A Branson holiday is just what your family needs this Christmas

If you’ve never taken a trip to Branson, Missouri then consider this your sign to book your flight.

After spending the weekend at the Westgate Branson Woods Resort, as part of a special media tour, and strolling around all that Branson has to offer during the holidays—and there is A LOT—it’s pretty easy to see that this is a city that’s made for Christmas travel.

Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the Westgate Branson Woods Resort has so much to offer. I stayed for three nights in the one bedroom Grand Villa. This room is beyond amazing. You get a dining table, fireplace, fully-equipped kitchen and washer and dryer. Oh, and, did I mention the jacuzzi inside of the bedroom? After a long day of sightseeing around the city, a relaxing soak is the cherry on top to your holiday travel.

There’s also so many activities to keep you and your loved ones entertained in and around the resort. There’s truly something for every age group. You’ll find swimming pools, hiking trails, a basketball court, playground and so much more. Plus, they have a cafe onsite that offers Starbucks coffee and tea among other things.

We took a group hike around one of the many hiking trails. The best part? It started right outside of our room! First, we walked to this observation deck that had an amazing view. Nature’s beauty knows no bounds in Branson. The deck has tables and chairs so you could have your morning coffee with an unparalleled view. The trail itself takes you past a waterfall and it’s so easy even little kids can do it.

One of the Branson’s most famed attractions is Silver Dollar City. Our tour guide all but assured us that the theme park starts getting their Christmas makeover in July. Yes, they start holiday planning in the summer!

When you walk through Silver Dollar City, you’ll understand why that is. The park is lovely during the day, full of rides, delicious eateries and one-of-a-kind artisanal shops, but it is absolutely transformed at night. When the sun goes down, you’ll feel like you’re in a holiday wonderland. This is the ultimate place to be for Christmas travel with kids. With over 6 million lights illuminating the park, it’s a sight to behold. In this 1880’s-style theme park you’ll see craftsmen displaying their trades. We walked by a blacksmith doing his thing and it was so awesome to witness. We also walked into a hand-blown glass shop with the most adorable figurines that would make the best gifts.

As guests of the Westgate Branson Woods Resort, we had a VIP view for the family-friendly Christmas parade and tree lighting. The parade has classic favorites such as Rudolph and Santa riding by on floats. But the huge Christmas tree steals the show. It’s synchronized to classic holiday music and it’s SO merry. You can’t help but to get in the holiday spirit.

And the food! When we heard that locals buy season passes just to eat at one of the 13 restaurants located inside the theme park, we couldn’t believe it. But when we tasted the food, we understood why. From seasonal eats to stick-to-your-sides comfort food, they’ve got it all. The park even makes it super convenient to eat and explore with options like their delicious Bang Bang Shrimp offered in an ice cream cone.

There’s still so much more to do in Branson. Catch a holiday show on the Showboat Branson Belle. Fill up on delicious 14-inch pancakes at this local-favorite eatery, Billy Gail’s. Walk around historic, downtown Branson. Then check out Branson Landing for more shops and great restaurants like, Guy Fieri’s Branson Kitchen + Bar.

Branson is a one-of-kind experience. Between their old-timey classic style, great food and all-around holiday cheer, it’s a city for family memories and a great spot for Christmas travel.

Whether you’re traveling as a family or having one-on-one time with your partner, the villas are amazing to stay in. You can also look for other budget-friendly Branson lodging here.