Branson Tours: How to See the Ozarks With Locals

Boats, trains and automobiles – explore the Ozarks in style. Ranked as a top 20 destination by TripAdvisor users, Branson features a scenic mountain location that welcomes visitors to explore. Even better, the city provides different ways to see the area, so guests can pick the best activity for their group. Read below to learn about the top Branson tours.

Top Branson Tours: Sightseeing Activities in the Ozarks

Main Street Lake Cruises

Lake lovers can’t miss the chance to see Branson from the water. Main Street Lake Cruises hosts two different upscale boat rides down Lake Taneycomo.

Lake Queen, a modern-day replica of historic riverboats, takes guests down the river to learn about the city’s waterfront. These tours suit all ages and feature climate control, on-board restrooms, and handicap accessibility.

Landing Princess offers a more luxurious cruise on Lake Taneycomo. The 1.5-hour dinner tour takes place on a 100-foot yacht where guests enjoy lake views, wildlife watching, dinner and full bar. Amenities include dining and reception areas, large restrooms, and glass-enclosed decks perfect for enjoying the view. While sightseeing, keep an eye out for bald eagles, which are common in the area.

VIP Tours of Branson

Owned by locals, VIP Tours of Branson offers two tours year-round and a special lights tour during the holiday season. Families with children can schedule a Discover Branson Tour, which lasts three hours and explores Branson’s sites, scenic overlooks, and history. Guests 21 years and older may enjoy Branson Wine and Food Tour. This half-day trip takes passengers to three wineries and includes a sit-down dinner.

During the holidays, treat loved ones with a three-hour Christmas lights tour that showcases professional light displays and hot beverages and treats. Each tour takes guests around town in a Mercedes Sprint Coach, providing comfort for everyone in the group. In addition, local guides promise an entertaining experience.

Chopper Charter

Fly high over the city and mountains on a Branson helicopter tour provided by Chopper Charter. This company offers five daytime helicopter tours and three dinner flights.

Daytime tours range in time, area and price, but one popular option is Matinee. This option explores Inspiration Tower and lakes, Branson attractions, and Table Rock Dam. Other tours include the trailer, main feature and encore.

Ideal for special occasions, couples should take the Chateau on the Lake tour over Table Rock Lake. End the adventure at The Chateau Grille, which serves gourmet cuisine while visitors enjoy romantic sunsets.

Branson Scenic Railway

This 40-mile journey travels through the Ozark foothills and tunnels as guests learn about Branson’s history. Branson Scenic Railway features a real train that departs multiple times a day throughout the year, with a festive Polar Express during the holiday season.

For less than $20 per person, riders board a vintage train and sit in dome cars or coach seating. During the trip, stroll different cars, listen to narrated stories and enjoy light concessions. For added flair, try the dinner train option, which serves a four-course candlelit meal.

After reading about these Branson tours, check out the area’s ziplining adventures.

Want to visit soon? Start with these family-friendly Branson vacation rentals.