Family vacations are where some of the best memories are made – at least in our books. It’s where you’re forced to spend even more time with the people who you have no choice but to love and inevitably walk away loving them just a bit more following every vacation. After sharing more experiences, more adventurers, and of course – loads of travel time with.
Spring break is no different. That prelude to summer that the whole family can get excited about. So, we wanted one of our three spring break getaways to be truly dedicated to the family, whether packing an itinerary full or slowing things down and soaking the good times in – we have you covered.
Where to Stay
Tucked away in the heart of the Ozark Mountains is Big Cedar Lodge, an ideal escape for families. The property itself has been around for centuries, spread across 4,600 acres leaving plenty of room for adventure. Although it wasn’t turned into lodging for guests until the 1940s when a pool and stable were added, along with the original lodge.
Fast forward to 2022 and Big Cedar Lodge has become the ultimate family getaway. Included in your stay, your pick from minature golf, pickleball, paddle boats, swimming pools (complete with a lazy river open in the summer), even some good old fashioned board games. There is truly no reason for anyone to be bored, but plenty of reasons for that good night’s sleep we mentioned.
What to Do
Get Outside:
There is plenty to explore in the Ozarks; from walking trails to tours through the breathtaking landscape via electric carts. One of the most enjoyed – the Top of Rock Lost Canyon Nature Trail. This two and a half mile stretch will take you past waterfalls, natural rock formations, starting with the four-story Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave.
For the Kids:
If mom and dad are hoping to enjoy some time at the spa, or some time kid-free, Big Cedar offers a Kids’ Adventure Club for ages 4-11. Each four-hour outdoor adventure session is packed full of games and experiences, and snacks of course. Learn More
And while there is plenty to keep the family busy at Big Cedar and the surrounding area, there’s more. Branson, MO is just a 15-minute drive away and offers its own take on family fun.
One Stop Shop (kind of):
That’d be Branson’s Entertainment District. Running down W 76 Country Blvd. you’ll find everything from shows to local attractions to dinning and shopping. Starting with the shows, there are over 120 shows being performed across 30 theatres including comedy, magic, country, to name a few. (One of our personal favorites are the Haygoods) Attractions include interactive museums and mini golf courses – something we feel the entire family can get behind.
Where to Eat
Southern Homestyle:
A part of the Big Cedar Lodge dining options is Devil’s Pool. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Devil’s Pool has indoor and outdoor seating, along with several menu options (including one just for kids).
Just Downstairs:
Literally downstairs from Devil’s Pool (so also at Big Cedar) you’ll find Buzzard Bar. Open for dinner and sporting a kids menu of their own – Buzzard Bar also features live music every evening for a little dinner entertainment.
A Step back in Time:
Cakes-N-Creams is a 50’s diner and drive-in serving that classic diner food like mouthwatering burgers, touring sandwiches, and their own array of ice cream sundaes, milkshakes, funnel cakes (you need to see these things for yourself), pies and cobblers. Come here hungry, and you won’t be disappointed.
Locate a Nearby Store
Find the nearest Buckle store to you or to each of our getaway locations. For Branson, search 65615 or 65616.
REWARDS YOUR WAY
Enter to win one of three ultimate Spring Break Trips or a wardrobe refresh when you become a Buckle Rewards member.
