Taking a road trip to Branson from Wichita feels like a rite of passage for local families. From the Ozark Mountains, to Table Rock Lake, to Silver Dollar City – there is so much to see and do in the Branson area, and it is only about a 4.5 hour drive from Wichita!
WHERE TO STAY, PLAY, & EXPLORE IN BRANSON, MO
WHERE TO STAY | THE OZARKER LODGE
We were hosted by The Ozarker Lodge for a quick spring break weekend getaway, and we highly recommend the property as the ideal basecamp to experience Branson!
Modern & Cozy: The Ozarker Lodge alone was one of the highlights of our trip as it provided a modern, trendy, and cozy atmosphere with fun family programming and activities. We loved the classic board games in the lobby (a perfect way to wait out the Missouri thunderstorms that rolled in), heated pool, creek-side hot tubs and natural play area for kids, and an old fashioned fire pit complete with a charcuterie board with s’mores. The Lodge also hosts family movie nights in the lobby – think lots of cozy, classic family fun.
Amenities: Our family stayed in a lower level bunk bed room, which can easily accommodate a family of 6. We also enjoyed the full service Storeroom coffee and wine bar, and while we were there, the local Turkey Key Brewery hosted a free beer tasting.
Discount Code: And we are so excited to be offering an affiliate code – simply use WICHITAMOMS for 5% off (this is combinable with other offers or seasonal specials as well).
BOOK YOUR STAY HERE
(use code: WICHITAMOMS for 5% off your stay)
WHERE TO PLAY & EXPLORE | BRANSON, MO
GREAT OUTDOORS
Talking Rocks Caverns: learn about the geology of this unique natural wonder, the Talking Rocks Caverns cave formations. Open year-round.
Howler Bike Park:take a shuttle to the top of the mountain and spend the afternoon biking down the trails of the Ozark Mountains.
Nearby Hikes:
- Lakeside Forest Trails (5.3 mile trail)
- White River Valley Trail (11.75 mile trail)
- Lakeshore Trail (2.2 mile trail)
- Homesteader’s Trail (3.4 mile trail)
LAKESIDE
Table Rock State Park: Table Rock State Park is Branson’s natural getaway with plenty of recreation and natural beauty. Take a hike, rent a bicycle, go for a picnic, or enjoy the beaches of the stunning Table Rock Lake.
State Park Marina: If water recreation is what your family is looking for, State Park Marina rents everything from ski boats to paddleboards and offers all the supplies you will need for a day on the water, whether it is a relaxing day of fishing or a day of skiing and tubing on the water.
Moonshine Beach: Moonshine Beach Recreation Area is a very popular sandy swimming beach along the shores of Table Rock Lake.
ATTRACTIONS
Silver Dollar City: Branson’s theme park transports you back in time to the 1880s and has varying “thrill levels” of award-winning roller coasters, live shows, craftsmen, and rides for people of all ages.
Butterfly Palace: a self-guided experience to explore over 1,000 live exotic butterflies imported from their native countries. Immerse yourself in the forest floor of the rainforest and walk through the Mirror Maze and Critter Center.
Dolly Parton Stampede: enjoy a four course meal while watching a show featuring 32 beautiful horses, talented trick riders, musical productions and more.
Runaway Mountain Coaster: first-of-its-kind thrill ride located in the Ozarks Mountains. This Branson Alpine Coaster uses the natural topography of the area to have an exciting, user-controlled thrill ride.
Sight & Sound Theatre | Bible Stories Live on Stage: this one was recommended by a Wichita Mom reader (and also in the Modern Guide to the Ozark Mountains). The website says: Every show is an epic experience with a meaningful message. Where edge-of-your-seat action meets heartfelt drama.
Fritz’s Adventure: Perfect for a rainy day, this indoor adventure course features zip lines, tree houses, ropes course, suspension bridges, obstacle courses, and more!
Showboat Branson Belle: Set sail for adventure on the open waters of Table Rock Lake with live music, dancing, comedy, magic, a meal and more!
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: Located in Lampe, MO, Dogwood Canyon has 10,000 acres of natural beauty and rugged scenery in the Ozark Mountains. This family destination offers hiking, biking, wildlife tours, horseback riding and trout fishing amongst towering bluffs, waterfalls, creek beds, handcrafted bridges and wildlife.
Top of the Rock: We highly recommend a golf cart tour at the Top of the Rock! The golf cart tour follows a beautiful trail created to highlight stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and views of Table Rock Lake.
Wonders of Wildlife Natural Aquarium: On your way home to Wichita, this aquarium is a must-visit in Springfield, MO! Be prepared to spend several hours at their aquarium and wildlife galleries.
For other travel adventures, be sure to check out our:
DAY TRIPS FROM WICHITA
BEST WEEKEND ROAD TRIPS
