15 Branson Christmas Activities You Can’t Miss
Have you ever thought about taking your family to Branson? How about during the Christmas season? 🎄
Whether you have looked into visiting Branson at Christmas or not, I highly recommend you do!
We’ve vacationed in Branson plenty of times, including two magical trips during the Christmas season.
If you’re looking for a magical experience full of dazzling lights and unique holiday activities, Branson needs to be on your list!
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Let me show you why we LOVE Branson at Christmas. 🥰
Below are our 15 must-see sights and attractions that your family can’t miss this Christmas-some are even free!
I know it’s next to impossible to fit everything into one trip so let me share our family’s two favorites!
Our top two picks include An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City and visiting Branson Landing to catch the mesmerizing fountain show and dancing Christmas tree.
1. An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City
An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City is one of the best holiday events in the country, and we wholeheartedly agree.
If you want your Christmas dreams to come true- Silver Dollar City is the place to be!
It’s truly one of the most magical places I have ever been during Christmas. Personally, I think its up there with Disney World which says a lot!
Fun Fact
Silver Dollar City has over 6.5 millions lights at Christmastime!
Silver Dollar City also has an incredible 8-story Christmas tree, complete with a mesmerizing musical light show.
I highly recommend spending most, if not all, of your day at Silver Dollar City. Be sure to stay after dark to fully enjoy the amazing light displays.
When we stayed at Silver Dollar City until after dark with our two oldest boys (ages 6 and 8), walking through Midtown surrounded by twinkling lights was nothing short of magical.
It was truly one of the most breathtaking Christmas light displays that I have ever seen- a unique and unforgettable experience for our family.
In addition to the lights and amazing Christmas tree, Silver Dollar City offers a variety of fantastic Christmas shows!
A fan favorite is the classic- A Dickens Christmas Carol.
We did not get to see A Dickens Christmas Carol but did show up just in time to Tinker Jr.’s Toy Shop.
I’m so glad we got to experience a show even if it was unplanned. The kids got to sit up on the stage which made the show even more magical for them!
Finally, be sure to grab a spot early to catch Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Christmas Light Parade.
Expert Tip
Silver Dollar City is not your typical theme park when it comes to dining. The food here is phenomenal. I recommend checking out the dining options on the Silver Dollar City website in advance to plan your meals.
Timing is also crucial. Aim to dine during off-peak hours to minimize wait time and ensure you can find a seat.
FIND OUT MORE: Silver Dollar City Tips
2. Gingerbread Houses at Chateau on the Lake FREE
We were looking for some free Christmas things to do and came upon the idea to visit the amazing Gingerbread Village at Chateau on the Lake.
And, I am SO glad we did! It was also so amazing!
Branson really does know how to do Christmas.
The kids were fascinated by the intricate gingerbread houses and buildings, and even my three year old enjoyed pointing out all the tiny details in the village.
We spent close to an hour admiring the beautifully decorated lobby and marveling at the gingerbread creations.
The lobby also features a nativity scene, which is an exact replica of the one from the movie Home Alone.
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3. Branson Landing FREE
Branson Landing is another fantastic spot to visit during the Christmas season and one of my two must-see attractions if you are limited on time!
The town square at Branson Landing features an incredible animated 🎄Christmas tree🎄 that my kids absolutely loved dancing in front of to the festive music.
In addition to the Christmas tree shows, the fountains put on an amazing performance every hour, blending water, fire, lights, and music into a mesmerizing display on the riverfront.
Branson Landing is also home to plenty of great family-friendly restaurants and shops.
We made sure to stop by the Northwoods Candy Emporium for some unique and delicious candy treats!
Christmas lights, music, and candy- my kids were in heaven! 🎄 🎵 🍭
Expert Tip
Plan to have dinner at Branson Landing or in downtown historic Branson when you come to see the animated Christmas tree and fountain show. A couple of restaurant options include Mellow Mushroom and Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen.
4. The Titanic Museum
Another must-visit during the Christmas season is the Titanic Museum.
The museum is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and the Grand Staircase feels especially magical this time of year.
My kids are fascinated by the Titanic, and visiting the museum at Christmas makes it even more memorable!
But even if your kids aren’t as interested, it’s still an amazing family-friendly stop.
The museum offers a range of interactive activities that are perfect for families.
One highlight is the special audio tour designed just for kids, making the experience even more engaging for them. Of course, there is also one for adults too!
Throughout the museum, there are also plenty of hands-on exhibits to explore.
My boys especially loved trying to walk up the ramps that simulate the different angles of the Titanic’s decks as it sank.
They were also fascinated by the challenge of seeing how long they could keep their hand in water that was the same temperature as the frigid ocean on the night when the ship sank.
5. Branson Strip –FREE
Simply driving up and down the Branson Strip is a magical Christmas experience in itself.
The entire area is lit up with countless festive lights and sights to enjoy.
One standout is the Chick-fil-A in Branson, which is absolutely stunning when it’s all decked out for Christmas.
6. Branson Christmas Tree Tour – FREE
My kids love a good challenge and trying to find as many Christmas trees as possible on Branson’s Christmas Tree Tour is definitely one they’re eager to take on.
Branson’s Christmas Tree Tour features over 100 beautifully decorated tree displays.
It’s a fun and festive way to explore the city during the holiday season.
Here is the link to Branson’s Christmas Tree Tour Interactive Map.
7. North Pole Adventure at Shepherd of the Hills
The North Pole Adventure at Shepherd of the Hills offers so much to see and do for the entire family.
This walk-through experience is one that families will absolutely love.
Must Know Information
Shepherd of the Hills also features a drive-through Trail of Lights. The North Pole Adventure experience is separate from the Trail of Lights.
For the best experience, similar to Silver Dollar City, it’s worth it to arrive before dark so you can fully enjoy all of the outdoor activities.
Some of the many activities included with admission are a Christmas lights hayride, visits with Santa Claus, a petting zoo, mini golf, a nativity scene, tree houses and playland, photo opportunities and so much more.
Be sure to check the hours and pricing on the website before your visit.
8. Visiting and Playing at Big Cedar Lodge
Visiting Big Cedar Lodge during the Christmas season is truly a magical experience.
The lodge transforms into a winter wonderland, both inside and out, offering a variety of festive activities that are perfect for creating cherished family memories.
Some of the many holiday activities at Big Cedar Lodge include ice skating, a lighted holiday tram tour, visits from Santa, gingerbread house making, holiday entertainment, and so much more!
Side note- if it’s open- we absolutely LOVE the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail golf cart tour. We do it almost every time we visit Branson.
It’s a self guided tour and so much fun for the whole family! Plus, it’s located within the beautiful Big Cedar Lodge resort.
9. Snowflex Tubing at Wolfe Mountain
Snowflex tubing at Wolfe Mountain is a fantastic activity to do during the Christmas season.
It will add a dash of excitement and adventure to your Branson getaway!
This is the perfect family outing as no experience is necessary.
Riders simply need to be ages three and above and be able to sit on their own tube.
Expert Tip
Make sure you book your Snowflex tubing adventure ahead of time on Wolfe Mountain Branson’s website.
10. Riding a Mountain Coaster
Branson offers a variety of mountain coasters, each providing a scenic ride through the beautiful Ozark Mountains.
During the Christmas season, these coasters become even more magical, with the holiday lights adding to the festive ambiance.
The Branson Coaster, located conveniently along the Branson strip, allows you to easily combine this thrilling ride with other nearby attractions.
After your coaster ride, you can explore the many shops, restaurants, and entertainment options within walking distance, making it a perfect stop during a day of holiday fun in Branson.
You’ll also find the Runaway Mountain Coaster and the Copperhead Mountain Coaster at Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Adventure Park.
Our family has experienced both the Branson Coaster and the Copperhead Mountain Coaster, and I highly recommend both.
For the best experience, I suggest riding the Copperhead Mountain Coaster during the day, which will also give you the opportunity to explore the Inspiration Tower located right next to it.
Expert Tip
Save time by purchasing your tickets ahead of time and completing the online waivers before you arrive.
11. Seeing the Lights from the Branson Ferris Wheel
The Branson Ferris Wheel is an iconic attraction in the heart of Branson and a defining feature of the city’s skyline.
Whether you ride the Ferris Wheel during the day or at night, each experience offers its own unique charm and breathtaking views.
During the day, you can take in panoramic views, while at night, the lights create a magical experience.
Fun Fact
The Branson Ferris Wheel was originally located on Chicago’s Navy Pier before making its way to Branson in 2016.
12. Miniature Golfing
The miniature golf courses in Branson offer a perfect family friendly activity that everyone is sure to enjoy!
Branson has a variety of themed courses that the kids will absolutely LOVE!
Some of our favorites include:
Pirates Cove: An immersive pirate themed adventure, where you will navigate through caves and even across a pirate ship. Our kids loved the pirate theme and challenging obstacles throughout the course.
Shoot for the Stars: This course takes you through iconic Hollywood landmarks including the Beverly Hills hotel, Walk of Fame, and more. It’s like a mini trip to Hollywood.
Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure: Features an actual airplane, this course takes you on a treasure hunt through caves, waterfalls, and ancient ruins. Our boys loved the mining train ride that takes you to the first hole.
Big Foot Adventure Golf: A quest to spot clues of the legendary Big Foot, with interactive elements and unique settings including woodlands, tundra, desert, and more. The kids loved searching for hidden Big Foot tracks.
These are just a few of the many themed mini-golf courses in Branson, making it hard to choose just one!
During the holiday season, some courses add festive lights and decor, making the experience even more magical.
13. Visiting the Many Museums on the Strip
The Branson Strip is home to a wide range of museums that appeal to a variety of ages and interests:
- Titanic Museum
- Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
- Hollywood Wax Museum
- Celebrity Car Museum
- Aquarium at the Boardwalk
- Branson Wonderworks
Each offers a unique experience that everyone will enjoy!
The fun doesn’t stop inside the museums. Driving down the Branson Strip is an experience in itself.
Tell your kids to keep their eyes peeled for incredible statues, like King Kong atop the Hollywood Wax Museum.
During the holiday season, these statues are often decked out in festive decor!
14. Going to a Christmas Show
Branson offers a variety of fantastic Christmas shows for the whole family to enjoy!
One favorite is Dolly Parton’s Stampede Christmas Dinner and Show.
You can also catch several Christmas performances at Shepherd of the Hills including A Shepherd’s Christmas Carol Dinner Show and A Christmas Story Dinner Show.
Another beloved option is Dickens’ Christmas Carol at Silver Dollar City.
Must Know Information
Silver Dollar City offers a Show Lover’s Pass for $20 plus tax per person with guaranteed seating without having to wait in line. Alternatively, visitors can see the shows for free with Silver Dollar City admission but must wait in line for seats on a first-come basis.
Discover the Show Lover’s Pass here.
15. Enjoy All of the Drive Through Light Displays
Visiting Branson during Christmas is a chance to immerse yourself in a festive wonderland of holiday lights.
Branson is renowned for its stunning Christmas light displays.
Some of the incredible drive-through light attractions include:
- “Let There Be Lights!” at the Promised Land Zoo
- Lights of Joy Christmas Drive-Thru
- Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights.
Our Top 3 Can’t Miss Christmas Activities in Branson
These 15 Christmas season activities in Branson promise to create lasting and unforgettable memories during your holiday visit. Recognizing that time can be limited, here are our top three absolute must-see and must-do experiences in Branson during this extraordinary Christmas season.
1. Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City
2. Branson Landing
3. Drive down the Branson Strip
Christmas in Branson is absolutely stunning and so magical.
It is the perfect place to make Christmas memories with your family.
Download my free travel itinerary planner to help you plan your trip to Branson or wherever else your adventures may take you. May you love your adventure. KW
