Here is my official trip report to Branson from Wednesday October 13th through Sunday October 17th.
Day One
This was my first trip back to Branson in several years. On Wednesday my family, and I loaded up the Mustang, and left from Little Rock at around 10:00 AM, and essentially took Highway 65 all the way into Branson. This drive is still as scenic as I remember it being. The autumn leaves were really starting to come alive throughout the Ozarks. After arriving in Branson, my family, and I visited the new Branson Landing for the very first time. We sifted through the Bass Pro Shop Store, and had lunch at Garfield’s. We sat at an outdoor table which overlooked Lake Taneycomo. Later that evening, we returned to the Branson Landing, and enjoyed the fire, water, and lights show which was spectacular.
Day Two
This was our first day at Silver Dollar City! Thankfully, the crowds were not too overbearing on this brisk Thursday morning. After getting our tickets, our very first stop was at the bakery to buy a couple of those tasty jumbo sized cinnamon rolls! The street characters were out in full force, and they were as wonderful as always. There was so much activity going on in the town square before the park even opened. As soon as the ropes dropped, my family, and I made a mad dash straight to Powder Keg. I must admit, nothing wakes you up in the morning quite like blasting off on that coaster. Afterwards, we tried out Wildfire, which does a great job of reminding you of what you had for breakfast. Later on, we made a visit to the new River Blast. Unfortunately, it was a bit too chilly outside to really see the attraction in full force. However, we were able to water blast an unsuspecting older couple who rode the ride. Afterwards we made a stop by The Giant Swing. I truly enjoy that ride - while standing on the ground! For lunch we stopped by the Riverside Rib House which is sort of a family tradition. Later, we mingled our way over to Geyser Gulch, and had a foam ball fight with some of the other kids which was a lot of fun. Afterwards, we passed through The Grand Exposition, Thunderation, and Grandfather’s Mansion. We ended the day at Silver Dollar City by buying some lye soap, and learning a trick, or two from Masterblade Smith Ray Johnson. Oh, and how could I forget? We also had a chance to meet with Terry Sanders, and Woops-a-Daisy in the animal barn.
Later that evening, my family, and I made a visit to the Titanic Museum. I had not given that attraction much credit previously, however, I was thoroughly impressed! I would highly recommend it, and the prices were very reasonable at about twenty dollars a person.
Day Three
Our second day at Silver Dollar City started much like our first one. A warm cinnamon roll, and a jaunt on Powder Keg first thing in the morning. Afterwards, we made a trip over to Fire in Hole. I must say, the cosmetics inside the ride are definitely an improvement. However, the actual ride itself was a little more rough than I remember. Later, it was time to board the train on the Frisco Silver Dollar Scenic Railway! Although much of the train ride is the same as it has always been, I enjoyed it immensely. The train robbery was a comedic success as usual. My only complainant, however, is after passing by the original hold up location, you can clearly see cars parked in a nearby parking lot. That was a tremendous eye sore! Later on, we made a visit to The Flooded Mine, and had timed our arrival so perfectly, that my family, and I had the entire section of boats to ourselves! We ended the day by grabbing a funnel cake, and sitting in front of McHaffie’s Homestead to listen to the lady on the front porch tell her endless stories.
Day Four
Our third, and final day at Silver Dollar City started off much like the first two. A warm cinnamon roll, and a breath of fresh air on Powder Keg first thing in the morning. My family, and I spent most of the day just floating in the wind, and catching up on all of the things we may have missed before. We also got to see the Saloon Show which was an absolute riot! It was hilariously funny, and truly a great time. The show had no dull moments, and really entertained quite well. For those of you who hated the “It's Raining Men” song I have good news for you - it’s gone! Before leaving for the day, I sampled some fresh peanut brittle, and bought some fudge at Brown’s Candy Factory.
Later that evening, my family, and I made a visit to The White River Landing, and watched the Showboat Branson Belle leave port. It was such a peaceful, sunny afternoon on the port, and it made for some nice free entertainment. After the sun went down, we drove the busy Highway 76 strip one last time to experience it in its full glory.
Day Five
Today was day number five, and my family, and I made the trip on Highway 65 back home again. What a wonderful experience!
