Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City is the centerpiece of Branson tourism and one of the most unique theme parks in America. Set in the Ozark Mountains, it combines world-class thrill rides with authentic 1880s-era craftsmanship demonstrations, a 300-foot underground cave, live shows, and some of the best theme park food in the country.

The rides are legitimately world-class. Time Traveler is the world's fastest, steepest, and tallest spinning coaster. Outlaw Run is a wooden coaster with multiple inversions (a rarity for wooden coasters). WildFire is a multi-looping steel coaster. For younger kids, the Fireman's Landing area has over a dozen rides sized for children, including kiddie coasters, spinning rides, and water play.

What sets Silver Dollar City apart from other theme parks is the craft culture. Over 100 resident craftsmen practice trades throughout the park -- glassblowing, blacksmithing, pottery, candle-making, woodworking, and basket weaving. These are not demonstrations for show; they are skilled artisans creating real products.

Kids can often try their hand at crafts, and the products are sold in park shops.

Marvel Cave (included in park admission) was the original attraction before Silver Dollar City was built above it. Guided tours descend 300 feet into a massive cave system via a staircase (the return trip is by a cable train). The Cathedral Room is one of the largest cave rooms in America. The cave maintains a constant 55°F, so bring a light jacket.

The food is a genuine differentiator. Silver Dollar City's in-park food is handmade and reflects Ozark culinary traditions. The cinnamon bread at Eva & Delilah's Bakery is legendary -- warm, pull-apart loaves coated in cinnamon sugar. The funnel cakes, smoked turkey legs, and BBQ are park-food quality that rivals actual restaurants.

An Old Time Christmas (November-December) transforms the park with 6.5 million lights, Christmas shows, and holiday programming. It is consistently rated the #1 theme park Christmas event in the country.