Branson, Missouri, is booming as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and travelers alike. Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, this vibrant area has evolved into a dynamic hotspot, combining world-class golf with incredible outdoor recreation, entertainment, and a deep-rooted sense of American tradition. If you haven’t already put Branson on your travel bucket list, here are five compelling reasons why it’s one of the hottest destinations in the country.
5. A Thriving Craft Beverage Scene: Wineries & Breweries
While Branson has long been known for its family-friendly attractions and country music heritage, the area has also seen a surge in craft wineries and breweries catering to visitors looking for local flavors. Missouri’s rich winemaking history—dating back to the 1800s—comes alive in spots like Bear Creek Wine Company and Small Batch Brewery, and Lindwedel Winery, where guests enjoy panoramic Ozark Mountain views while sipping regional varietals.
For beer lovers, Lost Signal Brewing Co. and Missouri Ridge Distillery & Brewery serve up handcrafted ales and small-batch spirits, while Ozark Beer Company near Branson is a favorite side trip for craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you prefer wine, craft cocktails, or a locally brewed pint, Branson has something to satisfy your taste.
4. Historic Old Town Branson & Modern Branson Landing
Branson blends the charm of its historic downtown with the energy of its modern waterfront development, Branson Landing. In Historic Downtown Branson, visitors can stroll brick-lined streets, browse antique shops, and visit classic establishments like Dick’s 5 & 10, a nostalgic general store that has been a local fixture for decades.
Just a few blocks away, Branson Landing offers a completely different experience, featuring high-end shopping, trendy dining, and a stunning waterfront fountain show on the banks of Lake Taneycomo. With favorites like Cantina Laredo, Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, and LandShark Bar & Grill, plus live entertainment and nightlife, Branson Landing has become a centerpiece of the city’s modern appeal.
3. Incredible Terrain and Outdoor Adventures
Branson’s natural beauty is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ozark Mountains, Table Rock Lake, and Lake Taneycomo create a stunning backdrop for hiking, fishing, watersports, and wildlife watching.
- Hiking & Wildlife: The Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area and Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area offer scenic trails, breathtaking overlooks, and glimpses of native wildlife like bald eagles and whitetail deer across more than 1,500 acres.
- Fishing & Watersports: Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo are renowned for world-class bass and trout fishing, while boating, paddleboarding, and parasailing add to the lake-life appeal.
- ATV & Ziplining: For adrenaline seekers, there’s off-roading at Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park and high-speed thrills at Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain.
2. Faith, Family & Flag: The Heart of Branson’s Identity
Branson has long been known for its devotion to faith, family values, and patriotism—pillars that shape the area’s attractions and atmosphere. Visitors will notice the community’s strong military appreciation, with tributes like Veterans Memorial Museum and the annual Branson Veterans Week, one of the country’s largest veterans’ celebrations.
Family-friendly entertainment is everywhere, from the Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show to the Presleys’ Country Jubilee, one of Branson’s longest-running music shows. Plus, faith-based productions like Sight & Sound Theatres bring biblical stories to life on stage, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Branson’s unwavering commitment to honoring the Red, White, and Blue makes it a unique, welcoming, and truly American destination.
1. A Golfer’s Paradise: Big Cedar Lodge & More
A seminal contributor to Branson’s place as a premier travel destination is its transformation into a world-class golf haven. Thanks to Big Cedar Lodge, the vision of Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, Branson now boasts some of the most spectacular and diverse golf courses in the U.S.
Big Cedar Lodge has elevated Branson’s status as a top golf destination, offering five stunning courses—soon to be six with the anticipated Cliffhangers, an 18-hole par-3 course set to open this summer. Each course is designed to highlight the Ozark Mountain landscape while providing a thrilling experience for players of all skill levels:
- Payne’s Valley – Tiger Woods’ first public course, featuring dramatic limestone formations and the breathtaking 19th hole “Big Rock” finish that Morris and his son J.P. designed.
- Ozarks National – A Coore & Crenshaw masterpiece and “players’ course” offering panoramic views of the Ozarks.
- Buffalo Ridge – A waterfall-laden, Tom Fazio-designed course with stunning buffalo sightings adjacent to fairways and greens.
- Top of the Rock – The first-ever par-3 course to host a PGA TOUR-sanctioned event (Champions Tour Legends of Golf).
- Mountain Top – A challenging 13-hole, Gary Player-designed short course winding through rock formations that can only be walked (club trolleys are provided).
Beyond Big Cedar, Branson is home to five additional standout courses:
- Branson Hills Golf Club – A championship-level course voted Missouri’s best public course multiple times.
- LedgeStone Country Club – A Tom Clark-designed hidden gem known for its elevation changes and natural beauty.
- Thousand Hills Golf Resort – A fun yet challenging Bob Cupp design catering to all skill levels.
- Holiday Hills Resort & Golf Club – A welcoming, player-friendly course with a rich local history.
- The Pointe Golf Club – A scenic course offering great playability for all ages and abilities.
With its mix of championship, resort, and par-3 courses, Branson delivers one of the most diverse and exciting golf experiences in the country. Whether you’re a serious golfer looking for a bucket-list round or a casual player seeking scenic views, Branson’s golf scene is a must-experience venue.
