first visit to Branson w/ large group, what to do? (Hollister: rentals, house)

[tomoveornot]

Hello,
We are meeting my husband's family in Branson for a week starting July 24. We are renting a house in Hollister. I don't know anything about Branson except that there are a lot of shows. There will be 20 of us including 9 kids ages 3 to 13. I don't like touristy stuff and would rather do nature-like activities, but if there is one show we should see, what is it? What are some fun outdoor activities that the kids will like? I get overwhelmed with too many choices and would just like to hit a couple must see or do things, but I can't figure out what they are from the Branson websites. Thanks for any input!

[luzianne]

I would recommend The Promise. Silver Dollar City - not just rides, they have people around the park like glass blowers, etc. that you can watch). White Water (is it still there?). Table Rock Lake and rent a pontoon?

[Lake Junkie]

Originally Posted by tomoveornot

Hello,
We are meeting my husband's family in Branson for a week starting July 24. We are renting a house in Hollister. I don't know anything about Branson except that there are a lot of shows. There will be 20 of us including 9 kids ages 3 to 13. I don't like touristy stuff and would rather do nature-like activities, but if there is one show we should see, what is it? What are some fun outdoor activities that the kids will like? I get overwhelmed with too many choices and would just like to hit a couple must see or do things, but I can't figure out what they are from the Branson websites. Thanks for any input!

Yes, Silver Dollar City should please all age groups, I'd suggest going early in the week or if bad weather is predicted...sometimes during the summer weekends the crowds can be suffocating! It's a theme park, if you've never been there...Silver Dollar City - Branson Missouri.

Also you should see Dixie Stampede, again, fun for everyone. Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner and Shows - You've Never Had Dinner Like This!

Table Rock Lake is a must. Rent a boat (or two...sounds like you will need it!) and don't forget a map...it's a BIG lake and easy to get lost. You can tube, sightsee, and just find a quiet cove to float & eat lunch. Take some noodles. State Park Marina - Boat Rentals on Table Rock Lake - Branson, Missouri

And since you love nature, you might consider Dogwood Canyon...
Home - Dog Wood Canyon

If there are people who like shopping, there are 3 outlet malls AND the Branson Landing!

And some of you might like the Veterans Museum...
Veterans Memorial Museum of Branson

I guess those are my top picks.


Have Fun!

[tomoveornot]

Great! Thanks for the tips. For shows or Silver Dollar, do you recommend buying the tickets online or in person? Are there discounts anywhere? Thanks.

[Mollym313]

Originally Posted by tomoveornot

Great! Thanks for the tips. For shows or Silver Dollar, do you recommend buying the tickets online or in person? Are there discounts anywhere? Thanks.

I would recommend online because the ticket lines can get long. I am not sure if anyone knows of any discounts. This place is very touristy but I think that SDC is a must see at least once. The fish hatchery is down by Table Rock Dam, it is free and interesting and gives you a great view of the massiveness of the Dam wall. I think everyone should do a "Ride the Ducks" tour. The one on the strip takes you down over the Dam and into the lake, it is cool. Everyone would love that experience.

[firebll31]

Group rates are available for SDC with 15 or more paid admissions. But you have to purchase your tickets at least 24 hours in advance. Also, you can get discounts if you buy a multi-attraction ticket, for SDC, Branson Belle or White Water. Here is the SDC site:
Groups and Reunions: Group Travel & Special Events: Silver Dollar City

There is a cave inside SDC which is included in the ticket price. I wouldn't recommend for the very small children but it is a great way to get out of the heat for a while!

[StormiEssence]

Everyone has given great advice! I like the Titanic Museum, Ride the Ducks, and Branson Landing (shopping and its beautiful) !!!! Of course, my fave is SILVER DOLLAR CITY (My ' Disney World ' growing up *LOL*) !!! White Water is still there. So much to do in Branson area for families (especially) and couples....even tho, I have heard from a few couples that there is not enough ' couple ' activities in Branson.