This Christmas we had the pleasure of enjoying a little family fun in Branson, Missouri at Westgate Branson Lakes Resort and what a magical stay we had! In this post, I am sharing all things Branson, as well as our amazing condo on Table Rock Lake.
Located near the best shows and attractions in the Show Me State, Westgate’s Branson Hotels was an ideal location to enjoy both nature and all Branson has to offer. Our newly renovated condo delivered breathtaking views overlooking Table Rock Lake.
There were so many fun activities going on at Westgate resort! The enjoyed seasonal craft classes and a fluff and stuff session where the boys got to stuff their very own stuffed animals.
Westgate Resort also had an arcade/game room, basketball court, fitness center, indoor pool, mini golf, outdoor pool, spa tub, table tennis, volleyball court, barbeques, picnic areas, and more! Of course, the views of Table Rock Lake are just magical. I loved waking up every morning and enjoying a cup of coffee while watching the sunrise right from my bed.
FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS
There are so many options for food with Branson restaurants. All of the restaurants are over the top themed which excited the boys and there are plenty of dinner shows that are suitable for both adults and the kiddos alike.
The Great American Steak and Chicken House
Their breakfast buffet is great for larger families as they offer an every day deal of buy one, get one half off! Offering sizzlin’ steaks and farm fresh broasted chicken along with their tasty Hen House handouts, and a massive soup and salad bar, The Great American Steak and Chicken House is great for any meat lover.
Landry’s Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of all the Branson fun, Landry”s Seafood restaurant has brings the great taste of the Gulf Coast to this premiere entertainment destination. Landry’s Seafood restaurant has developed a reputation for serving fresh seafood, succulent steaks and indulgent desserts with indoor and outdoor patio seating.
Starvin Marvins
Starvin Marvins’ homemade food really hit the spot. In 1984 Larry and Jeanette Rogers made the move of their dreams to one of their favorite vacation spots in the Ozark Mountains, Branson. While they owned their own restaurant in Lafayette, Louisiana the Rodgers’ hearts belonged to Missouri. Starvin’ Marvin’s was originally in a log cabin one and a half miles west of Silver Dollar City but now is located right on the main strip. Their breakfast buffet was super fresh and everyone in the family went back for seconds!
Pasghettis Italian Restaurant
If you are looking for an Italian Restaurant, I have the perfect place for you! Branson’s Pasghetti’s is a family-owned and locally operated restaurant featuring themed dining rooms throughout the restaurant and serving a variety of delicious Italian favorites. They also have a Ferris wheel located in the restaurant, as well as a game room for the kids.
ATTRACTIONS
The Branson Coaster
I was really worried that the boys would be afraid of The Branson Coaster but they were super enthusiastic about it and after passing the height test, we loaded up! The Branson Coaster is North America’s Original Double Alpine Coaster –that allows you to pilot your own ride through the beautiful Ozark countryside. Zoom downhill and through the curves, and hold on to your stomach down two incredible drops with total control over your speed.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum
Over 100 years of collecting, Ripley’s Believe it or Not is sure to keep you attention. They have everything from the microscopic world and the worlds of science and computer technologies. They have artifacts that have been flown in space, elongated skulls, sculptures made of unlikely parts, and more.
Branson Ferris Wheel
You can witness the beauty of the Ozarks and all of downtown Branson from your seat on The Branson Ferris Wheel. What was once Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier Ferris Wheel now sits at The Track Family Fun Park in Branson. Standing 150 feet tall, its 40 gondolas hold 240 riders, and it lights up the night with an evening music and light spectacular!
The Titanic Museum
I am a huge fan of The Titanic story and was thrilled to visit the Titanic museum which housed authentic artifacts gathered from the ship after sinking and items donated from the survivors. This one was also a hit with the entire family. We were each given a passenger’s story. After touring the museum we discovered our passenger’s fate. There were even artifacts that belonged to our passenger on display!
Dixie Stampede Dinner Show
It was a truly magical Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede! The Stampede arena was magically transformed into a true fantasyland complete with twinkling lights, evergreens, poinsettias, old-fashioned holiday costumes, and traditional holiday music. The show included thirty-two magnificent horses, races, games, singing, tricks, comedy, and more! The boys loved the playful competition as Elves from the North Pole and the South Pole compete in a friendly rivalry while serving up a four-course holiday feast!
Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show
We weren’t allowed to take photos in the show but, take my word for it, the acts in this show were top of the line! Mr and Mrs. Hamner put on amazing magical acts while other performers, such as Johnny Lonestar and his kiddos Dominic and Brooklyn did rope tricks and acrobatic performers dropped from the ceiling!
Hughes Brother’s Dinner Show
This show is incredible and the singers are first class, but did you know that nearly everyone in this show is related? With the show over 30 years old, this family is truly born to entertain! First we enjoyed a delicious meal before the show, overlooking the stage. When it was show time, we were escorted down to our assigned seats for a magical holiday serenade!
Branson Aquarium
Journey through the water tunnel, experience a the submarine adventure, become the queen or king of the season in Mermaid palace. This attraction is a must see! Amazing rays, live coral reefs, jelly infinity room, you will not run out of wow factor exhibits.
Our trip to Branson was one we will never forget. This vacation hub is perfect for a couple’s getaway or for a little family fun!
Want to experience Branson’s family fun for yourself? Be sure to book your stay at the Westgate Branson Lake Resort in Missouri and pre-purchase your attraction tickets as they do sell out fast!
If you want to add Branson to your bucket list, or Pinterest board, pin the image below to your Pinterest account!
