Embark on our most unforgettable family trip yet. We spent seven days in Branson, Missouri. This trip completely blew our expectations out of the water. Whether you’re a teen looking for thrill, a parent needing chill, or someone who lives for that perfect vacation photo, this trip catered to all. Teens found their thrill. Parents got their chill. Photographers captured their perfect shots. Buckle up, because this week was packed with disc golf duels, jaw-dropping shows, adrenaline-pumping rides, and some serious relaxation.

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The Arrival

After a smooth flight, we enjoyed a scenic drive. We rolled up to our mountain-view home. It was nestled in a gated community. A ball golf course wraps the hills. Imagine waking up, stepping onto the balcony, and seeing a hazy Branson skyline stretched out in the distance. Absolute dream. Trey’s parents had the fridge stocked and the vibes ready. Day one vibes: cozy, connected, and full of anticipation.

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Day 1: Discs, Discoveries & Magic

First stop? Treehouz Disc Golf Course. This place was straight-up enchanted. Tucked in nature, with hilltop baskets and wooded trails—it was the perfect kickstart to our adventure. The scores? Trey +7, me +5. (Victory tastes sweet!)

Curious detour: We spotted a sign for Top of the Rock and couldn’t resist. It was classy, scenic, and full of surprises—like a hidden museum, a gourmet restaurant, and a sky-high tour.

Later that night: Saint City Sports Bar & Grill served up jalapeño poppers the size of baseballs. Then, we enjoyed pool games. A seriously good magic show at Grand Shanghai Theatre followed. Teen or adult, you’ll be asking, “HOW did they do that?!”

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Day 2: Park Plays & Wild West Thrills

Sunset Park gave us another disc golf showdown (+5 to +7 again). After a fun round, we took on the legend that is Silver Dollar City. Think: old-timey streets, insane rollercoasters, smoky BBQ, live parades, and charming shops. Bring good shoes. You’ll be walking, screaming, and laughing nonstop.

Bonus sighting: Lightning McQueen and Mater casually parked in a lot. No explanation. Just magic.

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Day 3: Flying High & Landing Low

We hit Eiserman Disc Golf Course in the morning—tight trails, chill vibes. Later, it was all thrills at The Shepherd of the Hills: ziplining through treetops and an epic mountain coaster. We wrapped with dinner at Branson Landing. We enjoyed a wild water show. And—wait for it—there was free moonshine tasting at Smith Creek (adults only, obviously).

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Day 4: Passion & Peace

Time to slow things down. We headed to The Great Passion Play, an awe-inspiring biblical experience with towering statues and reverent energy. Then came tacos and margaritas (because balance). Later, we squeezed in a quick nine-hole round back at Treehouz Cedars Resort. This course is like the chill younger sibling of day one.

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Day 5: The Escape Begins

We tested our skills on the legendary Branson Trail Disc Golf Course—a beast of a woods course. +15 for me, +7 for Trey (I was humbled). Then, we stepped into the mysterious, mind-bending world of Escape Code. Did we make it out? Almost. Which made the post-game drinks at Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey Bar even more satisfying.

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Day 6: Unexpected Faves

Not gonna lie, I didn’t expect to love The Aquarium at the Boardwalk, but it rocked. Mesmerizing displays, a mirror-octopus show, and interactive exhibits made it a surprise hit for everyone.

We ended the day with family time, Branson Landing, and cheesy, heavenly Mellow Mushroom pizza.

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Day 7: Finale with a Bang

Final round at Treehouz. Trey got me again (+3 to +4). Then we reunited with the fam for the Ancient Ozarks Museum at Top of the Rock. It had stunning artifacts, cave tours, and Insta-worthy views.

As we were heading out, we stumbled upon Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill. A neon-lit, underwater-themed bowling alley hidden in a Bass Pro Shop? Yes, it exists. And yes, it’s totally worth it.

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🔍 UNLOCK IT FRIDAY PUZZLE CHALLENGE #17

Your Branson Adventure Badge Awaits…

The Pikes left behind one final puzzle—hidden in the heart of their epic family escape. Can you crack it?

🧠 THE RIDDLE:

We soared through trees and climbed through time,
We battled with baskets and rhythms in rhyme.
Follow the days and choose each quest—
The first from each will tell you the rest.
Unscramble the letters, open the gate…
Your Branson escape holds a secret fate.

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✨ HOW TO SOLVE IT:

• Read through each day of the trip.
• Find the main adventure or activity of that day.
• Take the first letter of each one.
• Unscramble all 7 letters to reveal a single hidden word.
• That’s your secret code!

🤫 Hint: If you followed the fun, the answer is something the family almost did… but didn’t quite.

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🎯 Think you solved it?
Send the word (all caps) to us on Instagram @Thejoyofescaperooms to earn your official:

🎖 Branson Escape Badge #17
A proud piece of our #UnlockItFriday challenge series.

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Ready to play? Share this with your fam and challenge them to beat you to the answer. Because adventure is better when you unlock it together.

#UnlockItFriday #BransonEscape #DiscGolfAndDestinations #FamilyTravelPuzzle

👉 Looking for real-life encouragement or everyday inspiration? Don’t miss our other series. Check out Advice in the Mess—where parenting gets honest. Also, explore Life, where we dive into growth, grit, and grace through it all. Head to the blog page and keep the journey going!