and fauna to explore. This list of Branson sights should help you narrow down the very best that the city has to offer.