Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Branson, Missouri. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Branson, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your Branson trip.
Don’t Drive the Main Strip Unless You Have To
Traffic in Branson can get pretty bad, especially along the main strip through town. It’s worse in the summer, but it can be bad anytime. There’s a lot to look at, so you have a lot of slow drivers who are gawking at all the Branson resorts and attractions. It is where most of the attractions in Branson are located, so you probably won’t avoid it entirely; just leave yourself some extra time and patience.
Don’t Expect an Easy Drive
Branson is located in the Ozarks, and you will most likely arrive by car. The roads can be winding and narrow, so be prepared for mountainous driving at times when you drive to Branson. Branson is at least 45 minutes from the nearest interstate, so you’ll be driving on state highways most of the time.
Don’t Expect Las Vegas
Branson is often called “the Vegas of the Midwest.” It’s a bit misleading. Branson has a lot of shows and live performances. That’s the extent of the similarities between Vegas and Branson. It’s not a party city and is much more of a family destination than Las Vegas.
What to Expect in Las Vegas in 2021
Don’t Think All Shows are the Same
The quality of shows in Branson varies greatly. There are some really good shows in Branson and some that aren’t so good. Make sure you do your research and read reviews. If something is priced too good to be true, it’s probably not a great show. Remember, you can leave at intermission if you’re not enjoying the show!
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Don’t Think Silver Dollar City is Just Roller Coasters
Silver Dollar City is one of the top attractions in Branson. It’s a 1880’s-themed amusement park in Branson. It’s more than just an amusement park with roller coasters, though. We really enjoyed the Marvel Cave, which is a cool lesson in geology.
Don’t Expect Authentic Anything
Branson is a town totally geared toward tourists. You’re not going to find much in the way of authentic things to do. Hotels, restaurants, museums, and attractions in Branson are all very tourist-oriented. If you like to blend in and explore local culture, Branson is not really the place for that. Don’t shun it, just embrace it and you’ll have a great time!
Don’t Worry About Finding Accommodation
Because Branson is so geared towards tourists, there is a huge selection of accommodation for all types of travelers. There are tons of affordable motel-type places. There are global hotels, like Marriott and Best Western. There are huge Branson resorts with waterparks on site. The same goes for restaurants; there are plenty of restaurants to choose from when you visit Branson. Don’t think you have to stay in Branson. We actually chose to stay in a quieter town in Arkansas and visit Branson on a day trip.
Don’t Miss Out on Nature Around Branson
There is a lot to do outside of Branson as well. If you like to spend time outdoors, the Ozarks are a great area. Table Rock Lake is a great place to get out on the water and you can rent a lake house. Eureka Springs Arkansas is about an hour from Branson. Bull Shoals Lake is another spot to visit, and the Buffalo National River is about 90 minutes away also.
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Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from planning a trip to Branson. If you can embrace the over-the-top attractions and the cheesiness of it all, you really will enjoy a Branson vacation. Whether you spend an entire week exploring the Branson shows and museums, or just visit the surrounding area and make a day trip to Branson, it’s definitely worth a visit. Branson is a great family travel destination.
Want more travel tips for the Midwest US? Check out some of our other blog posts: