Top of the Rock Branson MO: In-Depth Guide to Restaurants and Tours

Perched high above Table Rock Lake, with peaceful waterfalls, wandering creeks, and bass-filled ponds, Top of the Rock uniquely celebrates nature, the Ozarks, and the game of golf.

The Top of the Rock Ozark Heritage Preserve is home to not only one of the nation’s finest golf courses but also a nature-based cultural conservatory! It is located at the highest elevation in Taney County, granting arguably the best view in the Branson area.

In addition, there is an Ozarks Natural History Museum. It is a nature trail through a four-story cave with a waterfall, two new Top of the Rock restaurants, a cliffside wedding chapel, and a Civil War-era honeymoon cabin built by Amish Craftsmen.

The jewel of Top of the Rock in Branson MO is the golf course, of which the entire facility is named after. Johnny Morris and golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Arnold Palmer have spent the past seven years creating one of the most amazing golf experiences.

Top of the Rock Missouri is known as the first-ever Par-3 course. It is to be included in a professional championship and features nature and golf at its finest.

The world-class recreational experience includes Top of the Rock Golf Course, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, an Arnold Palmer-designed Practice Facility, Tom Watson’s 70,000 square-foot putting course called the “Himalayas,” and Arnie’s Barn housing the Top of the Rock Pro Shop complete with historic photos and memorabilia from Palmer’s career achievements.

Attractions at Top of the Rock

Chapel of the Ozarks: This three-story chapel is perched on a cliff overlooking the views of Table Rock Lake. Offering panoramic vistas of Branson’s stunning lake and rolling mountains. A salute to iconic American country churches. You’ll find arch windows, a copper roof, and a steeple with a bell tower lend an ethereal quality to every service.

Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail: Go on a Top of the Rock Branson cave tour and take a 2 ½ mile ride on the Top of the Rock golf cart tour through the Lost Canyon Cave. Your self-guided Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail experience will begin at the Top of the Rock Welcome Center.

Once inside the cave, view the magnificent centerpiece – the waterfall. Grab a drink at the cave bar, then continue along the nature trail. There are waterfalls galore as you make your way through the hills of Top of the Rock.

Please Note: Two and four-seat golf carts are available. You must be 18 years or older to operate a golf cart at the Top of the Rock Branson golf cart tour.

Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum: This ground-breaking museum celebrates the rich ancient history of the Ozarks.

It contains carbon-dated skeletons of ancient Missouri creatures. Plus, true-to-life dioramas of animals that once roamed the Ozarks, and several rooms featuring Native American and Osage Indian artifacts and artwork.

You’ll also find Civil War historical items and interactive displays for guests. One of the standouts of the Ancient Ozarks Natural Museum is the skeletal structure of a giant Wooly Mammoth.

Dining at the Top of the Rock Branson Restaurant 

Osage Restaurant: The cornerstone of the dining experience at the Top of the Rock restaurant Branson MO is the Osage Restaurant. It features American cuisine in a stunning dining room with sweeping Ozark Mountains Views. Decorated with custom artwork and native artifacts, the entire design has a stunningly elegant atmosphere.

Arnie’s Barn: Unique in design and cuisine, Arnie’s Barn is a 150-year-old wooden barn brought from Arnold Palmer’s hometown in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. A local Amish family reconstructed the barn at Top of the Rock. This magnificent structure houses a Mexican restaurant with soaring, vaulted ceilings and two lofts. This is also home to the Top of the Rock Pro Shop.

Additionally, reservations are necessary for dinner. After the Top of the Rock hours (5:00 pm), collared shirts, and resort attire are required in all restaurants for guests 12 years and older. This makes it the perfect opportunity to snap your Top of the Rock restaurant photos.

Buffalo Bar: Located on the lower level of Osage Restaurant, Buffalo Bar offers a casual menu, including wood-fired pizzas, premium cocktails, and open-air dining.

A stone-lined stairwell leads from the Buffalo Bar to the expansive End of the Trail All American Wine Cellar. Here, you can explore a wine-tasting bar, whiskey room, and banquet space with glass doors that open to an infinity pool.

family sitting around fire pit at sunset at the Buffalo Bar at Top of the Rock in Branson, Missouri, USA
photo credit: Top of the Rock via Facebook

Top of the Rock Branson FAQs

If you're planning a visit to the Top of the Rock in Branson, MO, you'll be pleased to know that the dress code is quite relaxed. However, it's recommended to dress smart casual if you're dining in a bar or restaurant. This ensures a comfortable yet polished look suitable for the ambiance of the venue.

Yes, there is a Top of the Rock tickets Branson fee. Visitors are required to pay a $10 ENTRY FEE PER VEHICLE - CARD ONLY at the entrance. It’s a simple and straightforward process, ensuring you can start your adventure without any hassle.

A Day Full of Discovery at Top of the Rock Branson

Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops, Big Cedar Lodge, Top of the Rock Branson owner and founder, was the visionary behind the design and offerings at Top of the Rock Branson MO. Moreover, Top of the Rock Branson Missouri offers a new way to explore the Ozarks. Honor the Ancient people and animals who once inhabited these lands long before us.

Savory bites, sweeping views, and stunning tours come together to create a truly magical experience. Charming hospitality and breathtaking views will captivate you as you enter. So, you should better be prepared for this enchanting world!

Further, indulge in Top of the Rock’s true charm with its ability to capture the hearts of visitors.  Uncover the beauty of Top of the Rock. And embrace the magic of this extraordinary destination that will leave you with a lasting vacation memory.

Which Activity Will You Try at Top of the Rock?

From golf courses to awe-inspiring views and delectable bites, Top of the Rock has a plethora of amazing experiences to offer. Which one will you put on your list next?

Leave us a comment below!


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Written by Sara Berden

Sara is a Content Writer from the Philippines experienced in writing for websites and social media in different industries. She is an introvert...


2 comments about “Top of the Rock Branson MO: In-Depth Guide to Restaurants and Tours”

Kathleen sisk

September 23, 2023 at 12:48 pm

7 of us from Calif. would like to see the battle re enactment. Do we make reservations and what restaurant?


avatar of Teresa in blue tripster shirt

Teresa

September 26, 2023 at 11:08 am

Hi Kathleen! The Sunset Ceremony is offered until the end of daylight savings time. Reservations should be made at Osage Restaurant or enjoy first come, first served seating at Buffalo Bar to have the best view of the canon and Table Rock Lake as the sun dips below the Ozark Mountains.


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