Top of the Rock, close to Branson, Missouri, is one in all many locations that Johnny Morris, proprietor of Bass Pro Shops, has created within the Ozarks. Originally designed as a golf course, Top of the Rock has extra to supply for pals and households than only a attractive golf course. The property now has two eating places, a wine cellar and whiskey bar, a pure historical past museum, and is a part of the Ozarks Heritage Preserve, which is why it’s an absolute must-see throughout your go to to the area. While Top of the Rock is a part of the Big Cedar Lodge wilderness resort, listed here are simply 6 explanation why you received’t remorse visiting this magical place.
1. Golf Course
Driving apply on the Top of the Rock golf course
Get your golf equipment and begin your day at Top of the Rock with an early Tee time on this extremely lovely golf course. With a view excessive above Table Rock Lake, you’ll be able to take pleasure in this 3-par course surrounded by ponds stuffed with bass, waterfalls, distinctive rock formations, and wild critters. Finish your sport with a go to to the Buffalo Bar, wine cellar, or the whiskey-tasting room. Dress code is suitable golf apparel, we love these cute golf shirts.
2. Lost Canyon Cave
Golf carts are for extra than simply getting across the course. This 2.5 tour takes you thru the character path and Top of the Rock Lost Canyon displaying the waterfalls, pure rock formations, and even some native critters. The cart tour makes a cease on the Bat Bar the place the (21+) driver/riders can seize an alcoholic drink of their selection or one thing fizzy for the youngsters. A ticket for the tour additionally consists of admission to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. You can discover tickets right here.
3. Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum
Photo credit score: Top of the Rock
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum is really one in all a sort. This museum is an ideal place to point out youngsters the prehistoric animals that existed in North America, together with many mammals that aren’t typically taught about in class. See big beavers, moose, rodents, dire wolves, and tigers! The museum has many Native American artifacts donated by native tribes, together with regalia, arrowheads, work, pottery, and instruments. There are additionally extremely instructional galleries showcasing Civil War historical past and the American West.
4. Arnie’s Barn
Arnie’s Barn is a part of the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, and is the 150 yr outdated barn from skilled golfer Arnold Palmer’s personal yard. It was disassembled in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, and reassembled by native Amish craftsmen in order that households might benefit from the scrumptious Tex-Mex delicacies provided on the restaurant and golf store. You can benefit from the lovely views of Top of the Rock, in addition to the multitude of historic memorabilia whereas munching on chips and queso or Texas BBQ.
5. Osage Restaurant
Photo credit score: Osage Restaurant
Time to slowly cool down after an extended day with a nourishing meal on the Osage Restaurant. Dining at this majestic restaurant will actually make you’re feeling fancy. The menu options upscale native delicacies, with a historic backdrop of artwork and artifacts. There is meals and drinks for everybody and a dessert menu to die for. A private favourite are the Gooey Butter desserts, which do change primarily based on the season, however are nonetheless very scrumptious, and really gooey.
6. Sunset Ceremony
The Wounded Warrior statue amidst a ravishing Table Rock sundown
Top of the rock REALLY is aware of learn how to do sunsets. After everybody has eaten their delectable desserts and is sharpening off their nightcap, the sundown ceremony is initiated with the sound of Scottish bagpipes. A totally embellished bagpiper performs just a few attractive melodies in entrance of the picturesque buffalo statue while the solar units over Table Rock Lake. We are then directed to look at a Civil War reenactor hearth off a cannon to mark the top of one other lovely evening within the Ozarks.
Top of the Rock is just the start!
Top of the Rock is without doubt one of the locations which might be a must-see within the Johnny Morris’ Wilderness Resort. While TOTR holds its personal, Big Cedar Lodge is a vacation spot that shouldn’t be skipped. Read this story for extra concepts in your subsequent Ozarks mountains street journey!