I love reconnecting with my roots, seeing family, and escaping my hectic pace of life by hopping on a plane. Travel is my favorite form of self-care—something to look forward to and a way to recharge through new adventures. We visited over the 4th of July in 2023 and had so much fun experiencing the Ozarks in the summer (instead of my usual cold winter trips), I knew I had to do it again this year.
Here is a quick photo journal of our recent trip through my old stomping grounds—Branson, Nixa, Springfield, and Ozark, Missouri.
Day 1
We kicked things off with family time on Table Rock Lake, soaking up the sun on the boat and even crossing the border into Arkansas. A full day of lake life, quiet coves, and unbeatable Ozark scenery.
Day 2
We started the morning paddle boarding on Table Rock in Kimberling City, then grabbed cashew chicken at Lucy’s Chinese Food in Ozark—an essential local classic. Next was a visit to Bella Medici Medical Spa for some botox to relieve tension and migraines by the best of the best—before browsing Downtown Ozark Market Days, held monthly from May to October. We then explored the food stalls at 14 Mill Market in Nixa, ending the night with a the new Jurassic World Rebirth movie at the Sunset Drive-In in Aurora.
Day 3
Breakfast was at Bistro 160 in Nixa before a full day of rides and old-time charm at Silver Dollar City. I crossed another adventure off the list by ziplining at Shepherd of the Hills, then wrapped up the night with pizza delivery from Pappo’s Pizzeria in Springfield.
Day 4
We headed out to explore the castle ruins and trails at Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camdenton, followed by a peaceful, post-rainy walk through the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden in Springfield. The evening ended at MudLounge, my favorite cozy bar downtown. We shared fondue and I had a lavender mocktail.
Ha Ha Tonka
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
Mudlounge & Downtown Springfield
Day 5
We spent the last day back in Branson, starting with a scenic ride at Bear Creek Trail Rides. I hadn’t jumped on hay bales in decades so that was a core memory unlocked.
For one last thrill, we zipped through the trees at the Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain. We got a little rain but that made it even more adventurous.
We freshened up, packed, and headed straight to the airport back to Florida. I love visiting Missouri throughout the year in different seasons—it never gets old. There’s something special about running into familiar faces, spending time with family, discovering new spots, and revisiting places that hold so many memories.
Previous MO trips:
Table Rock Lake and Springfield, Missouri – July 4th Getaway
