Author: ridesparky

Branson's Downtown is a uniquely Branson experience ... and also an all-American experience. Here's everything you need to know about planning a fun and productive visit to our downtown. Sammy Lane Camp and Downtown Branson, circa 1920s Downtown is Historic This is where Branson began more than a century ago. On the banks of the White River (later Lake Taneycomo), this small mountain settlement quickly turned into a hub of commerce and also a bustling tourism destination known for outdoor activities and later live entertainment. After the Civil War, shallow paddleboats could travel as far upstream as Branson, and eventually to the mouth of the James River near Kimberling City. But in 1906, the railroad came to Branson, and the river faded as a highway for travel and commerce. It…

The Branson Farmers Market is returning to Downtown Branson for the 2023 season. The Branson market takes place weekly every Tuesday evening from 3-7 p.m. May - October on the south end of the Branson Landing parking lot (Bass Pro side near the Taneycomo bridges). The Branson Farmers Market is affiliated with the Farmers Market of the Ozarks, which also operates the Saturday farmers market in Springfield. Visitors can find locally grown fresh produce, flowers and crafts. And depending on the week, you may also find food trucks, games and live entertainment. More than just shopping, it's always a fun family activity. The Farmers Market is also conveniently near Trolley Stop #1 at the Lakeside RV Park.

The Branson Parks & Recreation department oversees 16 parks spread throughout the City of Branson, with several great facilities waiting to be discovered in Downtown Branson. Here are a few of our favorite spots in downtown to curl up on a bench and read a great book: North Beach Park North Beach Park is a scenic park located on the banks of Take Taneycomo. next to the Branson Landing (parking in Belk parking lot). The park features a paved walking path along the lake that connects to the Branson Landing boardwalk making up 3/4 mile distance. Other park features include two fishing docks, picnic tables, barbecue grills and horseshoe pits. Whether nestling up against an old-growth oak tree or spreading out on a park bench, this is a favorite spot!…

The 2023 Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP) state archery tournament was held March 15-17 at the Branson Convention Center and drew more than 5,000 student archers in grades 4-12 from more than 200 schools across the state. The tournament was sponsored and coordinated by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) and is one of the largest events held annually in Downtown Branson. The tournament offered both a bullseye competition with 3,632 archers and a 3D tournament with 1,616 archers, with some participants competing in both. Those archers that are ranking in the top 10 for their division, as well as the top ranked schools, will be eligible to move on to the Eastern or Western National Archery in the Schools…

Because of our rugged, mountain settlers' history, Branson has a special connection to the American art form of quilting. Because of that, we're excited to be hosting the American Quilter's Society March 22-25 at the Branson Convention Center. AQS Quiltweek will feature four days of quilt classes, lectures, and special events from the best names in quilting! Whether you're a beginner or advanced quiltmaker, AQS has classes and techniques with all levels of quilters in mind. See the latest in quilting as you browse aisles of fabrics, machines, and quilting supply vendors in the AQS QuiltWeek Merchant Mall. Be inspired as you explore hundreds of beautiful quilts, from award-winning and semi-finalist contest quilts to special exhibits. Don't miss the local attractions that Downtown Branson has to offer, featuring shopping, dining and all…

Great weather, lots of fun activities... what more could you want for your Spring Break than a trip to Branson, Missouri. And don't miss out on all the great things to do in Historic Downtown Branson. It's a great time to visit! Shopping With more than 200 specialty retailers, Downtown Branson is the perfect place to shop for everything from quills to quilts and popsicles to popcorn. While here, you will definitely want to visit Dick’s 5 & 10, a cornerstone of Branson shopping since 1961. In addition to the 250,000 items on the shelves, Dick’s 5 & 10 is home to several impressive collections from the stores' founder, Dick Hartley, like G Scale Trains and White River Arrowheads. Downtown shops like Fashion House International, Ozark Quilts & More and…

Spring is just around the corner, and that means that Sparky, the Free Downtown Branson Trolley, is returning a regular daily operating schedule! Starting March 1 the trolley will run throughout Downtown Branson from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., every day of the week. Hours of Operation: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., 7 days a week (March-Dec.) 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Weekends (Jan.-Feb.) No service Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day Explore all that Downtown Branson has to offer with the comfortable and convenient trolleys! Sparky has a total of 12 stops in a single loop and continuous running during hours. So if you just miss Sparky, wait a few minutes and he'll be back around shortly! Downtown is home to over 100 unique shops, restaurants, sweet treat spots, cafes, and…

From vintage jewelry and clothing to antique furnishings and one-of-a-kind artwork, Historic Downtown Branson's antique stores and flea markets are full of treasures waiting to be discovered. Cadwell's Downtown Flea Market114 E Main Street Nostalgic items including vintage postcards, clothing, figurines and more can all be found in this popular market which is home to a diverse group of vendors and booths. Since it's only half a block from the Branson Scenic Railway, Cadwell's is also a favorite spot for visitors waiting for a train ride. Bratton's Uniques and Antiques120 North Sycamore Street #110 At Bratton's Uniques & Antiques, tasteful, trendy products keep you coming back to discover what newly acquired surprises are to be found. The helpful sales associates are always on hand to point out new arrivals and…

The Branson Arts Council is a little-known gem in our Historic Downtown, with local and guest actors performing in first-rate productions on the oldest stage in Branson: The Historic Owen Theatre. The theatre is located at 205 S. Commercial Street and next to Liberty Plaza in Downtown Branson. It's your opportunity to see some of the best Broadway productions presented on a local stage with local talent. Information and tickets are available at https://bransonarts.org/ Among the 2023 productions, BRAC has scheduled: Mary Poppins Everyone’s favorite practically perfect nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure presented by the Branson Regional Arts Council at the Historic Owen Theatre! There will be 15 spectacular performances of Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical from February 9 – 26, 2023 with shows on…

Throughout the winter and into the summer months, Branson is the site for some of America’s best cheer and dance teams facing off for trophies and national bragging rights! Athleticism, Spirit and Team Work are traits every cheerleader must possess to pull such a big win! Several major competitions are in Branson this year, including: The Worldwide Spirit Association American All Star Nationals takes place at the Hilton Branson Convention Center over the course of two days, February 11-12. A unique, end-of-season event offered to Cheer and Dance Teams. Other 2023 Dance and Cheer Meets in Downtown Branson: Bravo Spirit and Cheer, Feb. 18Myths & Legends, Feb. 24-26Stage One Productions, June 12-17Addiction Dance, June 20-24Starpower 2023, June 25-30UCA/UDA Varsity Spirit, July 13-17