The first time I heard "Branson" was in 2010. And, it took me 14 years to finally make it.
I should preface this blog by telling you that early February is NOT the most opportune time to visit. Branson is located about 10 miles north of the Arkansas border, so, unlike, for example, Wisconsin Dells, that has many winter based options such as ski resorts and many indoor water parks, Branson highlight activities focused on mild to warm weather adventures. Outdoor theme parks, mountain coasters, baseball, etc...
There are many indoor activities and shows to explore.
This visit was a mother-son date celebrating my youngest son's 6th birthday. So, our activities focused on what he enjoys. Aquariums, wildlife and more!
I AM 6!!!!
This boy has wanted to be 6 the moment he turned 5. Age 6 could not get here fast enough for him.
He started his count down the day after his 5th birthday.
Our first stop, Lamberts Cafe - https://throwedrolls.com/lamberts-cafe-ii/
Stop by HUNGRY! If you leave hungry that is on you, because the portions are big and delicious!
My son ordered the kids Mac and Cheese with fries and applesauce, he did not finish, we took the leftovers to the hotel, which he and I shared the next evening for dinner... and there were STILL leftovers.
Saturday morning- First stop, Branson Aquarium. Opens at 8:30am! Yeah for us, as we are EARLY risers and most places open at 10am. https://www.aquariumattheboardwalk.com/
Huge Octopus on the building is a site to see!
The aquarium was a bit small, we ended up moving on to stop #2 by 10am.
From fish, to birds, turtles, sharks, lions, tigers, kangaroo, lemur, repitiles. You name it, you will likely see it!!!
Phew - our Saturday ended with a swim, dinner and movies.
Sunday - Head back home, because thankfully, what I learned on Monday, shortly after we left a winter storm arrived.
But, one more place -Johnny Morri's Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium.
Attached to Bass Pro Shop, if you don't have time to spend hours at the museum, at least stop in and view the store. Even if you are not an angler or hunter, the store is really something!
https://wondersofwildlife.org/
This AQUARIUM beats all aquariums in the midwest region hands down!
The auqarium is only one of three portions of the paid museum. The store also has a couple of free museums to explore.
On the way home we stopped at my favorite reststops alongI44 / Route 66. Located about 5 miles North West of Marshfield on I44, this oasis has a playground and picnic areas in replica of buildings of past days.
