Can AI plan the perfect travel itinerary for a family trip to Branson, Missouri? I decided to check it out using Only in Your State’s AI-powered Dashboard trip planner, which uses our curated travel posts to create a customized itinerary. Since I live nearby and visit Branson frequently, I was super curious about whether the AI would select the places I would actually recommend to visitors. Would it plan anything similar to what a local would recommend?
If you Google things to do in Branson, you’ll end up with hundreds of options. It’s easy to get overwhelmed while scrolling lists of scenic spots, eclectic museums, music shows, restaurants, and so much more. Instead, let Only In Your State plan your trip. The AI-travel planner easily cuts through the clutter, creating a customized itinerary for the perfect family-friendly trip—one that’s local approved!
To get started, I simply told the planner the length of my trip, who I would be traveling with, and what I enjoyed. Then, within seconds, I had my itinerary of attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. How did it do? Let’s take a look!
Top Attractions to Visit in Branson
The first stop on the trip planner’s itinerary was Dick’s 5 & 10, an old-fashioned variety store in old downtown Branson. I wholeheartedly agree with the AI, as this was a place we often visited with our kids on family trips to Branson. We loved winding our way through the eclectic mix of kitsch and treasures. You can find everything from comically oversized cowboy hats to lemon meringue pie flavored soda. These kinds of places are fading away, but this one endures.
My family hasn’t hit many of the music shows in Branson, but they are one of the town’s claims to fame. The AI picked Dolly Parton’s Stampede, and this one has actually drawn us in several times over the years for its one-of-a-kind dinner-and-show production. While you won’t see Dolly herself, you will see an extravaganza of performing animals, boisterous competitions, and lively musical productions. It gets a little sappy in places, but we forgive Dolly for that. Dolly can do no wrong.
While Branson is definitely a tourist trap (in the best way), there are places where you can escape the lights and noise to explore the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. The trip planner recommended Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area for its hiking trails and views of a little-known waterfall. My family honestly hasn’t been here, and now I’m eager to check it out!
Restaurant Recommendations in Branson
Branson has a lot of restaurants with overpriced but underwhelming food, but the AI trip planner hit the mark by recommending Downing Street Pour House, one of my local favorites. This off-the-beaten-path English pub in nearby Hollister offers massive burgers. Almost every item on the menu has unexpected elements brought together in a pleasing way.
Similarly, the AI nailed it by recommending Sugar Leaf Bakery for its decadent homemade hot chocolate. Even if it’s not hot chocolate season, you’ll find many tempting items, whether you’re craving a sweet dessert or a savory sandwich. Trust me when I say to try the coconut cake and s’mores cookies!
The final food recommendation the trip planner gave me was the White River Fish House. My family hasn’t visited yet, but I’m putting it on my list for our next trip since the AI was so right about the other recommendations. Plus, this restaurant floats on the river, which adds a cool experience to the highly rated food. We’ve clearly waited too long for a visit.
Where to Stay in Branson
The AI trip planner selected Driftwater Resort as a one-of-a-kind place to stay, and I think it looks great! While Branson offers everything from remote tent camping to luxury hotels, a place like Driftwater Resort harks back to Branson’s early days as a relaxed lakeside retreat. Take your pick from one of 17 updated cabins. Plus, you can rent boats and kayaks onsite and venture out on the waters of Lake Taneycomo. Driftwater Resort looks like a perfect spot to relax after a busy day in Branson.
My Verdict on the AI-Travel Planner Itinerary for Branson
I give our trip planner a 10 out of 10 for this family-friendly weekend itinerary for Branson, Missouri. It included well-known attractions along with local gems, and it even gave me fresh ideas for my next trip! If you’re heading to Branson, this itinerary is a great starting point, or you can create a customized one of your own.
Disclaimer: This article was made using our award-winning Dashboard planner. Feel free to check it out!
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
