A Branson MO Getaway

My family slipped away for a mini-vacation to Branson, MO. As I sit on our condo's balcony, overlooking one of Pointe Royale's fairways, I thought I'd share with you some of the highlights of our three day - two night excursion.

For the first time, we rented an airbnb. We reviewed several options available in the Branson area. The issue we faced was sleeping 8 people. Having six kids is an incredible blessing, but it can make securing accommodations difficult. Many places able to house 8 sleepers cost a small fortune. Finally, we found a two bedroom condominium with a sleeper sofa and a blow up queen air mattress. The price was half that of some of the homes available for reserving.

The three story condo, we called home for three days, served our needs well. Each morning we stood on our balcony and watched golfers chase golf balls and hit wedge shots out of the bunker. Though not an avid golfer, I noted the fine care taken to manicure the fairway and green.

The condo offered two bedrooms with a King Bed in each. The couch folded out into a Queen Bed and the air mattress was a blow up King. We slept 8 comfortably and could've possibly slept one more, for anyone willing to share an air mattress. The rooms were tastefully decorated, nothing flashy, but homey. The bedrooms and the living area had flat screen televisions and of course wifi came with the package. The Master Bath was quite large with a shower/jetted tub combination. The second bathroom offered a tub/shower as well. For under $300 dollars for the two nights, we were quite satisfied!

If you've never been to Branson, MO, it's definitely a place worth visiting. Many options exist for family friendly entertainment. On day one, we arrived late in the day, and ordered food for carry out from Fall Creek Restaurant, a stone's throw away from our condominium. I learned they were understaffed and we waited about 30 minutes longer than projected to pick up our meals. The restaurant offered an extensive menu and their meal options sounded fantastic, but the food didn't live up to its hype. It wasn't bad...just wasn't great. Once again, I will give them the benefit of the doubt as the restaurant struggled to find help.

After eating, we utilized the tennis courts and basketball court situated by the Clubhouse at Pointe Royale and then enjoyed watching the NCAA Men's College Basketball Championship. (Go Baylor!)

Day two was our busy day. We enjoyed our time at Track Four in Branson. Track Four offers multiple go-kart tracks, including one with a 4-story spiral climb, a giant Ferris wheel & bumper boats. Their go-kart tracks cater to novice drivers and those with more experience behind the wheel. The Track also has a substantial arcade with games appealing to young and old alike. I recommend the place highly.

Then we discovered a diner on the strip (Hwy 76) that we really enjoyed. As we drove to the Track, we happened to pass by the Uptown Cafe and decided to eat there after go-karting. From the classic car out front to the retro old school diner feel, the atmosphere was inviting. The staff welcomed us with smiling eyes and served with enthusiasm. The food was superb and the entertainment offered during the meal was enjoyable. We liked the place so much, we chose to eat there for breakfast on our last day. We loved the breakfast food as well, and the staff recognized our family from the day before. We definitely recommend this cool eatery.

After lunch, we visited the Branson Mountain Coaster. Their website describes the Coaster this way, "Zoom, race, and slide your way thru the Ozark foothills on North America’s Original Double Alpine Coaster! Twist and turn down the half-mile track while enjoying the sights and sounds of The Branson Sawmill. You control your speed on The Branson Coaster, but we dare you not to hit the brakes!" Riders can ride single or double and the driver controls the brakes to the single car roller coaster. The family really enjoyed the experience and look forward to going back again.

On day three, we checked out at 10, ate brunch at Uptown Cafe and decided to make one last stop on the way home. We visited the Creation Experience Museum. The museum offers a Biblical view of the origins of the universe. This is a perfect stop for people of all ages and the one hour tour is free! They are currently raising funds to build a new state of the art facility that will accommodate many more visitors each year.

If your family needs a quick getaway, Branson, MO offers so much more than discussed here. The locals sometimes call Branson, little Nashville, as entertainment seekers can enjoy many different types of shows at theaters situated all across the city. You might want to check out Sight and Sound, Dolly's Stampede, or the Branson Belle. There are so many wonderful choices for families and you can be sure that wholesome entertainment is something you can find around every corner.