Itinerary

Three Days in Branson: Itinerary for a Long Weekend

Looking forward to a long weekend? Whether you’re enjoying an extra day of leisure or looking for something special to do during the next holiday weekend, Branson is a great getaway destination.

Middle-aged couple sitting in a theatre about to watch a show in Branson.

With a variety of shows, world-class golf courses, three beautiful lakes and fun attractions, Branson offers plenty of activities for a fun-filled weekend getaway. Check out our sample itinerary to help you make the most of your long weekend in Branson! 

Book your stay at a scenic resort along Table Rock Lake such as Big Cedar Lodge or Chateau on the Lake, Resort, Spa & Convention Center. After you check in, be sure to catch the breath-taking sunset over the water. Located adjacent to Big Cedar Lodge, Top of the Rock offers elite dining experiences surrounded by impressive views. At Chateau on the Lake, you can unwind over dinner with a lakeside view at the elegant Chateau Grille. It's the perfect way to set the tone for a relaxing weekend.

Chateau on the Lake resort sitting on top of the Ozark Mountains in Branson, Missouri.

 

Saturday

Breakfast at Billy Gail’s

Start your day with a stack of hubcap-size pancakes at BillyGail’s Cafe. This popular breakfast spot serves pancakes in a variety of flavors, including pecan, chocolate chip, blueberry and classic buttermilk. You can expect your rich and fluffy stack to arrive to your table overlapping the plate. BillyGail's also offers delicious country breakfast favorites, including omelettes, French toast and more. 

Putting Around

Dubbed “golf’s best-kept secret” by Forbes Magazine, it's no surprise Branson is considered a top golf destination. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, getting out on the scenic greens can be time well spent. Top of the Rock has unprecedented views of the Ozarks on a beautifully landscaped par-3 course. Other local favorite courses include those at Buffalo Ridge Springs and the Branson Hills Golf Club. For a full list of Branson's signature Branson courses, check here

Large driving range that lights up for after dark golf practice in Branson.

Lunch at Sugar Leaf Bakery, Cafe & Espresso 

Branson's award-winning Sugar Leaf Bakery, Cafe & Espresso is a popular lunch spot among locals and visitors. Enjoy cafe specialties such as quiche, sandwiches, soups and salads. Dessert is a must! The cafe's wide selection of freshly made cakes, cookies, pastries, customized coffees, made-from-scratch glacier marshmallows and gourmet hot chocolate is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. After lunch, stroll the surrounding Grand Village Shops. 

Spas, Scenic Walks and Wine Tasting

There are several ways to spend a rejuvenating afternoon in Branson. Treat yourself to a massage or skin treatment at one of Branson's spas, stroll the breathtaking grounds at Big Cedar Lodge, or enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and an informative tour at one of Branson's many wineries.

Two wine glasses on the patio in Branson.

Dinner at Level 2 Steakhouse 

Located in the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, Level 2 Steakhouse features excellent fare in an upscale environment. Enjoy menu items including 28-day-aged, corn-fed Midwest beef, Heritage Missouri Pork, locally grown produce, decadent desserts and more.

Catch a Show

With nearly 100 shows in town, it can be difficult to narrow down your options for a weekend pick! If you're in the mood to be wowed, check out the mesmerizing Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai. Branson also features comedy and tribute shows, illusionists and talented country artists. Choose from entertainers such as Legends in Concert, Comedy Jamboree, The Haygoods, Hamners' Unbelievable Variety Show, The Petersens and more

Eye-catching light display and performer at a Branson live show.

Sunday

Breakfast in Historic Downtown Branson

Begin your Sunday in Historic Downtown Branson, home to a charming mix of Victorian street lamps, brick shops and free trolley transportation. For a classic downtown dining experience, try the Farmhouse Restaurant or the Branson Café for a hearty meal of biscuits, hash browns, eggs, bacon and pancakes—all done to perfection. The Branson Café has been dishing up delicious homestyle breakfasts to hungry locals since 1910!

Retail Therapy

From Historic Downtown Branson, head to the nearby Branson Landing for top retail shopping, including Belk Department Store and Bass Pro Shops. If you’re looking for locally made goodies, check out The Crystal Fish - Gifts of Distinction. For great deals on top brands, stop by Tanger Outlets.

Lunch at the Keeter Center

The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks is a truly unique dining experience for Branson visitors. Part of “Hard Work U,” the restaurant's food is meticulously prepared by students in the college's culinary program. Overlooking a scenic vista, the restaurant also offers stunning views from the dining room windows. After you finish your meal, be sure to swing by Nettie Marie’s in the lobby for ice cream made of the freshest ingredients from the on-campus dairy.

Afternoon on the Water

With bordering scenic lakes, it’s important to book some time on the water during your Branson getaway. Hop aboard the Spirit of America at State Park Marina for a two-hour cruise on Table Rock Lake. If you have a boating permit, the marina rents boats for two to six hours and offers a variety of ski boats and pontoons. For a relaxing tour of Lake Taneycomo, book an afternoon sail through Main Street Lake Cruises. 

Dinner and a Show at Dolly Parton's Stampede

Conclude your day with some lively fun at Dolly Parton's Stampede, which features a 35,000 square-foot, fun-filled arena, a cast of 32 magnificent horses, pig races and more. During this spirited show, you'll enjoy a delicious four-course Southern meal you get to eat entirely with your hands! (Silverware is available upon request.)

Monday

A Day at Silver Dollar City

No trip to Branson would be complete without a visit to Silver Dollar City, the world-class 1880s-themed amusement park nestled in the hills of the Ozarks. With over 40 thrilling rides and attractions, live shows and concerts, 18 award-winning restaurants and 60 unique shops, Silver Dollar City is the ultimate finale for a long weekend! 

Family interacting with Silver Dollar City character at Time Traveler roller coaster.

Unique Shopping and Fun Rides

Explore Silver Dollar City’s variety of artisanal shops, where you can find homemade apple butter, dulcimers, jewelry and leather goods. You can also catch a number of live demonstrations on glass blowing, wood turning and other crafts. Once you're ready to feel an adrenaline rush, take a ride on Time Traveler, the world’s steepest, tallest and fastest spinning roller coaster. New in 2020, Mystic River Falls offers guests a half-mile river journey with the tallest raft ride drop in the Western Hemisphere. More than the ordinary swing, the theme park's Giant Barn Swing soars over seven stories high and upside down. Fire-in-the-Hole, Outlaw Run and PowderKeg are other signature coaster thrill rides, all feeling as daring as they sound!

Sensational Skillet Lunch

Silver Dollar City is known for its skillet dishes. For lunch, try Buckshot’s Skillet Cookery, which cooks up a delicious combination of chicken, corn, fried okra, corn and squash in a dish called the “Family Feud.” Buckshot's also offers smoked pork, wraps, sandwiches and more. 

Marvelous Marvel Cave

This natural wonder is included in the price of admission to the theme park! Silver Dollar City was built around Marvel Cave to give visitors something to do while they waited for a cave tour. See amazing limestone formations, and travel more than 200 feet below ground for an impressive view of the cave. If you’re there after sundown, be sure to go on the Lantern Light Tour.

Family of four about to enter the Marvel Cave attraction at Silver Dollar City in Branson.

Renowned Festivals

At any time of year, Silver Dollar City features a variety of entertainment and festivals. Expect the unexpected during the Festival of Wonder, enjoy toe-tapping tunes at Bluegrass & BBQ, celebrate family and freedom during a Star-Spangled Summer, ride into the night during Moonlight Madness, be filled with the sounds and tastes of tradition during a Southern Gospel Picnic, experience Craft Days and Pumpkin Nights during the theme park's Harvest Festival, see the park decked out in millions of lights during an Old Time Christmas and more! For a full list of Silver Dollar City's festivals, visit here

After a full day at Silver Dollar City, you'll be ready to head home with the best of memories. Don't forget to stop at Eva & Delilah's Bakery as you exit the theme park for a box of take-home cinnamon rolls for a sweet souvenir. 

There's so much waiting to be explored in Branson during your next visit! Looking for more trip ideas? Click here for more activities and vacation itineraries.

Sponsored Content