Branson, Mo., has long distinguished itself as a terrific destination for groups, thanks to its wide range of entertainment and outdoor activities, top-notch event spaces, and easy accessibility. A team from Northstar Meetings Group, in partnership with
Explore Branson, got to experience the destination's appeal first-hand during a recent visit to this delightful gem in the heart of the Ozarks. Throughout the trip, we shared
our experience with our followers on social media, spotlighting some of the venues, attractions and group offerings available for meetings.
Below are some highlights of our time in Branson.
Branson Landing Adventures
Our journey included an afternoon and evening exploring Branson Landing, the city's premier waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment district. It offers more than 100 stores, restaurants and attractions, ensuring that there will be something for
any attendee.
We started things off by getting a lay of the land with a heart-pounding zipline ride over Lake Taneycomo, courtesy of Parakeet Pete's Waterfront Zipline. This
offered stunning views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains and an ideal overview of the whole Branson Landing area. The zipline includes two pairs of seats, allowing four attendees to experience it at a time.
Once back on solid ground, we explored the wide range of shops and relaxed at Andy B's Tiki Bar, sipping on tropical cocktails while enjoying the soothing lakefront ambiance before
moving on to a waterfront reception at Bricktown Brewery. The craft beer selection and delicious menu options made it a perfect spot for networking and unwinding. Live musicians entertained the visitors at both locations (not to mention a few buskers
working along the Landing's main drag), elevating the experience for all.
To end the evening on a high note, we swung next door to Meta Golf, an indoor golf simulator that offers individual or group players to simulate the experience of playing on
more than 200 different courses, renting for nine- or 18-hole games.
Once we finished the game, it was just a few steps back to the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel where we were staying. Besides its ideal location adjacent to the Branson Convention Center (where Northstar Meetings Group held its recent Destination Midwest event), the hotel offers state-of-the-art meeting facilities, luxurious rooms, a refreshing pool and range of on-site dining options (more on those later). The convenience of being near Branson Landing added an extra layer
of appeal.
Outdoor Explorations
What sets Branson apart from many destinations is its truly exceptional outdoor offerings — and the many ways groups can enjoy them. We got to fully experience that during this trip, starting in the morning with a visit to Branson's State Park Marina,
offering boat and equipment rentals, lake cruises and plenty of other aquatic experiences.
We started our day with an adrenaline-pumping waterskiing adventure on Table Rock Lake. The clear waters and scenic surroundings, combined with the early-morning fog, made it a surreal experience, and a lot of fun for the small group of
us that went out. The warm temperatures of the lake ensured that even when it was chilly outside, it was plenty comfortable for the waterskiers.
After the morning's excitement, we transitioned to relaxation mode with an afternoon outing on the Spirit of America catamaran cruise. With music playing,
snacks and beverages enjoyed by all, sailing on Table Rock Lake offered a tranquil contrast to the morning's activities.
Late afternoon brought us to the striking Top of the Rock venue at Big Cedar Lodge for a round of golf. The challenging course, designed with the assistance of golf greats including Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Arnold Palmer, is surrounded
by stunning, natural beauty. It's truly a golfer's dream come true. It's also one of a number of world-class golf courses in Branson, which also include Payne's Valley (designed by
Tiger Woods) and Branson Hills Golf Course, designed by Chuck Smith and literally carved into the side of the Ozark Mountains.
To continue our exploring (without having to get off our golf carts), we embarked on the Lost Canyon Cave Golf Cart Tour. The tour takes visitors along a 2.5-mile
trail, with numerous scenic stops to view waterfalls, rock formations and lush blankets of trees. It included a visit to the Bat Bar inside a captivating cave, where we savored some of the property's signature drinks amidst the subterranean wonders.
Perhaps the highlight of the whole trip was an evening reception at the Buffalo Bar at Top of the Rock, where diners take in stunning views of Table Rock Lake as the afternoon shifts to dusk. The venue's beloved sunset ceremony, complete
with a bagpipe performance and the booming echo of a Civil War-era cannon, was a majestic finale to our day.
World-Class Properties and More
Our final day in Branson was dedicated to exploring event venues and experiencing the city's quirky charm. We headed to the nearby Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center,
which offers more than 53,000 square feet of event space as well as numerous dining options. The newly added pickleball court added an element of fun for attendees, allowing them to engage in friendly competition between meetings.
Our next
stop was the sprawling Big Cedar Lodge wilderness resort — an icon in the region, created by Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris. Groups are able to choose from an extensive range of activities
here, including fishing, kayaking and even go-kart racing, all set amidst its picturesque surroundings. From rustic lodges to elegant ballrooms, this destination's event spaces are as appealing and varied as its activities.
For an afternoon of team bonding, we visited the Bass Pro Shops Shooting Academy just off the Big Cedar property. Here, we tried our hand at clay shooting under the guidance of expert
instructors. The venue caters to all skill levels, making it a memorable experience for everyone.
Before heading back to the Hilton, we took a driving tour of Entertainment Boulevard, a whimsical street filled with fascinating attractions. Highlights included an aquarium seemingly in the grip of a giant octopus and a Titanic museum shaped like the
legendary ship itself.
We concluded our trip with a celebratory meal at Level2 Steakhouse, indulging in delicious filet mignon, outstanding side dishes and gooey butter cake for dessert. It was the perfect way
to reflect on our Branson adventure and its potential as an ideal destination for meetings and events.
Sponsored by:
