Best Time to Go
Spring and fall are the best times to visit. That said, most folks flock to
Branson during the summer months, often with generations of their family in tow.
In the dog days of August and the wilting heat of July, expect long lines to get
into shows and attractions. During the winter the weather is a bit chilly for
all except cold weather critters, so if you can possibly arrange a spring or
fall visit you’ll get the best of the weather and a real reduction in waiting
times.
Average Weather
During the winter --- from December through February --- daytime highs average
in the 40s with an average evening drop into the teens or 20s. March and
November have average highs of 60 degrees Fahrenheit with lows averaging in the
30s. April and October have highs in the low 70s and hit lows in the 40s. Expect
the most rain in May when the average rainfall is nearly five inches. From June
through September it’s quite warm. July and August hit highs in the 90s.
Branson gets a good bit of rain throughout the year so pack prepared - raingear
could come in handy no matter when you visit.
Transportation
Either you’ll drive to Branson or fly into Lambert-St. Louis International
Airport where you’ll want to rent a car. Branson has no public transportation.
The entertainment-packed area is almost as well known for traffic jams as it is
famed for country music. If you tire of fighting the traffic yourself, several
local shuttle services will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the
attraction of your choice. Shuttle fares range from $5 to $10. If you are in the
center of town you can walk to a good bit of Branson, but as spread out as the
attractions are you’ll really need to drive or use shuttles during your stay.
In-Season Costs
Expect to pay between $20 and $30 for adult admission to one of the shows. Kids'
tickets cost in the $8 to $12 range. Admission to Silver Dollar City ---
Branson’s premier theme park --- is $36.05 for adults, $24.35 for children.
Most tourists plan to spend the bulk of their budget on entertainment with
little left over for lodging. You’ll find basic budget rooms in the $50 to $60
range throughout Branson. If you want something a bit nicer, expect to pay
between $80 and $90. Over-the-the-top luxury and quirky themed rooms are also on
offer for higher prices. Many of Branson’s restaurants are all-you-can-eat
buffets that cater to hungry tourists at reasonable rates. You can easily find
dinner for fewer than $15.
Day Trips
If you want a bit of urban adventure as an adjunct to down home fun in Branson,
St. Louis is close. If you just want a bit of peace and quiet after all those
shows, try Dogwood Canyon Nature Park halfway between Branson and Eureka
Springs. You can go bike riding, trout fishing, horseback riding or take a tram
around the waterfalls. You’ll find a wildlife area and a hiking trail that is
level and paved for wheelchairs and strollers. You needn’t pack a picnic
either; there are restaurants in the park. It’s open daily and adult admission
is $7.95.
