We like to think we’re experts now when visiting Branson, MO and finding these hidden gems is no different! Branson is full of bright lights and show signs that appeal visually to a person! You can’t help but feel a bit of Vegas as you drive down Historic Hwy 76 and see all the flashing, bright lights! But, it’s one of the many things we think makes Branson so magical! (And if you want to get the best view of them, you have to take a spin on the Branson Ferris Wheel at night!
But, once you spend more time here, you’ll find that there is so much more than the bright lights like these 3 Hidden Gems in Branson!
Visiting Branson Over & Over
In the past three 3 years, we’ve visited Branson 4 times. When you visit one place that many times in a short period, you have to start looking for new things to do! Yes, we love many things and have certain things we “have” to do like eating at Danna’s Burger & BBQ Shop, the Branson Ferris Wheel, and getting a frozen treat at Andy’s! (And this is just a few of them!) But, when we recently visited we searched out some new things and now we have to share these 3 Hidden Gems in Branson with you!
Veterans Memorial Museum
For the past couple visits, I’ve been wanting to visit the Veterans Memorial Museum, but I guessed it wasn’t very boy-friendly, so I’ve waited! My step-dad is a veteran and was with us on this trip, so it seemed like the perfect stop! When you arrive at the museum, you are instantly greeted by an amazing sculpture that has a soldier from World War II from each state! It’s amazing how detailed a sculptor and creator can get statues such as these! Emotion can be read all over their faces!
Inside you’ll find a rather extensive collection of memorabilia from World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, & even the Persian Gulf wars. Some of the personal stories included in the museum along with artifacts are beyond touching! The thing that moved me the most was a hall in which the names of every soldier killed in action during these wars were listed! It was so impactful that I couldn’t stay long. I will forever be grateful for every man and woman who has served our armed forces and especially those who gave their lives.
If military, war, or history interests you in the slightest, make this stop!
Lookout Tower on Hwy 376
A few miles west of Branson on Highway 376 (on the way to Silver Dollar City), you’ll see signs for a roadside lookout. The Ruth & Paul Henning Conservation Area has great views on it’s own and even has bathroom (latrine) facilities if you need them. But, what you need to do is walk the paved trail that is a little less than a half mile from the parking area. This path will take you to the 40 foot observation tower.
On top of a bluff called Dewey Bald, you’ll find this structure to catch amazing 365 views of Branson and the Table Rock area! Be aware that you do have have to climb several flights of stairs. The tower does slightly “wiggle”, but its completely safe and the views are 110% worth it! Plus, the paved trail is a great one for those that don’t really like to “off road”. There are also benches along the way for resting!
Branson Veterans Memorial Garden
Every time we visit Branson, I comment on the beauty of the Branson Veterans Memorial Garden. And I’m certain I have even mentioned wanting to stop, but never have! My mom wanted to stop as well on a recent trip, so we finally did! The Veterans Memorial Garden is located along Highway 76 at the intersection of Roark Valley Road.
The gardens are maintained by volunteers and they do an amazing job! The grounds aren’t large, but there is a large variety of annuals and perennials, greenery and blooms! Interspersed in the gardens are benches to sit and reflect on, a gazebo, and many sculptures. My favorite sculpture is titled “Staying Low”. It is 12 soldiers in full battle dress supposedly on a scouting mission during World War II. The detail is amazing! The sculpture of boots, gun, and helmet that represent those who have served touched my heart!
This stop is worth it for anyone, but especially for those who love gardening like we do!
Conclusion
We love visiting Branson and doing all the big tourist places. But, we have found joy in exploring these smaller and hidden gems of their community! What’s your favorite stop in Branson?
I’ve only been once and that was in junior high. I remember loving Ripley’s Believe it or Not and of course Silver Dollar City.
We’ve been to Ripleys and it wasn’t our favorite. We’ve never done SDC because we really aren’t amusement park people, but have heard great things!
I love that photo of the forest. Never been here but I know who to ask for travel advice if we make a trip!
That trail and tower was a great spot to escape the intensity of town!!!
I live Branson. Never been to the Veterans Memorial before. Looks very nice
It is very nice and much larger than I thought!