branson Archives - Sunset Nightly Rentals

If you need a little help planning your upcoming Branson, Missouri getaway, look no further! This vacation destination hosts a variety of events that will keep the whole family engaged during your travels. Here are some upcoming Branson events that you must attend during your stay:

Branson’s Farmers Market

If your stay in Branson is during the week, make sure you stop by the weekly Branson Farmers’ Market. This free event is held each week at the North Branson Landing parking lot and will let you experience local farmers and traders. Pick up some unique souvenirs or try out freshly foraged produce and fruit. Other goods for sale include homemade jams, baked goods, soaps, candles, and so much more. The Branson Farmers’ Market is open every Tuesday from 3:00pm to 7:00pm.

Our Lady of the Lake Annual Arts & Crafts Festival

You will find the perfect souvenir for your Branson vacation at this year’s Our Lady of the Lake Annual Arts & Crafts Festival. This unique event features over 40 booths that offer an incredible selection of handcrafted items, one-of-a-kind gifts, home grown vegetables, and even early Christmas shopping. 50/50 drawing and lunch fund raiser will also be present where you can win exciting gifts and help out local charities. Visit this year’s Our Lady of the Lake Annual Arts & Crafts Festival from October 12 to October 14 and don’t miss any other of these Branson events!

Planning Your Trip with Sunset Nightly Rentals and Enjoy Even More Branson Events!

Start planning your next trip to Branson, Missouri with the professionals at Sunset Nightly Rentals and check what other amusing things are here to do in our town! You will not find a bigger and better selection of vacation rentals anywhere else than our list of exclusive properties. Let our friendly staff help you find the perfect rental for your next trip to Branson!

There are around 10,000 people that live in Branson, but the area enjoys the company of around 10 million visitors every year. This is because some of the many interesting facts about the city, along with the opportunities for a vacation here becoming more well-known. Here are just a few of those Branson facts.

Table Rock Lake Offers Almost as Much Shoreline as the Entire Coast of California

You can find around 750 miles of beautiful coast on Missouri’s largest lake. This clear blue water meets lush forest to create the perfect environment for endless lake recreation. Hiking, boating, swimming, or simply finding a quiet piece of shoreline to relax are all great ways to spend a day at Table Rock Lake.

The Area was One of the Best to Visit During the Fall by the Huffington Post

Firstly, the area features incredible beauty throughout the entire year. Lush forests along rolling hills and towering mountains make for incredible views and opportunities for exploring. But the landscape during the fall is truly a sight to behold. Incredible fall colors explode along lingering, vibrant greens, making for a special smattering of colors.

The City Has Over 50,000 Theater Seats

While the natural beauty here is amazing, the culture in the city is also something special. You can catch just about any live performance imaginable in Branson. Regardless of what night of the week it is, you can pick between endless concerts, plays, recitals, and much more between many beautiful venues.

One of the Travel Channel’s Best Places to Visit for Christmas

The community in Branson is not one to take Christmas lightly. During the Christmas season, the city bursts with endless lights, festivals, and other celebrations. This is especially true of Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, just to the west of Branson. It is always a good time to visit, but there is a special energy in Missouri’s most popular theme park during this time of year.

The City Offers 10 Championship Golf Courses

Many people think of Florida when talking about places with great golf, but the Branson area offers many courses that are as beautiful as you will find anywhere in the country. Beyond the amazing design and construction of these courses, this is simply a beautiful place to find yourself out on the golf course.

Learn Branson Information During Your Relaxing Vacation

History, fun, culture, and much more: You can find it all in Branson and the area that surrounds! It is not necessarily one opportunity that makes it such a wonderful place to visit, but it is the diversity of opportunities. Make your next trip one to discover this one of a kind place.

Not long after I moved back to the Ozarks in 2005, I reread Shepherd of the Hills by Harold Bell Wright. Reading the book as an adult impacted how I look at the Ozarks in a big way. While I enjoy the lakes here and their beauty is breathtaking, the hills call to me and always have since I first started exploring them back in the 1970s. When I look out over the mountains, I often imagine the people who lived in this region before Mr. Wright’s book became a best seller and people came looking for Uncle Matt and Aunt Molly. When I get a chance, I still love finding new trails to explore so when my sister and brother and law recommended the Homestead Trail, I decided to check it out. The Homestead Trail is part of Ruth and Paul Henning Conversation Area (interesting side note – Paul Henning was the creator of The Beverly Hillbillies, Petticoat Junction and Green Acres). The main parking lot for the conservation area is located right off of Highway 76 and offers wonderful views of the Ozark Mountains and a few moderately difficult trails, while the Homestead Trail is more secluded and can be accessed at the end of Sycamore Church Road off of Highway 248. This 3.5 mile trail is more difficult to traverse but even as a 50 year old woman with a little bit of a spare tire, I was able to make the hike with a few breaks to rest, hydrate and take in the serenity. There are 15 markers along the trail indicating where homes once stood. Other than the markers, there aren’t a lot of signs that people once lived in these remote hills. A few old stone wells, some old barbed wire growing through the trees and some foundations are all that remain of the homes inhabited with real-life people like the characters that helped form Branson into what it is. Even though the homes are no longer standing, there is still plenty to see along the hike. The trail winds through heavily forested areas into glades (or as they are known locally Balds) teaming with wildflowers, reptiles and birds. The whole 3.5 mile trek took us about 5 hours but we stopped many times along the way to try to rest and to look for skinks and lizards. We also pondered about the uses of many artifacts along the trail such as a cement wall about 100 feet long and 2 feet high running along a dry creek bed. If you are looking for a way to connect with the Ozarks that is off the beaten path, I highly recommend this hike. Just wear good shoes and take plenty of water and insect repellent.

W.E. Nunan’s Specialty Foods

Since I work just up the hill from Downtown Branson and deal with the traffic going to and from the office during the summer months, I very rarely venture across Business 76 during this hectic time of year. Yesterday, right before the busiest weekend in Branson, my husband and I decided to do just that and enter the Forbidden Zone for locals in our search of a Blu-Ray player compatible with our out-dated surround sound system. I’m sure others will identify with this syndrome which I call Nonsensical Thiftitus. Our 5+ year old Blu-Ray player bit the dust and instead of buying a new one, my husband feels the necessity to scour the pawn shops and thrift stores for another one that will work with the speakers that are older than the player, and possibly time, itself. We will continue this fruitless quest until I finally break down and buy a new system. Inevitably, two weeks after this purchase, while searching for another technological antique that has gone haywire, we will come across exactly what we had been looking for.

But I digress. While strolling from Lightning Pawn toward Branson Pawn, we passed W.E. Nunan’s Specialty Foods, whose opening I remembered from a recent Chamber of Commerce announcement and decided to stop and take a look. What we found inside was delightful! There were unique gifts sprinkled throughout the shop but the meat counter drew my attention immediately. All the meats are made and smoked in-house, including boudin, brats, summer sausage and chocolate-covered bacon. We sampled the boudin which packed a little kick but was not too spicy to cover up the great taste. Since we had just planned on picking up a burger or something to take home for dinner, we decide to get a couple apple brats instead. At $1.99 each, you can’t beat the price at any fast food factory. We took home a jar of Apple Salsa too which complimented the brats superbly. Oh, in addition to traditional salsa, they also have pineapple salsa and bacon salsa. Wait, let me say that again with all the respect and emphasis it deserves – BACON SALSA!!!! There are a variety of barbeque sauces, jellies and jams, including a concoction called Frog Jam, which I forgot to ask the owner about but will certainly remember to ask next time I go.

If you’re looking for something a little different to try or to take home to friends, stop in and check out this new Branson business. The prices are definitely affordable, the owners are friendly, the food is good and you can’t go wrong with bacon!

With all the natural beauty surrounding our pristine 43,000 acre lake, there is a plethora of activities that you and your family can enjoy on, in, under and beside this lake. Here’s our Top 10 List (in no particular order).

1) Swimming

Take a dip in the warm waters of the lake. Find a secluded cove to splash and play or if you prefer the sand under your feet, check out Moonshine Beach.

2) Boating

If you are bringing your boat with you or if want to rent a boat for the day, State Park Marina or Indian Point Marina can help you out. Be sure to call early though as boat slips fill up fast!

3) Canoeing or kayaking

If you prefer a slower traipse around the lake to really take in the beauty, a canoe or kayak is right up your alley. Ozarks Extreme Outdoors and Kayak Branson make renting a snap.

4) Fishing

For the anglers in the family, Table Rock offers up a variety of fish including bass and crappie. If it’s your first time on the lake, you might consider a fishing guide like Pete’s Professional Guide Service or Branson Guided Fishing Trips to show you the best spots. If you’re ready to go it on your own, check out Pete’s Fishing Report for a weekly update on lake levels, temperature and everything you need to know to get the fish biting.

5) Hiking

Take a walk beside the lake on Table Rock Lakeshore Trail. This easy 2.25 mile trail is so well-maintained and flat that wheelchairs and strollers aren’t a problem. For the more adventurous, the area does offer more challenging trails. Click here for a list of trails along with their maps.

6) Bicyling

If you want to take to two wheels on the trails, our friends at State Park Marina can help out again. They offer bike rentals by the hour or by the day to accommodate your schedule.

7) Parasailing

What better way to take in the splendor of the lake than from a bird’s eye perspective? A tour American Parasail allows you to fly like an eagle over Table Rock. They will even video your experience and private charters are available.

8) Scuba Diving

Go under the surface and explore the depths of the lake. Who knows what treasure may be waiting to be discovered. Or if that doesn’t work, there’s still some pretty cool fish and scenery to take in. For more information, check out White River Dive Co.

9) Dewey Short Visitor Center

This museum offers a respite from the outside on a hot or rainy day but it’s an experience to visit anytime. With interactive displays about the history and construction of Table Rock Dam, local flora and fauna, and Native American artifacts, everyone in the family will find something to interest them.

10) The Showboat Branson Belle

Want a great meal at a great price and a great show all while you’re cruising the lake? Look no further. The Branson Belle serves it all up on a 1890’s style paddlewheeler with tons of fun and flair.

Well, we hope this post offered some insight into a few of the activities and attractions that have made Branson, MO the great city it is. If you find yourself in the neighborhood and need a place to stay, make sure to check out our vacation homes & condos for rent!

You’ve worked hard all year. You look forward to some fun in the sun with the family. Visions of holes in one on Payne Stewart Golf Course and jet-skiing on Table Rock Lake dance in your head. You brave the drive through the Ozark Hills with the kids doing what kids must do on long trips – fighting about who touched whom. You arrive at your vacation rental, get a good night sleep and wake up, relaxed and ready. You open the door and…RAIN…RAIN…RAIN!!!!

What now, sulk in the condo and watch reruns? The family can’t decide on a show you would all enjoy? Don’t fret. Branson has tons of fun to offer when Mother Nature decides not to cooperate. Here’s just a few…

IMax Theater

Located in the IMax Entertainment Complex with live shows, shopping and food, this theater features six story tall screens showing first run feature films as well as visually amazing IMax feature. There’s even one about the history of the Ozarks with some breathtaking scenery. Even if you can’t be out in the mountains, you can still experience them bigger than life!

The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Experience

This exotic interactive experience is a hit with kids and adults alike. Hang out in the peaceful aviary watching the butterflies feed. Stick around and you may even be able to release one of the newly hatched butterflies to fly for the very first time. Since it’s a self-guided tour, you can take as much time as you want and hang out as long as you like at The Butterfly Palace.

Titanic Museum

Billed as The World’s Largest Museum Attraction, this interactive museum is filled with artifacts and reproductions of items from the ill-fated luxury liner, including a reproduction of the Grand Staircase. There’s even a scavenger hunt for the kids to participate in to keep them occupied while you browse and read all the interesting trivia scattered throughout the ship. More info can be found on The Titanic Museum Website.

World’s Largest Toy Museum

With over a million toys, you’re sure to find your favorite childhood toy on display at The World’s Largest Toy Museum. What a great way to spend a rainy day, reminiscing and sharing memories of your past with your kids. They may even discover that there was a time when toys didn’t have to be connected to the internet – or even plugged in, for that matter.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum

Spread out over 12,000 square feet, this Odditorium features over 450 items from the Ripley Collection. Ranging from the breathtaking to the macabre, everyone in the family can find something to oooh and aaaah over at Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum.

Celebration City is located just south of the 76 & Shepard of the Hills Expressway intersection. It has been closed since October 2008. If you would like to see the current view from a drone, watch this youtube video here. Did you go to Celebration City at night? Do you see the “special” items in the video?

Every day, Branson honors the veterens who fought for our freedom through shows and activities. This memorial day, Branson will give an extra special thanks to our veterans through many area events. We are still digging up upcoming branson events so check back as the holiday gets closer.

3. Shop the Outlet Malls & Branson Landing

The upcoming 3 day Memorial holiday weekend always brings shopping sales with it. This year is no different. From May 22-25 you’ll find many of the shopping malls and outlet stores in the area hosting sidewalk sales and specials. I recommend you start your spree at Tanger Outlets where you’ll find many name brand outlet stores. The Shoppes at Branson Meadows will likely be having big sales as well. As a bonus, you can catch an afternoon movie at the cinema too. Last but not least, you’ll find plenty of shopping, restaurants, and music downtown at The Branson Landing.

2. Silver Dollar City Bluegrass and BBQ Festival

The premier Branson area theme park Silver Dollar City always has something cooking. This memorial holiday you’ll find great American BBQ and Bluegrass music! This all-you-can eat BBQ fest takes place everyday from May 7-25 after 3pm in the Reunion Hall. Be sure to check the aformentioned link for their Bluegrass Music schedule as well.

1. Fireworks!

Who doesn’t like food, fireworks, and fun? Big Cedar Lodge and The Chataeu on the Lake will both be celebrating the weekend with music, food, children’s events, and a memorable evening of fireworks. Both events are open to the public so don’t miss out!

Need lodging this Memorial weekend? Visit Sunset Nightly Rentals and choose from 100 different vacation rentals spread across the Ozarks!

We have many pet friendly lodging options so you can bring Fido along on your vacation! With lakes and nature trails Fido will be a happy traveler. Visit our Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals Page and make your plans today!

Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront Balloon in Branson

Over the course of the last month, I’ve curiously watched crews assemble the new Waterfront Balloon. Rising some 16 stories in the air, this impressive cylindrical design can easily be seen from miles away. Today, my curiosity got the better of me so I drove down to The Branson Landing for a closer look.

The Branson Waterfront Balloon is located right next to Belks at The Branson Landing and overlooks Lake Taneycomo. Although details are rather scarce, the illuminated balloon will lift visitors to the top for a birds eye view of Downtown Branson, The Landing, and Lake Taneycomo. I’m not sure exactly how high the balloon will rise, but it’s my understanding the balloon will remain encapsulated in the steel structure. This enables operation during windy weather conditions. I’ve been unable to track down pricing or a grand opening date. As soon as more information becomes available, I will update this post.