Branson, Missouri, is making waves as a premier destination that captivates golf lovers and adventure-seekers. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Ozarks, this lively haven blends top-tier golf courses with thrilling outdoor escapades, mesmerizing entertainment, and a rich tapestry of American heritage. If Branson isn’t already on your must-visit list, here are five reasons this booming hotspot deserves a top spot in your travel plans.
5. A Thriving Craft Beverage Scene Wineries & Breweries
While Branson has long been known for its family-friendly attractions and country music heritage, the area has also experienced a surge in craft wineries and breweries catering to visitors seeking local flavors. Missouri’s rich winemaking history—dating back to the 1800s—comes alive at places like Bear Creek Wine Company, Small Batch Brewery, and Lindwedel Winery, where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains while sipping on regional varietals.
For beer lovers, Lost Signal Brewing Co. and Missouri Ridge Distillery & Brewery offer handcrafted ales and small-batch spirits. At the same time, Ozark Beer Company is a popular side trip for craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy wine, craft cocktails, or a locally brewed pint, Branson has something to satisfy your taste.
4. Historic Old Town Branson & Modern Branson Landing
In Historic Downtown Branson, visitors can meander along charming brick-lined streets, explore a treasure trove of antique shops, and step into iconic establishments like Dick’s 5 & 10, a delightful general store that has enchanted locals and tourists alike for decades. Each corner tells a story waiting to be discovered, making every visit memorable.
Just a stone’s throw away, Branson Landing beckons with an irresistible allure. It offers a vibrant mix of upscale shopping, delectable dining, and an enchanting waterfront fountain show right on the shimmering banks of Lake Taneycomo. Indulge your palate at favorites like Cantina Laredo, Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, and the lively LandShark Bar & Grill. With an exciting lineup of live entertainment and nightlife buzzing with energy, Branson Landing stands as the shining jewel of the city, captivating visitors with its modern charm and unforgettable experiences.
3. Incredible Terrain and Outdoor Adventures
Branson’s natural beauty is an idyllic paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, this charming city offers breathtaking vistas and a rich tapestry of landscapes.
The majestic Ozark Mountains, with their rolling hills and lush forests, provide ample opportunities for hiking along scenic trails that vary in difficulty, catering to novice and seasoned adventurers.
Table Rock Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters, invites visitors to engage in various watersports, such as kayaking, jet skiing, and scenic boat tours, highlighting the lake’s stunning shoreline and diverse wildlife. In contrast, Lake Taneycomo, with its peaceful ambiance, serves as a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts, showcasing abundant trout populations and serene fishing spots that ensure a rewarding experience.
Together, these natural attractions create an exhilarating environment for outdoor activities and serve as a sanctuary for wildlife watching, enabling nature lovers to observe diverse species in their natural habitats. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a tranquil escape into nature, Branson offers it all in stunning abundance.
2. Faith, Family & Flag: The Heart of Branson’s Identity
Branson has long been recognized for its commitment to faith, family values, and patriotism—pillars influencing the area’s attractions and atmosphere. Visitors will observe the community’s deep appreciation for the military, highlighted by tributes such as the Veterans Memorial Museum and the annual Branson Veterans Week, one of the country’s largest veterans’ celebrations.
Family-friendly entertainment is abundant, from Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show to the Presleys’ Country Jubilee, one of Branson’s longest-running music shows. Faith-based productions like Sight & Sound Theatres also bring biblical stories to life on stage, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Branson’s steadfast commitment to honoring the Red, White, and Blue makes it a distinctive, inviting, and genuinely American destination.
1. A Golfer’s Paradise: Big Cedar Lodge & More
Branson has emerged as a premier travel destination, largely thanks to its stunning transformation into a world-class golf haven. Led by the visionary Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, Big Cedar Lodge has played a pivotal role in this evolution. Today, Branson proudly offers some of the most breathtaking and diverse U.S. golf courses, inviting golf enthusiasts and casual players alike to experience its exceptional greens and scenic vistas.
Big Cedar Lodge has elevated Branson’s status as a premier golf destination. It features five stunning courses—soon to be six with the highly anticipated Cliffhangers, an 18-hole par-3 course set to open this summer. Each course is designed to showcase the beauty of the Ozark Mountain landscape while providing an exhilarating experience for players of all skill levels.
- Payne’s Valley – Tiger Woods’ first public course, featuring dramatic limestone formations and the breathtaking 19th hole “Big Rock” finish that Morris and his son J.P. designed.
- Ozarks National – A Coore & Crenshaw masterpiece and “players’ course” offering panoramic views of the Ozarks.
- Buffalo Ridge – A waterfall-laden, Tom Fazio-designed course with stunning buffalo sightings adjacent to fairways and greens.
- Top of the Rock – The first-ever par-3 course to host a PGA TOUR-sanctioned event (Champions Tour Legends of Golf).
- Mountain Top – A challenging 13-hole, Gary Player-designed short course winding through rock formations that can only be walked (club trolleys are provided).
Beyond Big Cedar, Branson is home to five additional standout courses:
- Branson Hills Golf Club – A championship-level course voted Missouri’s best public course multiple times.
- LedgeStone Country Club – A Tom Clark-designed hidden gem known for its elevation changes and natural beauty.
- Thousand Hills Golf Resort – A fun yet challenging Bob Cupp design catering to all skill levels.
- Holiday Hills Resort & Golf Club – A welcoming, player-friendly course with a rich local history.
- The Pointe Golf Club – A scenic course offering excellent playability for all ages and abilities.
Whether you’re a passionate golfer on the hunt for a legendary round to cross off your bucket list or a casual player eager to soak in breathtaking vistas, Branson Golf is an unforgettable venue waiting to be explored.
