Victoria Lupascu 
There are many reasons why Branson, Missouri, is a top holiday destination in the US, and if you want to find out more about this fun place, stick around for the next few minutes, and I’ll tell you all about it!
This city is located in the heart of the Ozarks mountains, and it’s surrounded by 3 pristine lakes, Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock Lake, and Bull Shoals Lake. So naturally, you will find a wide range of outdoor activities here.
That’s not it though, besides all that, Branson also hosts many live shows, theatre plays, and other fun attractions. I’m sure by now you’re already checking the plane tickets! But before you do that, let’s find the best places to stay in Branson.
This post will help you find your dream accommodation, from luxury resorts to rustic lodges. By the way, you should book the hotels in advance because they sell out so fast!
Hop on. The Ozarks mountains are waiting for us!
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Downtown – best place to stay in Branson for the first time
- 2. Theatre District – where to stay in Branson for families
- 3. Table Rock – best place to stay for the outdoors
- BONUS: Best hotels near Silver Dollar City Amusement Park
- Frequently asked questions about Branson
- Conclusion
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Don’t worry if you can’t read the whole post. Below you have a list of the best places to stay in Branson
To help you visualize the areas that I will be talking about in this post, here’s a map of the city:
- Downtown : for first-timers
- Theatre District: for families
- Table Rock: for outdoor activities
1. Downtown – best place to stay in Branson for the first time
Branson has long been a top travel destination for many Americans and international travelers. It offers so many things to do that people often refer to it as the “family-friendly Las Vegas.”
Famous for its numerous live music shows, theatres, and other tourist attractions, this city should be on your bucket list of destinations. Downtown is one of the best places to stay in Branson for those of you who want to be just a minute away from all the fun, or for anyone traveling here for the first time.
Set on the banks of Lake Taneycomo, Downtown Branson is also the historic area of the city, and it’s packed with incredible hotels and resorts that you should book in advance because they’re most likely to sell out in a minute!
I like this neighborhood the most because you’ll find something for every type of traveler!
The 7D Dark Ride Adventure and Arcade City will probably be the first stops for families, whereas those of you who want to get the authentic Branson live music experience and have a drink can visit places such as Motown Branson.
Enjoy your stay in Branson in this modern glass skyrise hotel that has two pools, a hot tub, and offers on-site dining. Lounge in the poolside cabanas and light the fire pits to roast some smores for the ultimate day of outdoor relaxation in this 4-star hotel. If you’re feeling like treating yourself to a fancy evening, don’t miss the in-house steak house and upscale cocktail bar!
Other accommodation options in Downtown
Enjoy your morning coffee on the sun terrace and take advantage of the indoor pool and fitness center
This budget Downtown hotel provides access to a pool, free parking, and it has a balcony and a kitchen
Chill on the sun loungers and swim in the pool of this great cottage that has a terrace and free wifi
Things to do in Downtown
- Head to Branson Scenic Railway and enjoy a fun ride
- Take the kids to Arcade City in Downtown Branson
- Have fun ziplining at Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront
- Admire the city from above on a balloon ride
- Go for a stroll in North Beach Park near Lake Taneycomo
- Visit the Shipwrecked Treasure Museum
- Catch a famous live show at Motown Downtown
2. Theatre District – where to stay in Branson for families
What did I tell you? There’s no way you won’t have fun during your trip to Branson, Missouri! Every neighborhood here is packed with so many attractions that you’ll struggle to check out all of them before your holiday ends.
Located 4 miles (6 km) west of Downtown Branson, this is where you’ll find the famous Branson Strip, a boulevard that hosts a big part of the city’s attractions.
Game centers, roller coasters, a water park at every corner, plus the great Ferris Wheel that you can’t miss! Yep, this neighborhood is perfect if you’re traveling with your kids, they’ll love every minute spent in the Theatre District.
Branson is set in the heart of the Ozarks Mountains, so naturally, you’ll also get your fair share of natural spots and hiking trails that you can explore! And if you’re in the mood for a road trip, I think you’ll love the city of St. Louis, which is located 4 hours away.
Now let’s see which Branson lodge or hotel you should book!
This resort is perfect for your family trip to Branson, Missouri! Surrounded by trees and nature, you’ll be able to forget about everything and relax, either by the pool or maybe in front of the fireplace. The rooms are spacious and there’s a playroom for the children.
Other accommodation options in Branson Theatre
Just a short drive away from the waterpark and with an indoor pool of its own, this hotel is definitely a keeper
Located on “The Strip,” this lodge offers a complimentary breakfast, family rooms, and a pool
Get a cup of tea and relax in front of the fireplace of this cabin that has 2 rooms, a kitchen, and a balcony
Things to do in Branson Theatre
- Visit the Titanic Museum and the Toy Museum Complex
- Spend a fun day with the family at White Water Park
- Enjoy a fun dinner with the kids at Dolly Parton’s Stampede
- Take some pics with the celebrities at Hollywood Wax Museum
- Play with the animals at Branson’s Promised Land Zoo
- Go on the Branson Ferris Wheel
- Spot a cute fish at the Aquarium at the Boardwalk
- Check out the golf course at Coral Reef Mini Golf
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3. Table Rock – best place to stay for the outdoors
Located 6 miles (10 km) southwest of Downtown Branson and named after Table Rock Lake, this area is perfect for those who would like to spend more time outdoors and explore the hiking trails and the hills.
Not only can you engage in tons of outdoor activities such as fishing, sailing, wakeboarding, and hiking, but you can also spend some time by the beach! Yep, you heard me well. The small, sandy beach is called Moonshine, and it’s open for anyone who wants to take a dip in Table Rock Lake.
Forbes Magazine has even recognized Branson for the best lakefront views in America!
You’ll find the Table Rock State Park south of the Table Rock area. Technically it’s not part of the neighborhood, but why miss a chance to visit one of America’s state parks when it’s located so close? And if you’re into fishing or you want to explore the lake, the State Park Marina offers lots of boats for rent.
Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa
This is one of the most popular resorts in Branson and a personal favorite! Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa is located near the beach and it offers some fantastic lake views. You’ll have access to tennis courts, a golf course, 2 pools, a spa center with a hot tub, and other fun activities!
Other accommodation options in Table Rock
One of the best resorts for families has a water park, a mini-golf course, and a restaurant
A great budget option that has all the facilities you need, including a pool, BBQ facilities, and a garden
Chill in the hot tub or hit the gym in this modern condo that has a kitchen and free wifi
Things to do in Table Rock
- Head to Moonshine beach for some swimming
- Visit the Table Rock Dam
- Explore the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail and the hills
- Go on a helicopter tour of Branson
- Have fun at the Runaway Mountain Coaster & Flyaway Ziplines
- Explore the grounds around Table Rock Lake
| 👑 Luxury price: | $250 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | $160 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $100 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | $150 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | Medium |
| 📍 Best area: | Downtown |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Theatre District |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Chateau on the Lake |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Best Western |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Homestead Motel |
BONUS: Best hotels near Silver Dollar City Amusement Park
This section is for anyone who wants to visit the excellent amusement park located on the Indian Point Peninsula, just a 20-minute drive from the Downtown area of Branson. If you haven’t heard about it, let me give you all the details.
Silver Dollar City Amusement Park is one of the most famous attractions located in the Ozarks mountains. It has over 40 rides, shops, restaurants, and an 1880 theme! The park also offers many live shows and performances in true Branson style. It is a place you shouldn’t miss during your trip!
Luxury (US$160 and up): Lakeview Lodge – I love the design of this lodge! The place has lots of space and enough rooms for a big family. Make some lemonade and spend your days under the sun, swimming in the pool, and enjoying the excellent weather! The Silver Dollar City Amusement Park is located just a 20 minute walk away!
Mid Range (US$100 – US$160): Calm Waters Resort – Surrounded by nature and offering stunning lake views, this resort has a pool and a children’s playground. Located on the Indian Point Peninsula, just 2 miles (3 km) away from the park, the accommodation also has a patio.
Budget (up to US$100): Shady Acre Motel – Feel at home in this budget motel that offers a beautiful garden where you can relax, a pool, and family rooms. The accommodation is less than 1 mile from Silver Dollar City and 3 miles (5 km) from the Indian Point Zipline.
Airbnb (up to US$150): Lake Condo – Located on the shores of Table Rock Lake, just a short drive away from the amusement park, this accommodation is perfect for anyone who wants lots of space and privacy. The condo offers a pool and a kitchen for dining.
Frequently asked questions about Branson
💯 What is the best time to go to Branson?
The best times to visit Branson are between November – December when the town is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. Or during the summertime between June – August when the weather is at its best.
❓ What is there to do on the Strip in Branson, Missouri?
The list of things to do on the Strip in Branson is endless, but some of the biggest are go-kart tracks, water parks, theme park rides, and laser games.
🌊 What are the best hotels in Branson with a waterpark?
Lodges at Timber Ridge is one of the best hotels to stay in Branson that has a waterpark. It’s located in Table Rock, and it also has a children’s playground and a hot tub.
🏨 What are the best hotels in Branson on the Strip?
Lodge of the Ozarks is one of the best hotels located on the Strip! The lodge offers dining on-site, 1 swimming pool, and free parking.
🌅 Which are the best resorts in Branson, Missouri?
Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa is one of the best resorts in Branson, it has amazing reviews and it offers many activities such as movie nights and hiking.
Conclusion
What an incredible place! I hope this post helped you decide which are the best places to stay in Branson.
I know there are so many hotel options in this post, but to give you some extra help, here are my top 2 favorite accommodations, both located in Downtown Branson
- Best Western – A great hotel that has a pool
- Hilton Branson – A pet-friendly hotel that has a restaurant
You should also consider that the hotels sell out super fast, so I highly recommend booking them in advance to get the best prices and deals.
Enjoy your trip to this fun holiday destination! Play on the tennis courts, visit all the water parks, and explore the hiking trails and hills! If you have any questions about Branson or any suggestions for our travel community, leave me a comment below, and I’ll make sure to answer ASAP!
Safe Travels,
Victoria
