Branson & the Ozarks Autumn Spectacular

Rustad Tours invites you to join us in witnessing the transformation of the Ozarks during their “Fall Color Make Over!” You’ll view the stunning foliage take on brilliant flush tones, making its makeover from brilliant reds to various shades of gold. Branson is known for having a long history of showcasing the best musical talent, shows, and attractions. However, the autumn season, when it reveals its unique beauty, further adds to the charm and hospitality of the Ozarks. There is so much to see and do in the Ozark Mountains, but not enough time to do it all. Today is a travel day and our destination is Kansas City, MO. (L)

Our motorcoach journey winds through Missouri’s picturesque farm country and into the gentle, low-lying hills of the Ozark Mountains, unveiling breathtaking vistas and towering rock formations. This afternoon, we arrive in Branson to experience the captivating New Jersey Nights Show – A Four Seasons Tribute. This spectacular production celebrates Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. From the humble backstreet studio in New Jersey where it all began, this vibrant show features all of The Four Seasons’ greatest hits, including Sherry, Rag Dolls, Big Girls Don’t Cry, and many more! By late afternoon, we check into the welcoming Grand Country Inn and Resort and later enjoy a delightful dinner at SS Dockside Café & Pub. Our first day in Branson concludes with the lively Clay Cooper’s Country Express Show. Clay and his talented cast showcase their versatility with performances spanning Country, Rock n Roll, Gospel, and Patriotic music. Clay and his crew promise a family-friendly show perfect for all ages. After our first day in Branson, we’ve only just begun to savor the wonderful experiences and entertainment that await us on this tour! (B) (D)

Today, we venture beyond the Branson Strip to experience the enchanting Dogwood Canyon Wildlife Tram Tour—a true "ride on the wild side." Step aboard their comfortable, open-air trams and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of autumn in Dogwood Canyon during our 2-hour Wildlife Tram tour. Journey along the canyon floor, passing towering bluffs and cascading waterfalls, with a stop at the Glory Hole—a stunning blue-green pool home to some of the largest trout. Then, cross into Arkansas where the tram may encounter herds of American bison, elk, whitetail deer, and Texas longhorn. After the tram tour, enjoy a relaxing break with an included Canyon Picnic Grill Lunch, all while taking in the vibrant colors of Dogwood Canyon’s autumn foliage. This afternoon, we return to the birthplace of Branson in the early 1900s, “Branson Landing.” At the heart of the Landing lies a lively town square that terraces down to a spectacular water attraction—the first-ever fusion of water, fire, light, and music. Enjoy some free time to browse cozy boutiques and specialty shops. Later, we head back to our Resort Hotel for a delicious buffet (on the premises), followed by the captivating Grand Jubilee Show. Fall in love with the tight harmonies and dynamic performances of Branson’s Best Quartet, New South! You’ll hearTop 40, Country & Gospel classics, and Rock & Roll hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The Grand Jubilee exceeds expectations for all ages, with abundant comedy and numerous awards, including “Branson’s Best Variety Show.” After the show, it’s just a short walk across the parking lot to your rooms, where you can settle in for a restful night. (B) (L) (D)

Get ready for another day of adventure in Branson! After a short drive, we arrive at the Dewey Short Visitor Center, where a captivating 20-minute film reveals the story of the area and the construction of Table Rock Dam. The visitor center boasts a state-of-the-art interactive map of Table Rock Lake, a stunning artistic wall mural, and a lifelike replica of an Ozarks bluff complete with native flora and fauna. Explore fascinating exhibits including Native American artifacts and detailed Ozarks dioramas. In the same location, enjoy a tour of the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery and Conservation Education Center. The Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is the largest trout-rearing facility operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation, raising both Rainbow and Brown Trout, with 80 percent of production stocked in Lake Taney Como. By mid-day, we pause for lunch at the charming Picking Porch Grill, followed by some leisurely shopping next door at the Branson Craft Mall. This afternoon, experience the “America 250” celebration at the spectacular Spirit of America Show, a breathtaking musical journey through the songs that have shaped a nation. It’s more than a show—it’s a rousing tribute to the soundtrack of a nation, a pulse-pounding journey through melodies that have united generations and defined the American spirit. Feel the spirit rise with timeless anthems like “This Land is Your Land,” “America the Beautiful,” and “God Bless the USA,” and sing along to beloved hits such as “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Born in the USA.” These songs are more than hits; they are moments in time, woven into the very fabric of American life. With dazzling choreography, breathtaking visuals, and unforgettable live performances, the Spirit of America is a grand, star-spangled celebration that will have hearts swelling with pride and hands clapping in unison. After the show, we return to our hotel resort for a short break to refresh before heading out to the Uptown Cafe for a delicious evening meal. Our final show in Branson is the Haygood’s Show. 2026 marks a special year for the Haygood family as they celebrate their 34th full season of shows in Branson with special performances on over 20 different instruments! This award-winning family musical group, consisting of five spirited brothers and one vivacious sister, has performed over 7,000 shows for 6,000,000 people during their incredible Branson career! What a day we’ve had! We return to our hotel to enjoy a well-deserved restful night. (B) (L) (D)

Today, we’re homeward bound! By mid morning, we’ll make a stop in Springfield, Missouri, at Fantastic Caverns, America’s Ride-Through Cave! It was discovered in 1862 by an Ozarks farmer…or more precisely by his dog, who crawled through a small entrance on a hillside. Five years later, the first exploration took place after twelve local women answered the newspaper ad that was seeking explorers. Together they ventured into the cave and their names remain on a cave wall today. The tour of this cave is by jeep-drawn trams. Since you ride all the way through, you can experience the magnitude, stillness, and splendor of the caverns while preserving their natural features. Fantastic Caverns is one of 7,300 documented caves that dot the Missouri landscape. It’s no wonder Missouri is known as the “Cave State.” We make a stop along the way for an included noon lunch before arriving at our hotel accommodations tonight at the Drury Inn in St. Joseph, Missouri. (B) (L)

Leaving St. Joseph, our coach turns toward home. We’ll make our usual stops along the way and by late afternoon we arrive back in Kerkhoven. Rustad Tours hopes this tour has created many treasured memories of our “Colorfall” time in Branson! (B)