Take the Plunge
Zip lining has become a popular activity for travelers around the country, and groups visiting the Ozarks can experience an eco-adventure at Branson Zipline Canopy Tours. Located in the lush Wolfe Creek Preserve, the course offers up to eight zips and even offers a catered meal in a protected log pavilion in the wooded environment. And don’t miss the safari walking tour with Ranger Dan. After enjoying a few zips, take the easy walk down the remainder of the mountain while Dan points out the local flora and fauna sights in the wilderness.
Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront Zipline is an urban way to enjoy this adventure activity. Launched from inside the city limits, participants begin at Branson Landing, perhaps the hippest place to shop in the region; zip across Lake Taneycomo; and land at the observation platform on Mount Branson before enjoying the zip back. The observation platform is available for private parties.
Take a Shopping Bag
Shops that feature handmade Ozark crafts, 1950s memorabilia, kitschy souvenirs and more dot the Branson landscape around every corner. And shoppers inevitably find themselves at Branson Landing, the waterfront merchant mecca that features 100 stores, from Belk Department Store to Bass Pro Shops to those that satisfy a specific niche, such as the Devo Olive Oil Company and Branson Quilts. There are also nearly two dozen eateries at the site.
“The $7.5 million fire-and-ice water fountain is the entertainment here,” said Berry. “It’s a spectacular sight, with music from Mariah Carey to Andy Williams in the background.”
Berry added that visitors should not miss a stop at Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10 in Historic Downtown Branson.
“There’s not another store like this,” she said. “With over 175,000 items from household gadgets, yarn, crafts, toys and hard-to-find candy, you have to walk out with something. The place feels like a museum, as there are history, sports and train collections on display.”
