Branson, Missouri is a popular vacation destination for families with kids, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you want to experience thrilling rides, have dinner and a show, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Branson has it all. So if you’re planning a family vacation, be sure to check out these great things to do in Branson with kids.
Best Things to Do in Branson with Kids
From exciting amusement parks and waterparks to fascinating museums and outdoor adventures, here are the best things to do in Branson with kids.
Thrilling Attractions in Branson
Branson is a treasure trove of thrilling attractions guaranteed to keep the whole family on the edge of their seats.
1. Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City is by far one of the top things to do in Branson with kids.
Within the park, lies Marvel Cave, an underground wonder. Take an hour-long tour that descends 500 feet below the surface, only to ascend back to daylight aboard a cable train.
One of the more unique attractions at Silver Dollar City is the craftsman displays. You can watch talented people make candy, soap, and pottery. You can also watch blacksmiths, lathe craftsmen, and glassblowers at work.
Don’t miss a ride on the Silver Dollar Line Steam Train.
If you have younger kids, you will definitely want to check out the Fireman’s Landing area. This area has multiple rides that are perfect for little ones. They can fly in a hot air balloon on the Fire Spotter or take to the skies in a Dalmation on Lucky’s Dizzy Dogs. Another area with lots of kid rides is The Grand Exhibition. Your kids will be riding in bugs, spinning in teacups, and flying high in an elephant. Stop by Half Dollar Holler to let the kids run off some energy and ride the carousel.
Older kids and adults can get their adrenaline going on one of Silver Dollar City’s seven roller coasters. Outlaw Run is a fan favorite with its’ half-mile of track and 162 feet drop. The newest addition, Time Traveler, is an epic ride with 10 story drops, three inversions, and maximum speeds of 50 miles per hour.
2. The Track Family Fun Parks
The Track Family Fun Parks offers a wide array of activities that are sure to entertain the entire family. With an impressive selection of 12 go-kart tracks, ranging from exciting twisting tracks to more kid-friendly options, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Thrill-seekers can also take advantage of the multiple thrilling rides, while bumper boats and cars provide fun for all ages. For the youngest visitors, spend some time at the kiddie amusement park rides.
Additionally, there are batting cages, laser tag, mini-golf, and arcades to keep the excitement going. Choose from various pass options, including a 2-hour park pass, a day pass, or a multi-day pass, to make the most of your experience at The Track Family Fun Parks.
3. Branson Ferris Wheel
The Branson Ferris Wheel, formerly located on Chicago’s Navy Pier, offers a memorable and enjoyable experience. Standing at 150 feet tall, it features 40 gondolas that can accommodate a total of 240 riders. Each ride lasts approximately 15 minutes.
The Branson Ferris Wheel is part of The Track Family Fun Parks, but tickets must be purchased separately unless you purchase the multi-day pass.
4. Branson Scenic Railway
The Branson Scenic Railway offers a historic train ride through the beautiful Ozark Mountains. Enjoy the stunning views from the restored passenger cars that can’t be seen on your own.
There are multiple departure times including daytime trips and evening trips that serve dinner. During November and December, hop aboard the Polar Express to get into the holiday spirit.
5. Shepherd of the Hills
Shepherd of the Hills, a Branson staple, immerses you in the rich heritage of the Ozarks. It offers a variety of activities perfect for families. From the outdoor drama that retells the famous 1907 novel, to the adventurous zip line and canopy tours, there’s no shortage of fun.
Lil’ Pete’s Playland includes a mini-golf course, ninja warrior course, treehouses, play barn & slides, cornhole, and more. There are also barnyard animals to pet.
Head to the top of Inspiration Tower for fantastic views of the Ozarks. Ride in a Jeep-drawn tram for a tour of the farm. Take a tour of Old Matt’s Cabin.
For adventurous folks, head to Shepherd’s Adventure Park. Attractions include the 2-hour zipline canopy tour, Copperhead Mountain Coaster, and the Sky Trek Challenge Ropes Course.
The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama is a great way to experience the real history of the Ozarks. This show, depicting life in the late 1800s, is held outdoors during the warmer months.
Shepherd of the Hills also offers Indoor Playhouse Theatre Shows that are mostly entertaining dinner shows.
Whether it’s history, entertainment, adventure, or nature you seek, Shepherd of the Hills has it all.
6. Wolfe Mountain Snowflex Tubing & Ziplines
Enjoy a thrilling aerial adventure at Wolfe Mountain on one of their zipline tours. See breathtaking views of the Ozarks from a completely different perspective. Wolfe Mountain features multiple zipline tours, including a freefall option at the end.
Visit Wolfe Mountain’s Snowflex Park for an hour of tubing fun. Snowflex is a polymer alternative to real snow. The tubing slope is 400 feet long and can accommodate 8 tubes at a time.
7. Ozarks Off-Road Adventure Tour
For those seeking an exciting adventure with a view, look no further than the Ozarks Off-Road Adventure Tour.
Cruise around an 1100-acre cattle ranch in the provided Yamaha Wolverine X4 while taking in all the sights and nature around you.
The tour is even more exceptional during the fall when you can immerse yourself in the changing fall foliage in Branson.
8. Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock offers a self-paced golf cart tour along the scenic 2.5-mile-long Lost Canyon and Nature Trail. The trail showcases stunning views, unique rock formations, and waterfalls. The experience includes a bar for refreshments.
Additionally, visitors can explore the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, featuring Native American artifacts, prehistoric creatures, Civil War collections, and American West collections. Top of the Rock also has two restaurants to choose from.
9. Bigfoot Fun Park
Bigfoot Fun Park promises hours of entertainment. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities, including a thrilling free-fall ride.
For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there’s an 18-hole mini golf course with a Bigfoot theme. The arcade is perfect for those who love classic games, while Bigfoot’s 8DI Action Cinemas offers immersive movie experiences.
In the outdoor Fun Zone, visitors can get lost in the maze panels and climb around in the treehouse. You can purchase tickets for each attraction or save some money by purchasing one of the passes offered.
10. Runaway Mountain Coaster
The Runaway Mountain Coaster is one of the most thrilling things to do in Branson with kids. Cruise around the hills and curves at a top speed of 30 miles per hour on a custom-designed mountain coaster track. The ride is approximately seven minutes of fun.
11. Talking Rocks Cavern
Experience the wonders of Talking Rocks Cavern, a year-round attraction with a comfortable temperature of 63 degrees. Take an hour-long educational tour through the cave, try your hand at gemstone mining, play mini-golf, hike nature trails, navigate crawl mazes, and enjoy giant family games.
Animal Attractions in Branson
Branson is home to a variety of animal attractions that offer entertainment and education for visitors of all ages. Add a little adventure to your Branson itinerary and visit one of these amazing animal attractions during your visit.
12. Branson’s Wild World
Branson’s Wild World offers a chance to get up close with beautiful, exotic, deadly, and intriguing animals. There are over 400 animals to see, some that you can touch or feed.
In addition to the animals, there are other attractions to choose from like mini golf, “living dinosaurs,” an aquarium, Lemur Playground, and more.
13. The Butterfly Palace
The Butterfly Palace has over 1,000 exotic butterflies and 40+ species. Visitors can attract butterflies with a nectar flower while exploring the aviary.
The Living Rainforest Science Center features 25 reptiles and amphibians, along with interactive displays. The Rainforest Theater shows the educational video “Flight of the Butterflies” and other attractions include the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze and Banyan Tree Adventure.
The Butterfly Palace is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission wristbands are valid for three consecutive days as long as it stays on your wrist.
14. Aquarium at the Boardwalk
The Branson Aquarium is a 46,000-square-foot facility that holds its’ 250+ species in over 400,000 gallons. Before you go inside, admire the massive Pacific octopus that is on the building.
The Branson Aquarium has been set up with themes for each area. They have showcased different species in a really unique way. One of the first attractions is the Water Tunnel. As you walk through the tunnel, you are immersed in the fish.
There is a wide array of species in the Coral Reef area. Another that showcases bioluminescent fish. Mermaid Palace has two photo-ops to be a Mermaid or Merman. It also has a school of sardines and seahorses.
My favorite area is the Jelly Infinity Room. The entire room is covered with mirrors. There are four pillars full of jellyfish. The lights change colors on them and reflect around the whole room.
The Submarine Adventure is an unexpected bonus to the aquarium. It is a 3D interactive movie where your seat moves along with the story as you follow an octopus around. We had so much fun that we did it twice!
When you reach the end of the aquarium, there is a massive enclosed play structure called the Kelp Forest. It is perfect for kids. Another feature in this area is the coloring table. You can color one of the fish templates, scan in the image, and watch your creation come to life on the screen.
The final thing to do in this area is to check out the Touch Pools. You can feel rays, crabs, and anemones.
You can pre-purchase tickets online here or at the aquarium. The aquarium is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM with extended hours on Fridays, and Saturdays.
15. Tiger Sanctuary
If you love animals and want to support a great cause, the National Tiger Sanctuary is an awesome place to visit.
There are multiple tours to choose from and plenty of big cats to see making this a great destination for all ages.
Discover the world of big cats, rescue efforts, and the challenges they face in both captivity and the wild, all during your enlightening tour.
Shows in Branson
Branson, known as the “Live Music Show Capital of the World,” offers a plethora of engaging and highly entertaining shows suitable for all age groups. With an array of genres ranging from music and dance to magic and comedy, there’s something for everyone.
16. Showboat Branson Belle
The Showboat Branson Belle offers a unique showboat-style dinner cruise on Table Rock Lake. Indulge in a delicious meal while taking in the stunning scenery and talented performers. With seasonal shows and two dining options available, it’s a top thing to do in Branson.
17. Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Dolly Parton’s Stampede is an incredible dinner show in Branson. Featuring world-class horsemanship, music, comedy, and a delicious four-course meal, it’s a must-see attraction.
With an amazing cast of 32 horses and riders, this popular show often sells out, so book in advance to secure your spot!
18. Sight and Sound Theatre
For over four decades, Sight & Sound Theatres has captivated audiences with their breathtaking stage productions that bring Bible stories to life.
Each show is a spectacular display of both entertainment and profound messages.
Brace yourself for a captivating blend of heart-stirring drama and adrenaline-pumping action on an expansive stage, adorned with magnificent sets, awe-inspiring special effects, and even live animals.
19. Presleys’ Country Jubilee
The Presleys’ Country Jubilee has played a pivotal role in shaping the live show industry of Branson. This talented family entertains fans with country and gospel music, clever comedy, and warm hospitality.
The show takes place in the iconic “Presley” theater on Branson’s entertainment strip. Experience the magic of Presleys’ Country Jubilee for an unforgettable blend of music, comedy, and family fun!
20. Reza Edge of Illusion Show
REZA, an acclaimed illusionist, mesmerizes audiences with his innovative performances.
In his revolutionary show “Edge of Illusion,” REZA seamlessly blends interactive comedy, mind-boggling illusions, and cutting-edge production elements.
21. The Haygoods
The Haygoods show in Branson is a symphony of musical talent and exhilarating performances you won’t want to miss.
This family-centric show encapsulates the essence of live entertainment, ranging from modern hits to classics all the way back to the 60’s.
The siblings’ chemistry creates a unique atmosphere that resonates with audiences of all ages.
22. Shanghai Circus
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of the Shanghai Circus.
Prepare to be captivated by a diverse range of performances that transcend boundaries, showcasing breathtaking acrobatics, vibrant dance, comedic brilliance, mystifying magic, and awe-inspiring displays of aerial strength.
With a seamless fusion of innovative stage LED technology and exceptional artistry, Shanghai Circus presents an unparalleled level of entertainment that will leave audiences spellbound.
23. Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show
Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show stands out as an all-encompassing entertainment spectacle, perfect for the entire family.
It features a dynamic mix of magical illusions, comedy, dance, music, trick roping, acrobatics, and more. The entertaining acts will keep you on the edge of your seat and begging for more.
Outdoor Attractions in Branson
Branson provides a wide range of outdoor attractions to keep your family active. Whether it’s spending summer days on Table Rock Lake or enjoying hikes amidst the vibrant fall colors, these outdoor attractions are sure to be a hit.
24. Dewey Short Visitors Center
The Dewey Short Visitor Center is a fantastic destination to delve into the history and ecology of the Branson area. With engaging exhibits and interactive displays, you can learn all about the region and Table Rock Lake.
Afterward, take the scenic 2.2-mile paved Table Rock Lakeshore Trail that leads to Table Rock State Park.
25. Moonshine Beach Recreation Area
Nestled along the shores of Table Rock Lake lies the Moonshine Beach Recreation Area, the perfect spot for a family day out. With its sprawling sandy swimming beach, it’s the only place on Table Rock Lake where you can truly dig your toes into the soft sand while enjoying a refreshing swim. The kids can also play on the small playground.
26. State Park Marina
State Park Marina has over 650 boats available for rent on Table Rock Lake. Whether you’re looking to cast a line and see what you can reel in with a fishing boat or hit the waves with a ski boat or waverunner, the marina has got you covered.
Catamaran cruises are another choice to enjoy the water! Join a 2-hour Sail-Swim Cruise to have a blast with large water accessories, a giant water slide, and kayaks.
And if you’re in the mood for something a little more relaxing and intimate, try one of the Table Rock Lake Boat Tours.
27. Branson Jet Boats
If you’re looking for some excitement on the water during your trip to Branson, look no further than the Branson Jet Boats. With a one-hour, twelve-mile round trip down and up Lake Taneycomo, you’ll be in for an adventure you won’t forget.
Brace yourself though, as you might get sprayed and splashed as you speed along the water. But that’s all part of the fun, right?
28. Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area
The Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area in Branson is a stunning natural refuge. The area has 5.6 miles of hiking trails including the Glade Trail with an overlook deck and the Homesteaders Trail passing old homestead sites. It’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
29. Lakeside Wilderness Hiking Trail
The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area provides a retreat for nature lovers seeking an outdoor escape. With 140 acres of land, it boasts 5.3 miles of hiking trails, stunning views of Lake Taneycomo, and even a nature playground.
From a leisurely 0.2-mile walking path to more challenging options like the 2.4-mile Ridge Trail, there’s something for every hiker to enjoy in this picturesque destination.
30. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf features two 18-hole courses, each with its own unique obstacles. Visitors are transported to a pirate world. From navigating through shipwrecks to dodging hidden obstacles, guests will have a blast trying to sink their putts on these challenging courses.
31. Dig Town
Dig Town lets kids and kids at heart try their hand at operating construction equipment. Dig Town features Excavators, Cranes, Log Grapples, and Fork Lifts.
In addition to operating the construction equipment, everyone can enjoy the chance to putt their way through a construction zone at the Mini Golf Adventure course. Young kids ages 2 to 4 will also enjoy the tot spot area with real hydraulic rides.
Indoor Attractions in Branson
When the weather isn’t cooperating, head indoors to one of these great climate-controlled things to do in Branson with kids.
32. Fritz’s Adventure Park
Fritz’s Adventure Park offers 19 thrilling attractions. With over 80,000 square feet of family fun, there’s something for everyone.
From ropes courses and awesome slides to a dedicated area for younger kids, it’s a place where both kids and adults can have a blast.
The Sky Trail ropes course offers an exhilarating adventure with multiple levels of difficulty and a fun zipline. The TreeTops Zipline Course is perfect for older kids and adults with its numerous ziplines, suspension bridges, and free falls.
33. Wonderworks
With a whopping 48,000 square feet of space, Wonderworks boasts over 100 hands-on exhibits.
With a wide range of exhibits to explore, including those on art, meteorology, space, the elements, and the senses, every curiosity is catered for! Each exhibit has been carefully put together to offer a truly engaging and interactive experience. Visitors of all ages can learn and have fun at the same time.
At Wonderworks, education is not just a matter of reading and memorizing facts, but it’s a fun and engaging experience that will leave your children with a deeper understanding of the world around them.
34. Beyond the Lens! & Flyride
Step into Beyond the Lens! for an immersive experience of over 150 interactive exhibits. Get ready for an array of Instagram-worthy photo ops, exhilarating virtual reality rides, an exciting Big Foot hunt, and engaging interactive games.
Don’t miss the 2-minute escape rooms and the fascinating pop culture walkthrough spanning from the 1960s to today.
Flyride is a thrilling virtual experience that takes you on a scenic tour of the United States. From the moment you’re seated and suspended in the air, the journey comes to life. With seat movement, water sprays, a gentle breeze, and scents of nature, Flyride offers a complete sensory experience.
You can purchase tickets for each attraction individually or get a combo ticket at a discounted rate.
35. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
For those who want to add a little quirkiness to their Branson vacation, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is the place.
Featuring eight galleries, this exhibition invites visitors to delve into a realm of peculiar artifacts, mesmerizing art, curious animal oddities, nostalgic pop-culture memorabilia, engaging interactive games, and unbelievable tales of extraordinary people and places.
You can purchase a combo ticket to take advantage of Ripley’s Super Fun Park. It has laser tag, an outdoor maze, a game against the clock, and a race through laser beams.
36. Titanic Museum
The Titanic Museum showcases a collection of artifacts and recounts the stories of passengers aboard the ill-fated ship. Visitors can experience the Titanic’s journey, from departure to sinking, including walking on the grand staircase and sitting in a lifeboat.
One of my favorite artifacts was an original deck chair that passengers would have lounged on during a sunny day.
Displays of the dishes used and the meals served to the different classes were particularly interesting. First-class passengers had luxurious dishes and cutlery. Their meals were lavish and plentiful. This was an extreme contrast to the dishes and meals offered to third-class passengers.
The Titanic Museum has beautifully highlighted the Jewish passengers and crew aboard the Titanic. They have also included a small section in the museum about the Holocaust that includes concentration camp uniforms.
The museum provides cards with passenger information, allowing visitors to discover their fate at the end of the tour.
37. World’s Largest Toy Museum
The World’s Largest Toy Museum is a wonderland for kids and the young at heart. It is home to over a million toys dating from the 19th century to today.
This nostalgic journey is highlighted by its prominent collections, including classic toys like Barbie, Hot Wheels, Disney, and Star Wars.
The museum sparks joy and ignites childhood memories. Its vast collection also offers an insightful look into the evolution of toys, making it a fun and educational experience.
38. Celebrity Car Museum
The Celebrity Car Museum is a must-visit for automobile enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.
Known as the Velvet Collection, it houses a host of vehicles that have starred in numerous movies and TV shows. With over 100 cars in the collection ranging from the Fast and Furious franchise to retired Transformers, this museum promises an exciting walk down the memory lane of pop culture.
39. Branson Auto and Farm Museum
The Branson Auto and Farm Museum is an extraordinary stop for those interested in vintage automobiles and antique farming equipment.
The museum houses close to 200 collectible vehicles, including classic cars, tractors, and implements dating back to the early 20th century.
It offers a unique journey into the past, making it an educational experience for both children and adults.
40. Dinosaur Museum
The Dinosaur Museum in Branson is a thrilling experience for children who are fascinated by prehistoric creatures. The museum showcases life-sized models of various dinosaur species, each detailed to bring the ancient world to life.
41. Arcade City Branson
Arcade City Branson is a haven for kids and adults alike who love the thrill of arcade games. Packed with a wide array of state-of-the-art video games, this eclectic venue promises fun, excitement, and a hint of nostalgia.
From classic arcade games that take you on a trip down memory lane to the latest high-tech interactive games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
42. Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center
Have you ever wanted to rub elbows with the stars without actually going to Hollywood? Then the Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center is the place for you.
As soon as you step inside, you’ll feel like you’re on a movie set with the lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, and Dolly Parton.
If you’re looking for a thrill, check out the Castle of Chaos, which combines a 5D ride with a shooting game.
If you prefer something a little less intense, try Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors, where you’ll navigate your way through a castle filled with twists, turns, and illusions.
Finish off your visit with a round of Shoot for the Stars mini-golf, where you can putt your way through movie scenes and replicas of iconic Hollywood landmarks.
The Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center sells single attraction tickets or a combo ticket to enjoy all 4 attractions.
43. The Escape Branson
The Escape Branson offers an immersive and interactive escape room experience that tests logic, wit, and teamwork.
Each room contains a unique mystery or challenge that needs to be solved within a set time limit, providing an adventure for all ages. Choose from themes like a dinner murder mystery, undercover spy, and others.
44. Big Cedar Lodge’s Fun Mountain
Experience endless fun at Big Cedar Lodge’s Fun Mountain. Play at the arcade, race around in bumper cars, enjoy underwater-themed bowling, test your skills at laser tag, and even try your hand at a state-of-the-art golf simulator.
45. Judge Stone’s Old Time Photos
For a truly unique souvenir of your time in Branson, drop by Judge Stone’s Old Time Photos. Here, you can step back in time and get your photo taken in a variety of fun and classic settings.
You’ll be provided with clothing options. The friendly staff will be there to assist you in striking the best pose for that perfect photo!
46. Veterans Memorial Museum
The Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson is a national tribute to the brave men and women who defended our freedoms during the 20th Century.
The museum showcases thousands of authentic artifacts, photos, and personal stories from various wars, offering a deeply moving and educational experience.
With its iconic exterior featuring the world’s largest war memorial bronze sculpture, this museum is a must-visit for every history enthusiast.
Free Attractions in Branson
Although many of the attractions in Branson come with a price tag, there are a handful of things to do that won’t cost you a dime.
47. Branson Landing & Fountain Show
Branson Landing is the ultimate destination for shopping and dining. With a wide range of stores including Bass Pro Shops, American Eagle Outfitters, and Pandora, it offers a great shopping experience.
In addition to the shops, Branson Landing boasts a movie theater and a great selection of restaurants. The fountain shows, including 120-foot geysers and fire cannons, should not be missed!
48. Ride the Branson Trolley
Hop aboard the Free Branson Trolley for an enjoyable and leisurely exploration of the city. This charming, vintage-style trolley offers a convenient way to navigate around Branson’s downtown and shopping districts.
The entire route takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete. It’s a unique way to get around Branson. The best part is it is free!
Waterparks in Branson
Looking to make a big splash in Branson? Whether you’re craving sun-soaked fun in an outdoor oasis or a wet and wild adventure in a climate-controlled paradise, Branson waterparks have you covered!
49. White Water
White Water is an exciting waterpark in Branson, offering a refreshing retreat for families during the hot summer months. From high-speed slides to chill lounging areas, White Water provides an unforgettable day of fun and relaxation amidst the buzzing activity of Branson.
There are attractions for guests of all ages. From the giant slides for the older kids and adults to Coconut Cove and Splashaway Cay just for the little ones, everyone can have fun at White Water.
50. Branson AquaPlex
Branson AquaPlex is a water park with features for all ages and skill levels. From the leisure pool for beginners to thrilling water slides, there’s something for everyone. With lap lanes and a diving well, it’s perfect for training. Plus, you can relax and enjoy the concession stand and lounge chairs. Dive into fun and adventure at AquaPlex!
51. Splash Country Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark
Splash Country Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark is the ultimate destination for water lovers of all ages.
With a wave pool, racing raft rides, a thrilling dark raft ride, a basketball activity pool, and a treehouse with a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket, there’s something for everyone. Relax and float along the lazy river or visit during the summer months to enjoy the outdoor playground.
The waterpark is open to the public. If you stay at the Grand Country Resort, access to the waterpark is included. Don’t miss out on the live shows, go-karts, laser tag, mini golf, arcade, and dining options also available at the resort.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Branson with Kids
There are so many incredible things to do in Branson with kids. From family-friendly animal attractions to live shows, water parks, and the great outdoors, Branson is a fantastic destination for an exciting vacation with kids.
More Branson Information:
