Average Weather
During the winter --- from December through February --- daytime highs average in the 40s with an average evening drop into the teens or 20s. March and November have average highs of 60 degrees Fahrenheit with lows averaging in the 30s. April and October have highs in the low 70s and hit lows in the 40s. Expect the most rain in May when the average rainfall is nearly five inches. From June through September it’s quite warm. July and August hit highs in the 90s. Branson gets a good bit of rain throughout the year so pack prepared - raingear could come in handy no matter when you visit.
Transportation
Either you’ll drive to Branson or fly into Lambert-St. Louis International Airport where you’ll want to rent a car. Branson has no public transportation. The entertainment-packed area is almost as well known for traffic jams as it is famed for country music. If you tire of fighting the traffic yourself, several local shuttle services will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the attraction of your choice. Shuttle fares range from $5 to $10. If you are in the center of town you can walk to a good bit of Branson, but as spread out as the attractions are you’ll really need to drive or use shuttles during your stay.
In-Season Costs
Expect to pay between $20 and $30 for adult admission to one of the shows. Kids' tickets cost in the $8 to $12 range. Admission to Silver Dollar City --- Branson’s premier theme park --- is $36.05 for adults, $24.35 for children. Most tourists plan to spend the bulk of their budget on entertainment with little left over for lodging. You’ll find basic budget rooms in the $50 to $60 range throughout Branson. If you want something a bit nicer, expect to pay between $80 and $90. Over-the-the-top luxury and quirky themed rooms are also on offer for higher prices. Many of Branson’s restaurants are all-you-can-eat buffets that cater to hungry tourists at reasonable rates. You can easily find dinner for fewer than $15.
Day Trips
If you want a bit of urban adventure as an adjunct to down home fun in Branson, St. Louis is close. If you just want a bit of peace and quiet after all those shows, try Dogwood Canyon Nature Park halfway between Branson and Eureka Springs. You can go bike riding, trout fishing, horseback riding or take a tram around the waterfalls. You’ll find a wildlife area and a hiking trail that is level and paved for wheelchairs and strollers. You needn’t pack a picnic either; there are restaurants in the park. It’s open daily and adult admission is $7.95.
