Is a staycation in your summer plans?

If you have decided not to take a summer vacation this year, you are not alone. More than 30% of families in the United States have opted not to travel this summer and enjoy a staycation instead. Staycations have become extremely popular in recent years, especially during seasons of high inflation and increased fuel prices. A staycation is simply a break taken at home or nearby that does not require overnight accommodations.

Those of us living in the Ozarks are in the perfect locale for a staycation. With all there is to see and do in Branson and the lakes area, it should be simple to plan a staycation to fit every budget—with plenty of fun for all ages and interests.

With summer temperatures already here, why not plan some time at the lake. Enjoy swimming and relaxing at Branson's Moonshine Beach on Table Rock Lake, have a picnic at Table Rock State Park, or rent a boat for a day of lake fun. Area marinas will be happy to help you make arrangements for boat, pontoon or personal watercraft rentals. While you're at Table Rock Lake, be sure to stop by the Dewey Short Visitor Center for interactive displays and an intriguing lesson in the history of our lake and dam. Schedule time for a stop at the fish hatchery, as well, for some info on area fish and wildlife. Be sure to take along some quarters because you will want to feed the fish. Lake Taneycomo offers recreational options, as well, such as boating and fishing. The Branson Duck Tour takes a plunge into Lake Taneycomo, too, as part of their exciting excursion. Nothing beats hanging out on the banks of Lake Taneycomo and feeding the ducks. Sources say the frozen peas, sweet corn (frozen, fresh or canned), either cooked or uncooked rice, and bird seed are all much healthier options than bread for our feathered friends.

If you want to cool off, but the lake is not your style, pay a visit to the AquaPlex at Branson's RecPlex. The AquaPlex features water slides, an aquatic wall, shallow pool, lap pool, diving well and more—over 12,200 feet of water and fun in all. Take along a picnic lunch to enjoy, and spend time on the playground at the RecPlex. You might even get to catch a baseball or softball game.

Do you enjoy caves? They are cool in the summer heat, and there is one located in Branson West. You'll be in awe of the beauty at Talking Rocks Cavern, and enjoy some fun above-ground activities, too. For a memorable day trip, make the drive to Fantastic Caverns, just north of Springfield, or Smallin Cave, the area's historic Civil War cave in Ozark. 

Have you taken a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway? Scenic excursions take just an hour and 45 minutes and travel through the beautiful hills of the Ozarks. A dinner train ride is also available, complete with a delicious three-course meal and onboard entertainment.

Branson is home to several attractions if you love animals. Mochas and Meow is Branson's only Cat Cafe, and gives you the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing beverage and amazing food and spend quality time with some of Branson's coolest cats. Promised Land Zoo allows you to get up close and personal with the animals on a variety of zoo experiences. Branson's Wild World features many indoor and outdoor exhibits and opportunities, and National Tiger Sanctuary located just north of Branson gives tours of their facility that provides permanent homes to exotic cats and other animals. Be sure to check out the Butterfly Palace and Branson's Aquarium at the Boardwalk for experiences you won't soon forget.

Museums can be both educational and entertaining, and the Branson area offers a wide variety of them, such as The Titanic Museum Attraction, The Beck Family of Museums featuring the World's Largest Toy Museum, The Dinosaur Museum, Veterans Memorial Museum, Hollywood Wax Museum, the Ralph Foster Museum on the campus of College of the Ozarks and the Song of Hope Museum that tells the story of Branson's rich musical history.

There are so many attractions designed for both children and adults alike. This might be your opportunity to visit Wonderworks, Ripley's Believe It or Not, Fritz's Adventure,  the new Truth Traveler, one of the exciting mountain coasters, The Track Family Fun Parks, Grand Country Fun Spot, or the  Pink Jeep Tours.

No need to travel if you enjoy theme parks or water parks, as Branson is home to some of the very best, like Silver Dollar City, Shepherd's Adventure Park and White Water.

Branson is known as the Live Music Show Capital of the World and a visit to any of Branson's many shows is sure to be a memorable part of your staycation. There are shows for every interest and every taste. Just a few of the many shows enjoyed by families include Hamners' Unbelievable Variety Show, the Amazing Acrobats and Shanghai Circus, Pets and Giggles, The Hughes Music Show, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, SIX, Legends in Concert, Grand Jubilee, The Haygoods, Branson's Famous Baldknobbers, Clay Cooper's Country Express, The Revollusionists, Pierce Arrow, the Doug Gabriel Variety Show, the Duttons and the Dolly Parton Stampede.

In addition to the above suggestions, remember that Branson is a great place to enjoy a round of miniature golf (indoor or outdoor), one of the many escape rooms, an arcade, or a movie—on the giant screen at the IMAX, the Elite Cinema or the Branson Meadows Cinema. Add in a shopping spree and a plethora of dining options, and it is easy to see that Branson really does offer something for everyone. 

As you are planning your Branson Staycation, there are a few things to consider. First, set a budget, and plan an itinerary. Disconnect from work and stress. Put aside regular chores and your to-do list. Become a tourist in your own town. Stop by a favorite place or two, but be sure to check out an attraction or venue you've never visited. Most importantly, relax, enjoy and create lasting memories for your family and yourself.