Blog

The fall festivities at the area’s farms don’t stop at the standard pumpkin picking, hayride, or corn maze. From McKenna Family Farm’s face painting and life-sized gerbil wheel, to the Harvest Festival’s pumpkin bowling, pumpkin chuckin’ contests, and live music; and Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park’s Spooktacular, complete with pumpkin painting, great pumpkin ropes course, and zombie paintball, it’s clear to see that Branson’s pumpkin parties go far beyond the staples. Don’t worry though if your favorite part is picking the perfect pumpkin to carve up later at home—all the fall festivals and farms have a full selection of plump pumpkins to pick from!

Stand-up paddleboarding has enjoyed a recent surge in popularity. With everything from SUP yoga to SUP fishing and racing, it’s truly a watersport with something for everyone. Likened to surfing, but without the required skills, paddleboarding is a great way to get active or simply float on top of Branson’s freshwater lakes. A sport even fresher to the water world than SUPing is the high-powered jetpack sport of flyboarding. Feel the water pressurized beneath you as you fly off into the sky above the waters. As one of the few recreation areas in the country that offer flyboarding, Branson is the place for those looking to test the limits of adventure. Of course, if classic water sports are more your speed, spend a day cruising in a kayak, canoe or jet ski. 

Explore the banyan trees, tropical critters, and ecosystems of the rainforest at Branson’s Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure. From the Rainforest Theater that introduces you to the Hidden World of the Butterfly Palace and gives you a 3D look at the Flight of the Butterflies, to the Banyan Tree Adventure where you can swing on rainforest rope “vines” and traverse around fallen pillars, it's easy to channel your inner explorer. The real stars here, though, are the rainforest’s living inhabitants. In the Exotic Butterfly Aviary, catch sight of birds, botanical species, and butterflies that are only found in a few collections throughout the world. Then, in the Living Rainforest Science Center, engage first-hand with the salamanders, geckos, and giant cockroaches that inhabit the rainforest. Most importantly, don’t forget to say hello to the center’s blue-tongued skink, Harry!

With its first beers brewed and bottled in 2011, Mother’s Brewing Company is all about the love—love for their city, love for life, and love for their craft. Settled in the heart of nearby Springfield, Mother’s mission to create a downtown revival and brews steeped in the traditions of the craft, have led to their much loved local favorites like their American Lager Step Dude and the Lil’ Helper American IPA. Great Escape Beer Works’ beer masters have brewed original flavors since their pre-teen years, but it was time spent in the craft brew culture of Colorado that established their signature suds. Though their tap selection rotates, the offerings pull inspiration from nature—Backcountry Brett Pale Ale and River Rock Porter—with a portion of the proceeds from their Wayfinder IPA even going to build local trails. Other breweries worth a visit are the Bricktown Brewery and Lost Signal.

The 10,000-acre expanse of pure Ozark nature at the Dogwood Canyon Preserve provides another link to the diverse natural world where Branson is nestled. Bike the several-mile path through the preserve; try your hand at fishing the spring-fed water in hopes of hooking a rainbow trout; or ride on horseback with your own wrangler as a guide through the ridges, hollows, and logging roads. While you can never go wrong when discovering nature for yourself, sometimes it helps to have a guiding hand, and Dogwood offers tours for all types of adventures. From Segway excursions to a “ride on the wild side” wildlife tour (keep an eye out for whitetail deer, American bison, and Texas longhorn) you’ll leave with a new-found wonder for Branson’s natural beginnings.

Slow smoked pulled pork, potatoes packed full of the finest fillings, a beef patty sandwiched in a bun and dressed up to the burger’s standard of perfection — melt in your mouth, you might say, but we don’t think that quite measures up. However you slice it, dice it, roast it or smoke it, it’s American cooking in its truest form and here in Branson, it thrives. BillyGail’s service station-turned-café is the classic roadside stop-in where tire-sized pancakes and Texas French toast are well worth the likely wait — expect to feel like a welcome old friend complete with a couple of hugs here and there. Where BillyGail’s is for breakfast, Danna’s is for BBQ. From the Big Pig Pig (a pile of pork on buttery Texas toast) to the fried catfish plate, it’s a deep fried, secret rubbed, slow smoked piece of paradise.

With as much as 52,000 acres of water surface and more than 750 miles of shoreline, the lake offers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy everything the season has to offer. Ignite the adrenaline with a day of active water adventures—from ski boats to paddle boards—or stay on dry land and test the stamina of your feet on the mountain biking and hiking trails. Kick back and take full advantage of vacation relaxation mode on the ample beaches and beautiful coves for lighter activities. Simply sit on your beach towel to take in the scenery or cast your bait for a chance at a fresh catch of the spotted and white bass, large bluegill and catfish. At the end of the day watch the sunset while dining near, or right on, the lake at spots like Floating Café and Chateau Grille.

We’ve heard it said that the best way to experience a place is to pick a spot—a park bench, a grocery store, a bar—that you can frequent every day. It helps establish a routine, they say, the feel of being a local. In our opinion, the best place to do that, the place locals in every city on earth make part of their daily routine, is the neighborhood coffee shop. Branson is full of cafes to choose from, but for starters try Vintage Paris. Not only is their coffee small-batch roasted in-house (try the Velocipede espresso or Le Chat Noir house blend) but their mission is to maintain a community with extras like fine wines, craft beers, local art, and regular events. From there try Branson Bean, a roaster with a focus on single origin brews; Expresso Coffee, a drive-thru built in a shipping container; or Hollister Coffee Co. where you can pick up your morning perk and a protein shake or specialty toast.

Though we know you don’t need an excuse to enjoy special moments with your special someone, February is the perfect month to set aside a bit of time to truly embrace your love. There’s no reason to leave your room at Chateau on the Lake when you can cozy up with your crush, a bottle of champagne, and chocolate covered strawberries. But if the urge to leave your room does strike, the traditional romance options are near at hand. Savor a four-course dinner at the award-winning Chateau Grille or show your love with more treats from the Sweet Shoppe—think freshly baked pastries and hand-dipped ice cream. Relax your muscles and melt away into pure bliss with a couples’ massage. Take the moment a step further with hot stones, aromatherapy or a eucalyptus steam room experience. As anyone can tell you, the Titanic brings out the romance in all of us. Recreate the romance for yourself with a 1^st Class Vow Renewal on Branson’s Grand Staircase and even take home a crystal heart necklace of your own.

Start the year off on the right foot by engaging your brain with a tour of Branson’s collection of world-class museums. A fascination with deep-sea disasters has found its way into our lives and culture. One, in particular, has captured our attention for more than 100 years—the Titanic. At Branson’s Titanic museum, the world’s largest of its kind, you’ll not only walk through the exhibits of more than 400 artifacts, but you’ll experience the ship as the original passengers did. Your ticket is the boarding pass of an actual passenger or crew member, you’ll walk an exact replica of the famous Grand Staircase, reach your hands into 28-degree water, and try to keep your balance on a sloping deck. Only at the end will you discover if the person on your ticket survived. For a different taste of history head to the Dinosaur Museum where more than 50 life-sized dinosaurs await you. For something more modern, check out the more than 1 million toys at the World’s Largest Toy Museum Complex.

When it comes to Christmas in this country, there’s a one-stop shop where you can find everything from glowing lights to festive parades and even a five-story tree. This magical winter wonderland is, of course, Brandon’s very own Silver Dollar City. Silver Dollar City lights up for An Old Time Christmas with more than 6.5 million twinkling bulbs—a good portion of those go to the spectacular Christmas in Midtown display. Silver Dollar City’s favorite attractions transform for the season. Take a ride on the train that turns into the Polar Express for the season, grab a home-style meal from one of the three buffets, and catch a holiday-inspired Broadway-style show. If you still need to pick up those last minute gifts, explore the 60 shops throughout the park where you’re sure to find the perfect ones. However you fill the day, be sure to stick around for the evening events. The five-story Special Effects Christmas Tree and nightly parades with guests like Rudolph will fill you with the spirit of the season.

There's a place to go when you can’t decide between entertainment, adventure, and historic inspiration. The Shepherd of the Hills has all the bases covered for a full family day of fun. The Ozarks inspired the classic novel The Shepherd of the Hills and in turn inspired Americans as the first novel to sell more than 1 million copies nationally. The city of Branson grew out of the book’s success and today visitors can step back to the simple days of Old Matt and Aunt Mollie. Catch a live outdoor reenactment of the novel or one of the special holiday shows such as Santa and Pancakes, complete with a full pancake breakfast. If you’re gearing up to get outside head to Adventure Park where ATV rides, ziplines and canopy tours will get your blood pumping. For a hint of history take a tour of all the main stops, like Inspiration Point and the Morgan Community Church, seen as it once was.

If you like to try new things and tantalize your taste buds then we recommend you take a tour of Branson’s wineries. Treat yourself to a daily complimentary tasting at Bear Creek Wine Company. Sample vintages such as Bear’s Breath, Hillbilly Persuasion and Back-Forty—made of what’s considered the “Missouri Grape.” On Saturdays and Sundays enjoy live local music while you sip. Since 1859, Mount Pleasant Estates has grown the grapes and corked the bottles of their internationally recognized trademark wines. Try their Merlot Augusta. The wine—which has notes of baked berry, licorice, coconut cream, and eucalyptus aromas—has a rating of 92 points and took Gold at the World Wine Championships. If you love the taste of Missouri’s grape, join a local wine club through Lindwedel Winery. With wine shipped to your door and discounts in store and online, it’s the perfect way to remember Branson and a souvenir that will keep on giving!

There’s no shortage of shops around Branson to stop in when that sweet tooth strikes. Here are some of the best not-to-miss bakeries, creameries, and chocolatiers in town. The flavor offerings alone at Grandma Ruth’s make these cinnamon rolls stand out. Choose from cinnamon, caramel, butter toffee, chocolate hazelnut and more, and you may even catch a look at Ruth herself rolling out that dough. The Keeter Center puts the fresh cream in “ice cream” with their farm to table to frozen delights. From the agriculture students who milk the cows to the students who churn the cream, The Keeter Center has been turning out top of line ice creams—try espresso custard, bobcat crunch or browned butter pecan—for 110 years. For the chocoholics, head to The Best Chocolate in Town where handmade confections, like truffles and caramels, are the specialty. Be sure to stick around long enough to sample a slice of their whipped truffle pie!

Have you ever wondered what the world beneath our feet looks like? We’ve all seen pictures of Mother Nature’s intricate cave mazes, but here in Branson, just 20 minutes from our hotel, you can take a look for yourself. Take a tour into the earth’s crust at Talking Rocks Cavern. As you stand in the depths, let the silent beauty of the stalactite and stalagmite spires and columns inspire you, while your guide tells you about the discovery, history, mineral deposits and more in this geological deep dive. Make a day out of it with all the family-filled fun the site offers. Practice your put with Cave Country mini-golf; set out to strike it rich by testing your sluicing—gemstone mining—skills; make your way through a SpeleoBox maze; or, simply enjoy a stroll on one of the site’s four nature trails.

The Fourth is a time to celebrate freedom, enjoy family, and embrace patriotism. Branson has brought out the best the holiday has to offer for the whole family to have a blast. Snag a seat to see aerial acrobat Janice Martin’s “Americana” Cirque show. Singers, magicians, jugglers, and more bring a blend of the country’s most memorable music to the stage in an evening of pure magic. Embrace the atmosphere of entertainment at the Hughes Brothers’ special Independence Day Show. Get into the spirit of the day with food, games and a family picnic before the matinee show starts. The fun is perfectly planned so you can be out in time for the fireworks. Speaking of fireworks, take in Chateau on the Lake’s show lakeside or in the comfort of your own room. Enjoy events all week long—like movies, kite flying, s’mores, bingo, BBQ and more—to get excited about the grand finale!

The pristine scenery of southern Missouri makes for a perfect backdrop to celebrate the changing seasons and the official onset of summer. Spend a day exploring the 800 miles of shoreline Table Rock Lake has to offer. Try the 2-mile stroll at Table Rock Lakeshore Trail. Or, for more of a challenge go to the White River Valley Trail system. With nearly 12 miles of trails and elevations of up to 1,200 feet, it’s an ideal place to stretch your legs, get in some mountain biking, and bring your heart rate up.

End your day of exploring nature at the second annual Summer Solstice Trop Rock Festival June 21 – 24. Held on the shores of Table Rock Lake, the event will bring in 15 artists to set the atmosphere for an exciting start to the summer season!

Memorial Day weekend is the official kick-off to summer on the lake and we can’t wait. Each year, we celebrate this seasonal milestone and we want you to join us! We’ll be hosting a community barbeque, complete with a fantastic firework show the entire family will love.  Spend the day playing in the pool, hiking our property trails or exploring downtown Branson, only a short car ride away. What’s more Americana? Even if you can’t make it for Memorial Day Weekend, we have a jam-packed summer schedule of events and experiences. Check out the Branson Landing Fountain Shows featuring 120-foot geysers and fire cannons, all set to music. The shows run every hour starting at noon daily. And, nothing says summer like an afternoon at The Ballparks of America, a facility designed to look like five of the major American baseball league stadiums including St. Louis Stadium, Chicago Field, Detroit Stadium, Boston Park and Brooklyn Field. 

Ready to plan your summer in Branson? Check out our limited-time rates on standard rooms and we’ll see you soon!

A weekend with Mom at the Lake, doesn’t that sound perfect? Now is the time to get ahead of your Mother’s Day celebration plans and we’ve got a few favorites that are sure to impress. Leave the culinary preparations to us with a Chef’s Table experience that can host up to 18 guests (you can bring all of your brothers and sisters too!) A five-course, gourmet meal will be created by our very own Executive Chef Paul Trout and paired with fine wines hand-selected to enhance each bite. Not in the foodie mood? Head out on the trails and connect with Mom and nature. Explore the Ozark mountain setting and trail blaze through two miles filled with deer, wild turkeys, rabbits and armadillos. Bring binoculars to catch the birds and take a picnic lunch along. Tip: The Downstairs Deli will gladly get you set with a picnic lunch. See our current packages and specials to make a memorable weekend with Mom. She deserves it, don’t you think?

We understand you may never want to leave the “castle of the Ozarks” during your stay, but there are a few places we love to visit for a day trip. Table Rock Lake, located a short drive from our resort in Stone County, is the perfect backdrop for a day with family, friends, and couples, or a day spent in solitude. Enjoy crystal clear waters and take in close to 500 miles of shoreline. Relax by the water with a book or be adventurous by going skiing or paddle-boarding. Fishing enthusiasts won’t be disappointed and small watercraft vessels are available for daily rental. Not feeling a lake day? We have you covered, literally. Take in an afternoon exploring Talking Rocks Cavern and descend into the cave’s cooler depths and discover naturally glistening formations and learn how Talking Rocks Cavern got its name (we aren’t giving the secret away!) After a day spent on the water or in the cavern, we’ll be ready to welcome you back to the resort for a perfectly prepared dinner, we know you’ll be hungry! Start planning your next adventure now and see more of our local picks here.

It’s the perfect time of year to take refuge in a blissful spa experience set in the beauty of our surrounding mountains. Think 14,000 square-feet of space featuring an infinity spa, steam room infused with calming and reinvigorating eucalyptus, sauna, and 10 treatment rooms that make it easy for a day at the spa with friends. Spa Chateau connects spa-goers with excellently-trained therapists to indulge in specialty treatments inspired by the landscape. From the Dogwood series of services to the Mountaintop Spa Retreat, parties from 1 to 10 can take a relaxing time out, while taking all of the spa goodness in. We’re talking hydrating, anti-aging facials, detoxifying massages, rejuvenating tub soaks and an in-spa dining menu that refuels with foods full of antioxidants and vitamins. Ready to throw on your spa robe and slippers? A full list of packages and day experiences are available to help you warm up this season.

Silver Dollar City, an 1880’s theme park and one of the area’s most known destinations, will open once again for the 2018 season this March. To help travelers get a leg up on planning, we’ve put together a Silver Dollar City guide, featuring a few of our favorite and under-the radar-activities and experiences. Ready, set, Silver Dollar City!

• Cirqunique – get up, close and personal with world record holders and former America’s Got Talent competitors during a unique and unusual show full of mystifying, electrifying and gravity-defining artists. We’re talking wire acrobats, extreme (and we mean extreme) pole balancing duos, jugglers and more.
• Speed Painting – the art of painting takes on a whole new meaning with Dan Dunn. A renowned speed painter, featured on national shows including Ellen, Rachael Ray, Jimmy Fallon and more, Dunn brings masterpieces together in minutes before your very eyes.
• Hand Blown Glass Factory – with more than 60 diverse shops to choose from, visitors will not want to miss Hazel’s Blown Glass Factory. Colorful pieces made from blown and cut glass create eclectic décor pieces that make for a perfect keepsake.
• Midwest Living® Culinary & Craft School –  learn how to cook right from the pages of Midwest Living Magazine during an afternoon in the culinary classroom at Silver Dollar City. We’re talking a turn-of-the-century style farmhouse that will take you back in time and inspire you with traditional cooking methods and recipes. Think any and everything from the art of perfecting a flaky pie crust to creating an afternoon tea party, Downton Abbey-style.

Looking for even more Silver Dollar City Inspiration? Check in with our concierge team anytime.

• It’s not Sunday at the Chateau without brunch! Each week, we pair live music with champagne and the area’s best brunch with more than 50 dish selections. Sit back and toast to another beautiful day on the waterfront with pianist Devaughn Pershing as you make your way through a special, culinary experience. To help you taste your way through brunch, we’re giving you a sampling of our favorite brunch items that all go perfectly with a glass of bubbly (or two!)
• Eat Your Greens: Go for the baby spinach salad with sliced mushrooms, topped with warm bacon vinaigrette, or try the stand out goat cheese and candied walnut salad.
•  
• Surf and Turf: No brunch is complete without a selection of fresh seafood. We’re talking about oysters on the half shell, a chilled shrimp cocktail, and smoked salmon spread, with all of the accompaniments of course. Top is all off with a visit to the carving station featuring prime rib with horseradish and au jus.
•  
• A Sweet Fix: Desserts are an award-winning specialty here. Head to the Sweet Shoppe and get in on a flambé station with bananas fosters and cherries jubilee served over ice cream, and don't forget about our chocolate fondue fountain!

Brunch is served each Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. See the full menu here and call us at 417-243-1777 to make your reservation.

Make it a holiday season in the mountains of the Ozarks with us this year.  Revel in the magic of the views we call home and spend enchanting days and nights with family and friends amongst the holiday lights and take in one of the most festive local Christmas traditions, An Old Time Christmas Festival, in Silver Dollar City. 

Close to 8 million sparkling lights will take center stage alongside 30 seasonal rides and attractions. And, we’re making it easier than ever to experience the holiday cheer with an Ozark Mountain Christmas offering inclusive of two nights in a spacious room, two Silver Dollar City tickets to enjoy “An Old Time Christmas” festival, a keepsake Chateau on the Lake ornament, a $25 dining credit to any of our decadent restaurants, and use of the indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center and year-round nature trails.

Book your holiday getaway now at www.chateauonthelake.com/specials-and-packages

Looking for a theme park done right? Want the adrenaline rush of dropping 50 feet from the air on exhilarating rides? If so, Silver Dollar City has has got you covered! Branson, Missouri’s iconic family-owned theme park, Silver Dollar City, first opened in 1960. The park boasts over 40 rides and attractions including a classic wooden roller coaster, Silver Dollar City’s White Water park, and home of the Showboat Branson Belle. As if that wasn’t enough, Silver Dollar City features live shows and concerts, over 100 resident craftsmen, award-winning food, and 60 unique shops. Don’t let the fall season stop you, Silver Dollar’s world-class festivals and events are showcased from spring through Christmas. It’s not enough to read about Silver Dollar City, you must experience the fun for your self. While staying in Branson, MO be sure to add Silver Dollar City to the itinerary. 

Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO

Take out a pen and paper and get ready to take notes as you have a personal encounter with culinary greatness. The Chef’s Table at The Chateau Grille will permanently change your taste buds and culinary skills. Savor an evening of intimacy and excitement with a custom menu of your favorite dishes and drinks.

The chef of the evening will provide his insight on ingredients, pairings, and preparations while you tantalize your tastes buds and enjoy this private event. Chateau Grille caters the Chef’s Table dining experience to each individual party for $150.00 per guest. This unique experience can be enjoyed by parties of 2 to 18 people Sunday through Saturday (from 5 to 9pm) on the grounds of Chateau on the Lake. Whether it's an intimate date with your significant other or your plans involve friends and family, Chateau Grille will add the perfect touch of inclusivity to your dining experience.