Branson, Missouri, is known as many things, “Gateway to the Ozarks” and the “Live Music Capital of the World,” just to name a few. But what happens when you’ve seen the best shows in Branson or you’re a returning traveler looking for the next great experience?
Don’t worry! This city is filled with exciting surprises, and you’ll have no trouble discovering unexpected magic as you explore this list of 20 unusual things to do in Branson MO.
Hidden Gems in Branson, MO
You aren’t limited to the same shows, restaurants, and sights every time you visit Branson. Even first-time visitors can make their trip more exciting by exploring the city. Some locals are even surprised to learn about these unique things to do in Branson with kids!
Without further ado, here are 20 unusual things to do in Branson!
1 | Enjoy Mind-Bending Interactions at Beyond the Lens! | When it comes to quirky Branson tourist spots, Beyond the Lens! is one of the best. This interactive museum is fun for all ages.
Become an alien, take a picture with a T-rex, and find Bigfoot. There are 150 attractions to explore, and you can even catch a ride on the famous full-motion flying theater!
WHERE: 3115 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-337-9333
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2 | Hang with Jellyfish at Aquarium at the Boardwalk | The ”Bloom Room” in the Branson aquarium is a mesmerizing infinity room, complete with mirrors, glowing lights, and hundreds of beautiful jellyfish floating gracefully in their tanks.
The jellyfish room is just one of many unusual Branson experiences. Add a little magic to your experience and check out the aquarium’s mermaid palace and ocean kaleidoscope.
WHERE: 2700 W 76 Country Blvd unit a, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-335-3474
3 | Explore Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail | Ride through a cave in an electric cart and discover intricate rock formations and breathtaking waterfalls.
The two-and-a-half-mile journey is a true hidden gem near Branson. You’ll also see amazing views of Table Rock Lake and the Ozark Mountains from the park, so don’t forget your camera!
WHERE: 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, MO 65739 | WHO: 800-225-6343
4 | See a Live Show on Table Rock Lake | Showboat Branson Belle features live entertainment as you cruise along the water.
This four-deck riverboat offers a three-course dinner and multiple viewing decks for you to take in all the action. From musical performances to acrobatics, there’s always something exciting happening aboard.
WHERE: 4800 Historic Hwy 165, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 800-775-2628
5 | Discover Shipwrecked Treasure | The Shipwrecked Treasure Museum is a lesser-known Branson attraction that features hundreds of recovered artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the chance to live like a real pirate!
You can see a full-scale paddlewheel frame from a century-old shipwreck, one of only 100 astrolabes in existence, and even step into a hurricane simulator!
WHERE: 505 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-635-5041
6 | Wander Through a Mirror Maze | Those looking for unusual Branson tourist spots will love Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors. There are 288 possible turns! Which one will you choose?
Located inside a lifelike castle in the Branson Entertainment District, this mirror maze puts you at the heart of an interactive story. Princess Hannah has been cursed and needs your help. Don’t worry about getting lost; the story characters will appear to guide you toward the ending!
This is a super fun, family-friendly attraction that adults and kiddos will both love!
WHERE: 3030 76 Country Blvd C, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-337-8700
7 | Get Wild at the National Tiger Sanctuary | Over 40 big cats call the National Tiger Sanctuary home. Get up close with a Bengal tiger, African lion, or other animals.
The sanctuary offers ample photo opportunities and a chance to learn about these incredible species. All of the cats have been rescued, so the price of admission goes toward paying for their lifelong care.
WHERE: 518 State Hwy BB, Saddlebrooke, MO 65630 | WHO: 417-587-3633
8 | Travel Back in Time to The Dinosaur Museum | The age of Dinosaurs is alive and well in Branson! This Jurassic World-style exhibit is an amazing trip for all the dino lovers out there.
Dig up fossils, go on a scavenger hunt, and watch a free dinosaur documentary to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
WHERE: 3619 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-239-0733
9 | Enter a Living Rainforest at The Butterfly Palace | The Butterfly Palace is home to hundreds of magnificent, exotic butterflies and a unique rainforest exhibit with frogs, lizards, and more.
Wander through the Emerald Mirror Maze, take on the Great Banyan Tree Adventure, and watch educational movies to learn more about the amazing creatures that call the rainforest their home.
WHERE: 4106 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-332-2231
10 | Mine for Gemstones at Talking Rocks Cavern | You can definitely say this attraction is a hidden gem. Every Branson local knows about Talking Rocks Cavern, but not everyone knows you can mine for your very own gemstones!
Purchase a bag of mining gravel and start sifting. You’ll be amazed to find beautiful gems emerge! You get to keep all of your treasures as a souvenir, too!
The cavern also has its own mini golf course, playground for the kids, a hiking trail with a lookout tower, and of course, amazing guided tours that take you over 100 feet below ground!
WHERE: 423 Fairy Cave Ln, Branson West, MO 65737 | WHO: 417-272-3366
11 | Discover an Underwater Town at Table Rock Lake | Scuba divers can venture to Oasis, a village 100 feet below the surface of Table Rock Lake. It was a former colony in Taney County, Missouri that was submerged for decades.
You’ll need some scuba gear and a guide to uncover one of the best secret spots in Branson, but the trip is beyond worth it. Table Rock State Park offers scuba diving excursions to help you find even more hidden gems in Branson, like submerged oak trees and underwater beaches.
WHERE: 5272 Historic Hwy 165, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-334-4704
12 | See the World’s Largest Rooster at The Chicken House | The main attraction at The Chicken House is the enormous 43-foot fiberglass rooster outside!
Take a picture with him, then chow down on fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, and more delicious bites from their all-day breakfast and lunch menu.
This is one of the unusual Branson tourist spots you should definitely check out on your next visit.
WHERE: 2421 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-335-6699
13 | Discover Ozarks History at the Ralph Foster Museum | The Ozarks are a fascinating region with a rich history. Visit this museum at the College of the Ozarks to learn more about the history, culture, and people that have made the region what it is today.
Enjoy seasonal exhibits showcasing art by Ozark-native artists, and watch exciting exhibits bring history to life. Kids will love the discovery room complete with a tent and bear rug!
WHERE: 237 Christian St, Point Lookout, MO 65726 | WHO: 417-690-3407
14 | Drink at Smith Creek Moonshine | Moonshine is a vital part of the Ozark’s culture and history. You can taste some for yourself at Smith Creek, where there is a wide range of flavors to enjoy along with barbeque and live music!
Another secret in Branson is the Moonshine Bread Pudding. Locals know a meal at Smith Creek isn’t complete without it!
WHERE: 1209 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 800-441-5053
15 | Check Out the World’s Largest Fork and Meatball at Pasghetti's | After a day of hiking near Branson MO, refuel with some hearty Italian fare at the iconic Pasghetti’s!
This family-friendly Italian eatery is loved by locals not only for its amazing food but its one-of-a-kind design. If you think the giant fork and meatball sculpture outside is impressive enough, then just wait until you get inside!
WHERE: 3129 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-335-0690
16 | Go on a Pink Jeep Tour | Horseback riding Branson trails is one way to go off the beaten path. But what about riding in a pink Jeep with an expert tour guide?
Pink Jeep Adventure Tours was founded in 1960 and is the country’s leading off-road tour company. Once you’re strapped into the jeep, it’s time to ride off to Baird Mountain while an expert guide brings the area to life with exciting facts and history.
WHERE: 3310 W 76 Country Blvd Ste D, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 800-873-3662
17 | Get a Photo in Front of the ExploreBranson Postcard Mural | This amazing mural is one of many you’ll find in Branson. It’s nestled downtown, making it the perfect excuse to spend a day wandering the streets, trying pastries from the local bakeries, and snapping Instagram-worthy pics.
The ExploreBranson mural was designed by retired U.S. Navy Draftsman John Bell and painted by Raine Clotfelter who is known as “America's muralist.” It was completed in October 2016 and has been delighting locals and tourists ever since.
Visiting the mural for a photo op is also one of the top free things to do in Branson!
WHERE: Historic Downtown Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: N/A
18 | Find Your Way Out of an Escape Room | Cryptex Branson has five escape rooms for all ages and varying party sizes. The whole family will have a blast solving riddles, working through puzzles, and uncovering amazing secrets as you star in your own interactive story!
Choose from sci-fi, a murder mystery, or a thrilling journey through “The Crypt.” Escape rooms at Cryptex are best for children 12+. You won’t be disappointed when you visit.
These rooms have won the “Best of Branson” award for five years and counting!
WHERE: 1819 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-320-6263
19 | See the Sunset at Top of the Rock Restaurant | Experience one of the best places to watch the sunset in Branson. The Top of the Rock restaurant offers high-end dining in a rustic, lodge-inspired atmosphere.
A real Civil War cannon will erupt as the sun starts to set, leaving you awestruck. Be sure to book an evening reservation to catch the signature cannon sunset ceremony.
WHERE: 150 Top of the Rock Rd, Ridgedale, MO 65739 | WHO: 417-339-5320
20 | Relax at Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area | This 140-acre nature park overlooks Lake Taneycomo and features a waterfall, picnic tables, and plenty of hiking trails.
There are wooded, rugged paths that span for miles, and it’s dog-friendly! The first half-mile of the main trail is ideal for all ages, so bring the whole family along for an amazing day immersed in the Ozarks.
WHERE: 412 Owen Ln, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: 417-335-2368
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Frequently Asked Questions About 20 Unusual Things to Do in Branson, MO
Yes, Branson offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, including exploring Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, visiting the Aquarium at the Boardwalk, and enjoying interactive exhibits at Beyond the Lens!
While some attractions may not allow pets, outdoor areas like Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area provide a pet-friendly environment for leisurely walks and picnics with your furry companions.
Several attractions in Branson offer affordable or free admission, such as exploring the ExploreBranson Postcard Mural, hiking at Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, and taking photos in front of the world's largest fork and meatball at Pasghetti's.
Branson boasts several unique attractions, including exploring an underwater town at Table Rock Lake, encountering mind-bending interactions at Beyond the Lens!, and marveling at the world's largest rooster at The Chicken House.
Absolutely! Families with children can enjoy attractions like the Dinosaur Museum, where they can travel back in time, or The Butterfly Palace, where they can enter a living rainforest and interact with exotic butterflies.
According to Google reviews, popular attractions in Branson include the National Tiger Sanctuary, Table Rock Lake, and the Ralph Foster Museum, offering visitors memorable experiences and educational insights.
Yes, Branson offers guided tours and excursions like Pink Jeep Tours, providing visitors with unique perspectives of the city's natural beauty and historical landmarks.
Absolutely! Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences at attractions like the Aquarium at the Boardwalk, where they can hang out with jellyfish, or challenge themselves in escape rooms for immersive adventures.
Discover Branson Hidden Gems
So many remarkable, unusual Branson experiences are waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking hiking trails or the best magician Branson, MO, has to offer, you’ll find plenty to amaze and surprise you when you visit the city.
If you’re ready for more adventures, check out our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog and read up on the top Branson resorts to get the inside scoop on everything locals love about the Ozarks.
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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your Branson vacation awaits! Explore our Branson resorts today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.
* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
