Table Rock Lake in the Missouri Ozarks is a family playground, on water or land. The nearby towns of Branson and Kimberling City offer recreation, restaurants, and more to suit any taste and pocket book. The Table Rock area has so many family activities that it's hard to decide what to do. Here are 10 things to do away from the lake, all located in Branson unless noted otherwise.
Silver Dollar City takes you back to life in the 1800's, except for the 30 rides and attractions that include something for all ages, even the youngest. There are shows that go on all day throughout the park, roller coasters, water rides, and even sand boxes. All ages are fascinated by the 100 craftsmen that show their skills as they create their wares.
Marvel Cave, the deepest cave in Missouri, is located at Silver Dollar City and the tour price is included with your ticket so don't miss something you've already paid for. The tour lasts about an hour and involves a lot of steps but kids love caves, so go for it. If you have a child that must be carried, you may want to re-think this one.
Celebration City opens at 3PM and hosts a fireworks and laser light show just before the 10PM closing. Rides here have something for all ages, including bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, miniature golf, and the scrambler.
White Water is the ultimate water park with the 200 feet Raging River Rapids, a special area for little kids, a volleyball area, and a giant pool for the entire family that has the surprise twist of a four foot wave at intervals.
The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure has over 1000 live butterflies flying around, education movies, and Emerald Forest Mirror Maze.
The creatures at the Dinosaur Museum in Branson are created by artists to be realistic and life like, include size. The museum offers educational films about dinosaurs, and lots of activities for kids.
Riding The Ducks is so much fun for everyone. The ride around Branson and Table Rock area is a good way for the adults to see what's there and kids love splashing into Table Rock Lake in the amphibious vehicle. The guides are knowledgeable and everyone gets a "Quacker" to make all the noise they want. This attraction is not inexpensive and lines may be long but it's definitely worth the price and the wait. You will get discount coupons for participating area merchants with your ticket, so that may reduce the original price. Tip: Hold on when you splash into the lake!
The attractions above are not cheap, so here are two that are free:
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery lets kids see how trout grow and even feed them for 25 cents. Choose from a guided tour or look around on your own. There are four hiking trails to see more of Ozark nature. Tips: Bring a paper cup to hold the fish food and if you plan to spend the day, pack a lunch. This fun spot is six miles southwest of Branson.
Branson Entertainment Hall of Fame is dedicated to the entertainers who have contributed to Branson's success. Costumes from 1950 on are displayed and you can hear and see past performances at interactive displays.
There is so much to see and do in the Table Rock area and since vacations last only so long, your family will want to come back again and again--and we think you will be just fine with that!
This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Marjorie Wise.
There is no time like the present to start a family vacation tradition. How about Table Rock Lake every summer? You could rent the same fabulous vacation villa every year, even! Talk about traditions! Start planning today!