Visit Silver Dollar City, Missouri During the Holidays

Silver Dollar City, near Branson, Missouri, is the perfect holiday destination for the entire family. It is located in Missouri, a short distance off U.S. Highway 65, on State Route 76. It is nestled in the Ozark Mountains.

According to local historians, the Herschend family decided to build a frontier town on some wooded acreage along State Highway 76. this town was opened to visitors in 1960. Throughout the town, there were various amusement rides, artisans, and food stops. Underneath the theme park, was a wonderful limestone cave.

This park grew into a tourist attraction, where guests could experience the flavor of the Old West, complete with blacksmiths, glass blowers, and some down home performances from seasoned performers. The Marvel Cave, which features a cathedral room, 400 feet high and 20 stories tall, was an added attraction. The descent into the cave brought the visitor into many facets of limestone formations. The ascent from the cave to the surface is accomplished by a cable railway train.

The employees all dress in period costumes and the welcome mat is out. However, during the holiday season, this amusement park turns into a perfect winter wonderland. Bright Christmas displays are located throughout the park, complete with roaming carolers, elves, and even Santa himself. All of the various stores are decorated with Christmas themes. The smell of hot chocolate and apple cider permeate the air in the park. Some of the rides are operating and delight both adult and children. The train takes visitors through the park.

Getting to the park from the city of Branson is a treat, also. The city is lit up with Christmas lights and other decorations.

There are three outlet malls in the vicinity for those who need to complete their Christmas shopping lists. These feature name brand stores, such as Adias, Liz Clairborne, Totes, Hanes, and Black and Decker. There is a large mall in the downtown area of Branson, with Bass Pro Shop and Belks Department Store as anchors. Various specialty shops are located throughout the town of Branson.

The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead is located near Silver Dollar City. There you can view a home where the legend of the Shepherd of the Hills started. On the property is Inspiration Tower, which stands 230 feet high. It is decorated with Christmas lights, but the view from the top presents a spectacular showcase for the hundreds of Christmas lights in the city of Branson. The area around the homestead is decorated with 80 drive through holiday displays.

There are many hotels/motels in the area. There are many Christmas shows, which begin the last week of November. Some performances are twice a day, a matinee and an evening show.

Restaurants are plentiful in Silver Dollar City and around the area. Every price range is represented in these establishments and the food is delicious.

Silver Dollar City Missouri is worth a trip to see. The season of Christmas is truly represented in this area of Missouri. If you want to get into the spirit of the season, this is the place to come.