Downtown Branson – A Visitor’s Guide
In most well-known cities, there is typically a downtown metropolis that holds a bit of a different charm than the rest of the area. ‘Downtown’ in the city often features some nostalgic elements from days gone by, while blending seamlessly with modern day fashions. Downtown Branson is no different – it combines the old with the new for a refreshing take on one of America’s most popular vacation destinations! If you are in the Ozarks for a visit, don’t miss taking a stroll through downtown Branson to check out some of the great highlights listed below and more!
Dick’s Oldtime 5 & 10: For a nostalgic novelty store experience you won’t forget anytime soon, take a trip to Dick’s 5 & 10 in downtown Branson. Founded, owned and operated by Henry L. ‘Dick’ Hartley until his death in 2006, the store is run today by Dick’s wife, June, her son, Steve Hartley and son-in-law, Dave Montgomery. Voted Branson, Missouri’s Best Specialty Store in 2008, Dick’s Oldtime 5 & 10 has something for everyone, young and old alike. Many of the products carried here are the same merchandise lines that were carried by five and dime stores of old, such as linens, sewing notions, hardware and toys. Nostalgic sweet treats like Horehound Candy, BB Bats and candy cigarettes can be found in the candy aisle. Old timey puzzles and games line the shelves, along with household décor and classic TV memorabilia. Pilot-autographed aviation prints and sports memoranda fill the walls, giving the store a true five and dime feel. For a step back in time that will become a lasting memory, come visit this nationally known oldtime 5 & 10 – it’s ‘so much more than just another store!’
Branson Convention Center: The world-class Branson Convention Center, managed by SMG Management, is located on Sycamore Street in Downtown Branson, and is an eye catching part of the famed Branson Landing. The modern architecture of this dream-like event venue creates a beautiful yet functional space for any event. The Branson Convention Center features 113,725 square feet of workable space for your event, including one exhibit hall that totals 47,172 square feet and is attached to a 22,703 square foot ballroom. Meeting space also includes 10 breakout rooms conveniently located near the ballroom and exhibit hall. With so much space, it is no wonder that the Branson Convention Center is an event planner’s cloud nine!
Level 2 Steakhouse: Level 2 Steakhouse, located on Main Street near Downtown Branson, is one of the finest restaurants in the area. Featuring 28 day aged corn fed Midwest beef, Heritage Missouri pork, locally grown produce and fresh seafood flown in from Hawaii, you are in for a real treat when you have a meal here. Level 2 Steakhouse also offers their 5 distinct steak knives, and valet parking! Join them for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or book a private event.
Plum Bazaar: Plum Bazaar is a unique jewelry and bead store located in the Historic Downtown Branson district. With a selection of beads and custom jewelry from around the world, you’re sure to find something here to suit your style! Here you can find gemstone beads in many fall colors, such as Yellow Agate and Red Creek Jasper, and even coral and seashell beads. Plum Bazaar will take custom orders, using beads and wire in colors of your choice, and create a piece of jewelry that will match any wardrobe. Beading and wire jewelry classes are also offered by Plum Bazaar, in case you want to learn to make jewelry of your own in beautiful downtown Branson!
Parking: As most visitors to downtown areas know, it can be a real challenge to find a place to park. But when you visit downtown Branson, parking is a snap with two conveniently located parking garages and free street parking! No pesky meters in sight. So whether you come for an hour, or plan to stay the whole day, downtown Branson is sure to be a memorable part of your trip!
