Why Should I Visit Branson This Year

Neil Sawford • January 11, 2023

Although there are plenty of reasons why Branson is visited by millions of visitors each year, we're optimistic that your vacation in this popular tourist destination will help you provide the perfect getaway for your family. Below are some excellent reasons to start planning your trip to Branson today.

Incredible Scenic Views

Discover Branson's great outdoors to escape the city's noise and reconnect with nature. Whether you want to spend time outdoors swimming, hiking, fishing, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, or simply taking in the scenery, you'll find plenty of chances here. Take a thrilling ride on the mountain coaster in Branson, spend the afternoon on one of three pristine lakes, stroll dozens of trails, and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Inspiring Live Shows

There are plenty of entertainment alternatives in Branson, whether you're searching for a fun outdoor concert or one of the more than 100 live performances in Branson theaters every year. Fans of the gospel, R&B, humor, illusion, country music, rock, pop, and everything in between will enjoy this.

After a fantastic riding trip on the mountain coaster in Branson, be ready for action-packed entertainment with Clay Cooper's Country Express and his ensemble of 24 incredible performers! With performances of country, rock 'n' roll, gospel, and national anthem music, Clay Cooper's Country Express will show their versatility.

The singing, dancing, and hysterical comedy will keep you on the edge of your seat. Country Express by Clay Cooper is more than just that! Everyone will appreciate Clay Cooper's Country Express because it is a family-friendly production.

Something Unexpected

In Branson, there are many surprises in store for you. You might not expect to discover Chinese acrobatic troupes, exotic animals, stunning medieval caves, or the opportunity to feed sharks at an aquarium, but those things frequently happen here. We have a ton of sly little surprises up our sleeves.

One of the most exciting Branson acts is The Acrobats of China, showcasing the New Shanghai Circus at the Yakov Theatre, which features exhilarating performances and a dramatic adaptation of traditional and classic Chinese dances. This frantic spectacle is a great show that features high-flying acrobatic acts, ornate costumes, aerial dance, hoop diving feats, a captivating spinning plate act, and more.

About 40 outstanding acrobats from Jinan, China, will dazzle you with their incredible stunts and acrobatics. After seeing this show, you'll be left wondering how they pull off such astounding stunts with such grace.

Spectacular Water Features

Speaking of surprises, the same group who designed the famous show at the Bellagio in Las Vegas also created the fountains at Branson Landing. See the fountains blast water and fire in time to music during a daily free show at the top of the hour. Shopping and dining options abound as well. What could top this?

Local Flavor

If you're a die-hard foodie or enjoy discovering unique eating experiences, you should check out what's on the menu here. There are locally distilled whiskey and moonshine, free wine samples from Missouri, spectacular brunches, an abundance of pies, and mouthwatering barbecue. Based on visitor feedback, we have the best burgers here. If you visit Billy Gail's Café in Branson, you must try some of the tastiest meals; your taste senses will have you going back for more.

Rest and Relaxation

Rest and relaxation are always a part of memorable vacations, and Branson offers enough of both. You can unwind on a boat, in a cabin, or while on a leisurely nature walk. Need to relax more? Then a day spent in a lavish spa at Big Cedar Lodge or Chateau on the Lake will be the thing. Try getting a couples massage at Cedar Creek Spa to unwind and relax.

Exciting Thrills

Branson has lots of action if you want heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here, "hanging out" can be done at speeds of more than 60 mph on an inverted roller coaster at Silver Dollar City or while gazing out over the city skyline from the top of the Branson Ferris Wheel.

For a swinging good time on the Skycoaster, a fast-paced go-kart racing, or a ride on the Skyscraper attraction, visit The Track Family Fun Parks. Take a thrilling adventure ride on the mountain coaster in Branson, zipline across the Ozark Mountains.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Take a selfie in front of the Branson Mural to capture your memories, and then shop till you drop into Downtown Branson's distinctive shops. The Crystal Fish - Gifts of Distinction, Peter Engler Designs, Aromatique, Ozark Quilts, and more are just a few places where you can get a variety of unique presents. Don't forget to stop into Dicks 5 & 10, which is home to the largest selection of antique toys, furnishings, games, and sweets.

Many people travel to Branson for various reasons, including the stunning Ozark Mountains as a backdrop, the fantastic live shows, the mouthwatering cuisines, and the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters.

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Close-up of a souvenir t-shirt featuring a mountain coaster design

Shop & Adventure in Branson

By Neil Sawford • August 29, 2025

When you visit Branson with your family to enjoy a wonderful vacation, don't pass up the opportunity to shop at some of the best shopping locations. Branson shoppers will find everything on their shopping lists, from specialty shops to department stores. If you've had an exciting ride on the roller coasters in Branson, MO, the next thing you should do is go shopping at some of the shopping malls listed below. Branson Landing Branson Landing, the Midwest's shoppers' paradise, is one of the most visited shopping destinations, offering almost everything you need for your holiday shopping in Branson. This fantastic shopping destination is home to the famous Belk Department Store, which provides a wide range of clothing and accessories. It also has Bass Pro Shop, which has everything you need for outdoor adventures. Branson Landing, a center for great shopping and dining opportunities located between Lake Taneycomo and historic downtown Branson, is one of the most visited attractions in town. The easily walkable Branson Landing is less than a mile long. It features a lakeside boardwalk, an open-air promenade, and more than 100 retail shops and fine restaurants. Shopping is the ideal activity after a thrilling adventure ride on the roller coasters in Branson, MO. Historic Downtown Branson Historic Downtown Branson's famous shopping destination is a short walk from Branson Landing. Shopping in Historic Downtown Branson can undoubtedly relieve the stress of visitors who are having a great time touring the many exciting places in this vacation paradise. You will enjoy what Branson offers as you walk through the beautiful streets, old buildings, and nostalgic themed shops in downtown Branson. You can see the beginnings of Branson in the Ozarks in Historic Downtown Branson. But there's more to Branson than just reminiscing. With many shops and dozens of exciting attractions for people of all ages, this neighborhood transforms into a thriving complex full of exciting activities. Whether you're looking for gourmet foods, baked goods, or original art, the historic downtown Branson has it all. There are many fine restaurants and eateries in the historic downtown Branson, a time-enhanced exciting location. Branson Craft Mall Visit the Branson Craft Mall for a retail market that focuses on the unique and original. The Branson Craft Mall, lined with vendors and specialty craft goods, is also home to the famous Pickin' Porch Grill. You won't leave hungry with a diverse menu that includes House-Smoked BBQ, sandwiches, wings, and even tacos. For an after-meal treat, take a stroll down the candy aisle. Branson Craft Mall is a fantastic shopping destination where you can buy unique arts and crafts and enjoy a delicious dining experience at some of the finest restaurants. This expansive 160,000-square-foot craft mall offers visitors one-stop shopping from over 200 vendors, artists, and crafters. Many of these vendors sell clothing, quilts, leather goods, jewelry, rugs, baskets, pottery, and other items. The Shoppes at Branson Meadows The Shoppes at Branson Meadows provides a wide range of shopping experiences. Shepherd Hills Cutlery, Tuesday Morning, Neil's Home Store, the Consignment Clothing Exchange, Touch of Class Boutique, Made in the USA, and more are all worth a visit! Visit Branson's 1984 Arcade for a nostalgic and rejuvenating break. The Shoppes at Branson Meadows offers discounted local brands, chic home goods, and one-of-a-kind clothing. This shopping spot is a treasure trove of housewares and other household goods. Grand Village Shops Over 25 distinguished novelty stores can be found at Grand Village Shops. With each offering its distinct originality, you're sure to leave with a perfect memory of your time in Branson. The Grand Village Shops are an excellent place to find a meaningful gift for everyone on your list. With the diversity of shops, there is something for everyone in this great shopping spot in Branson. While shopping in this fascinating place, you'll see singing waiters entertain shoppers. At the same time, they enjoy diner-style food and tasty ice cream from the soda fountain at Mel's Hard Luck Diner. Tanger Outlet Mall No shopping spree in Branson is complete without a trip to Tanger Outlets. You will find well-known brands at a discounted price at this unique shopping location. Tanger Outlets is located inside Branson's Entertainment District and offers extended shopping hours and great discounts to reward members. Tanger Outlets have everything that you need and even hard-to-find items. Conveniently located on Highway 76 West, the fully stocked mall offers discounts for favorite name brands such as Gap, Levi's, Polo Ralph Lauren, J. Crew, and much more. When looking for great shopping spots to shop and adventure after an exciting ride on the roller coasters in Branson, MO , don't forget to check out the shopping malls listed above.