All year-round, the picture-perfect Ozark enclave of Branson, MO draws visitors from around the world. A record 7.2 million touristsvisited Branson last year, with many of these being drawn to the city’s festive delights. Few places in America go as all-out for the holiday season as Branson does.
Although things will undoubtedly be a little bit different this year, Christmas in Branson in 2020 will be an opportunity to see the festive fun on offer in a socially-distanced and safer way. If you are looking for things to do in Branson at Christmas, read this guide to find out everything you need to know.
When it comes to Christmas in Branson, the first thing on everyone’s mind is the Silver Dollar City theme park. While most of the year SDC is an adventure playground for thrillseekers, during the holiday season it becomes the most Christmassy place on Earth.
Here you will find more than 6 million Christmas lights, earning SDC the moniker of “the most illuminated park on Earth”. You’ll also find a gargantuan 8-stories tall Christmas tree and a number of Broadway-style productions of classic Christmas stories, running every single day.
As we have mentioned, the residents of Branson take Christmas seriously. That’s why the locals teamed together a few years back to make Branson “America’s Christmas Tree City”.
As a result, the city is adorned with some of the largest, most ornate, and brightly-lit Christmas trees that you will find anywhere in the world. Book yourself onto the acclaimed Christmas Tree City Tour for a whirlwind tour of 100 of Branson’s most iconic festive trees.
The Branson Christmas Train has been drawing festive travelers to the city for years. Based on the classic children’s story of the same name, The Polar Express Branson is a festive ride aboard a vintage train that will transport you straight back into yesteryear.
Once aboard, you will find a story carriage where children can hear a retelling of the classic story, as well as hot chocolate, festive music, and plenty of Christmas characters who will be riding the rails alongside you. Make sure to book well in advance.
If you would rather enjoy the full festive experience without stepping outside the city center, then head to Branson Landing, the ornate town square at the heart of the city.
Here you will find the iconic Branson drive-thru Christmas lights experience, as well as boutiques selling luxury gifts for the whole family. There are few better places to sit with a cup of hot chocolate and absorb the festive cheer.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without paying a visit to Rudolph and his pals. At the Promised Land Zoo, you will find the only live reindeer herd in the region.
Here you can get up close and personal with Santa’s four-legged helpers, something that everyone in the family will remember foreveer.
Now that you know the best things to do in Branson at Christmas, it is time to plan your trip. For the ultimate festive accommodation experience, book yourself into our luxury lodgings at the elegant Grand Hotel Victorian.
