Christmas time in Branson is always magical, whether you're one of the 12,000 residents or one of the nearly 8 million annual visitors. The Christmas spirit is always alive and well in this city which was named one of the top 25 destinations in the United States by TripAdvisor.
SILVER DOLLAR CITY AT CHRISTMAS
A visit to Silver Dollar City is a must for visitors young and old alike. The quaint amusement park that is nestled in the woods dazzles visitors with its Christmas displays which feature over five million shining lights, 1,000 Christmas trees, and two fantastic Broadway-style productions.
After spending the day eating cinnamon bread at Sullivan’s Mill and riding some (or all) or the rides at Silver Dollar City, you will want to pick a good spot for watching the five-story special effects Christmas tree show as well as the Holly Jolly Christmas Light Parade featuring Rudolph and his friends.
Showboat Branson Belle
When you take a dinner cruise aboard the Branson Belle in November or December, you will leave with a full belly and happy memories of an evening of that will filled with laughter, nostalgia, and magic. Christopher James uses both comedy and magic to amuse the audience. Once you see the show, you will see why he has been named the Comedy Stage act of the Year, Magic Act of the Year, and first the first time in their 60 year history, awarded the Entertainment Award of Excellence by the Magicians Alliance of Eastern
States.
The Grand Village Shops
On the strip running through Branson is a cute little shopping center called Grand Village Shops. Christmas in Branson is celebrated year-round at Kringle’s Christmas Store, which happens to be an excellent place to pick up an ornament to remind you of your trip to Branson at Christmas.
Some other shops to check out while there include:
- Back In Time Toys where you can find vintage and classic toys
- Thomas Kinkade Signature Art Gallery
- T. Charleston’s Books & Gifts – Branson’s only full-service bookstore.
Since shopping burns around 150 calories per hour, you will need to refuel at some point. The banana split at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner should hit the spot. Mel’s is a fun place to stop, not only for the food but also for the performance that the servers give. Every so often, a different employee with pick up a microphone and sing while you eat. It is amazing at how talented they are.
Branson Landing
If you are afraid that Santa won’t bring what is on your wish list, don’t fret. You can probably find it at Branson Landing. The beautiful outdoor shopping center borders the bank of Lake Taneycomo and has tons of shops to get all of your Christmas shopping done. From clothes to kitchen gadgets to fishing lures, you are bound to find something for the most discerning people on your list. After spending the day shopping, there are over a dozen places to choose to grab a bite to eat.
Don’t miss the water fountain which dazzles with its merging of water, fire, lights, and music. And during the holiday season, be sure to stop by and see the beautifully lit Christmas tree.
Shopping at Tanger Outlet
After checking your list twice, should you discover that you missed someone, you can always head to the Tanger Outlet. Stores in the shopping center include Ann Taylor Factory, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Reebok, Kitchen Collection, and Harry & David. There are great bargains to be had at the shops which are open 7 days a week.
Hilton Branson Convention Center
After all of the fun, if you are looking for somewhere to lay your head where it is nice and quite, the Hilton Branson Convention Center is a good choice. It is located across from Branson Landing in the historic district. Starbucks is located right across the street, the Branson Scenic Express (the Polar Express for little ones) is next door, and Dick’s 5 & 10 is just up the hill.
The Level 2Steakhouse located inside the Hilton is a special treat and would be a nice place to enjoy an intimate dinner. The people at Level 2 appreciate their frequent guests. Dine there 5 times and they will engrave one of their signature knives with your name on it to use on future visits!
You can learn more about Christmas in Branson by visiting ExploreBranson.com. There you will find information about more fun things to see, do, eat, and explore.
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