Things to Do in Branson, Missouri: A Guide to the Ozarks
Updated: Oct 19
Branson is one of those destinations I grew up visiting, but I’ve found a whole new appreciation for it as an adult. What I once thought of mostly as a family vacation spot has become one of my favorite easy getaways in Missouri — especially when I can spend as much time as possible outside and on the water.
Between Table Rock Lake, the Ozark scenery, restaurants, shows, unique stays and plenty of things to do beyond the traditional Branson Strip, there’s a lot more here than you can fit into one weekend. The area actually has three lakes, with everything from boating and swimming to kayaking, fishing and other water sports.
Whether it’s your first trip or you grew up coming here like I did, here are some of the places I think are worth adding to your next Branson getaway.
Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail
The Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail has been on my Branson bucket list for a while, and I’m so glad we finally got to experience it! You drive your own golf cart along the trail, and we took turns driving as we made our way through the woods, past waterfalls, and eventually into the cave.
One of the most unique parts is the Bat Bar inside the cave! Our admission included a drink token, so we pulled the golf cart right up to the cave bar window, grabbed a drink, and continued along the trail.
The entire route is clearly marked, so you just follow the path and enjoy the scenery along the way. The golf cart ride itself is a huge part of the experience and made the admission price feel worth it to us. Such a fun and unique way to experience the Ozarks, and definitely one of my favorite things we did in Branson!
Shepard of the Hills
There’s so much more to do at The Shepherd of the Hills than we expected! We spent some time walking around the property, checking out the candy and Christmas shops, and taking in the views from Inspiration Tower.
For a little more adventure, we went ziplining and rode the Copperhead Mountain Coaster, which ended up being one of the highlights of our visit. Flying down the mountain was such a fun way to experience the Ozarks!
There’s also a restaurant on site. We didn’t get a chance to eat there ourselves, but it was busy and everyone around us seemed to be enjoying their meals. You could easily spend several hours here between the attractions, shops, food, and views.
Inspiration Tower
Inspiration Tower is a quick stop with some gorgeous views of the Ozarks! We paid just $5 per person to ride the glass elevator to the top of the 230-foot tower, which sits on the highest point in southwest Missouri. The views were beautiful when we visited, but I can only imagine how incredible they are once the leaves start changing in the fall.
If you’re looking for a little more adventure, you can also take the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider from the tower for an additional cost. It stretches about half a mile and reaches speeds up to 50+ mph!
Dewey Short Visitor Center and Table Rock Lakeshore Trail
The Dewey Short Visitor Center and Table Rock Lakeshore Trail are a great free stop while visiting Branson! We walked the easy paved trail along the shoreline and saw plenty of wildlife along the way, plus you get some beautiful views of Table Rock Lake.
The visitor center is worth checking out too, especially if you’re traveling with kids. There are interactive exhibits and activities inside, and it’s completely free to visit. A nice way to slow down and enjoy a little time outdoors during a Branson trip!
Dinner + Sunset Views at Osage Restaurant
Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock might genuinely be one of the best restaurants I’ve ever eaten at. Between the food, the views, and the entire experience, this was easily one of the highlights of our time in Branson!
I highly recommend making an evening reservation so you can experience the sunset. We got to watch the sunset ceremony with bagpipe music and the firing of the cannon near the chapel, all with the most incredible views of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake.
And then there was dinner! We started with the calamari along with the complimentary bread and butter, which was surprisingly one of the standouts of the meal. We shared a bottle of wine and ordered the New York strip à la carte with creamy mashed potatoes and what might be the best asparagus I’ve ever had.
If you’re visiting Branson and want one special night out, I couldn’t recommend Osage more. You could easily make an entire day out of Top of the Rock between the golf cart nature trail, golf, exploring the property, and ending the evening here for dinner and sunset. Absolutely worth it!
Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center
Chris and I love golfing, so if we spot a mini golf course and have extra room in our itinerary, there’s a pretty good chance we’re adding it! In Branson, that turned into trying all four attractions included with the Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center’s All Access Pass.
Shoot for the Stars Mini-Golf was one of the coolest themed courses we’ve played, with Hollywood-inspired holes and props throughout. We also tried Castle of Chaos, an interactive shooting game where I naturally have to mention that I came in first out of eight people. I guess growing up on a farm finally paid off!
Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors was surprisingly challenging. We actually got turned around, ended up back at the beginning, and had to go through again—so pay attention to where you’re going!
We finished with the Hollywood Wax Museum, where the comedy section was our favorite. Some of the figures looked so realistic that we kept saying they need to sneak a real comedian in there one day just to scare people.
The All Access Pass is a fun option for couples, families, or groups looking for something a little different to do in Branson!
Breakfast at Billy Gail's
Billy Gail’s was our first stop when we got into Branson, and it was the perfect way to kick off the trip! They’re known for their stuffed French toast, candied bacon, and massive 14-inch pancakes, so naturally, we had to try all three.
The 14-inch pancake was easily our favorite. I’m not sure how they manage to make a pancake THAT big and still have it come out so perfectly fluffy and delicious, but they do! Come hungry because the portions here are no joke. Definitely a fun Branson breakfast spot to add to your list.
Danna’s BBQ
We were told by a local that we couldn’t leave Branson without trying the loaded baked potato at Danna’s BBQ, and we’re so glad we listened! Ours was absolutely loaded with pulled pork, baked beans, coleslaw, cheese, butter, sour cream, and BBQ sauce. It was huge and easily one of the highlights of our meal.
We also tried the pork tenderloin sandwich with mac and cheese on the side and finished everything off with a massive slice of carrot cake.
Danna’s is a local favorite for a reason. If you’re looking for a casual BBQ spot while visiting Branson, definitely add this one to your list—and come hungry!
Gettin' Basted
We stopped at Gettin’ Basted while vacationing in Branson and had to try a little bit of everything! He went for a loaded burger piled with BBQ meat, while I ordered a mix of meats and sides so I could sample a few different things.
The burnt ends and ham were my favorites, and I’m always happy when a BBQ spot has good fried okra—Gettin’ Basted definitely delivered on that too! If you’re looking for a good BBQ spot while visiting Branson, this is one to add to your list.
Coffee & Pastries at Coffee Creations
Coffee Creations is more than just a coffee stop — the shop helps create opportunities for individuals with disabilities while serving coffee, smoothies, pastries and light lunch options. We stumbled across this spot during our Branson trip and loved the mission behind it. If you’re looking for a local coffee shop where your purchase supports a great purpose, add this one to your list.
Stay At Embers Glamping & RV Park
If you’re looking for a unique place to glamp in Branson, The Embers Glamping & RV Resort is such a fun option! We got to experience both a bell tent and a treehouse tent, and they each offer a completely different stay.
The bell tent is quaint and cozy, with a bed, bench, small coffee pot, and a private deck where you can sit outside and look at the stars at night. Bell tent guests have access to shared bathroom facilities nearby.
The treehouse tent is absolutely gorgeous and definitely the more elevated glamping experience. Ours had a king-size bed, an additional smaller bed, a private bathroom, and its own hot tub!
Around the resort, there’s also a large pool, pickleball court, and shared fire pits. Whether you want a simple glamping experience or something a little more luxurious, I highly recommend checking out The Embers for a unique stay in Branson!
No matter how many times I come back to Branson, I seem to find something new to do. It’s nostalgic enough to remind me of the trips I took here growing up, while still having plenty that makes me want to return as an adult.
My biggest recommendation? Don’t spend your entire trip on the Strip. Give yourself time to get outside, explore the Ozarks and spend at least one day on or around Table Rock Lake — it’s become one of my favorite parts of coming back to Branson.
Save this guide for your next Branson trip, and check back as I continue adding new finds every time I visit.
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