Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas
November 12-18, 2023
Things to Know Before You Go on Branson Tour - November 12 – 18, 2023
The Coach/ Escort & Driver: The bus is being chartered through TROBEC BUS CO. The coach has 56 comfortable seats that recline. The bus also has a restroom on board, TV sets with a VCR/DVD player, microphone, and adjustable footrests. We love to play movies on board, tell stories, play a few games and have snacks! (We love treats!) Folks are welcome to bring snacks on board, too. We stop every 2-3 hours.
How to Pack: The tour is completely casual. Dress comfortably with good walking shoes. Pack along a fall/winter jacket. Pack a camera and/or video camera. Still shots are allowed in the theaters…but videos of any kind are not.
Seat Rotation: We do not rotate seats. We used to try to preset seating but it's getting more and more difficult to promise any particular seat. Please let us know in advance if you have any special needs and we'll do our best to accommodate ~ But cannot promise. We practice all CDC guidelines for motorcoach travel.
Hotels /Smoking/ Non-smoking: The hotels where we are staying are 3+*. Read your day-by-days to learn the specifics on each property. All the rooms are non-smoking. Most hotel properties are all non-smoking. Please don’t smoke in them. Penalty charges WILL apply. We stop every 2 ½ -3 hours for quick breaks, comfort stops or meals along the way.
Special Needs / Perfumes/ Fragrances: Kindly refrain from using strong perfumes/ colognes while traveling on this tour. So many folks have allergies to the chemicals in them and may become sick while traveling. Thank you very much for this consideration. Please let us know if you any special needs such as; allergies, motion sickness, medical concerns, or physical disabilities that may affect walking or climbing stairs. We have several hotel rooms in Branson that offer handicapped bars in the bathroom, roll in shower and two beds. Let us know if you need one. They are reserved on a first-come, first served basis. Unfortunately, we cannot promise these rooms.
Tipping: Tips for included meals, luggage handling and city tour guide is included in this package. Tips for your bus driver and Happy Trails Tour guide is not included and may be done at your own discretion at the end of the tour.
Weather: The weather should be warm and very nice, however, we‘ve seen it SNOW in Branson this time of year (Though that‘s rare…we’ve also seen it get as hot as 80 degrees!) Normal temps are between 55-65. With the high elevation, we recommend layering your clothing since mornings and evening can be cool and afternoons can be warmer.
Weather Conditions: In 2007 when we were on a Branson Christmas tour, a blizzard swept through the Midwest and paralyzed the entire region from Kansas City to Northern Minnesota. It caused us to have to spend one more night in Branson (where it was 65 degrees and sunny!). The following day, we traveled home with only wet roads to contend with and everyone stayed safe. We tell you about this because it can happen again. (Hopefully it won’t). One more piece of information….You are financially responsible for the added expense if this should happen. Actually, we had a wonderful “extra” day in Branson and everyone was happy. We took in another show, ate at another nice restaurant but most of all…we were safe and warm.
NOTE: Travel Insurance helped pick up the cost of this added expense for our travelers who purchased the insurance.
Changes on your Itinerary: We reserve the right to adjust this schedule for the benefit of all traveling. Thank you for your understanding. If a change of hotel, restaurant or an attraction occurs, we’ll try to replace it with one of equal value or better if at all possible. As always… we’ll inform you of any changes as we learn of them, themselves.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is available to help defray monies lost due to illness, family emergencies, trip interruption, due to cancellation. It can offer peace of mind and financial security and protect your tour investment. Call our office for further information.
Happy Trails Disclaimer: Happy Trails Tours acts only as an agent for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, theater, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Happy Trails Tours, INC and their respective employees, agents, representatives accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of country in which they are provided. Happy Trails Tours INC is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours/trips arranged by Happy Trails Tours. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects.
The Coach/ Escort & Driver: The bus is being chartered through TROBEC BUS CO. The coach has 56 comfortable seats that recline. The bus also has a restroom on board, TV sets with a VCR/DVD player, microphone, and adjustable footrests. We love to play movies on board, tell stories, play a few games and have snacks! (We love treats!) Folks are welcome to bring snacks on board, too. We stop every 2-3 hours.
How to Pack: The tour is completely casual. Dress comfortably with good walking shoes. Pack along a fall/winter jacket. Pack a camera and/or video camera. Still shots are allowed in the theaters…but videos of any kind are not.
Seat Rotation: We do not rotate seats. We used to try to preset seating but it's getting more and more difficult to promise any particular seat. Please let us know in advance if you have any special needs and we'll do our best to accommodate ~ But cannot promise. We practice all CDC guidelines for motorcoach travel.
Hotels /Smoking/ Non-smoking: The hotels where we are staying are 3+*. Read your day-by-days to learn the specifics on each property. All the rooms are non-smoking. Most hotel properties are all non-smoking. Please don’t smoke in them. Penalty charges WILL apply. We stop every 2 ½ -3 hours for quick breaks, comfort stops or meals along the way.
Special Needs / Perfumes/ Fragrances: Kindly refrain from using strong perfumes/ colognes while traveling on this tour. So many folks have allergies to the chemicals in them and may become sick while traveling. Thank you very much for this consideration. Please let us know if you any special needs such as; allergies, motion sickness, medical concerns, or physical disabilities that may affect walking or climbing stairs. We have several hotel rooms in Branson that offer handicapped bars in the bathroom, roll in shower and two beds. Let us know if you need one. They are reserved on a first-come, first served basis. Unfortunately, we cannot promise these rooms.
Tipping: Tips for included meals, luggage handling and city tour guide is included in this package. Tips for your bus driver and Happy Trails Tour guide is not included and may be done at your own discretion at the end of the tour.
Weather: The weather should be warm and very nice, however, we‘ve seen it SNOW in Branson this time of year (Though that‘s rare…we’ve also seen it get as hot as 80 degrees!) Normal temps are between 55-65. With the high elevation, we recommend layering your clothing since mornings and evening can be cool and afternoons can be warmer.
Weather Conditions: In 2007 when we were on a Branson Christmas tour, a blizzard swept through the Midwest and paralyzed the entire region from Kansas City to Northern Minnesota. It caused us to have to spend one more night in Branson (where it was 65 degrees and sunny!). The following day, we traveled home with only wet roads to contend with and everyone stayed safe. We tell you about this because it can happen again. (Hopefully it won’t). One more piece of information….You are financially responsible for the added expense if this should happen. Actually, we had a wonderful “extra” day in Branson and everyone was happy. We took in another show, ate at another nice restaurant but most of all…we were safe and warm.
NOTE: Travel Insurance helped pick up the cost of this added expense for our travelers who purchased the insurance.
Changes on your Itinerary: We reserve the right to adjust this schedule for the benefit of all traveling. Thank you for your understanding. If a change of hotel, restaurant or an attraction occurs, we’ll try to replace it with one of equal value or better if at all possible. As always… we’ll inform you of any changes as we learn of them, themselves.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is available to help defray monies lost due to illness, family emergencies, trip interruption, due to cancellation. It can offer peace of mind and financial security and protect your tour investment. Call our office for further information.
Happy Trails Disclaimer: Happy Trails Tours acts only as an agent for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, theater, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Happy Trails Tours, INC and their respective employees, agents, representatives accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of country in which they are provided. Happy Trails Tours INC is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours/trips arranged by Happy Trails Tours. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects.
Branson’s Ozark Mountain Christmas - November 12 – 18, 2023
November 12 – Sunday – Day One Travel to Des Moines, IA (approx. 435 miles from Grand Rapids, MN)
This tour includes boarding in towns throughout the state of MN with our bus charter company, Trobec’s Transportation of St Stephens, MN.
Northeast Minnesota:
_____5:15AM –Grand Rapids IM Hotel 1702 S Pokegama AV (218-327-0877)
_____6:00AM - Hibbing Hampton Inn 4225 9th Ave W. (218-262-0000) _____6:30AM - Virginia Village Inn-1500 13th ST (218-749-8289)
_____6:45AM-Eveleth Super 8 1080 Industrial Park (218-744-1661) _____7:45AM – Duluth Menards - 4809 Miller Trunk Hwy (218 -722- 0078)
Note: if leaving a vehicle at Menard’s, please contact the store manager for permission and parking instructions.
Breakfast break from 8:15 – 9:15AM – Bus departs at 9:15AM. Paying on your own.
_____9:00AM - Cloquet Perkins Restaurant – 64 Lumberjack Highway 33 – 218-879-8380
Central Minnesota: Our friends from Central MN will meet the Happy Trails group in Burnsville via Trobec Transportation shuttle.
_____8:45AM - Baxter- Walmart - 7295 Glory Road - # 218-829-5510 _____9:00AM – Little Falls – Walmart - 15091 18th St NE (320 632 9268)
_____9:15AM – Rice – Holiday Station Store- 435 E. Main Street (320-393-4450) _____9:45 - Sartell, AmericInn - 19 Le Sauk Drive -
# 320-259-0877
Twin Cities: The NE MN coach will be meeting the Central MN Shuttle at the Lakeville Cracker Barrel County RD 50 off 35W
#952-898-5151
Lunch break from 11:45AM – 1:00PM Cracker Barrel. Paying on your own
_____12:45PM – Lakeville - Cracker Barrel Co RD 50 off 35W 952-898-5151
1:00PM - Re-board the coach and continue to Des Moines, Iowa.
2:30PM - A mid-afternoon coffee and comfort stop will be made at the MN / IA boarder at the "Top of Iowa"
We'll stay here about 1/2 hour and then we'll continue on our way.
5:15PM - Estimated arrival to: Drury Inn 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, Des Moines, IA # 515-457-9500
Tonight is at your leisure. This hotel offers hot & cold buffet between 5:30-7:00 pm with complimentary cocktails. There are also
restaurants within walking distance. This property is beautiful! It offers coffeemakers in the rooms, hairdryer, irons & boards, free hot and
cold beverages in the lobby, indoor / outdoor heated pool and a fitness center.
Light Dinner Included
November 13 – Monday – Day Two Travel to Branson, MO (approx. 400 miles)
6:30 -7:15AM - Full breakfast included, at the hotel before we depart for Branson. 6:30 am- Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
7:30AM - The coach departs Des Moines for Branson, MO. A mid-morning stop will made as well as a lunch stop en-route.
This day is dedicated to traveling south to Branson, Missouri. We'll make comfort stops every 2 1/2 - 3 hours.
Times and locations for Comfort and lunch stop to be announced
3:30PM - Estimated arrival to: Lodge of the Ozarks 3432 W 76 Country BLVD, 417-335-2555
We’ll settle into this beautiful rustic lodge in the heart of Branson for the next four nights. It offers a fitness center, indoor pool, daily hot
breakfast, free WiFi, self-service laundry, 55: Flat screen TVs, in-room Refrigerators, Microwaves, & Coffee Makers. Irons & Ironing boards.
5:30PM - Dinner at the Grand Country Buffet (included) Enjoy an experience reminiscent of dinner at Grandma’s house. With slow-roasted
succulent roast, salads, fresh baked breads, and desserts.
7:15PM – Begin your way to the Presleys’ Theater 2920 W 76 Country BLVD 417-334-4874
8:00PM – Presleys’ Country Jubilee Show – Folks from all over would pack the caves to hear their legendary family performances. So many,
in fact, the caves couldn’t hold ‘em anymore. The Presleys left the caves and bought themselves a piece of land out on an isolated two- lane stretch of asphalt just outside of town. Wasn’t long after that when their show opened in a brand-new theater. It was Branson’s original country music theater. The Presleys were a smash hit. People from across the country lined up every night for a hance to hear the country and gospel music the Presley family loved to perform. Pretty soon, other theaters started popping up around the Presleys. The years pass and Hwy 75 became a glittering mecca of country music stars. And smack dab in the middle of it all, from the very start, were the Presleys. Breakfast and Dinner Included
6:30 -7:15AM - Full breakfast included, at the hotel before we depart for Branson. 6:30 am- Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
7:30AM - The coach departs Des Moines for Branson, MO. A mid-morning stop will made as well as a lunch stop en-route.
This day is dedicated to traveling south to Branson, Missouri. We'll make comfort stops every 2 1/2 - 3 hours.
Times and locations for Comfort and lunch stop to be announced
3:30PM - Estimated arrival to: Lodge of the Ozarks 3432 W 76 Country BLVD, 417-335-2555
We’ll settle into this beautiful rustic lodge in the heart of Branson for the next four nights. It offers a fitness center, indoor pool, daily hot
breakfast, free WiFi, self-service laundry, 55: Flat screen TVs, in-room Refrigerators, Microwaves, & Coffee Makers. Irons & Ironing boards.
5:30PM - Dinner at the Grand Country Buffet (included) Enjoy an experience reminiscent of dinner at Grandma’s house. With slow-roasted
succulent roast, salads, fresh baked breads, and desserts.
7:15PM – Begin your way to the Presleys’ Theater 2920 W 76 Country BLVD 417-334-4874
8:00PM – Presleys’ Country Jubilee Show – Folks from all over would pack the caves to hear their legendary family performances. So many,
in fact, the caves couldn’t hold ‘em anymore. The Presleys left the caves and bought themselves a piece of land out on an isolated two- lane stretch of asphalt just outside of town. Wasn’t long after that when their show opened in a brand-new theater. It was Branson’s original country music theater. The Presleys were a smash hit. People from across the country lined up every night for a hance to hear the country and gospel music the Presley family loved to perform. Pretty soon, other theaters started popping up around the Presleys. The years pass and Hwy 75 became a glittering mecca of country music stars. And smack dab in the middle of it all, from the very start, were the Presleys. Breakfast and Dinner Included
November 14 – Tuesday – Day Three
7:00 – 8:15AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
8:15 – 11:15AM - Board the coach and we'll make our way through the Ozark Mountains with the help of a professional Branson Ozark Tour Guide. Our morning will include a stop Point Royal overlook, Lake Taney Como, and a drive over the dam along with stories and the history of beautiful Ozark Mountains. We'll also make time for a drive through the College of the Ozarks making time to pick up one of their delicious home-made Fruitcakes and visit the Mill, time permitting.
11:15AM - Our tour will end at the Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks. This is where you will have your lunch (included).
The menu is fabulous sit-down meal of duet plate of roasted pork loin and chicken breast with vegetable, starch, dessert and beverage. (All homemade by the students.)
2:00PM -Yakov Smirnoff, the Famous Russian Comedian: Fresh from touring the world and with plenty of new material from politics,
Yakov says, "It's time to Make America Laugh Again!" (And he's not 'Putin' you on!). Celebrate America with Yakov. When Yakov says,
"What A Country!" You'll feel like standing and cheering for the Red, White, and Blue!
5:00PM – We will arrive at the The Grand Village where we will have dinner at the Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, where “we sing for your supper”
(included). Celebrating 27 years now, talented servers (and sometimes cooks and bus staff) have been singing your favorite songs while serving great food. This 1950s themed diner is home to talented, professional singers, songwriters and musicians. Many have been or are currently in some of Branson’s most popular productions. These are professional, award winning entertainers, including one who climbed high on American Idol! Don’t forget to check out the Village. There are some amazing shops including Kringles’ Village Treasures.
7:30 – 9:30pm- Haygood’s Christmas Extravaganza at the Clay Cooper Theater. The Haygoods are celebrating 31 Years of Legendary Family
Entertainment, with world-class production and incredible special effects! 5 Brothers and 1 Sister performing on 20+ Instruments!
Their show is an incredible experience enjoyed by people of every age. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
November 15 – Wednesday – Day Four
7:00 – 9:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
10:00AM – The Titanic Museum. As the whole world remembers the world’s most famous luxury liner, be ready to open the door to the past in a one-of-a-kind way. Feel the “passengers” experience as you walk the hallways, parlors, cabins, and Grand Staircase of the Titanic while
surrounded by more than 400 artifacts directly from the ship and its passengers. Touch a real iceberg, walk the Grand Staircase and third
class hallways, reach your hand into 28-degree water, and try to stand on the sloping decks. Learn what it was like on the RMS Titanic by experiencing it first-hand.
11:30AM - Lunch, included, at McFarlains Restaurant. Several plated options to pick from at the time of seating.
2:00PM - Take your seats for the Danny O Donnell Show at the Mansion Theater!
Everyone loves Danny’s show. Last year it did not include Christmas songs, but he may change it up for the new year. You will hear many fabulous Christmas songs at the other theaters.
7:00 – 8:15AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
8:15 – 11:15AM - Board the coach and we'll make our way through the Ozark Mountains with the help of a professional Branson Ozark Tour Guide. Our morning will include a stop Point Royal overlook, Lake Taney Como, and a drive over the dam along with stories and the history of beautiful Ozark Mountains. We'll also make time for a drive through the College of the Ozarks making time to pick up one of their delicious home-made Fruitcakes and visit the Mill, time permitting.
11:15AM - Our tour will end at the Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks. This is where you will have your lunch (included).
The menu is fabulous sit-down meal of duet plate of roasted pork loin and chicken breast with vegetable, starch, dessert and beverage. (All homemade by the students.)
2:00PM -Yakov Smirnoff, the Famous Russian Comedian: Fresh from touring the world and with plenty of new material from politics,
Yakov says, "It's time to Make America Laugh Again!" (And he's not 'Putin' you on!). Celebrate America with Yakov. When Yakov says,
"What A Country!" You'll feel like standing and cheering for the Red, White, and Blue!
5:00PM – We will arrive at the The Grand Village where we will have dinner at the Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, where “we sing for your supper”
(included). Celebrating 27 years now, talented servers (and sometimes cooks and bus staff) have been singing your favorite songs while serving great food. This 1950s themed diner is home to talented, professional singers, songwriters and musicians. Many have been or are currently in some of Branson’s most popular productions. These are professional, award winning entertainers, including one who climbed high on American Idol! Don’t forget to check out the Village. There are some amazing shops including Kringles’ Village Treasures.
7:30 – 9:30pm- Haygood’s Christmas Extravaganza at the Clay Cooper Theater. The Haygoods are celebrating 31 Years of Legendary Family
Entertainment, with world-class production and incredible special effects! 5 Brothers and 1 Sister performing on 20+ Instruments!
Their show is an incredible experience enjoyed by people of every age. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
November 15 – Wednesday – Day Four
7:00 – 9:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
10:00AM – The Titanic Museum. As the whole world remembers the world’s most famous luxury liner, be ready to open the door to the past in a one-of-a-kind way. Feel the “passengers” experience as you walk the hallways, parlors, cabins, and Grand Staircase of the Titanic while
surrounded by more than 400 artifacts directly from the ship and its passengers. Touch a real iceberg, walk the Grand Staircase and third
class hallways, reach your hand into 28-degree water, and try to stand on the sloping decks. Learn what it was like on the RMS Titanic by experiencing it first-hand.
11:30AM - Lunch, included, at McFarlains Restaurant. Several plated options to pick from at the time of seating.
2:00PM - Take your seats for the Danny O Donnell Show at the Mansion Theater!
Everyone loves Danny’s show. Last year it did not include Christmas songs, but he may change it up for the new year. You will hear many fabulous Christmas songs at the other theaters.
5:00PM - Spend the evening at Silver Dollar City (Theme Park)
(dinner voucher included). Few things compare to the sight of over 6.5 million twinkling lights covering the trees, buildings, and
walkways throughout the park. Over 1,000 decorated trees are
sprinkled throughout the park and almost every building is strung with lights from top to bottom. You can spend hours just wandering around the lights so we are building in extra time for you to just to explore. Put on your best walking shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of it (and hey, it might help lessen the guilt from eating all the great foods throughout the park). Silver Dollar City does rent electric scooters ($50/day), wheelchairs ($20-25/day) near the front entrance. Indoor Shows and activities vary each day so be sure to review the schedule by picking up a copy of the “Pathfinder” newspaper when you arrive.
Note: For this evening, we are planning an alternate event in the case of inclement weather or for those who might be mobility
challenged. Stay tuned.
8:00PM – Leave the park for the hotel and an evening to hang out in the Hospitality Room or plan your own activities.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
(dinner voucher included). Few things compare to the sight of over 6.5 million twinkling lights covering the trees, buildings, and
walkways throughout the park. Over 1,000 decorated trees are
sprinkled throughout the park and almost every building is strung with lights from top to bottom. You can spend hours just wandering around the lights so we are building in extra time for you to just to explore. Put on your best walking shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of it (and hey, it might help lessen the guilt from eating all the great foods throughout the park). Silver Dollar City does rent electric scooters ($50/day), wheelchairs ($20-25/day) near the front entrance. Indoor Shows and activities vary each day so be sure to review the schedule by picking up a copy of the “Pathfinder” newspaper when you arrive.
Note: For this evening, we are planning an alternate event in the case of inclement weather or for those who might be mobility
challenged. Stay tuned.
8:00PM – Leave the park for the hotel and an evening to hang out in the Hospitality Room or plan your own activities.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
November 16 – Thursday – Day Five
7:00 - 9:00AM - Breakfast is served at the Inn. Help yourselves.
This morning will include some shopping time for those who would like to go to Old Downtown Branson to Dick’s Five and Dime.
12:00PM – Luncheon Cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle. Showboat Branson Belle Main Show Experience. Set sail for adventure on the
open waters of Table Rock Lake with live music, dancing, comedy, magic, a meal and more! Join the Showboat's master of ceremonies as
he presents the newest sensation in live stage performance. You can select your menu at the time of seating.
2:30PM – Rest & Relaxation time. You can gather with the group in our Hospitality Room or just grab some quiet time on your own.
5:30PM – Served Buffet Dinner by Bobby Jack’s BBQ to be served in the Table Rock Room at our hotel
8:00PM - Take your seats for Branson’s Christmas Wonderland Show
This is one of Branson's largest holiday Christmas show celebrations with a dazzling variety of singers, dancers, and performers at this beloved holiday show, Branson's Christmas Wonderland! Take a break from the hectic holiday season and enjoy a show that is sure to put you in the spirit. Full of red and white costumes and sparkles galore, this show will amaze you as performers spread yuletide fever. This show will play all of your favorite seasonal tunes including, 'Happy Holidays', 'I'll Be Home for Christmas,' 'The First Noel,' and more with
dancing girls straight from the North Pole!
November 17 – Friday – Day Six Travel to Des Moines, IA (approx. 400 miles)
7:00 - 8:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast. 7:30 am - Set your luggage outside your door for the porter. 8:30 am- We'll say good-bye to Branson, MO.
We’ll make stops along the way as we wind our way northward toward Des Moines -back to the beautiful Drury Inn.
Comfort / Lunch Stops can be expected approximately every 2 to 3 hours.
11:45AM – Lunch Stop at Bob Evans Restaurant – Kansas City (pay on your own)
6:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Wildwood Lodge – 11431 Forest AV, Clive, IA # 515-222-9876
Tonight is at your leisure. A TRUE HOME AWAY FROM HOME ON YOUR TRAVELS Welcome to the Wildwood Lodge, a distinct Northwood’s boutique hotel. Their mission is to provide you with a true home away from home on your travels, which you’ll find in the comfortable and cozy lodging. During your stay, you’re invited to take advantage of amenities like the large, indoor fireplace, outdoor fire pit, indoor pool & spa, complimentary board games in the main lodge, an expanded, hot breakfast. For dinner, Chili’s, Mia Mexico, and one of the last six Baker’s Square are all within walking distance.
Breakfast
7:00 - 9:00AM - Breakfast is served at the Inn. Help yourselves.
This morning will include some shopping time for those who would like to go to Old Downtown Branson to Dick’s Five and Dime.
12:00PM – Luncheon Cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle. Showboat Branson Belle Main Show Experience. Set sail for adventure on the
open waters of Table Rock Lake with live music, dancing, comedy, magic, a meal and more! Join the Showboat's master of ceremonies as
he presents the newest sensation in live stage performance. You can select your menu at the time of seating.
2:30PM – Rest & Relaxation time. You can gather with the group in our Hospitality Room or just grab some quiet time on your own.
5:30PM – Served Buffet Dinner by Bobby Jack’s BBQ to be served in the Table Rock Room at our hotel
8:00PM - Take your seats for Branson’s Christmas Wonderland Show
This is one of Branson's largest holiday Christmas show celebrations with a dazzling variety of singers, dancers, and performers at this beloved holiday show, Branson's Christmas Wonderland! Take a break from the hectic holiday season and enjoy a show that is sure to put you in the spirit. Full of red and white costumes and sparkles galore, this show will amaze you as performers spread yuletide fever. This show will play all of your favorite seasonal tunes including, 'Happy Holidays', 'I'll Be Home for Christmas,' 'The First Noel,' and more with
dancing girls straight from the North Pole!
November 17 – Friday – Day Six Travel to Des Moines, IA (approx. 400 miles)
7:00 - 8:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast. 7:30 am - Set your luggage outside your door for the porter. 8:30 am- We'll say good-bye to Branson, MO.
We’ll make stops along the way as we wind our way northward toward Des Moines -back to the beautiful Drury Inn.
Comfort / Lunch Stops can be expected approximately every 2 to 3 hours.
11:45AM – Lunch Stop at Bob Evans Restaurant – Kansas City (pay on your own)
6:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Wildwood Lodge – 11431 Forest AV, Clive, IA # 515-222-9876
Tonight is at your leisure. A TRUE HOME AWAY FROM HOME ON YOUR TRAVELS Welcome to the Wildwood Lodge, a distinct Northwood’s boutique hotel. Their mission is to provide you with a true home away from home on your travels, which you’ll find in the comfortable and cozy lodging. During your stay, you’re invited to take advantage of amenities like the large, indoor fireplace, outdoor fire pit, indoor pool & spa, complimentary board games in the main lodge, an expanded, hot breakfast. For dinner, Chili’s, Mia Mexico, and one of the last six Baker’s Square are all within walking distance.
Breakfast
November 18 – Saturday – Day Seven Homeward Bound
7:00 - 8:30AM- Enjoy a full hot Breakfast at the Wildwood Lodge before leaving for the final leg of our journey.
7:30AM - Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
8:30AM - Board the coach and we'll begin our journey back to the Minnesota Northland.
Comfort or Lunch Stops can be expected approximately every 2 to 3 hours.
On our way.... we'll make a stop at the Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet and Cabela’s for a final shopping opportunity.
1:00PM – Arrive in Lakeville for a lunch (to be announced) This will also be the location for the Trobec shuttle to transfer Central MN group & luggage.
2:30PM - Departure from Lakeville. Estimated arrivals to the various towns are as follows;
Central MN: 4:30PM - Sartell; 5:00PM – Rice; 5:15PM – Littler Falls; and 5:30PM - Baxter
Northeast: 4:30PM - Cloquet; 5:00PM – Duluth; (Quick Dinner Break); 7:00M - Eveleth; 7:15PM - Virginia; 7:45PM - Hibbing;
8:30PM – Grand Rapids.
Breakfast Included
7:00 - 8:30AM- Enjoy a full hot Breakfast at the Wildwood Lodge before leaving for the final leg of our journey.
7:30AM - Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
8:30AM - Board the coach and we'll begin our journey back to the Minnesota Northland.
Comfort or Lunch Stops can be expected approximately every 2 to 3 hours.
On our way.... we'll make a stop at the Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet and Cabela’s for a final shopping opportunity.
1:00PM – Arrive in Lakeville for a lunch (to be announced) This will also be the location for the Trobec shuttle to transfer Central MN group & luggage.
2:30PM - Departure from Lakeville. Estimated arrivals to the various towns are as follows;
Central MN: 4:30PM - Sartell; 5:00PM – Rice; 5:15PM – Littler Falls; and 5:30PM - Baxter
Northeast: 4:30PM - Cloquet; 5:00PM – Duluth; (Quick Dinner Break); 7:00M - Eveleth; 7:15PM - Virginia; 7:45PM - Hibbing;
8:30PM – Grand Rapids.
Breakfast Included