Spend the Day at Silver Dollar City for Family Fun in the Ozarks

Any day at Silver Dollar City is a good day.  I’ve been visiting this Branson theme park for years and each time I find something new about the park to love.  From outstanding rides and attractions to entertaining shows and unique shops and eateries, the things to do at Silver Dollar City appeal to all ages.   The spirit of the Ozark Mountains is proudly on display at this 1880s theme park, too, so you’re sure to experience a true piece of Americana during your day at the park.

Silver Dollar City Branson has opened many new rides over the years.  In 2013, Outlaw Run debuted at Silver Dollar City and it has quickly become my favorite ride.  The twists, turns and high speed of the coaster put in on par with high thrill coasters found at theme parks across the nation.  It is the only wood roller coaster to twist upside down and, at 68mph, is the second fastest in the world. My favorite part of the coaster was the 720-degree double barrel roll.  Twisting effortlessly around the track, the trains were right side up again before I even had a chance to yell yee-haw!  Of course, there are other coaster thrills to take in during your day including Powder Keg, Thunderation and Wildfire.  In my opinion, Wildfire is the second best coaster in the park and it provides exceptional views of the surrounding countryside.

Another area of the Branson theme park I thoroughly enjoy is The Grand Exposition.  Themed around World’s Fairs and Expositions in the late 1800s, guests are transported back in time to the golden age of discovery and classic amusements.  This area of the park appeals to the younger crowd with rides like the Royal Tea Party, where you spin in teacups round and round, and the Magnificent Wave Carousel, which soars 40-feet above the grounds of The Grand Exposition.  Looking for bigger thrills?  The Electro Spin and Mighty Galleon will get your heart racing with its quick spins and epic drops. 

Of course, traditional rides at Silver Dollar City Branson MO are also some of the most fun.  You can’t go to the park without riding Fire in the Hole.  As one of the original Silver Dollar City rides, the dark ride elements and Baldknobbers theme are a classic part of the Silver Dollar City experience. Water rides are an essential part of the experience too, and these also hearken back to simpler times.  Take the American Plunge or brave the waters of the Lost River of the Ozarks to cool down on hot summer days.   Another classic attraction at Silver Dollar City is Marvel Cave.  This was the original attraction at the park and you can still tour the cave free of charge with your Silver Dollar City ticket purchase. 

A unique element of Silver Dollar City is the on-site craftsmen.  Watch them create works of art using techniques passed down through generations of dedicated artisans.  Two of the best crafts exhibits are the glass blowers and blacksmiths.  The malleable forms are a marvel to watch as they turn into pieces of admirable art.  I recommend going to Brown’s Candy Factory, too, to see old-fashioned candy making techniques and get a free sample of the delectable candy creations.
 
One of the best things about Silver Dollar City is the year-round festivals they host.  You can travel the globe during World-Fest, enjoying delicious food and music during the Bluegrass and BBQ Festival, entertain the kids (and kid in us all) during The Great American Summer Festival, hear soulful sounds during the Southern Gospel Music event, celebrate the best of the west during National Harvest Festival and awaken your holiday spirit during the Old Time Christmas festival.   Year round there are shows performed throughout the park, but during these various festivals special entertainment and concerts are scheduled too, adding even more things to do during your day at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.