15 Best & Fun Things To Do In Branson (Missouri)

Those looking for family entertainment and excitement need to take a trip to Branson.

This Missouri town brings in tourists from all over who want to see terrific performers and points of interest.

When you come to Branson, you get to see a place of hospitality, hope, and heart.

These are 15 things to do in Branson, Missouri.

1. Entertainment District

Saying that Branson has an entertainment district is like St. Louis has an arch.

Both statements are true but they need to be made in a way that doesn’t undersell just how important they are.

So many Branson attractions can be found in this entertainment district, making it one of the best things to see in the whole country.

Branson has been dubbed “Live Music Show Capital of the World.”

The Entertainment District is bursting with places to see shows.

Among the acts who have performed in Branson include Chubby Checker, Johnny Cash, Kenny Rogers, and Debbie Boone.

All sorts of entertainment can be experienced here, including magic shows and animal-based performances.

So much fun can be had at Branson’s Entertainment District, even if you’re only in town for a weekend.

2. Branson Landing

For a glimpse of Branson, Missouri that will really wow you, be sure to check out Branson Landing.

This is a complex that has everything a tourist in Branson is looking for, from places to eat, places to shop, and places to see entertainment.

It’s been designed with absolute love, a tribute to not only the city of Branson but also to the people that make it what it is.

You can eat at great restaurants like Black Oak Grill and White River Fish House.

Shopping can be done at Bass Pro Shops White River Outpost, Chico’s, and Mark Ashton.

All kinds of fantastic events happen here as well, from summer concerts to a farmers market.

These fun attractions let you feel like you’re a part of the Branson community.

Next to the beautiful Lake Taneycomo, which also offers the opportunity for ziplining, Branson Landing is one of the top parts of Branson.

There’s the magnificent water fountains and expansive boardwalk to further your delight.

Come to Branson Landing to know how neat Branson, Missouri is.

Address: 100 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, USA

3. Titanic Museum

The story of the RMS Titanic is one that has fascinated people for generations, inspiring one of the most popular films of all-time along the way.

A ship that was proclaimed to be “unsinkable” met its match in an iceberg.

While this occurred far from Branson, Missouri, you can get a glimpse of what it was like to be on that ship by visiting the town’s Titanic Museum.

This museum is designed as a half-sized replica of the original ship, and it’s actually set in water.

You come on board by going through a faux-iceberg and being presented with a ticket.

Once you’re on the “ship,” you can explore the various corridors.

There are also items from the Titanic on display for your admiration and fascination.

The hour you spend touring the Titanic Museum can be quite significant.

This is one of the best activities in Missouri, because it combines learning with entertainment so very well.

You can feel what it might’ve been like to be on the Titanic and think about how astounding it is that it continues to inspire us.

Address: 3235 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, USA

4. Branson Scenic Railway

It’s so easy to be accustomed to the conveniences of modern transportation that you forget about how revolutionary they are.

The birth of the railroad industry meant that people could travel land distances in times that previously seemed impossible.

Branson Scenic Railway commemorates this time and shows you the majesty of the Ozarks.

As you leave the Historic Depot of Branson, Missouri, you’ll be able to see how wonderful the scenery of the Ozarks is.

It’s a great train experience too, as you chug down the tracks, going through tunnels and peering out the window at the foliage.

The train cars are preserved and comfortable, making for one of the best parts of a Branson, Missouri trip.

On the Branson Scenic Railway, you can feel like you’re near people from more than a century ago.

It’s one of the best tourist attractions in the area.

Book a trip on this superb train ride for an experience everyone in your group is sure to love.

Address: 206 E Main St, Branson, MO 65616, USA

5. Table Rock Lake

There’s quite a lot of fun to be had on and near the water in Branson, Missouri.

Table Rock Lake is one of the best aquatic attractions in the area.

When you take a trip down this massive lake, you can enjoy a soothing and unforgettable time in or near Branson Missouri.

Table Rock Lake has an artificial design. Those who come to Branson are often drawn to it for all the activities it provides.

You can take a boat ride down its water, cast a fishing reel and catch some catfish, or even take a dip.

Those who really want to explore the water can go scuba diving.

When the water conditions are fair, Table Rock Lake is undoubtedly a highpoint of any visit to Branson.

Should you be coming up for the weekend, be sure to take a cruise or go fishing.

You’ll find it’s some of the most fun you can have in this area.

6. Marvel Cave

Near Silver Dollar City Theme Park, Marvel Cave truly stands as an absolute marvel of natural fascination.

Settlers and explorers have been making use of the cave and what’s inside it for centuries.

You can let your inner spelunker come out by taking a visit to Marvel Cave.

The name of this cave is an offshoot of its original moniker, “Marble Cave,” so named for what was thought to be inside.

Once you’re inside, you can take in the absolute breathtaking environment of this cave.

The hour you spend touring Marvel Cave can show you just how much natural brilliance is around you.

Coming to Branson, Missouri but not visiting Marvel Cave means you’re missing out on one of the best parts of a visit to this amazing town.

Some experiences can be closely matched in other cities, such as Kansas City, but Marvel Cave is Branson and Branson only.

Planning a trip to Springfield? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Springfield!

7. Table Rock State Park

Right near Table Rock Lake, Table Rock State Park is an area close to Branson, Missouri that lets visitors get into the gentle flow of nature.

The waters of the lake and all the activities to do on land make a must-visit for avid nature enthusiasts.

State parks such as these are such incredible attractions, due to how many opportunities for fun and growth there are.

Heavily populated by oak trees, Table Rock State Park may very well inspire you to crane your neck in total delight at these arboreal wonders.

You can also go for a hike, taking a minute to rest beside one of these trees.

Should you want to get out on the water, there are boats available for rent.

Should you find yourself really taken with Table Rock Lake, you can make a camping reservation.

You can push away from modern conveniences for a weekend while still feeling comfortable, thanks to how beautiful and well maintained the park is.

Table Rock State Park is undoubtedly one of Branson, Missouri’s greatest features.

Address: 5272 MO-165, Branson, MO 65616, USA

8. Silver Dollar City

Although theme parks like Silver Dollar City still seem like a fairly modern invention, ones like this Branson, Missouri attraction show that the very old and new can be one.

At Silver Dollar City, thrillseekers can scream in delight and also feel like they’re getting an educational experience.

One of the cool places in the area, Silver Dollar City features great rides, from roller coasters like the indoor Fire-In-The-Hole to thrill rides like Firefall.

Those who want to have a calmer experience can visit Birdle’s Cabin and see what it’d be like to be a pioneer.

As a true part of Branson, Silver Dollar City has top-notch live entertainment.

You can also make a visit to Marvel Cave part of your Silver Dollar City experience.

For pure thrills and more in Missouri, come to Silver Dollar City.

Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616, USA

9. Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery

Underneath Table Rock Dam lies Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery.

This is a place in Branson, Missouri where trouts are raised.

Visitors to Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery can see aquatic agriculture at its most impressive.

There are all kinds of areas to explore.

The observation decks let you get a cool look at the dam and lake.

While touring the facility, you can check out the nature center.

There’s also plenty to be learned about conservation and how conservation efforts can affect fish.

Coming to Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is one of the best things to do in Branson.

You’re able to see how fish are raised are what we can do to keep them in our ecosystem.

As one of the top attractions in the entire state, you definitely don’t want to miss out on visiting Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery.

Address: 483 Hatchery Rd, Branson, MO 65616, USA

10. Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area

Another excellent nature retreat near Branson, Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area is a great example of why Branson is one of the most beautiful places in America.

When you come to Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, you can put yourself in a state of bliss and contemplation, whether you’re going on a hike, a picnic, or just taking a moment to reflect.

Hiking these trails is one of the best things to do in Branson.

Some of these are more difficult to navigate than others, but if you have a good pair of hiking boots and are going in good weather conditions, you’ll be in good shape.

Take plenty of water, food, and insect repellant with you as well, along with a first aid kit.

When you check out Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, you’ll also see lovely natural formations such as caves.

Families with small children should be drawn to the playground area.

Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area is one of the greatest of the Branson attractions because it shows us so much nature has to offer.

Address: 412 Owen Ln, Branson, MO 65616, USA

11. College of the Ozarks

Whether or not you have a college student looking for schools to attend, you should take a visit to the College of the Ozarks, located near Branson in Point Lookout, Missouri.

This university has an intimate campus, excellent education, and also a very unique approach to education.

In lieu of tuition, students can attend College of the Ozarks at no-cost, provided they find employment on campus.

This lets them become good citizens as well as good students.

Being able to graduate with both work experience and no debt weighing them down is something that all college students would likely desire.

Even if you’re not a student, you should be able to see College of the Ozarks as one of the greatest points of interest in all of Branson.

You can check out attractions like Edwards Mill and the Ralph Foster Museum.

Should you and your college-bound student be looking for quality 4-year institutions, the College of the Ozarks should be one of your top choices.

Address: 100 Opportunity Ave, Point Lookout, MO 65726, USA

12. Branson’s Promised Land Zoo

When you’re looking for stuff to do with the family in Branson, you should definitely go to Branson’s Promised Land Zoo.

This is one of the top things to do in Branson.

Guests are greatly entertained by seeing all these animals, and you can appreciate how much the zoo puts into making sure they’re well taken care of.

Among the animals at this zoo are kangaroos, zebras, and antelopes.

You can also take part in a VIP experience that lets you get in close contact with animals like lemurs.

Should you be looking for feeding opportunities, be sure to go on the Walking Safari.

The Drive Thru Safari is also highly recommended.

Adults and kids can both have a great time at Promised Land Zoo.

The zookeepers do all they can to teach about the animals and how they live and work with their species.

If you’re looking for fun things to do during a weekend trip to Branson, you need to visit Promised Land Zoo.

Address: 2751 Shepherd of the Hills Expy, Branson, MO 65616, USA

13. Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure

Those who bemoan the lack of magical beings in the world would be wise to just stop and consider how enchanted many of the beings around them are.

Just think about how fantastic butterflies are. These colorful delights are like flowers with wings.

One of the top points of interest in Branson is the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure.

Each part of this site makes it one of the best Branson attractions.

The Butterfly Palace truly is a kingdom for these creatures to flutter about.

These are butterflies like you’ve never seen before and which will have you hypnotized by all of their colorfulness.

The Rainforest Science Center is an interactive way to learn about nature, from salamanders to poison dart frogs and more.

Adults and kids can enjoy going through the dazzling Emerald Forest Mirror Maze.

You can also explore the Banyan Tree Adventure and catch a screening at the Rainforest Theater.

If you’re seeking out fun things to do in Branson, the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure should be right up your alley.

Address: 4106 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, USA

14. White Water Branson

Water parks are a great part of any summer trip.

Combining thrills with cooling down, the best ones give visitors experiences that match their desires.

Going to this water park is one of the most fun things to do in Branson.

The water park’s season commences at Memorial Day and concludes on Labor Day, so you can definitely find some time to squeeze in a visit before the summer is up.

Those who love water slides will be thrilled to know about the amazing speed slide.

Should you want to feel some strong tides, take a plunge into the wave pool.

Sometimes, you just want to sit back and let the tide carry you.

For this desire, you can make use of White Water Branson’s lazy river.

Whatever form you most like to enjoy the water in, White Water Branson will give you an experience you’re bound to appreciate.

This is unquestionably one of the top things to do in Branson, for adults and kids alike.

Address: 3505 West, MO-76, Branson, MO 65616, United States

15. Talking Rocks Cavern

Another terrific cave exploration opportunity in Branson, Missouri, Talking Rocks Cavern might not literally speak to you, but it can definitely do so in a metaphorical sense.

As you explore one of the best places to visit in Missouri, you can feel as though you’re gaining a connection with the world around you, above or below the surface.

Taking an hour to tour the cave is one of the best things to do in Branson.

You can learn all about the cave and how it came to be what it is.

You could very well be left breathless by all of the foreboding beauty that’s around you.

Once out of the cave, you can enjoy activities such as mazes and mini-golf.

This is one of the top things to do in Branson.

There might not be much light inside the cave, but there’s plenty of great things to see.

Address: 423 Fairy Cave Ln, Branson West, MO 65737, USA

Visiting other parts of Missouri? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Columbia, MO?

Start Planning Your Trip To Branson

You should definitely plan a trip to Branson, Missouri if you’re looking for fun things to see and do.

Looking for what to do in Branson is a cinch, and you might find it to be one of the top 10 places to visit in the whole country.

Fun things to do in Branson are numerous, which is why it keeps drawing top talent and tourists.

Those who wonder “what is there to do in Branson?” quickly get an answer when they check out the many attractions.

It’s also quite special how much of the area’s beauty comes from nature.

You can enjoy two worlds here: the energy of the city and the restfulness of more remote areas.

It’s a great example of a city that continues to be cherished by those who come across it.

Whatever experience you have in Branson, try your hardest to explore all the options you possibly can.

You’ll hopefully find that this is just the city you’ve been looking for all this time.