Starting to plan your family’s spring break and feeling a bit overwhelmed? After years of planning our own family spring breaks and now years of helping YOU all plan the perfect vacation, we have come up with a few tips on how to plan the perfect spring break for your family!
Since planning a big vacation can be overwhelming, we’ve broken down our tips into a few different parts. So where do you start? Let’s start with the basics!
- Confirm your family’s dates. Work and school schedules may very- especially if you have kids at different schools. Make sure you have specific dates set that work for everyone!
- Decide on your budget. Once the budget is set, decide where you want to spend most of the money. Is it more important for you to have a cozy home for your family to spend time in or would you prefer a small space so you can spend more money on activities?
- Decide your priorities. What is important to your family? Do you need to have a full kitchen because you all want to cook at home? Do you want to be in the hustle-and-bustle or do you want a quiet retreat?
- Location. Now that you’ve got a start, what kind of getaway do you want? Beach, log cabin, ski, etc.
- Make sure your family agrees. Once you’ve set the basics, sit down with your family and make sure everyone agrees on the basics.
Congratulations! You’ve gotten through the least fun part of planning a trip! Stay tuned, we will be sharing the next steps to planning the perfect spring break for your family over the next couple of weeks. You won’t want to miss these tips! We are here for you and want to help you “Make memories and start traditions!”
Looking for an adrenaline rush? How about climbing the new ropes course at Big Cedar Lodge? 40 feet below the course you will find live alligators and pythons! Don’t worry, it is completely safe! The course will have more than 60 different elements- from rolling logs to swaying ladders! This four-story Big Cedar Lodge Sky Trail is definitely something you want to experience!
The ropes course will be located on the back for the Fun Mountain and is expected to open this summer. Have kids who are too small for the adult size rope course? No problem! Big Cedar already has a Sky Tykes for kids 2-7 years old!
Intrigued? We certainly are! Grab your family or friends and book a home with us so you can be one of the first to experience the new ropes course! But hurry, we are booking up quickly!
Branson is full of fun things to do- from the lake and rivers to the shows and museums. And of course, you can’t miss Silver Dollar City! We love summer at Silver Dollar City! They have a plethora of fun events set up for you to enjoy- from both daytime activities to evening activities! And they have a special “Star Spangled Summer” from June 9- July 22 that you won’t want to miss! It’s going to be an All-American Summer full of fun and excitement! Be prepared to enjoy over 40 thrilling rides & attractions, meet your favorite cartoon characters in person and more!
Need a place to call home while visiting Silver Dollar City? We have you covered! Check out our many homes!
Fireworks and the 4th of July go together like baseball and ballpark food – you can’t have one without the other. But you can’t just settle for any old fireworks display, and a Branson 4th of July doesn’t disappoint in the pyrotechnics category. We’ve put together a list of the best places in town to catch Branson 4th of July fireworks, so grab your blankets and lawn chairs, and enjoy everyone’s favorite way to celebrate America!
find our 2024 4th of July suggestions here!
5 of the Best Spots for Branson 4th of July Firework Displays 2023
Fireburst Fireworks over Table Rock Lake – July 2
Fireworks will begin as it gets dark, expected around 9 pm.
These fireworks will be set off near the Kimberling City Bridge by the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce.
Chateau on the Lake Independence Day Celebration – July 2
Fireworks will begin as it gets dark, expected around 9 pm.
The spirit of ‘76 is alive and well on Independence Day at Chateau on the Lake! Located on Table Rock Lake, the Chateau on the Lake resort will feature live music, BBQ and more, followed by an incredible fireworks display over the water.
Branson Landing’s Liberty Light up & Concert – July 3
Music starts at 6:30 and the fireworks will begin after.
Branson Landing is an exciting shopping and dining district located on the banks of Lake Taneycomo. The event calendar at Branson Landing is packed, regularly featuring festivals, concerts, and races! To help celebrate the birth of America, this year’s celebration will feature a light up show, fireworks and a concert by Resurrection, a Journey cover band!
Independence Day Fireworks at Big Cedar Lodge – July 4
Fireworks will begin as it gets dark, expected around 9 pm.
Home to hiking trails, caves, a nature park, and the some of the best golfing that you’ll find the area, Big Cedar Lodge is also the stage for an unforgettable 4th of July show! Don’t miss the stunning views of Table Rock Lake while celebrating Independence Day. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, relax on the Swimmin’ Hole Lawn, and watch one of the best firework displays in Branson!
Annual Hollister 4th of July Celebration – July 4
Fireworks will begin as it gets dark, expected around 9 pm.
Enjoy the walkable downtown of historic Hollister before the fireworks begin!
BONUS
Annual Honor America Celebration – June 25
College of the Ozarks will host its 34th annual Honor America Celebration on the College campus Sunday, June 25. The public is invited to attend this free event and may bring blankets and lawn chairs for a picnic on the grounds. The fireworks display will take place at sunset. Festivities begin at 6 PM. Food will be available for purchase. Children’s activities will include face painting, bounce houses, basketball, and a craft area where guests can make thank-you cards for Veterans.
Stay with Amazing Branson Rentals
Conveniently located only minutes from Branson theaters and attractions, Amazing Branson Rentals’ vacation cabins are the best combination of rustic, cozy appeal and modern comforts. Whether you’re looking for a quiet romantic getaway or a rental that can house you and all of your friends for a Branson 4th of July celebration, we have something that will match what you’re looking for. Our rental cabins feature great amenities like private decks that are perfect for a cookout, whirlpool tubs, kitchens with all the appliances you’ll need, beautiful vaulted ceilings and much more! Contact us today online or at (972) 849-6363, and start planning your Branson vacation.
click here to find available rentals for the holiday weekend
***UPDATE as of 2020*** The AURODIUM has since been removed and has been updated with four outdoor ziplines! You’re going to LOVE the ziplines, they are fun for the whole family!
Have you ever dreamed of skydiving, but are terrified of heights? Well Fritz’s Adventure has the perfect solution for you! You can now go skydiving in Branson without an airplane! This summer you can experience sky diving at the Fritz’s Adventure outdoor AERODIUM. This is an outdoor flying experience that doesn’t require an airplane or any of the fear. It is perfect for beginners or experienced skydivers.
The AERODIUM is the “safest, most innovative wind tunnel flying experience in the world” and is an experience you don’t want to miss! If you are a local, you definitely need to buy a ticket ASAP. If you don’t live nearby, book a cabin and buy your skydiving ticket soon!
Branson, Missouri is a unique place! Branson’s status as the “Live Entertainment Capital Of The World” means you’re sure to find a fantastic experience. Even more, Branson’s rich history means there is a little something here for everyone, from amazing restaurants and beautiful scenery, to fun attractions and fantastic shows. To satisfy all of you trivia lovers, we went and found some great fun facts about Branson, MO.
Did you know…
- Branson was named after postmaster Reuben Branson; before that, the town was called Lucia.
- Eight million people travel to Branson every year (but don’t worry – there’s room for you, too)!
- 65% of Branson visitors come from outside a 300-mile radius.
- Branson was named 3rd “Best Destination for Groups” by Bank Travel Magazine.
- Branson was featured on Travel Channel’s “Most Christmassy Places in America”. Plan a visit in December and you’ll see why!
- Branson placed no. 3 on the Top 10 Destinations list.
- Branson was named #1 Motor Coach Destination for 4 years straight!
- Branson is known as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World” thanks to its stunning variety of live shows and events.
- Branson is located within a day’s drive of one-third of America’s population.
- Branson has over fifty theaters and 60,000 theater seats. We weren’t kidding about the live entertainment!
- Branson has over 400 delicious restaurants, with over 35,000 seats.
- On an average day, there are 100,000 visitors in Branson a day, but its population is only over 10,000.
For more fun facts about Branson visit: http://www.branson.com/learn/general-branson-info/branson-facts/ and then start planning your amazing Branson vacation!
Explore Our Vacation Rentals!
When you’re in Branson and you need a dose of Vitamin D with a side of H2O, there’s no better cure than a trip to Table Rock Lake! This massive lake is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Water sports and sunshine are in no shortage here, and the best way to experience the lake is at the State Park Marina! Scuba diving, para-sailing, waverunners, and more – you can find it all at the State Park Marina in Branson MO. Keep reading, and learn more about the fun that awaits you!
Things to Do at The State Park Marina in Branson MO
Boat Rentals
Whether you’re taking advantage of Table Rock Lake’s great fishing, or just want to take an afternoon cruise, there’s no better way to enjoy the lake than on a boat. Don’t own a boat? Don’t worry, because boat rentals are available in an array of shapes and sizes! Rent a small Lund Rebel bass boat for your fishing excursion, or take a ski boat or pontoon out on the lake. Rates and boat information can be found here.
Scuba Diving Lessons
When swimming doesn’t cut it, and you need to explore the submerged beauty of Table Rock Lake, then it’s time to go scuba diving! Seasoned dive instructor Dick Dalager will guide you on an underwater adventure that you won’t forget, whether it’s your first time or your 50th time. Scuba certification, training and equipment rentals are all available.
WaveRunners
Strap on a life vest and shred the waves of Table Rock Lake on a Yamaha WaveRunner! Rental options vary from one hour to all-day, allowing you to get the most out this speedy water sport. Click here for more information.
Para-Sailing
There’s nothing quite like a para-sail ride: the wind blowing through your hair as you take in incredible views of the lake and the surrounding Ozarks, guided by Captain Sam Sandt in the boat below. Para-sail rides are offered daily by American Para-Sail, a professional company dedicated to both safety and fun. Click here for rates and reservations!
Ride the Spirit of America
Out of all the exciting things to do at the State Park Marina in Branson MO, nothing says “party” quite like a ride on the Spirit of America. Rides are offered in both 90 minute and 2 hour options, with seating for up to 49 people! Soak up some sun, jump off the 48 foot catamaran for a swim. Learn more about the boat, crew and rides here.
Additional Information
The State Park Marina in Branson MO is full of exciting things to do for the whole family. You can find out more about the marina by visiting www.stateparkmarina.com, or calling (888) 993-BOAT. The marina is located at 380 State Park Marina Rd, Branson, MO 65616.
Amazing Branson Rental Cabins
You could stay anywhere when you visit Branson, but you would be missing out on the best lodging experience around if you didn’t book an Amazing Branson rental cabin. Our vacation cabins are the perfect blend of modern amenities and rustic appeal, located only minutes from downtown Branson, and Table Rock Lake. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway for two, or accommodations for you and the whole family, we have a cabin that will fit your criteria. Whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, flat-screen TVs and many other features can be found in our cabins! Contact us today, and see for yourself what makes Branson amazing.
In the midst of so many Branson attractions such as Silver Dollar City, championship golf, unique museums, and more live shows than you can count, it’s easy to overlook the natural wonders of one of Missouri’s most beautiful cities. Among these wonders is Talking Rocks Cavern, an underground wonderland that has been named Missouri’s most beautiful cave and has something for everyone in the whole family.
History of Talking Rocks Cavern
This hidden gem of the Ozarks was first named “Fairy Cavern” by Truman Powell, the first man to explore the cave. His reasoning for the name was that it looked like a “subterranean fairy land.” Years later, Waldo Powell, son of Truman Powell, claimed the rocks in the cave seemed to tell stories as to how they were formed. When Silver Dollar City purchased the cave in 1969, it was renamed Talking Rocks Cavern.
Things To Do
There is so much to do in the caves besides admiring Mother Nature’s handiwork. The experience begins with an hour long tour of the cavern through a process they like to call “edutainment.” The cave guides are sure to keep you entertained throughout the tour as well as teach their visitors all about the history of the cave, its geological information, and the mineral deposits.
Talking Rocks Cavern is the perfect place to visit all year round. No matter how hot or cold the air may be, in rain or shine, the caverns are always a comfortable 63 degrees and are unaffected by the weather outside!
On the surface of Talking Rocks Cavern, there are still many more activities to partake in that teach you even more about the environment in a fun and enjoyable way. A 9-hole mini golf course provides a challenging experience while also leaving fact signs about the water cycle at each hole.
Gem mining (aka sluicing) is a popular activity at Talking Rock Caverns. After purchasing a bag of “mining rough” in the gift shop, guests are able to sift through the bag’s contents using the sluicing troughs to see what treasures are in store. You will also be given a gem identification card so you know exactly what gemstones you receive when you find them.
For the nature lovers out there, Talking Rocks Cavern provides four different nature trails you can choose from. There is a trail for any hiker of any experience level, and they provide an easy way to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the Ozarks. Each trail leads to a different destination whether it be a lookout tower, The Springhouse, or even beautiful waterfalls.
Talking Rocks Cavern Mascot
Yes! You read that right! The caverns actually have their own mascot, a tiny cave dweller known as the cave salamander. This red skinned creature is known as a troglophile, or cave lover, and can live it’s entire life within the caverns without any sunlight. It’s a good thing these brave creatures aren’t scared of the dark!
Talking Rocks Cavern Prices
The enjoyment of the caves plus all its other attractions come at a very reasonable cost! The cave tour starts at $12 for kids.
Talking Rocks Cavern is located at423 Fairy Cave Ln. Branson West, MO 65737. The cavern is open year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Visit their website for more information, or call the staff at (417) 272-3366.
Come Relax at the Best Vacation Cabins in Branson, MO
Amazing Branson Rentals offers the best vacation rentals for your trip to this beautiful and bustling city. Located only minutes from the attractions and activities in the area, including Talking Rocks Cavern, you’ll be sure to find the perfect place to make memories that will last a lifetime! Take a look at our cabins and find your perfect Branson getaway – we have rentals that can house everyone from couples to large families! Contact us today online or at (972) 849-6363, and start planning your vacation.
When you need a family outing that combines fun, education and favorable reviews, then the Branson fish hatchery – yes, Branson fish hatchery – should make its way to the top of your to-do list. Located by the Table Rock Dam and operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is a Branson attraction that will appeal to visitors of any age. Over a million trout (Rainbow and Brown) are grown in the hatchery each year and you can learn about the fish hatching process, trout life-cycle and more when you visit!
The Branson Fish Hatchery: What to Do and See
You don’t have to be fishermen or biologist to enjoy the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery! As long as you’re willing to dive into a world of underwater knowledge, then you’re ready.
Highly targeted by fishermen across the nation, trout makes for not only a popular catch, but a delicious meal, too. According to the Official Tourism Website of Branson, the construction of the Table Rock Dam in the late 1950’s changed Lake Taneycomo’s water temperature from warm to cold, providing the perfect temperature for trout to thrive in. The hatchery produces anywhere from 350,000 to 400,000 pounds of trout annually, and 80% of the fish raised in the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery are released into the lake, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation.
The Branson fish hatchery is a highly popular local attraction, and for a good reason! Free tours are offered everyday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., allowing visitors to learn how the fish hatchery operates, see rainbow and brown trout swim through raceways, and more. Of course, you can walk the hatchery by yourself, and you can purchase a cup of fish food for a quarter and feed the trout yourself! The Visitors Center also features an auditorium, where you can watch an exciting presentation on the fish.
There’s plenty to do in the area surrounding the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, including several hiking trails, as well trout fishing in Lake Taneycomo. Trout fishing in a lake stocked by a nearby hatchery? It doesn’t get any better than that. Whether you’re an expert an all things aquatic, or simply want to expand your knowledge in a fun, interactive way, then a trip to Branson fish hatchery is right for you! The fish hatchery is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., year round.
Stay In an Amazing Branson Vacation Rental and Experience the Best In Branson Lodging
When you visit Branson, you need a place to stay that’s equally as fun as the attractions in town. Enter Amazing Branson Rentals, the top choice for vacation cabins in Branson. Our cabins are spacious, rustic, beautifully designed, and feature all the amenities necessary to make your stay with us unforgettable. Hot tubs, large decks and grills perfect for cookouts, flat-screen TV’s and more – you’ll find it all in our vacation cabins. We’re conveniently located only minutes away from all the exciting things to do in Branson, too! Contact us today, online or at (972) 849-6363, and start planning your Branson vacation.
The Ozark Mountains are overflowing with natural wonders and exquisite pieces of Mother Nature’s handiwork. One of these masterpieces is the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, a scenic cave and nature trail. Tucked away in the mountains, the trail boasts fascinating rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking views. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you will definitely want to add to your vacation to-do list!
Attractions at Lost Canyon Cave in Branson
Located high in the Ozarks overlooking Table Rock Lake, Top of the Rock is a stunning location for unique activities and attractions that you won’t want to miss. The most popular activity here is the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, a thrilling adventure that whisks you by electric cart on a two-and-a-half mile nature trail journey. As you trek along, you will pass over covered Amish bridges, see gorgeous views of the Ozark mountains, explore hidden caves, and marvel at the waterfalls. Along the way, make sure you stop and grab a signature John L’s Lemonade at the Bat Bar tucked away in the caves.
The new Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail is a huge hit with Top of the Rock visitors. This guided adventure takes you through the Ozark wilderness as you experience magnificent views of Table Rock Lake, incredible rock formations, and more! You must be sixteen years or older to participate, and make sure you wear appropriate footwear.
Along with the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, you’ll want to check out these other great attractions:
Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum
The Ozarks have been inhabited by fascinating animals and people for thousands of years, and you will travel through history and experience the development of the Ozarks into what they are today. The museum features artifacts, images, and interactive exhibits of old Ozark residents such as the carbon-dated skeletal remains of woolly mammoths, saber-tooth cats, and prehistoric cave bears.
“End of the Trail” All-American Wine Cellar
Wine lovers unite! Below the Buffalo Bar, you will find an elegant and uniquely-themed cellar that serves tastings of fine wines, whiskeys, and cognacs, and more. There is also a room for private parties, complete with glass doors and an infinity pool.
In 2015, excessive rain caused the ground beneath a golf course at Big Cedar Lodge to collapse, creating a massive sinkhole 70 feet across and 40 feet deep. Geologists are currently exploring the sinkhole and what lies beneath – it’s an attraction you don’t want to miss!
Whether you’re coming by for Sunday brunch or a mid-week dinner, serves up delicious Ozark cuisine and sweeping views of the mountains. The restaurant’s interior is beautifully designed and rustic, like the surrounding area.
Named in honor of Arnold Palmer, Arnie’s Barn was once a regular barn house that stood just outside Palmer’s backyard. Years later, it has been completely renovated to provide you the best Mexican cuisine in the Ozark mountains.
For a more casual dining experience, visit the Buffalo Bar for a delicious cocktail, wood-fire oven pizza, or meat and cheese board.
For more information about the Top of Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, as well as all the other great attractions here, visit Top of the Rock’s website.
Experience Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, Along With Many More of Branson’s Attractions When You Stay With Us!
Amazing Branson Rentals offer the best vacation cabin rentals in the Ozarks! Offering the best amenities and a convenient location, you can be sure that a stay with us is the best choice for Branson vacation lodging. Whether you’re here for a long weekend on Table Rock Lake or a romantic getaway, we have a cabin that will match what you’re looking for. Contact us today, online or at (972) 849-6363, and start planning your Branson vacation.