How Is Tourism in Branson MO?

By Robert Palmer

Branson, Missouri is a popular tourist destination located in the Ozark Mountains. The city is known for its live music shows, theme parks, and scenic beauty. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the state of tourism in Branson and what visitors can expect.

What Makes Branson a Popular Tourist Destination?

Branson’s popularity as a tourist destination can be attributed to several factors, including:

  • Live Music Shows: Branson is known for its live music shows featuring genres such as country, rock ‘n’ roll, and gospel. Popular theaters include the Andy Williams Performing Arts Center and the Grand Country Music Hall.
  • Theme Parks: Families with children will enjoy Silver Dollar City, an amusement park with roller coasters and other rides.

    Other popular parks include White Water and Fritz’s Adventure.

  • Natural Beauty: Branson is situated in the Ozark Mountains and surrounded by lakes such as Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and boating.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism in Branson

Like many tourist destinations around the world, Branson has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, many live shows were canceled or postponed due to social distancing restrictions. However, as restrictions have eased up in 2021, more shows have started to open up again.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Branson has remained a popular destination for visitors looking for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. Additionally, many attractions have implemented safety measures such as increased cleaning protocols and social distancing requirements.

What Visitors Can Expect When Visiting Branson

Visitors to Branson can expect a wide range of activities to suit their interests. In addition to the live music shows and theme parks mentioned above, visitors can also enjoy:

  • Museums such as the Titanic Museum and the World’s Largest Toy Museum
  • Shopping at the Tanger Outlets or the Branson Landing
  • Golf courses such as the Payne Stewart Golf Club and Top of the Rock Golf Course
  • Wine tasting at local wineries such as Mount Pleasant Winery and Lindwedel Wine Garden

Final Thoughts

Tourism in Branson has certainly faced challenges due to COVID-19, but the city has remained a popular destination for visitors looking for outdoor activities, live music shows, and family-friendly attractions. With its beautiful natural surroundings and diverse range of activities, Branson is a destination worth considering for your next vacation.