Just back from Branson and a few updates from those noted above:
HIKES
Suggest downloading AllTrails app as it will give you location on the trail - great for anywhere you live or travel - free or can pay subscription for more services
Also, take a photo of the trail map when you start as AllTrails app may not be color selected for trail designation
- Waterfall Trail - beautiful out and back to the waterfall - had to cross the water at a few spots for a bit of adventure
- Lakeside Forest Wilderness Trail - well marked trails, one section does have over 300 steps (we climbed up, just based on the way we started and ended)
- Paul & Mary Henning Conservation Area - our favorite hike - did the whole trail system which was just over 5 miles with about 800 feet of elevation change
- Table Rock State Park - hiked this on 2 different days. We did the Red and Blue loops with White Connector #2 - fun with many sights along the way (creeks, water crossing, etc.) - very well marked aside from one sign post (used All Trails app to help sort it out).
- Second day, we hiked/walked the paved Lake trail that starts at the visitor center and ends at the marina. Very easy and well traveled with runners and walkers
GOLF
We played Thousand Hills Golf - it is a par 66, but plays harder based on the elevation changes, bunkers and water features. We saved $10 per person by showing our Marriott key. The day we played also cart path only which made for many more steps. I would play it again as it is close and in town.
Buffalo Ridge (part of Big Cedar Lodge) requires tee times 30 days in advance and costs close to $200 for 18 holes - did not play but looks beautiful
SHOWS
We purchased tickets at the Purple House (across from the Veterans Memorial Garden) at a 2-for-1 deal with no hook on timeshare sales or exit. We went to The Haygoods - fun entertainment. After purchase of voucher we need to go the theater and exchange for seats. I think since we did not pay full price we were pushed to the outside seats, but still could see everything just fine. Would have considered a magic show for next option, but we did other things at night.
RESTAURANTS
- Heroes Restaurant - just opening in April - took the place of Mountain Mike? We enjoyed our food and would go back, was typical sports bar food. Enjoyed the cauliflower dip and Rueben sandwich
- Gettin' Basted - BBQ joint. Very good also - cheap drinks ($5). Had the buffalo wings and then a burger with pulled pork - would have gone straight pulled pork in hindsight.
- 7 Arrows Taproom & Downing Street Pub - over in Hollister. Taproom had good selection of beers, looks like pizza "food truck" on weekends. We were there during the week so ordered another Rueben from Downing Street Pub and took it carry-out to enjoy some more beers back at 7 Arrows. Went with the Rueben as it was suggested by a few people at the Taproom
- Rocco's Pizza - good option for pizza, would have liked a bit more sauce but still tasty. The restaurant is about 15-20 minutes NE of Branson, looks like a double wide trailer converted to restaurant. Very friendly staff.
- Hurtz Donuts - over the top donut place - very good selection and fresh
Top of the Rock - over the top destination to see at sunset. Costs $10 to enter and then there is valet ($15) or free parking with shuttle. This is the development of Johnny Morris (Bass Pro Shops). For dinner one does want reservations and a big wallet! We sat at the Buffalo Bar and ordered a couple of beers ($7.50 each) and Buffalo Chicken Dip ($16). The grounds are beautiful and one can either take an afternoon guided walking tour or rent golf carts - each option is about $30 per person. We did not do either, but rather saw the sunset over the lake with a bagpiper and cannon volley. For golfers...you can play the 9 hole (par 3) course for only $150 per player!!!
Branson Landing - hourly water show at the waters edge. The landing is also a retail/restaurant/activity development. Many food options and some fun activities. Just up from the landing is the original downtown - we did not go to the 5 & 10 store (been there 60 years).
Wilson's Creek Civil War Battlefield - near Springfield. Great loop with 7 or 8 stops were you can walk around and get "closer to the action". Went in May during COVID so the visitor center was closed, but maps available to self-navigate. Did not realize the second battle of the Civil War occurred in Missouri! Probably about 1 hour from Branson, but well worth it for those that love history.
Hope this helps others who are looking to go to Branson on activities - I would definitely go back for the nature and adventure. We were lucky in timing of early May - town was just starting to come alive for the season. Can only guess how crazy it is from Memorial to Labor Day!!
