Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction in Branson Missouri

Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction in Branson Missouri

While visiting Branson Missouri there are a few places that you do not want to miss. The Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction is one of them. This year is the 25th year for the Stampede Dinner Attraction in Branson and they continue to sell out almost every show. That should tell you how popular it is and why you shouldn't miss it.

I was given complimentary admission as part of a #BloggingBranson event. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own and are not influenced by the brand or sponsor.

When you arrive on property, make sure to allow time to enjoy your surroundings as you walk towards the main building. The flowers and pathways are gorgeous. They are a perfect backdrop for some special moments to capture a picture or two, especially the floral butterfly on the front lawn.

Meet the stars of the show up close!

On the pathway to the main entrance, you will see the open air stables where the main performers (the horses) are waiting to capture your attention. Each of the horses are waiting for the chance to pose in a photograph with you. Honestly, I had to laugh as some of our crew tried to take photos and one of the horses kept sticking out his tongue.

They all seem to enjoy the attention and interaction with the guests. The show team is made up of Quarter Horses, Palominos, Appaloosas, and Paint breeds. They are some of the most beautiful horses I have seen.

Pre Show Activities

Once you make your way inside the building, there is an opportunity to have your picture taken with your group. Along the walkway, there are photos that you won't want to miss!

The White River Wranglers

Then you are directed through the Gift Shop where you can purchase branded items to take home. I recommend the package of soup and a souvenir boot cup. Although my grand daughter is crazy about her “dancing” flower.

Just outside the gift shop is an open multi level open stage area where you will enjoy about 45 minutes of entertainment from the White River Wranglers.

Make sure to grab some popcorn and a specialty non-alcoholic drink in a souvenir mug while you enjoy the comedy and music.

The Show

Each show is held in their 35,000 square foot arena surrounded by stomping, cheering (and eating) guests while 32 horses race through the arena with a cast of top-notch trick riders.

The entire show keeps you entertained with amazing riding and horse tricks, adorable animal competitions, audience competitions (have you ever tried tossing toilet seats in a horse shoe showdown), and some of the funniest comedy routines from SKEETER & NUGGET® that I have ever heard.

As the show unfolds, the story of the American past is displayed in the arena.

From the struggles and challenges of the wagon trails to the beautiful American Indian.

The Arena

The show arena is set up in a large horseshoe shape with tiered seating so there is not a bad seat in the house.

We were seated almost to the top of the horseshoe and had a wonderful view of all the activities during the evening.

As the evening progresses, a challenge showdown between the North and the South is played out. After each challenge event, the winning side earns a star for their wall and at the end of the evening the winning side is announced. Which side would you cheer for? During our visit the South won the competition so I know the North would be looking to even the score at the next showtime.

I don't know which side holds the record for wins. I did ask but no one could tell me for sure. The North claims the title but the South chimes in strongly that they are in fact the champs. This might be one of those things that we may never know.

Dinner Menu

The dinner menu consists of a four course meal. No worries here, there is more food than you can eat! I heard dinner was served without any silverware and thought this would be unique. If you are curious about the reason, you can read more about the #BanTheFork (just search for the hashtag). However, there was a fork on the plate setting when we arrived. But then everyone around us started passing their fork down towards the end of the row to the server. So, we joined in and dug in with our hands.

Our meal started with a bowl of soup which is easy enough to consume without silverware. But then the server plopped a whole chicken on the plate! About this time the lights were lowered as the show was beginning and I was unable to get photographs of the remaining courses.

Whether you support the #BanTheFork or not, each of the menu items are simple enough to eat with your fingers. It was a fun experience and one that I am sure the rest of my family would enjoy.

For the regular dinner menu, each person receives:

• The Stampede’s Original Creamy Vegetable Soup
• A Whole Rotisserie Chicken
• Hickory Smoked Barbecued Pork Loin
• Homemade Biscuit
• Hot Buttered Corn on the Cob
• Herb Roasted Potato Wedge
• The Stampede’s very own Specialty Dessert
• Unlimited Coca-Cola®, tea or coffee

Special Needs and Menu Options

They do offer alternate menus for those needing a Vegetarian and or Gluten Free meal. Make sure that you purchase your tickets in advance and let them know if you need one of these alternate dinners. Same day or walk up tickets do include the regular menu so keep this in mind when you plan your trip. Other special needs or concerns should be addressed at the time you make your reservation. Limited seating for handicap or limited mobility is available.

Special Memories

I enjoyed the entire evening from the pre show to the finale. However, there were two performances that captured my attention. The first one was a beautiful demonstration of a Native American song. You could feel each beat of the drums as the music and drummers floated down from the ceiling.

The other scene was the “Belle's” dancing around and around a floating platform with style and grace. It was beautiful to watch them dance.

If you are planning a trip to Branson Missouri anytime this year, make sure to put the Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction on the top of your reservation list. And if your family is as large as mine, make sure to reach out to the group sales office for special pricing at (800) 520-2101.

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