Best Branson Hotels

The AAA Four-Diamond Chateau on the Lake makes it easy to balance the buzz of Branson with the peace of a lakeside setting. The modern, 10-story hotel commands a sweeping view of Table Rock Lake. With Branson only a 15-minute drive away, you can take in not only a show or attraction, but outdoor activities. The Chateau’s amenities tempt guests to spend the entire day at the resort. Play tennis. Swim in the indoor/outdoor pool. Or get a hot stone massage at the spa. The resort’s private marina offers complimentary kayaks, canoes and paddleboats with which to explore the lake. It also rents motorized watercraft. During the summer season, parents can pursue their own interests while the Crawdaddies Kids Club entertains their little ones. Onsite dining options range from hand-made pizza in the 9th Street Italian Deli to pecan-crusted salmon with sweet potato puree in the upscale Chateau Grille. The resort is pet friendly, but a fee is charged. With such an amazing myriad of options, it's should be no surprise that the Chateau ranks as one of the best Branson hotels.

The Hilton Promenade is often considered the best place to stay in Branson if you want to be in the middle of Branson Landing’s action.  Shop, dine, listen to live music and even attend a show without getting into a car. Just remember that along with the convenience comes noise into the late hours (well, late for Branson). To watch Branson Landing Fountain’s light and fire show without stepping outside, ask for a fountain-view room. The modern guest rooms are decorated in earth tones with rosewood furniture. The property has two towers separated by the main outdoor walkway onto the Branson Landing. If you plan to use the pool, sauna and fitness equipment, all of which are housed in the north tower, consider requesting a room there. The hotel is pet friendly, but a fee is charged. There’s also a fee for parking.

As the scenic entrance winds past towering trees and gurgling streams, the message is clear—Big Cedar Lodge is all about playing and relaxing in the beauty of the Ozark Mountains. The 800-acre resort offers a breadth of activities, including boating, horseback riding, hiking on nature trails, bicycling in Dogwood Canyon Nature Park and golfing. Add spas, pools, four restaurants and nightly entertainment at Buzzard Bar to the mix, and guests can easily stay entertained on the property. The convenience and variety of activities make Big Cedar one of the best places to stay in Branson. When you do want other options, Branson is only 15 minutes away. Guests can choose rooms in lodges, cabins, or cottages. The rustic décor with wildlife motif may feature knotty pine paneling or log walls, rough-hewn beams and stone fireplaces. Lodge options include guest rooms with gas fireplaces and balconies with views of Table Rock Lake. Cabins have full kitchens. Free internet connection is available in all cabins and lodge rooms.

With waterfall features inside and out, the Cascades Inn evokes a sense of tranquility. It’s away from the Strip’s congestion, yet conveniently close to restaurants, attractions and shows. (Two theaters are next door.) The spacious, natural-light indoor pool area provides relaxing recreation year-round. And the onsite masseuse helps travelers shed road weariness. The four-story, 158-room property is locally owned and managed. Guestroom décor emphasizes a tranquil palette of soft green carpet, floral-patterned bedding and drapes in shades of pink and purple, and blond furniture. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi and a complimentary continental breakfast that includes some hot items. For budget-focused families, the inn’s policy that children under age 18 stay free when sharing a room with their parents is especially attractive and makes it one of the best places to stay in Branson.

Prime location, inviting rustic décor and attractive rates make this lodge on the Strip a great choice. Many shows, restaurants, and a popular water park are mere steps away from the Lodge of the Ozarks. The indoor pool area’s huge floor-to-ceiling window looks onto the Strip, creating the sensation of being outdoors, but without the bustle and noise. An intimate wood-paneled nook in the lobby, a gazebo on the back lawn, and a lounge area with upholstered chairs and fireplace invite guests to kick back and relax between the day’s activities. Guests can choose either classical Victorian décor with cherry-wood furniture or mountain lodge décor with light cedar furniture. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi.