Nestled in the middle of Ozarks in Southwest Missouri, Branson is one of the most popular destinations in the region. It's easy to understand its popularity among tourists, as the town has scenic views and can be visited year-round.
The truth is that tourists can never be disappointed when visiting Branson, as each season has its beauty. The town is an excellent destination for families looking for outdoor activities. Visitors should spend at least three days visiting its three lakes and attending the famous music shows in Branson.
The Best Time To Visit Branson
Visiting Branson year-round is possible, but travelers will have a different experience in each season. Those who love being immersed in the holiday spirit should definitely include the town on their bucket list and visit it between November and December. During those months, the mountains are covered with snow, and the city's calendar features many holiday attractions, a perfect family destination.
Summer is also a popular time among visitors, but it's difficult to avoid the crowds. The hotel's prices often drop in January and February, but most of the attractions around are closed, so travelers visiting Branson during those months should go for a hotel with plenty of amenities.
Branson Month-By-Month Guide
January
After the holiday season, the city slows down, and some main attractions are closed. While travelers must wait a few months to visit Silver Dollar City and White Water Branson, the museums are still open, and walking in the center is always great. The best thing to do is to choose a great hotel with several amenities.
Temperature: 22 - 42 °F
Attractions: Butterfly Palace | Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum | Titanic Museum Branson
February
The cold days in February are still a great time to relax in Branson, but there are more festivities than in January. The Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction is a dinner show featuring 32 horses and is one of the most popular attractions in town. Another family attraction is the Hot Winter Fun Big Show, one of their main winter tradition.
Temperature: 26 - 47 °F
Attractions: Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction | Hot Winter Fun Big Show
March
March marks the beginning of the shoulder season, the weather is still cold, but the town is slowly becoming more lively. Depending on the weather, it's a good idea to try outdoor activities, including the Branson Zipline, which is open between March and December or explore the mountains by bike or on a horse. The Silver Dollar City, one of the highlights of Branson, also opens in March.
Temperature: 34 -56°F
Attractions: Branson Zipline | Silver Dollar City
April
Branson is a popular destination for families during spring break. It's a great time to visit as the days are warmer, but the city isn't as crowded as in summer. The hotels' prices are still affordable, so it's a great time to visit Branson. The Springfest is an excellent attraction for children and has activities such as butterflies releasing, an Easter-themed event and adventure attractions.
Temperature: 45 - 68 °F
Attractions: The Ultimate Christian Youth Event | Springfest
May
Many tourists visit Branson in May to explore its mountains and lakes. There are also events in towns, such as the World-Fest at the Silver Dollar City, known as the largest international festival in the country, featuring performances, food and a glimpse of international traditions. It's also the best weather to fish at Table Rock or walk along Lake Taneycomo.
Temperature: 54 - 75 °F
Attractions: World-Fest
June
The weather is warm, and children are on vacation, so travelers must expect to see more people around. The Silver Dollar City celebrates the season with its traditional Star-Spangled Summer, offering attractions for the whole family. During summer, it's also a great time to go on a river cruise at the Showboat Branson Belle Lunch.
Temperature: 67 - 89 °F
Attractions: Star-Spangled Summer | Showboat Branson Belle Lunch
July
July is probably the busiest month in Branson, and the Fourth of July is its highest moment, with fireworks in different spots. Travelers can also sign for the Firecracker 5000 Run, which often starts early in the morning. Branson often hosts Hydroplane races in July, which can be something interesting to see.
Temperature: 67 - 89 °F
Attractions: July 4th | Firecracker 5000 Run | Hydroplane races
August
The city hosts many events in August, and they're perfect for families. The Super Summer Cruise happens in the second week of August and features hundreds of cars. Other must-do attractions in August are the Bikers & Babes festival and the Southern Gospel Picnic. Even for those who don't want to join the celebrations, the weather is excellent for relaxing and outdoor activities.
Temperature: 65 - 88 °F
Attractions: Super Summer Cruise | Bikers & Babes Festival | Southern Gospel Picnic
September
The peak season has ended, and the temperatures start to cool in September. The best thing is that all the attractions are still open, and now visitors don't have to compete with dozens of people. They also have celebrations like the Autumn Daze Festival, featuring food, crafts and music.
Temperature: 58 - 80 °F
Attractions: Autumn Daze Festival | National Harvest and Cowboy Festival | 9/11 Branson Remembers
October
It's the perfect time to see the autumn colors and a great time to explore the parks and mountains. Of course, there're also many Halloween-themed events in town, and it's easy to find pumpkin patches around.
Temperature: 47 - 70 °F
Attractions: Pumpkin Patches | National Harvest Festival | Halloween
November
November is one of the best months to visit Branson, as the town starts to be immersed in the holiday atmosphere. As it's the start of the busiest season in the city, it's essential to book hotels in advance. During November, Branson also hosts events such as the Festival of Lights and the Veterans Homecoming Week.
Temperature: 35 - 56 °F
Attractions: Festival of Lights | Veterans Homecoming Week
December
Christmas is hands down the main event in Branson, and the celebrations start after Halloween. Tourists can have an immersive experience in the Polar Express Train Ride, watch the Christmas Parade, drive through the light displays, and interact with the reindeer at the zoo, among other activities.
Temperature: 26 - 45 °F
Attractions: Christmas Parade | Polar Express Train Ride | Lighted Nativity above Branson Landing