Preparing for your trip to Branson to stock up for school this weekend? Here are essential tips and information for a successful shopping session.

Many Missouri cities and counties, including Branson, have opted out of waiving their local taxes during the statewide tax-free weekend. However, savings will still abound with sales and the absence of Missouri’s 4.2% sales tax.

Tip 1 - Know The Fine Print — What is eligible?

Save on the following school-related items on the Missouri Department of Revenue's list:

  • Clothing (Accessories such as watches, watchbands, jewelry, handbags, handkerchiefs, umbrellas, scarves, ties, headbands, or belt buckles are not included)
  • Personal computers and accessories
  • School supplies (excluding watches, radios, CD players, headphones, sports equipment, phones, office equipment, or furniture)

Tip 2 - Map Out Your Plan — Where can you shop?

Branson is a regional shopping mecca with plenty of options. Here are some of Branson’s most popular shopping districts:

  • Branson Landing - Brand-name specialty stores and restaurants open from 10 -10
  • Tanger Outlets - Brand-name and designer outlet stores open from 9-7
  • Branson Hills - Target, Walmart, TJ Maxx, Kohls, Ross, Booksamillion, Best Buy, and other stores and restaurants (store hours vary)
  • Downtown Branson - a variety of locally owned stores and restaurants (store hours vary)

Tip 3 - Plan for Delays – What should you expect?

Thousands of people visit Branson each year. The last hurrah before the school year tends to be especially busy due to the sales and savings.

  • Expect lines and traffic.
  • Shopping areas will be bustling with visitors.
  • Some stores will likely have to limit how many customers can be in the store due to corporate distancing guidelines. So you may have to wait in line outside before entering the store.

Tip 4 - Pack Your Gear — What should you bring on your shopping safari?

Expect crowded stores and roads. Follow these tips to gear up for a comfortable and smooth day of shopping.

  • Many stores have coupons and some malls have coupon books available in the mall office.
  • Bring work IDs for any extra discounts that may apply (teacher, military, first responder, etc…).
  • Having your payment handy allows for quicker line navigation.
  • Wear comfortable footwear for standing and walking.
  • Dress for the heat and humidity.
  • Wear sunglasses as many of Branson’s stores have outdoor entrances.

Tip 5 - Stay Safe — How can you protect yourself and your belongings?

Covid has made for a tough couple of years and theft would drag any vacation down. Use smart ways to protect your family and belongings.

  • Bring sanitizer and facemasks.
  • Don’t leave valuables within sight in your vehicle.
  • Lock your vehicle’s doors.

Tip 6 - Keep the Fun Going — What can you do in Branson after hours?

There’s more to Branson than shopping. Where else can you drive down the street to see a gigantic rooster, King Kong, airplanes, helicopters, the Titanic, and a giant meatball? You’ll find plenty of ways to entertain the whole family once the stores close. Enjoy some of the many options.

  • With dozens of family-friendly shows, you can't go wrong taking your crew to an amazing Branson live show
  • You slso can’t go wrong with amusement parks like The Track Family Fun Parks or Bigfoot Fun Park.
  • Please growling stomachs at one of Branson’s many restaurants.
  • Catch a movie at the Imax.
  • Practice your putt playing minigolf.
  • Have a ball bowling.
  • Scream into the night on a coaster during Midnight Madness at Silver Dollar City.
  • Enjoy a lake boating trip on Table Rock Lake or Taneycomo.

 

With unbeatable deals and evening thrills, you’ll enjoy your time in Branson on tax-free weekend. It just may be your new family tradition.