Branson's Green Gables Inn Helps You Save Green

The Green Gables Inn Branson is a perfect choice for travelers on a budget. The property is a budget-friendly motel, offering the basic amenities visitors need while on vacation.

It is located in a great area on Green Mountain Drive, making it easy to access Branson Shows and Branson Attractions. The property does serve a free continental breakfast from 7am-10am. Plus, there is a Panera Bread right across the street, if other breakfast cravings strike.

Green Gables was recently renovated with all rooms now featuring upgraded flat screen televisions, all new case goods, new paint and new mattresses. The vanity is located outside of the bathroom, which is a good space saver, and the shower area is standard size for motels. I did like the free WiFi as it was a great convenience. The rooms are also very spacious and feel larger than standard motel rooms.

There was an inviting pool of average size on the property, which has a ledge around the edge for safety, a feature most parents will find reassuring. The pool is also very clean and is open from 9am-10pm.

The outdoor corridor property also has parking just steps away from the rooms, creating an easy walk for seniors. I would recommend this property for guests who would like to spend more money on their activities rather than their lodging. It is also a nice choice for seniors on a budget. However, there is no elevator, which can be a problem for some, but the Green Gables Branson MO has half flights of stairs instead of full flights to compensate. This property is also boat trailer friendly and motorcycle friendly.

Branson Towers Rises Above the Rest

The Branson Towers Hotel in Branson, Missouri is a step above the rest. The inviting property is located on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, creating a feeling of solitude even though you’re just minutes from Branson shows and attractions. Moreover, there is plenty of level, easy-access parking for guests.

The property is easy on the budget while retaining the amenities, comfort and style one deserves while on vacation. Newly renovated, the entire hotel boasts new décor and updated touches throughout. During my visit, I noticed the implementation of new tile, paint and draperies in the spacious lobby, and these new touches continued during my tour. The double queen rooms offered are oversized (an extra 2 foot wider and 1 foot longer than standard room) and I was impressed at the attention to detail the hotel had placed on the comfort and décor of the room. All case goods, such as armoire and night stand, are new, as are the drapes, comforters, carpet and mattresses. Plus, the décor has changed from Victorian to a Natural décor featuring earth tones.

The pool and breakfast area were also impressive. The indoor pool is in an oversized enclosure providing an outdoor feel and there is a patio right next to it, complete with shade trees and grill. The breakfast offered is a full hot free breakfast (catered by Golden Corral) and is complemented by a restaurant style breakfast room. To top it all off, there is also a well-equipped game room, guest laundry, free wireless internet and there is even an ice cream social held nightly.

I would recommend the Branson Towers property for any Branson visitor who is bringing a family or likes the feel of a home away from home.

Thousand Hills Golf Resort is Luxurious and Convenient for Branson Visitors

The Thousand Hills Golf Resort and Condominiums is a property offering two key elements: Location and Luxury. Their central location allows guests to have easy access to all things Branson, while their luxury-appointed condominiums provide guests a comfortable respite. This sprawling property offers more than 300 units, each with a unique décor and ambiance. Plenty of parking is available, with lots situated in front of every complex. Thousand Hills caters to all Branson visitors, as their condominiums range in size from Honeymoon Suite to Three Bedroom. Seniors and families alike will enjoy the seven pools available, although some condominiums are situated closer to the pool areas than others.

The rooms I visited were impressive, both in design and décor. The amenities offered, such as televisions in every bedroom and fully equipped kitchens in larger units, adds a nice home-like touch to rooms. Groups will want to take advantage of their larger 3 bedroom condos because they offer three complete baths to accompany the bedrooms, as well as a spacious living room and kitchen area. The suites offered are also ideal because its large master bedroom includes a large, tiled Jacuzzi in room, perfect for relaxing with the one you love. Thousand Hills Condominiums Branson are more expensive than your average hotel room, but for guests that can choose to spend the extra amount, it will be well worth it.

The Resort at Governor's Crossing a Swimming Success With Families

The Resort at Governor’s Crossing is a haven for families visiting Pigeon Forge. This property was pleasing from arrival to departure, with each amenity and service receiving high marks. There are 1-3 bedroom condominiums available. The style of each unit is warm and inviting, and each condo has a living room and dining room area, along with a full kitchen and balcony. The layout of the condos places the kitchen and bathrooms towards the entrance, with the bedrooms divided by the living area.

As much as I was pleased by the lodging at The Resort at Governor’s Crossing in Pigeon Forge, I was really impressed by the unique water features they have implemented. There is a huge, central, outdoor pool with sunning deck, a nice-size lazy river, children’s pool with sprinklers and other features. Plus, there is also an indoor pool area with three divided pools and more kiddie water features. To top it all off, there are two water slides that begin on the inside, wrap around the outside of the building, and tunnel back into the pool area. They are a lot of fun!

This property is a wonderful choice for families and is highly recommended! Retirees would most likely want to steer clear of this property as it is a “kid friendly” property and there can be extra noise. I would make reservations early, as when I visited they were completely sold out.

Impressive RiverStone Resort Top Choice for Pigeon Forge Visitors

RiverStone Resort couldn’t have impressed me more. The property is a beautifully laid out complex which I found to be very convenient to Pigeon Forge’s most popular attraction, Dollywood, but also along a side road that made moving up and down the Parkway quick and easy.

Each building offered covered parking and elevators with views of the Gatlinburg Golf Course (yeah, it's in Pigeon Forge) on one side and the Parkway on the other. All the condos offer both views front to back and are beautifully appointed with pillow top mattresses, lovely furniture arrangements, walk in showers, fireplaces, flat screen televisions, spacious rooms, kitchen….must I go on? They are luxury condos, but at a reasonable price when you consider how spacious they are, the location and the amenities.

The swimming pool was large and was housed in a standalone complex with a sizeable workout facility offering multiple machines upstairs and an arcade style game room downstairs. There is also a walking trail along the creek and an outdoor lazy river for hot Summer days. RiverStone Resort in Pigeon Forge rates well and should be considered for your next trip to the Smokies.

Ramada Inn a Convenient Choice for Pigeon Forge Visitors

The Ramada Inn Pigeon Forge is nicely situated on the Parkway, with easy access to all the fun Pigeon Forge has to offer. The property is a nice choice for families visiting the area, as it provides an outdoor pool, heated seasonally, and is also budget friendly. Parents will enjoy the fact they offer free wireless internet as well as a free executive continental breakfast. Plus, there is a sundry store on location, which is stocked with drinks, snacks and other various items you might need on your stay.

The hotel is outdoor corridors only, with drive-up parking to most rooms. There are no elevators on site but the rooms themselves are appointed nicely with modern décor and new furnishings. There is a microwave and fridge in every room on the first floor, with new carpet and new curved shower rods accenting the rooms features throughout the hotel. The Pigeon Forge Ramada Inn is also pet friendly and smoker friendly. Although it is standard in many ways, the property is a good choice for budget conscious families.

Note: Although the property does not feature an elevator there are gradual walking ramps available.

Branson's Quality Inn an Affordable yet Quality Place to Stay

The Quality Inn on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway in Branson offers exactly what its name suggests: Quality. This word is apparent throughout the property, as they have strove to provide a comfortable, yet affordable property for their guests. During my visit, I toured the Double Queen and King Rooms, many of which are in the midst of being redecorated. They offer basic amenities, such as a 27 inch television, while some rooms also have recliners.

The recreation area I toured was very large, with a vaulted wood-beamed ceiling over the indoor pool, hot tub, game area and guest laundry, adding a nice ambiance. There is also an outdoor pool available as well as a lounge, which is open on weekends only. The Quality Inn does offer a free continental breakfast, with an optional hot breakfast available for an addition $4.00. This property has a mix of indoor and outdoor corridor rooms, with ample level parking for guests. There is also a meeting room, which will handle groups of up to 85 people. The location of the hotel is also key to its success, as it provides easy access to many alternate Branson routes and activities.

The Branson's Quality Inn on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway is well suited for families and seniors, as it does not specialize in luxury, but it does specialize in great service and quality for its customers. It is a great choice for Branson visitors looking for affordability but with the amenities they deserve.

Melody Lane Inn Budget Friendly Branson Property

The Melody Lane Inn in Branson is a quaint property located right on Hwy 76, amidst many popular theatres and attractions such as The Presleys’ Jubilee Show. It offers convenient access to all things Branson, while also offering guests a nice, clean property at an affordable rate.

This outdoor corridor property allowed for easy-access parking during my visit and is also well suited for large groups and motor coaches working on a budget. There is an outdoor pool on property as well as a cozy breakfast room offering a free continental breakfast, which includes hot items, such as waffles. The rooms I visited were standard double queen or king arrangements, and were priced reasonably, while retaining the comfort visitors desire. They come equipped with a 27 inch television, floral or modern deco décor, with new tile in all bathrooms adding a nice touch.

Although Branson's Melody Lane Inn does not specialize in luxury or upscale amenities, The Melody Lane Inn is a great option for Branson travelers looking for affordability, location and simplicity in their lodging.

Diamond Mountain Rentals Provide Cozy Cabins and Gatlinburg Fun

Diamond Mountain Rentals in Gatlinburg was a great choice for me and my fellow travelers. The location was far enough away to get a feel of the “mountain town” aspect of Gatlinburg, while maintaining a convenient location to all of Gatlinburg’s attractions and restaurants.

The cabins were very impressive, both in their design and layout. My fellow travelers and I lodged in a four bedroom/four bath cabin that gave each of us plenty of space and seclusion. The bathroom and bedrooms were unique and well-equipped throughout. Gatlinburg's Diamond Mountain Rentals also specializes in a fun time, as many of their cabins come standard with a pool table and hot tub. Our cabin even had a sauna for our enjoyment. Plus, charcoal grills, cookware and utinsils come complimentary, so a BBQ is just a quick trip to Gatlinburg away.

The cabins are close together, in a suburban style fashion. So, the cabins are secluded, but in a semi-private fashion. Diamond Mountain Rentals is a good choice for anyone visiting Gatlinburg. From families who need the space, to couples who want the charm, these cabins can provide the unique Gatlinburg experience you’ve been looking for.

Pigeon Forge's Creekstone Inn is a Simple, Budget Friendly Property

The Creekstone Inn in Pigeon Forge is a quaint property located just off the Parkway. The biggest appeal of Creekstone Inn is its creekside location. A nice, flowing creek runs right behind its lodging units, giving guests a nice respite from the busy days of shopping, going to shows and hiking.

The rooms at Pigeon Forge's Creekstone Inn are standard, with basic amenities, including refrigerators and microwaves in every room. The floor plan is split, so privacy can be maintained in double queen rooms. New carpet has also just been installed, adding a nice touch to the floral décor of blues, greens and gold. They also offer a semi-private balcony with a nice view of the peaceful creek. The rooms are a bit dated, as is the property, but has an updated decor.

There is a very small breakfast hospitality room available, which is basically a converted hotel room, offering basics such as coffee and pastries. The Creekstone Inn is a good choice for families on a budget, couples looking for a unique creekside experience and even for retirees looking to relax while enjoying all Pigeon Forge has to offer.

Dinosaur Walk Museum Ancient but Fun For Kids

Dinosaur Walk in Pigeon Forge was a nifty little attraction that offered a diversion from the mini-golf and go-carts found along the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Parkway, this attraction houses about twenty life sized statues of dinosaurs including the infamous T-Rex.

The building that contains these displays is essentially a warehouse about the size of a high school gymnasium and without taking in the educational aspect of reading the descriptive dialog that is associated with each display, a person could make it from one end to the other in about 5 minutes. I recommend, however, making your entry fee worth its while and taking the time to get into the event by reading all the postings to your children. There is some quirky and interesting stuff that kids will enjoy. Pigeon Forge's Dinosaur Walk Museum as a whole would be most appealing to the 2-10 years of age range. Be sure to buy online ahead of time to save a few bucks.

Cabins at Grand Mountain are Grand Indeed!

Seclusion, superior quality and simply stunning are a few of the words that came to mind during my tour of The Cabins at Grand Mountain in Branson. Their location beautifully combines the outdoor ambiance of the Ozarks with centralized access to all Branson entertainment.

The cabins, which are built in a subdivision type fashion, provide the perfect size accommodations for families, groups and couples. Each cabin has an individually customized interior, many with Jacuzzi tubs or walk-in showers, complete with large living areas and screened-in decks for enjoying the wilderness-type atmosphere. There is an outdoor pool located at The Cabins, with varying walk or drive access, depending on which cabin you rent.

I toured three cabins, with my favorite being the two bedroom cabin, due to its rustic lodge décor and flat screen televisions. This property truly is a step above the rest, and is well worth the additional cost. Parking is somewhat limited, and on-site amenities are few, but for Branson visitors looking to experience the other side of Branson, Branson's Cabins at Grand Mountain are a great choice.

Ride into the West at Branson's Roy Rogers Museum

The Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum in Branson, Missouri transports guests to an era where cowboys were king, and a love of westerns was alive and well. The cowboy-style museum showcases everything related to the life of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, with pictures, memorabilia and automobiles being the bulk of the showcased items.

The personal family photos were a nice touch that really added to the family-value persona that was Roy Rogers. The collectible merchandise items were numerous, with Roy’s personal collection of cowboy boots and costumes a natural addition to the collection. My favorite part of the museum was the horse exhibit, where Trigger and several other horses are displayed in life-size proportions, which allows guests to truly see what a magnificent animal Trigger really was! The exhibits also come equipped with audio commentary, provided by Dusty Rogers, for added information about the different items on display.

Other portions of Branson's Roy Rogers Museum showcase the famous Nellybelle vehicle, along with Roy’s favorite Parade car, a Pontiac Bonneville Convertible, as well as the 1923 automobile that took Roy and his family to California, where Roy’s dreams really took off. The museum is concluded with a movie room, where reels showcasing Roy Rogers & Dale Evans run throughout the day.

Notables: There is an extensive gift shop, where souvenirs and western décor can be purchased. Remember to bring your camera, as the museum is photo friendly. There’s also a “shooting range” for the youngsters.

Branson's Hollywood Wax Museum a Blockbuster With Visitors

The Hollywood Wax Museum in Branson, Missouri is an interesting display of pop culture. The Mount Rushmore-like display outside instantly told me this museum was different than any other, as John Wayne and Marilyn Monroe took the place of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The Hollywood Wax museum, essentially, serves as an ode to the “presidents of Hollywood” with everyone from Humphrey Bogart to Johnny Depp on display.

I strolled through the Wax museum, taking pictures and reading interesting facts about movies and personalities, taking about an hour to fully take in every figure and display. I personally enjoyed the Wizard of Oz, Pirates of the Caribbean and Gangster Alley Exhibits, as well the Forest Gump and I Dream of Jeannie figures. They combined great wax artistry with music and special effects, such as shooting sounds and lights, to create a real feel to the life-like figures. Kids really enjoy the Branson's Hollywood Wax Museum because they can pose with characters from some of their favorite movies!

There is also a Hall of Horrors area, which is great for Horror movie enthusiasts, although parents might want to bypass this exhibit, as it is quite spooky. However, exhibits featuring the Men in Black, Star Wars and Hugh Hefner, as well as NASCAR’s finest are great photo opportunities and had all of my party smiling and hamming it up for the camera. My tour of the museum led to the concluding gift shop, which was actually a nice change from the usual gift shops. For anyone that loves pop culture, this is the place to shop. Everything from Gone with the Wind to I Love Lucy memorabilia can be found there.

Country Inn and Suites Unique Property, Budget Friendly

The Country Cascades in Pigeon Forge is an inviting property offering all interior corridor rooms. There are unique features at this hotel, including no first floor rooms. Instead of rooms, there is a lobby, breakfast area and a large indoor pool and hot tub. I found the seventh floor rooms to be a nice touch, as they have vaulted ceilings, a unique element not available at many hotels. The double queen rooms have a modern/floral décor that is a bit outdated, but comparable to what you would find in a similarly priced property. Their king rooms are decorated in the same fashion but are more spacious.

There is a deluxe continental breakfast available, a bonus I enjoyed during my stay. Many guests will also enjoy how the non-smoking floors are completely separate from the smoking floors. The Pigeon Forge Country Cascades is a modest property with a nice selection of rooms, although a few updates would really bring it all together. I would still recommend the property as it is a nicely kept, well-appointed facility, that just needs a few extra touches.

Governor's Inn Ranks High in Customer Satisfaction

Governor’s Inn in Pigeon Forge truly does look like a governor’s home, a top a sloping hillside adjacent to the Parkway. The lodging facility provides convenient access to all of Pigeon Forge’s attractions, which was a plus while I visited.

The rooms are nicely appointed with standard case goods. The double queen room’s layout was of a split divide style, with an interior half wall dividing the beds. This is a nice option to have when visiting with friends and family. The bathroom is also spacious for a hotel. Pigeon Forge's Governor’s Inn is also equipped with a heated outdoor pool and hot tub and small fitness center.

They have a fairly spacious breakfast area, which served the traditional breakfast staples. The Governor’s Inn in Pigeon Forge is a nice selection for all visitors, including couples, families and retirees. They provide a great level of comfort at an affordable price.