Looking for some unique sights and stops during your trip to southwest MO? You’re in luck — there are plenty of crazy buildings in Branson that will entertain your whole group. You can see a modern castle, replicas of some of history’s most well-known structures, and even a life-size doll house. Plus, you can explore the interiors of most of these buildings as well. Take a look at the list we’ve rounded up.
Crazy Buildings in Branson
The White House Theatre
There really is a little bit of everything in Branson, and that includes the nation’s capital. Right in the city’s theatre district is a unique venue: The White House Theatre. This building looks just like — you guessed it — the real White House in Washington, D.C. Everything from the lawn to the design on the structure itself resembles the President’s home. The interior serves as a theatre and conference/event space. If you want to feel like the First Family for a night, take a look at what’s showing and pick up some tickets.
Chateau Pensmore
Some people dream of living in a castle; one local man is building one in reality. Steven Huff has named his under-construction home Chateau Pensmore. Located just outside Branson (in Highlandville, MO) on the side of a mountain, the castle-like home occupies 72,215 square feet. The plans even include a ballroom with a ceiling that’s 32 feet high. The home is made entirely of concrete.
Mr. Huff, an astrophysicist, claimed the building could withstand earthquakes, fires, and tornados and that its concrete structure would still stand 2,000 years from now. He had planned on using it as an example of environmentally friendly architecture. Unfortunately, construction has stopped, and there aren’t updates on when it will resume. Some news stories suggest Mr. Huff wants to tear down the progress. Until the world finds out what the next steps are, you can admire it from afar as you drive through Highlandville.
The World’s Largest Toy Museum
Pulling up outside the World’s Largest Toy Museum, you might think you’ve just arrived at a life-size doll house. Two enormous toy soldiers flank the entrance, and other giant display toys mark the building’s perimeter. Inside, you’ll find toys from every year dating back to the 1930s. Visitors will see everything from vintage Barbies to cast iron toys to early action figures. Everyone will have a great time seeing (and maybe reminiscing about) toys of the past.
Titanic Museum
Perhaps the Titanic Museum isn’t so much “crazy” as it is “awe-inspiring,” but however you would like to describe it, you can’t deny it is unique. This museum’s exterior mimics the historic ship in everything but its size (the museum is smaller, of course). The museum even sits in a pool of water to make it mirror the real ship as closely as possible. Visitors walking up to the museum will feel as if they’ve traveled back to 1912 and are looking at the Titanic itself.
Equally impressive is the building’s interior, which was also designed in part to resemble the ship’s interior. During your visit, you can see a replica of the grand staircase and hallways that look just like the passengers’ did. Your group can take a self-guided tour where you can see real artifacts, touch an iceberg, and learn more about the people who boarded the ship years ago.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
This stop is a must-see. As soon as you reach the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum, you will notice it looks as though it’s falling apart. This isn’t shoddy craftsmanship, however; it’s supposed to look as if an earthquake split the front of the building in half. And out of all the crazy buildings in Branson, this one has the most bizarre interior. When you enter, you’ll notice all kinds of wild displays. The “Odditorium” features eight galleries with more than 450 objects, so there’s something to wow everyone in this unusual attraction. Be on the lookout for shrunken human heads, a real vampire-killing kit, and the world’s largest ball of string.
_____
There you have it — some of the wildest buildings in the area. Whether you just want to drive by and see some extraordinary architecture or you plan to spend a whole afternoon exploring the city, you’re sure to enjoy these structures. Did we miss any of your favorite crazy buildings in Branson? Let us know in the comments below.
Are you planning a trip to Branson? If so, take a look at what Branson Vacation Rentals has to offer for lodging. While our accommodations don’t look nearly as crazy as the buildings described above, we can assure you they’re all quite cozy. No matter what kind of trip you’re planning — a romantic weekend away or a trip with the whole family — we have you covered with cabins, condos, and full homes. We even have pet-friendly lodging for those wanting everyone in the family to join in on the fun. Feel free to browse our listings and see what we can do for you. If you’re ready to book, you can get in touch with us through our website or by phone at 417-832-9991.