As a mom of four and a Springfield MO family photographer, I’ve done the Branson trip more times than I can count. There are so many things to do in Branson with kids! Whether you want to be outdoors, indoors, have a unique adventure, or enjoy a thrilling ride, there is something for every age. Here are our family’s top 15 picks — tested and approved by my crew. So let’s dive into our favorites!
Top 15 Recommended Things To Do In Branson With Kids
Outdoor Adventures
Between thrilling rides, games, foods, shows, a train ride, splash pad, and more! It is fun for everyone. It even has a section of rides similar to a carnival that is perfect for young kids. We started taking our kids starting around 1 year old, and my kids have always had a blast! Best for: Families with a mix of ages who want a full day of rides, shows, and food. It is a must-do, so plan to spend the whole day!
Showboat Branson Belle is a nightly cruise on Table Rock Lake! Your family can enjoy a 3-course meal while being entertained by a live show of live music, dancing, comedy, magic, and more! Best for: Families who want dinner and a show in one — no planning separate activities. The views from the boat are beautiful too, so it is fun for all ages.
White Water was voted one of America’s best outdoor water parks! It has over 13 acres of water rides, slides, and waves. It is so much fun for the whole family. Best for: Hot summer days when the kids need to burn energy in the water. Go early because the lines get long by afternoon!
Nature and Animals
There are many excellent kid-friendly hiking trails in Branson, MO, for your family to enjoy together. A few of our favorites are the Ruth and Paul Henning trails, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, and the Branson Landing walking trail. For more, check out my blog post “Top 4 Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails In Branson MO“. Each of these trails has been tested and approved by our family with young kids. Best for: Outdoorsy families who want a free, low-key morning activity. And they are all free, so you cannot beat that!
Table Rock State Park is the perfect place for outdoorsy families to hike, bike on the local trails, go camping, fish, swim, or boat. Our favorite swimming place is Moonshine Beach in Table Rock Lake State Park. As a family photographer, I can tell you the lake views here are gorgeous for photos too! Best for: Families who love camping, swimming, and lake days. We go back every summer because the kids beg for it! Pack a picnic because the lake views are too good to rush.
The Promised Land Zoo allows families to interact with exotic animals, like camels, zebras, kangaroos, and more! With over 50 special animals worldwide, kids can have a unique and personal experience with these fantastic animals. The zoo also offers VIP access to visitors who want exclusive encounters with creatures like two-toed sloths and ring-tailed lemurs. Best for: Animal-loving kids who want up-close encounters, not just looking through glass. The encounters feel personal, so kids remember it forever.
Shows and Entertainment
7. Shows
There are some fantastic kid-friendly Branson Shows for your family to enjoy. I have gathered the “Top 8 Recommended Branson Shows For Kids“. It mixes singing, dancing, magic, acrobatics, pets, and more! Best for: Evenings when everyone is tired from the day but not ready for bed yet. The variety keeps little ones engaged, so no one gets bored.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not is a self-guided tour to experience the bizarre, explore the mysterious, and enjoy the weird through 8 galleries of ever-changing collections of 450 unique artifacts, art, crazy illusions, and interactive activities. They also have a Ripley’s Super Fun Zone with unlimited all-day play with games, laser tag, maze, smash dash, and more! Best for: Curious kids who love weird facts and hands-on fun. For example, the laser tag is a huge hit with older kids. It is also nice because you can go at your own pace.
9. Branson Landing Fountain Show
Branson Landing is a fun place to shop and enjoy the fountain show featuring choreographed fire columns and 100-foot fountain geysers with musical hits and lights. It’s free and happens regularly — perfect for a low-key evening. Best for: A free evening activity after dinner. It is the perfect low-key way to end the day, so save it for after dinner.
Rides and Attractions
10. Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park
The Shepherd of the Hills adventure park is known as “the country’s best aerial adventure park.” It is filled with amazing adventures such as ATV tracks, zip lines, rope courses, a petting zoo, and live show venues. It offers such a unique family-friendly adventure. Best for: Adventurous families with older kids and teens. There are different levels, so both brave and cautious kids have fun. Wear closed-toe shoes since you will be climbing.
The Branson Ferris wheel is 150 feet tall — go up high and see all the views. It’s especially pretty at night when it’s lit up. Best for: A quick, scenic stop with great photo ops. It is a quick stop, so it is easy to fit into any day.
WonderWorks is a STEAM-inspired, 4 stories, 48,000 square feet indoor amusement park with over 100 hands-on exhibits that are educational and entertaining! Best for: Rainy days or when you need a break from the heat. Plan to spend at least three hours here since there is so much to try.
Track Family Fun Parks offers family-friendly go-kart rides, laser tag, batting cages, arcade games, and more! Best for: Kids who love go-karts and arcade games. We usually go after dinner because the lines are shorter. Kids love it here, so expect zero complaints.
More Family Fun
The Butterfly Palace offers a unique tropical experience with interactive, educational, and entertaining activities for the whole family. They have a butterfly aviary, banyan tree adventure, mirror maze, and science center for an opportunity to be close to thousands of butterflies and other rainforest animals. Best for: Younger kids and anyone who loves butterflies. Plan about two hours here, since there is lots to see. The mirror maze is a hit too, so do not skip it.
The Aquarium at the Boardwalk is an interactive aquarium that is fun for all ages. You can take photos with a giant octopus, take a 5D submarine ride, explore fish, visit the jelly infinity room, get an expansive view of a beautiful coral reef, and more! Best for: A fun indoor activity with lots of photo opportunities. It is calm and cool inside, so tired little legs get a break.
Quick Questions About Branson With Kids
How many days do we need in Branson with kids? Three to four days is perfect for hitting the highlights without rushing. You can do more if you want to explore everything.
What’s the best age for Branson with kids? Honestly, all ages! We’ve been taking ours since they were babies. Toddlers love the zoo and aquarium, older kids love the rides and adventure parks.
Is Branson expensive with kids? It can add up, especially with theme park tickets. Look for multi-day passes and mix in free activities like hiking and the fountain show. Since there is so much to do, you could easily fill a whole week. Because Branson is so family-focused, even babies have plenty to enjoy. Also, many attractions offer free admission for kids under 3.
Tips for Visiting Branson With Kids
Buy tickets online in advance to save time and sometimes money. Bring snacks and water — you’ll save a lot. And don’t try to do everything in one day. Pick two or three things and enjoy them. As a family photographer, my best tip: bring your camera! Branson has so many great photo spots. We take hundreds of photos every trip because the backdrops are just that good.
Looking for a Family Photographer in Springfield, MO?
Hello! I’m Jessica Kennedy, a maternity, newborn, and family photographer in Springfield, MO. As a mom of four with 10+ years behind the camera, I help with everything from finding the perfect outfit to planning, preparation, and more — including my client closet you’re welcome to borrow from! Whether you’re looking for a family session or want to document the whole first year with my Bump-to-Baby experience, I have something for you. Here’s what Kelly & Gerard said after their session with three kids under 5: “She had them smiling the whole time!” Click here for more information on working together!
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