Want to make this Christmas season the best Christmas season yet? Few cities celebrate Christmas like Branson. We think it almost feels as festive as the North Pole! There is so much to see and do in Branson this time of year so we’ve collected a few of our top recommendations of what to do in Branson at Christmas to help make your trip even more memorable!
- See a Christmas Show :: There are tons of great Christmas shows in Branson. Stay tuned- we will be sharing a few of our favorites soon!
- Visit Silver Dollar City :: Trust us, it won’t disappoint! The lights, the attractions, the atmosphere! A definite must!
- See the Lights :: Branson is covered in Christmas lights. We’ve shared some of the best light shows in Branson here.
- Walk the Branson Landing :: Watch the dazzling fire and water show at the town square, pick up some gifts and enjoy the general splendor of the area!
- Ride the Polar Express :: Of course we have our own scenic Polar Express in Branson!
- Check out the GIGANTIC Gingerbread Houses :: Chateau on the Lake is home to a village of gingerbread houses that are definitely worth seeing!
- Have a Christmas night in :: Stay in one of our homes, sip hot cocoa with marshmallows, listen to Christmas music, and make s’mores or Christmas cookies! Or cuddle up and watch a Christmas movie!
What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?

Sometimes, you just need a long, beautiful drive to clear your soul. The Ozark Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful scenic routes in the country- especially in the midst of the gorgeous fall weather we are having! These are the best Sunday driving routes in Branson!
Pro tip: Be sure to keep your eyes on the outside of the car- reading or playing on your phone as a passenger tends to make non-locals car-sick… plus you don’t want to miss the gorgeous views!
- Hwy 165: Take Hwy 65 North to 265. Take 265 to Hwy 165 to the Scenic Overlook. One of the best Branson views is at the Hwy 165 Overlook.
- Ozark Mountain Highroad: Otherwise known as Hwy 465, The Highroad is a beautiful way to observe the Ozark Mountains. Go North on Highway 65, then take 465 Southwest around to Branson West.
- Ozark Hollow Road: Starting at the top of the mountain, and winding all the way down to the lake, this route is close to home for our guests! Take Hwy 86 West to Hwy UU. Make a right onto Ozark Hollow Road, follow all the way to the bottom. Be sure to watch out for deer!
- Eureka Springs: Take the trek down to Eureka! Take Hwy 65 South to 412 West. Continue Northwest on Hwy 62 all the way to Eureka Springs!
Did you know Branson is home to “America’s Largest Veterans Celebration?” It’s called “Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week” and it’s a holiday you don’t want to miss! It starts November 3 and runs through November 11. You will love Veterans Day in Branson!
We are proud to be an American and love celebrating our Veterans. Wondering what to do for the upcoming holiday? We’ve got you covered! Here are our recommendations on what to do on Veterans Day in Branson:
- Annual Branson Veterans Day Parade :: The Veterans Day parade will take place in downtown Branson at 11:00 am. For parade information call Vietnam Veterans of American Chapter 913 at 417-294-0728
- College of the Ozarks :: Go see Flames of Freedom, a true story of a graduate from School of the Ozarks who became a navigator on a B-17 bomber in World War II. The story is incredible and admission is free {Dates: October 3, 5, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 24, 26, 31; November 7, 9*, 11, 12, 14, & 16. *November 9th showing will be a special 7 pm showing for Veterans, open to the public.}
- Veterans Sporting Clay Shoots :: This fundraiser gives you access to lunch, a drawing for door prizes, and 100 targets! {November 4, Starting at 8:30 AM, Ozark Shooters Complex, bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com}
- Opening Ceremony “Vets for Vets Celebration” :: The 6th annual “Vets for Vets Celebration Show” that kicks off Branson’s Veterans Homecoming week. {November 5, Doors open at 1 PM, Baldknobbers Theater, Free}
- Welcome Home Celebration Opening Day :: Visit Jim Stafford’s Theatre from 3-5 PM on November 5 to kick off Veterans Week!
- World War II Mini Reunion :: Jim Stafford’s Theatre on November 5 from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
- Branson’s IMAX ‘Military Film Festival’ :: Free for veterans, $5 of all others. Seating begins at 8 AM, film begins at 8:30 AM. Nov. 6 “The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel”, Nov. 7 “Heroes on Deck: WWII on Lake Michigan”, Nov. 8 “Lost and Found: The Legacy of the USS Lagarto”, Nov. 9 “The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel”, Nov. 10“Brothers in War”
- Vietnam Veterans Mini Reunion :: Clay Cooper Theatre November 6, 10 AM-12 PM
- Medics, Nurses, & Combat Vets Mini Reunion :: Westgate Resort Grand Pavilion November 6, 2 PM – 4 PM
- Sandbox Party Breakfast :: Free breakfast for all veterans that have served in the “Sandbox” at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner on November 7th from 8:30 AM to 10 AM
- POW/MIA Service Remembrance :: The POW/MIA Service of Remembrance will be at the Vietnam Memorial Wall at the Welk Resort at 8 AM on November 7.
- POW Network 21st Annual Military Gala & Banquet :: An elegant evening of dining and celebration in the Great Hall at Chateau on the Lake. November 8. Tickets & Reservations required. Contact the Chateau on the Lake for more details.
- Women Veterans Mini Reunion :: Best Western Branson Inn & Conference Center on November 8 at 4 PM. RSVP required bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com
- Annual Tribute to Women Veterans & Rose Petal Ceremony :: Pentagon Survivor guest speaker at the Clarion Hotel on November 9. Contact bvtf-mo@hotmail.com for more information.
- Morning Flag Raising & Wreath Laying Ceremony :: College of the Ozark will host a morning flag raising and wreath laying ceremony near the Williams Memorial Chapel at 7 AM on November 10.
- Veterans Day Pancake Breakfast :: American Legion Post 220 will host a pancake breakfast from 7 AM to 10 AM at the Legion facility at the Faith Lutheran Church on November 10.
- Marine Corps Ball :: The Marine Corps Ball & Semper Fi Raffle will be held at the Radisson Hotel Branson on November 10 at 6 PM.
- Veterans Day Observation :: Veterans and Military Coalition of the Ozarks will observe Veterans Day at 9 AM, November 12 at Big Cedar Lodge. Ceremonies include speakers, flag presentation, color guard, three-volley salute, wreath-laying, military static displays, and other activities
We are also offering a discount to all guests who make a new reservation and stay 3 or more nights the week of Veterans Day!

The Ozark Mountains are home to some of the most breathtaking sights in the world. Don’t believe me? Check out these spots on your next Branson visit for the best views of Branson! Trust us, you will be thankful you took the time to explore. They are stunning and create a beautiful photo opportunity for you and your family! For accommodations and other Branson activities, visit our website: rentbranson.com
- Top of the Rock: There are so many options when it comes to soaking in the Ozark views at Top of the Rock! Drive a golf cart, golf, hike, or have dinner on the patio! Top of the Rock has so many Ozark views and is rich in our history!
- 165 Scenic Overlook: Be sure to visit this overlook at sunset! There’s a place to pull over for photos and a terrific ice cream shop across the street! Best part: totally free!!
- Dogwood Canyon: 10,000 acres of pure beauty lies in Dogwood Canyon. So many activities to explore the Canyon too! Walking, biking, tram, horseback, Segway, or dinner all provide a breathtaking experience. Beautiful waterfalls, dams, mountains, caves, rivers, wildlife, and mills all harmoniously make Dogwood Canyon a must-see.
- Ozark Mountain Highroad: Otherwise known as Highway 465, The Highroad provides a glimmering snapshot of Ozark beauty. Beautiful year-round, it’s especially gorgeous in the fall. If you’re looking for a care-free Sunday drive, this is your road.
- Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area: Take your choice of varying hiking trails and observation platforms. Pack a picnic and be sure to take plenty of water!
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Not to mention the stunning views you get from the back deck of your very own cabin! Visit rentbranson.com to choose the best cabin for your getaway and our Branson Blog for the best activities and events.
Halloween is around the corner and we have the inside scoop on where you should go to make the most of the holiday! We’ve already shared local tips on the best pumpkin patches in the area, the scariest haunted houses in the area and our secret pumpkin chocolate chip cookie recipe with you all- and now we are sharing tips on where to go on Halloween in Branson!
- Branson Landing :: Merchants will be open this year so you and the kids can go trick or treat in one safe, convenient location. Also, you don’t want to miss the Monster Mash Street Dance that starts here at 6:30 PM!
- The McKenna Farm :: They have set up a big bale maze, corn maze, bounce pads, hay rides and pumpkins galore for you and the family! They are open 10 am – 6 PM week days and 10 am – 7 PM Friday and Saturday!
- Big Cedar Haunted Caves :: The caves on Big Cedar’s property were discovered on accident, but they’ve made the most of them. Big Cedar is located near some of our properties and is an easy drive for some quick family fun!
Want to dress up, but forgot to go buy an outfit on time? Here are a few easy ideas you can recreate with items you already have at home!
- Super Mario Brothers :: Grab a pair of overalls, a red or green shirt with a matching red or green hat {if you have the hat} and draw on a mustache with a black eyeliner pencil!
- Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany’s :: All you need is a little black dress, a strand of pearls, and a high bun {and small tiara if you have one}! Classic and simple!
- A Mime :: Throw on a striped shirt, paint your face white and add bright red lips! Throw on a beret too if you have one!
- A Pirate : Again, if you have a striped shirt all you need are black pants and a bandanna! Tie the bandaa over the top of your head and draw on an eye patch with black eyeliner! You could even draw on a mustache and little beard if you want!
- Risky Business :: Borrow a man’s oversized white shirt {wear some shorts or leggings underneath}, tall white socks and a pair of Rayban style sunglasses {or any sunglasses}!


We love Silver Dollar City, and they are adding a new addition in a few months! In Spring of 2018, Silver Dollar City will open its tallest, fastest, and spiniest rollercoaster yet called the Time Traveller! The roller coaster will cost $26 million and was designed specifically for the Ozark Mountains by MACK rides out of Waldkirk, Germany.
The rollercoaster includes a 10 story, 90 degree drop and reaches 50.3 mph. This roller coaster has been kept under wraps for 2 years now! The ride also includes a dive loop, a vertical loop, and a zero gravity roll, all while spinning! It’s going to be a roller coaster lover’s dream! Riders will move from 0-47 mph in just 3 seconds! The Time Traveler also crosses over itself 14 times! While most of the rides at SDC are set in the 1800’s, Time Traveler has a definite futuristic vibe. The ride lasts 1 minute 57 seconds and will challenge the dreamer in all of us!

Table Rock Lake is the beating heart of outdoor recreation in the Ozarks. Just southwest of Branson, MO, you can find the huge concourse of inlets and coves. These are all made possible by the Table Rock Dam. To see where it all starts at Table Rock Lake, you can visit the dam, visitor center, and fish hatchery. There is plenty to check out for the whole family.
Find out more about all the fun near Amazing Branson Vacation Rentals when you check out our Things To Do page. It’s full of the best recommendations for things to see and do like enjoying a day at Table Rock Dam.
Magnificent Table Rock Dam Has an Interesting History
Table Rock Lake reaches 79 miles upstream creating a massive complex for beautiful boating and fishing. The bastion that makes this possible is Table Rock Dam. The 6,423 feet long dam generates approximately 200,000 kilowatts of hydroelectric power and has operated since 1961. An auxiliary spillway was installed in 2005 to support the main spillway in the event of a worst-case scenario flood. The dam regulates the White River due to its tendency to flood. The multi-beneficial Table Rock Lake thus secures homes and property on the White River and creates one of the largest water recreation areas in the region.
The name of the dam comes from the original site of the dam, Table Rock Mountain. It was deemed unstable, but the name stuck. The lake covers 43,000 surface acres and has 745 miles of shore in Missouri and Arkansas. Without this dam, a place like Branson would never be possible, due to flooding of the White River.
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
As part of the dam’s draw, the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is a fun tour to see all the varieties of fish that exist in the lake. The hatchery exists to stock the lake with fish and ensures the numbers of each variety. It’s the largest trout-rearing facility run by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Just six miles to the southwest of Branson, the hatchery is a fun place to check out while at the dam. Open year-round, the facility is free-of-charge to visit. Additionally, you can take a walk on trails available near the hatchery.
Dewey Short Visitors Center is the Perfect Family Stop
You can’t visit Table Rock Dam without visiting the Table Rock Dam Visitors Center. Opened in 2012, the visitors center has been called the “crown jewel” of Table Rock Lake. There you can check out the intriguing exhibits that showcase Native American artifacts, dioramas of the Ozarks region, wall murals, and a model of the inner-workings of the dam. You’ll also learn more about the history of the Army Corps of Engineers that built the dam.
Table Rock Dam is Only a Few Minutes Away
The dam is just one of many fun things to do in the Branson area. Here at Amazing Branson Rentals, we can help your vacation or getaway reach its full potential. Our rental properties are just minutes away from all the best activities. Check out our available rental properties and contact us to book today!
There is so much more to Branson than just shows, attractions and food. Since we all know vacations can get expensive, we want to help you keep the costs down for your next trip to Branson. Here are a few fun, free things to do in Branson!
- Take the Trolley. Did you know Branson has a free Trolley? Three trolleys are on a constant loop for locals and tourists alike!
- Visit College of the Ozarks. The grounds are beautiful year round and they have free tours on the campus. If you have time, eat at the Keeter Center Restaurant- trust us, you will love it!
- Branson Landing. Go for a walk and explore the shops and scenery. Start by visiting Bass Pro and continue walking down the Landing. And you must stay and watch the water and sound show that takes place every hour!
- Table Rock Lake. Whether going for a swim or a peaceful afternoon spent by the water, you must visit this lake. Table Rock Lake is huge and there are a plethora of lake front areas for you to enjoy with the family. If you want, you can rent a boat or take a boat cruise as well.
- Table Rock Lake Dam. The architecture alone is spectacular.
- Shepard of the Hills Fish Hatchery. One of Branson’s most popular tourist sites, the fish hatchery is located below Table Rock Dam. The center has several beautiful aquariums showcasing Missouri’s native fish.
- Henning State Forest. 1,534 acre-park offers spectacular views, nature trails and nature studies.
- Historic Downtown. Walk around the historic downtown and explore some of the charm of old Branson!
- Moonshine Beach. The perfect place to spend the day by the water with your family.
- Lakeside Wilderness Area. Lakeside provides a great trail that leads to the shores of Lake Taneycomo. This area reveals the gem that is Branson’s beautiful outdoors.
- Stone Hill Winery & Lindwell Winery. Take the free tour of either {or both} the Stone Hill Winery or Lindwell Winery and learn how they make wine! You can even enjoy a wine tasting!
- Table Rock Lakeshore Trail. This beautiful trail is 2.2 miles long and runs from the Dewey Short Visitor Center to the Table Rock State Park Marina. It is perfect for long walks, runs or bike rides. You will be amazed by the various wildflowers, tree species and animals.
Then you can come home to your own private log cabin or cottage and enjoy a home cooked meal!

Fall is almost here, and with it comes Halloween! What better way is there to celebrate the season’s spookiness than with a haunted house tour? Branson is no stranger to providing excellent entertainment, and that includes horrifying Halloween fun. If think you’re ready to face your fears, head to these haunted houses in Branson, MO and prepare for the season’s best scare.
The Best Haunted Houses in Branson, MO
Castle of Chaos
Castle of Chaos is anything but your average haunted house – it’s a 5D thrilling trek that pits visitors against evil! Equal parts video game, horror movie, and haunted house, Castle of Chaos is a can’t-miss Branson attraction. Visitors are armed with arcade game style guns and 3D glasses, and battle their way through Castle of Chaos against enemies onscreen. Castle of Chaos in Branson is open year-round, offering the most intense, action-packed experience that you’ll find at haunted houses in Branson, MO! 5D Adventure – Castle of Chaos is part of the Hollywood Entertainment Center in Branson, which includes the Branson Hollywood Wax Museum. For tickets, hours, and more information, visit Castle of Chaos online.
Branson Haunted Hills
Branson Haunted Hills is a dark and twisted addition to Branson’s spooky entertainment. This October, enter Branson Haunted Hills and be prepared to venture onto the Corbin property, the fictional setting for a freak show family. Monsters, a run-down circus made of nightmares, and more are all part of the experience. For more information, visit Branson Haunted Hills online.
Haunted Places in Branson
We can neither confirm or deny this, but according to HauntedPlaces.org, both Music City Center and The Shepherd of The Hills theater have apparently been the scenes of strange sightings!
Less-Frightening Ways to Have Fun in Branson
Maybe haunted houses aren’t exactly how you like to spend your evenings, and there’s nothing wrong with that! Silver Dollar City, Branson’s premier theme park, hosts the National Harvest & Cowboy Festival every year. This year’s festival will take place from Sept. 14 to Oct. 29, and there’s a ton of family fun on the schedule! Events include the Wild West Show, live music country western music, the popular Barn Dance, and more. Visit Silver Dollar City online for more details.
You Won’t Have Anything to Fear When You Stay With Amazing Branson Rentals
Just a short drive from Downtown Branson is Amazing Branson Rentals, the best choice for lodging in Branson. Our vacation cabins offer guests a relaxing, unforgettable stay, surrounded by Ozark beauty. Spend a day on Table Rock Lake, buy tickets to see any of Branson’s world-class shows, or take the family to Silver Dollar City – no matter what you do, you’ll have excellent accommodations to come back to. Our cabins range from cozy two-bedroom options to lodges that can sleep well over a dozen! Hot tubs, WiFi, fully equipped kitchens, and beautiful rustic designs are just a few of things that make our Branson vacation cabins special. Contact Amazing Branson Rentals today, online or at (972) 849-6363, and plan to spend your next vacation in Branson.
Branson in September is absolutely magical. The temperatures are starting to cool down and fall festivals are just beginning. While all of the traditional Branson attractions are still open, there are a few new fun things you can add to your to-do list while in Branson in September. Here are a few ideas of what to do in Branson!
- Branson Landing Farmers Market
September kicks off the month with an attraction that is sure to bring out locals and tourists alike. The Farmers Market of the Ozarks {based in Springfield} decided to test the Branson market. The market will be open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays in September and October on the far south side end of the Branson Landing parking lot. These two months will be used to test the market and find out if the market will stay in Branson. - 9/11 Branson Remembers
September 11, 2016 – Time TBD
A beautiful ceremony will be held at the Branson Landing in front of the fountains on Sept. 11. The Branson Veteran’s Task Force will conduct the ceremony in observance of the tragedy which changed the world on Sept. 11, 2001. Please join us as we pay tribute to the healing, remembrance and reflection of this fateful day. The ceremony will celebrate and honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the actions taken by the brave first responders and US Military. This event is free and everyone is invited to attend. - National Harvest and Cowboy Festival
Silver Dollar City begins its annual National Harvest and Cowboy Festival on September 14th through October 29th. This festival is known as “the Country’s Premier Craft Festival and one of the best fall festivals around!” This exciting fall festival features a Wild West Show, over 125 visiting craftsmen from around the country, the Barn Dance, Buck Taylor’s Cowboy Emporium and more! The festival is held at the world renowned Silver Dollar City Theme Park. The park is offers an 1880s-themed experience that is perfect for the whole family. - Autumn Daze Festival
The 43rd Annual Autumn Daze festival will feature homemade crafts, food, live entertainment and much more. Artisans and crafters will display their work during this family friendly festival in Historic Downtown Branson. The event runs Thursday-Saturday, September 15th-17th, 2016. The hours are Thursday & Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festival is free to the public complete with free live music from some of Branson’s finest entertainers!Crafters and artists from many states around the country travel from far and wide to attend this event. Shoppers will find a wide assortment of items including wood crafts, quilts, clothing, crocheted and knitted items, jewelry, toys, floral arrangements, ironworks, collectibles, and so much more. There will also be live demonstrations throughout the day. Attendees will also find a food court, a celebrity autograph booth, live entertainment, and a Downtown Branson sidewalk sale.
Get more ideas of what to do in Branson here!