Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas
November 12-18, 2025
$ 1949 Per Person Double Occupancy $1809 PP Triple $1739 PP Quad $2359 Single Occupancy
Your SEVEN Day Branson Tour Includes:
MN Coaches Transportation: Northeast MN Boarding: Grand Rapids, Hibbing, Chisholm,
Virginia, Eveleth, Duluth & Cloquet & North Branch Central Minnesota Boarding: Sartell, Little Falls, Rice &
Baxter Twin Cities Area: Coon Rapids, and Lakeville
SIX Nights Lodging: One in Des Moines @ the Drury Inn (Pre Night), Four Nights at Beautiful Best Western Center Point Inn on the 76 Strip and a post night at the Drury Inn enroute home.
SIX Shows: Danny O Donnell; Yakov Smirnoff; David (Sights & Sounds Theater); Showboat Branon Belle,
Branson’s Christmas Wonderland Show; Haygood Family Christmas
Other Attractions: Dick’s Five and Dime in Historic Old Downtown, Branson Landing, Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks;
Guided Ozark Mountain Area Tour, Russell Stovers on the last day home.
14 Meals: Six Breakfasts, Four Dinners, Two Lunches and Two Cocktail/Light Dinner receptions.
Luggage Handling, Taxes, Tips & Fully Guided with a Happy Trails Host
Your SEVEN Day Branson Tour Includes:
MN Coaches Transportation: Northeast MN Boarding: Grand Rapids, Hibbing, Chisholm,
Virginia, Eveleth, Duluth & Cloquet & North Branch Central Minnesota Boarding: Sartell, Little Falls, Rice &
Baxter Twin Cities Area: Coon Rapids, and Lakeville
SIX Nights Lodging: One in Des Moines @ the Drury Inn (Pre Night), Four Nights at Beautiful Best Western Center Point Inn on the 76 Strip and a post night at the Drury Inn enroute home.
SIX Shows: Danny O Donnell; Yakov Smirnoff; David (Sights & Sounds Theater); Showboat Branon Belle,
Branson’s Christmas Wonderland Show; Haygood Family Christmas
Other Attractions: Dick’s Five and Dime in Historic Old Downtown, Branson Landing, Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks;
Guided Ozark Mountain Area Tour, Russell Stovers on the last day home.
14 Meals: Six Breakfasts, Four Dinners, Two Lunches and Two Cocktail/Light Dinner receptions.
Luggage Handling, Taxes, Tips & Fully Guided with a Happy Trails Host
November 12 – Wednesday – Day One Travel to Des Moines, IA (approx. 435 miles from Grand Rapids, MN)
Below is a tentative schedule from the previous year. Each year, it changes a bit. Sometimes the timing is changed and sometimes the location, depending on how many people if any at certain venue.
Northeast Minnesota – Minnesota Coaches Main 56 Passenger Coach
6:00 am –Grand Rapids IM Hotel 1702 S Pokegama AV (218-327-0877)
7:00 am- Eveleth Super 8 1080 Industrial Park (218-744-1661)
8:00 am–Hermantown Menards-4809 Miller Trunk Hwy (218 722 0078)
8:15-9:15AM- BREAKFAST break at McDonalds (Cloquet)– Bus departs at 9:15AM. Paying on your own.
9:20 am – Cloquet - McDonalds Fast Food – 709 MN 33 #218-879-8497
10:50 am – North Branch Holiday Gas Station- 5554 St Croix Trail - 651-674-8094
11:20 am – Roseville Target Parking Lot - 1515 Co Rd B – 651-631-0330
Shuttle- Minnesota Coaches to provide a Shuttle for our friends from Central and Twin Cities
Our friends from Central MN will meet the Happy Trails group in Burnsville via motorcoach or shuttle depending on how many.
8:30 am- Baxter- Walmart 7295 Glory Road - # 218-829-5510
9:00 am- Rice – Holiday Gas Station – 435 Main Street - # 320-393-4450
10:00 am-Sartell, AmericInn - 19 Le Sauk Drive - # 320-259-0877
12:15 - Estimated arrival to Burnsville Center Mall – Lunch Break, paying on own – (12:15-1:30 pm).
(Lucky Pub, Panera Bread and Pasta Bowl Café)
1:15 pm- Burnsville Mall – Front Entrance – 1178 Burnsville Center Road
1:30 pm - Re-board the coach and continue to Des Moines, Iowa.
3:00 pm - 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.
5:45 pm - 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 and cocktails Included
November 13 – Thursday – Day Two Travel to Branson, MO - Yakov Smirnoff Show (approx. 400 miles)
6:30 -7:15 am - Full breakfast included, at the hotel before we depart for Branson.
6:30 am- Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
7:30 am- 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.
3:30 am - Estimated arrival to: Hotel Best Western Cedar Point Inn 3215 West 76 country Blvd, Branson #417-334-3437
We’ll settle into this property in the heart of Branson for the next four nights. They offer a nice breakfast each morning. They also have Irons/Boards, Hairdryers, Elevators, Fitness Center and Free Wi-Fi.
4:45 pm- Board the coach for our 5 pm dinner – Hero’s Tastes and Taps.
This restaurant has a real military theme and popular with our veterans. Tonight, you will choose between Grandpa’s Fried Fish Plate, ‘ Merica’s Meatloaf and Farmhouse Smothered Chicken. All this comes with a side salad, dessert and coffee/tea.
Below is a tentative schedule from the previous year. Each year, it changes a bit. Sometimes the timing is changed and sometimes the location, depending on how many people if any at certain venue.
Northeast Minnesota – Minnesota Coaches Main 56 Passenger Coach
6:00 am –Grand Rapids IM Hotel 1702 S Pokegama AV (218-327-0877)
7:00 am- Eveleth Super 8 1080 Industrial Park (218-744-1661)
8:00 am–Hermantown Menards-4809 Miller Trunk Hwy (218 722 0078)
8:15-9:15AM- BREAKFAST break at McDonalds (Cloquet)– Bus departs at 9:15AM. Paying on your own.
9:20 am – Cloquet - McDonalds Fast Food – 709 MN 33 #218-879-8497
10:50 am – North Branch Holiday Gas Station- 5554 St Croix Trail - 651-674-8094
11:20 am – Roseville Target Parking Lot - 1515 Co Rd B – 651-631-0330
Shuttle- Minnesota Coaches to provide a Shuttle for our friends from Central and Twin Cities
Our friends from Central MN will meet the Happy Trails group in Burnsville via motorcoach or shuttle depending on how many.
8:30 am- Baxter- Walmart 7295 Glory Road - # 218-829-5510
9:00 am- Rice – Holiday Gas Station – 435 Main Street - # 320-393-4450
10:00 am-Sartell, AmericInn - 19 Le Sauk Drive - # 320-259-0877
12:15 - Estimated arrival to Burnsville Center Mall – Lunch Break, paying on own – (12:15-1:30 pm).
(Lucky Pub, Panera Bread and Pasta Bowl Café)
1:15 pm- Burnsville Mall – Front Entrance – 1178 Burnsville Center Road
1:30 pm - Re-board the coach and continue to Des Moines, Iowa.
3:00 pm - 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.
5:45 pm - 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 and cocktails Included
November 13 – Thursday – Day Two Travel to Branson, MO - Yakov Smirnoff Show (approx. 400 miles)
6:30 -7:15 am - Full breakfast included, at the hotel before we depart for Branson.
6:30 am- Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
7:30 am- 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.
3:30 am - Estimated arrival to: Hotel Best Western Cedar Point Inn 3215 West 76 country Blvd, Branson #417-334-3437
We’ll settle into this property in the heart of Branson for the next four nights. They offer a nice breakfast each morning. They also have Irons/Boards, Hairdryers, Elevators, Fitness Center and Free Wi-Fi.
4:45 pm- Board the coach for our 5 pm dinner – Hero’s Tastes and Taps.
This restaurant has a real military theme and popular with our veterans. Tonight, you will choose between Grandpa’s Fried Fish Plate, ‘ Merica’s Meatloaf and Farmhouse Smothered Chicken. All this comes with a side salad, dessert and coffee/tea.
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6:45 pm – Begin our way to our first Branson show of this tour.
7:30 pm -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! Breakfast & Dinner Included |
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November 14 – Friday – Day Three Daniel O’ Donnell and DAVID at the Sights and Sound Theater
7:00 – 9:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
10:30 AM- Board the coach and off we go to the Imax Center. We have allowed a bit time to browse before lunch.
11:30 am- Lunch, included, at McFarlains. Here you will have a choice between several options at the time of seating.
1:00 PM- Be on board and travel to the Mansion Theater for Danny’s show.
2:00PM - Take your seats for the Danny O Donnell Show at the Mansion Theater!
Everyone loves Danny’s show. He is one of Branson’s most popular shows still. We’ve doing this tour for many, many years.
4:30PM –Or as soon as Danny’s show is done… reboard the coach and travel to the Grand Country Complex.
Dinner tonight is at the Grand Country Buffet (included) Enjoy an experience reminiscent of dinner at Grandma’s house.
You won’t run out of entrees to suit every appetite …. Big or small.
6:15 PM- Reboard the coach and travel to the Sights and Sounds Theater.
7:30 – 9:30pm- “DAVID” at the lovely Sights and Sounds Theater.
With original music inspired by the Psalms, DAVID is a state-of-the-art theatrical experience for the whole family. Witness one of the most legendary Bible stories as it comes to life with spectacular special effects, massive sets, and live animals in this original stage production.
We have excellent seats tonight and we are so excited to be able to add this to our 2025 line up!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
November 15 – Saturday – Day Four Branson Showboat Belle, Haygoods & the Keeter Center
7:00 – 9:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
We have left the early morning open. Again…. We will offer something a little closer to the time this tour departs.
10:00 AM- Board the coach and travel to the boat dock on Table Rock Lake.
7:00 – 9:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
10:30 AM- Board the coach and off we go to the Imax Center. We have allowed a bit time to browse before lunch.
11:30 am- Lunch, included, at McFarlains. Here you will have a choice between several options at the time of seating.
1:00 PM- Be on board and travel to the Mansion Theater for Danny’s show.
2:00PM - Take your seats for the Danny O Donnell Show at the Mansion Theater!
Everyone loves Danny’s show. He is one of Branson’s most popular shows still. We’ve doing this tour for many, many years.
4:30PM –Or as soon as Danny’s show is done… reboard the coach and travel to the Grand Country Complex.
Dinner tonight is at the Grand Country Buffet (included) Enjoy an experience reminiscent of dinner at Grandma’s house.
You won’t run out of entrees to suit every appetite …. Big or small.
6:15 PM- Reboard the coach and travel to the Sights and Sounds Theater.
7:30 – 9:30pm- “DAVID” at the lovely Sights and Sounds Theater.
With original music inspired by the Psalms, DAVID is a state-of-the-art theatrical experience for the whole family. Witness one of the most legendary Bible stories as it comes to life with spectacular special effects, massive sets, and live animals in this original stage production.
We have excellent seats tonight and we are so excited to be able to add this to our 2025 line up!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
November 15 – Saturday – Day Four Branson Showboat Belle, Haygoods & the Keeter Center
7:00 – 9:00AM - Enjoy Breakfast served at the hotel.
We have left the early morning open. Again…. We will offer something a little closer to the time this tour departs.
10:00 AM- Board the coach and travel to the boat dock on Table Rock Lake.
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12:00 PM – 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/she presents the newest sensation in live stage performance. You can select your menu at the time of seating. 2:30 PM- Once the cruise concludes, Our plan is to visit The Grand Village. They have some very quaint shops and places to stroll, sit, window shop or people watch. Be sure to check out Kringles Village Treasures and the Bakery! We will only be here about 1.5 hours. 4:30 PM- We’ll wind our way to the College of the Ozarks where a wonderful homecooked meal awaits. |
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5:00 PM – You are going to absolutely love this stop,
The Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks.
This is where you will have your dinner before seeing the Haygods. The menu is a 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.)
6:30 PM- Reboard the coach and travel to the Haygoods Theater for a delightful holiday production.
7:30 PM- - 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
The Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks.
This is where you will have your dinner before seeing the Haygods. The menu is a 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.)
6:30 PM- Reboard the coach and travel to the Haygoods Theater for a delightful holiday production.
7:30 PM- - 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 16 – Sunday – Day Five Area Mountain Sightseeing Tour, Christmas Wonderland
7:00 – 8:45AM - Breakfast is served. Help yourselves.
10:30 am- Board the coach and we will visit Branson Landing…
This is where a beautiful open-air waterfront setting is home to over 100 shops, attractions and restaurants. (Belk Department Store and Bass Pro Shop). We have given you a relaxing morning to explore and get lunch, paying on own, as per your own agenda and taste. You will have about 3.5 hours to explore, get lunch and stroll. We can suggest other options, if preferred.
2:00 pm- (After you’ve had lunch), we'll enjoy an Ozark Mountain Tour with our guide, Tiffany.
Our morning will include Point Royal Overlook and Lake Taney Como as we drive over the Table Rock Dam along with stories and the history of beautiful Ozark Mountains. We’ll wind our way through the College of Ozark campus.
5:00 pm- Return from our tour and return to Branson Landing, where we’ll have our dinner.
5:30 pm- Welcome to Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen for lunch. This is our first-time using Paula Deen’s while in Branson.
We’ll be served family style to include slow roasted spareribs, Paula’s signature Southern Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, poppyseed tossed salad and candied yams. Beverages and dessert are also on the menu!
7:00 pm- We’ll begin our way to The King’s Castle for one of Branson’s top Christmas productions!
7:00 – 8:45AM - Breakfast is served. Help yourselves.
10:30 am- Board the coach and we will visit Branson Landing…
This is where a beautiful open-air waterfront setting is home to over 100 shops, attractions and restaurants. (Belk Department Store and Bass Pro Shop). We have given you a relaxing morning to explore and get lunch, paying on own, as per your own agenda and taste. You will have about 3.5 hours to explore, get lunch and stroll. We can suggest other options, if preferred.
2:00 pm- (After you’ve had lunch), we'll enjoy an Ozark Mountain Tour with our guide, Tiffany.
Our morning will include Point Royal Overlook and Lake Taney Como as we drive over the Table Rock Dam along with stories and the history of beautiful Ozark Mountains. We’ll wind our way through the College of Ozark campus.
5:00 pm- Return from our tour and return to Branson Landing, where we’ll have our dinner.
5:30 pm- Welcome to Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen for lunch. This is our first-time using Paula Deen’s while in Branson.
We’ll be served family style to include slow roasted spareribs, Paula’s signature Southern Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, poppyseed tossed salad and candied yams. Beverages and dessert are also on the menu!
7:00 pm- We’ll begin our way to The King’s Castle for one of Branson’s top Christmas productions!
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8:00 pm- Take your seats for Branson’s Christmas Wonderland -King’s Castle Theater.
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 performed 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! Breakfast & Dinner Included |
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November 17– Monday – 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)
5:45PM - 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. Breakfast and Light Dinner Included
November 18 – Tuesday – Day Seven Homeward Bound
7:00 - 8:30AM- Enjoy a full hot Breakfast at the Drury Inn before leaving for the final leg of our journey. (Breakfast Included Today)
7:30AM -Set your luggage outside your door for the porter. 8:30AM - Board the coach and we'll begin our journey homeward.
Comfort or Lunch Stops can be expected approximately every 2 to 3 hours.
On our way.... you divide your time between Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet and Cabela’s – If time and weather permit.
1:00PM – Arrive in Burnsville – (Lunch time included, paying on own)
This will also be the location for the shuttle to transfer Central MN group & luggage.
2:00PM - Departure from Burnsville. Estimated arrivals to the various towns are as follows;
Central MN: 3:45PM - Sartell; 4:15PM – Rice; 4:45PM - Baxter
Northeast: 4:30PM-Cloquet; 5:00PM–Duluth;(Quick Dinner Break); 7:00M-Eveleth; 7:15PM-Virginia; 7:45PM - HBG; 8:30PM –Rapids.
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.
Deposits and Final Payment Due Date: $200 per person deposit is due with each reservation and is non-refundable after August 1, 2025
Final balance due: September 12, 2025. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations: Money returned with cancellations between August 12 and September 12, 2025 are contingent upon what Happy Trails Tours can retrieve back from hotels, charters, theaters, restaurants, etc. No refunds with cancellations made after September 12, 2024. Reservations are transferable.
Final Documents: Final documents are expected to arrive three to four weeks prior to departure with specifics on boarding time and location.
Things to Know Before You Go on Branson Tour
The Coach/ Escort & Driver: The bus is being chartered through Minnesota Coaches Duluth. It’s a new coach with leather interior. The coach has 56 comfortable seats that recline. It also has a restroom on board, TV sets with a VCR/DVD player, microphone, and adjustable footrests and offers outlets to charge your electronic devices. 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 try to 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 have always tried to honor reserved seat requests, but it's getting more and more difficult to promise any particular seat because almost everyone who signs up has some type of special need. Please let us know in advance if you have critical special needs and we'll do our best to accommodate ~ But cannot promise. ALL SEATS ARE RESERVED ONCE WE DESIGN THE SEATING CHART. Masks are optional. We do not rotate seats as per the advice of the health department. People stay healthier if they don’t rotate. We ask that you do not board the coach if you are not feeling well. Get a doctors OK to do a group tour if you are under the weather.
Hotels /Smoking/ Non-smoking: The hotels where we are staying are 3+*. Read your day-by-day 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. Everyone must be able to climb at least 5-7 steps to get in the coach. Hotels ONLY have a limited number of ADA Rooms. We ONLY have a number of seats toward the FRONT. Depending on when you registered and the severity of your need, seats cannot be promised in any part of the coach. Thank you for understanding.
Tipping: Tips for included meals, luggage handling and the area guide in this package. Tips for your MN Coach DRIVER and HAPPY TRAILS TOURS is not included and may be done at your own discretion at the end of the tour. Suggested tips are $3-5 per day per person.
Weather: The weather should be similar to warm fall weather in Minnesota. However, we have 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 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. We also recommend to keep the day before this tour and the day after just in case the tour departure or return is changed due to weather.
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 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.
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)
5:45PM - 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. Breakfast and Light Dinner Included
November 18 – Tuesday – Day Seven Homeward Bound
7:00 - 8:30AM- Enjoy a full hot Breakfast at the Drury Inn before leaving for the final leg of our journey. (Breakfast Included Today)
7:30AM -Set your luggage outside your door for the porter. 8:30AM - Board the coach and we'll begin our journey homeward.
Comfort or Lunch Stops can be expected approximately every 2 to 3 hours.
On our way.... you divide your time between Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet and Cabela’s – If time and weather permit.
1:00PM – Arrive in Burnsville – (Lunch time included, paying on own)
This will also be the location for the shuttle to transfer Central MN group & luggage.
2:00PM - Departure from Burnsville. Estimated arrivals to the various towns are as follows;
Central MN: 3:45PM - Sartell; 4:15PM – Rice; 4:45PM - Baxter
Northeast: 4:30PM-Cloquet; 5:00PM–Duluth;(Quick Dinner Break); 7:00M-Eveleth; 7:15PM-Virginia; 7:45PM - HBG; 8:30PM –Rapids.
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.
Deposits and Final Payment Due Date: $200 per person deposit is due with each reservation and is non-refundable after August 1, 2025
Final balance due: September 12, 2025. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations: Money returned with cancellations between August 12 and September 12, 2025 are contingent upon what Happy Trails Tours can retrieve back from hotels, charters, theaters, restaurants, etc. No refunds with cancellations made after September 12, 2024. Reservations are transferable.
Final Documents: Final documents are expected to arrive three to four weeks prior to departure with specifics on boarding time and location.
Things to Know Before You Go on Branson Tour
The Coach/ Escort & Driver: The bus is being chartered through Minnesota Coaches Duluth. It’s a new coach with leather interior. The coach has 56 comfortable seats that recline. It also has a restroom on board, TV sets with a VCR/DVD player, microphone, and adjustable footrests and offers outlets to charge your electronic devices. 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 try to 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 have always tried to honor reserved seat requests, but it's getting more and more difficult to promise any particular seat because almost everyone who signs up has some type of special need. Please let us know in advance if you have critical special needs and we'll do our best to accommodate ~ But cannot promise. ALL SEATS ARE RESERVED ONCE WE DESIGN THE SEATING CHART. Masks are optional. We do not rotate seats as per the advice of the health department. People stay healthier if they don’t rotate. We ask that you do not board the coach if you are not feeling well. Get a doctors OK to do a group tour if you are under the weather.
Hotels /Smoking/ Non-smoking: The hotels where we are staying are 3+*. Read your day-by-day 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. Everyone must be able to climb at least 5-7 steps to get in the coach. Hotels ONLY have a limited number of ADA Rooms. We ONLY have a number of seats toward the FRONT. Depending on when you registered and the severity of your need, seats cannot be promised in any part of the coach. Thank you for understanding.
Tipping: Tips for included meals, luggage handling and the area guide in this package. Tips for your MN Coach DRIVER and HAPPY TRAILS TOURS is not included and may be done at your own discretion at the end of the tour. Suggested tips are $3-5 per day per person.
Weather: The weather should be similar to warm fall weather in Minnesota. However, we have 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 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. We also recommend to keep the day before this tour and the day after just in case the tour departure or return is changed due to weather.
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 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.