Out of the Way Attractions Near Branson
If you are at all familiar with the geography of the Missouri Ozarks, you probably understand how easy it would be for things to get overlooked. With all the timbered hillsides, deep ravines, curvy roads and surprise bodies of water, not everything in the Ozarks is located in a place to be eye catching. Luckily, though, for the visitor or the local, there are many hidden Ozarks attractions that are worth hunting for – and many of them are not far from the Branson area! So the next time you and your family are searching for a unique attraction to visit, travel off the beaten trail to check out some of the Ozarks attractions below.
The National Tiger Sanctuary: Did you know that there are real live tigers hiding in the Ozarks? Well, now you do! These beautiful striped cats live happily at The National Tiger Sanctuary, located in Chestnutridge, MO, just west of Highway 65 down Highway BB. At this ‘grrrreat’ Ozarks attraction, you can see tigers, lions and panthers up close and personal, while being educated on the cats, how they live, and what you can do to help protect them for future generations. The sanctuary offers several different tour options – everything from a general tour, to a feeding tour where you can feed the tigers yourself!
Smallin Civil War Cave: If you are a history geek, a Civil War buff, a spelunker, or just someone looking for a neat hidden attraction, you’ll want to be sure to visit Smallin Civil War Cave, located in Ozark, MO! Just off of Highway NN, Smallin Civil War Cave is a family owned attraction that will fill you with wonder. With a cave mouth that is fifty feet high and set back into a beautiful forested hillside, you can feel the cool cave air rushing out to greet you as you approach the cave. Your cave guide will take you on a one hour tour (approximately) and teach you all about the geology and folklore that surrounds that cave, as well as some of the real life people and events that were centered around the cave. Deep inside the cave along the paved walking trail (it’s wheelchair friendly!), you can see rock formations, cave crickets, bats, and other neat cave critters. You won’t want to miss this beautiful and educational trip into the Ozarks – literally!
Uncle Rooster’s Restaurant: Most people wouldn’t consider a restaurant an attraction – but eating at Uncle Rooster’s is truly an Ozarks experience! This famous restaurant in Seymour, MO, on the side of East Highway 60, was founded, owned and operated (and still is today!) by Ozarks locals Wayne – Uncle Rooster – and Bobbi Dunning. This roadside eatery attracts locals, visitors, bikers, buses, families and individuals – anyone who wants a good meal experience! The first thing you’ll notice about Uncle Rooster’s as soon as you walk in the doorway is the floor – it’s covered in what appears to be graffiti. A closer look reveals that the colorful ink on the floor is the signatures of everyone who has visited Rooster’s! Guests old and new are given giant Sharpies by the waiters and waitresses and asked to sign the floor. While you wait for your Sweet Corn Nuggets, Catfish Dinner, Fried Chicken, Vienna Hot Dog, or other delicious menu option, be sure to check out all of the artwork hanging on the walls – it’s all local, and all for sale! So when you leave, you can take a piece of Rooster’s with you.
These are just a few of the hidden gems in the Ozarks that you can visit. Take the road less traveled by and find some more!
