The Branson IMAX complex is an entertainment venue full of activity! Not only is it home to a movie theater with one of the most advanced screens and technology around, it is also a fun place to see live shows, take in a little shopping and enjoy some delicious family dining! No doubt, you and the family could spend hours enjoying all it has to offer.
Disclaimer: I attended a media event as the guest of Niccole from The Creative SAHM. While this was an event sponsored by the Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center, all opinions listed below are 100% authentic and mine alone.
Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex
When I saw this on our #BloggingBranson itinerary, I was both fascinated and nervous about the idea of visiting. I was all for the shopping and very eager to try the restaurant, but I was a bit more anxious about sitting in the IMAX theater itself. Here’s where I admit to having had a previous experience with IMAX movies that didn’t really go so well for me (back in 2012; Boston Museum of Science). However, I mustered up the courage (not even telling any of my Branson friends about my previous experience) and joined in like the anxiety I felt didn’t exist. You’ll be glad to know ~ all went well! Besides, I was extremely curious about the movie we were seeing, not to mention excited to learn more about IMAX technology. I wasn’t about to miss this!
But…first things first…what exactly DOES the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex have to offer those who stop by to visit?
~ Catch a Movie ~
As you walk into the complex, straight ahead at the end of the mall is the movie theater. The theater houses multiple screens showing a variety of films from newly released Hollywood hits to a historical portrayal of life in the Ozarks.
Our group was granted early access to the IMAX so that Trent, the chief projectionist, could share with us some of the details behind the technology we were about to experience. We’re talking about a 63 feet tall, 83 feet wide screen with 15 speaker packs! Digital laser and 12 channel technology provides the audience with amazing visuals and spectacular sounds that simply brings watching a movie to a whole new level.
During our visit, we had the opportunity to watch a historical piece called Ozarks: Legacy and Legends. This film takes you back to the 1820s and follows two orphaned brothers, who carve a niche for themselves and their families with the backdrop of Ozark Mountain region beauty and music. Through following the ownership of a violin and a nod to the poem, The Touch of the Master’s Hand, you learn about Ozark culture and values, as well as gain a better understanding for some of the unique local terms, such as “baldknobber.”
After the movie, Trent took us in smaller groups behind the scenes to further delineate just how things run back there. We saw enormous reels of film, learned the difference between the older machines versus the newer technology and heard how long it takes Trent to piece together an entire two hour movie. I never even knew he had do that! It was fascinating to hear him speak about his passion and it honestly left me with a new appreciation for those who work behind the scenes in the film industry.
~ Watch a Show ~
Along with the movie theater, which again shows everything from a movie about the Ozarks to the latest and greatest films out there, the complex also features live shows. These are a great way to enjoy your time in Branson ~ laughing and singing along with real-time entertainment! I mean, that’s a huge portion of Branson’s charm, right? Live entertainment! From tributes to George Strait and John Denver to show like Sons of Britches, guests can spend a few hours just sitting back and enjoying some good ol’ country music or humor.
~ Do a Little Shopping ~
Of course, no trip is complete without stopping by the shops unique to the area. The Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex has an assortment of adorable shops lining its internal perimeter. There is a sweet smelling fudge shop on the corner near the theater, a trinket store where you can to pick up a souvenir or two and even a place where you can purchase items relative to the Ozarks: Legacy & Legends film. While browsing through The Shadow Box, I found this absolutely adorable plaque that just reminded me of my own pups (love my shelties) back home.
Another one of the unique shops that call the complex home and caught my eye is the Ozark Mountain Time Clock. Here guests can find exquisitely designed clocks of all shapes, sizes and styles. There are even those that musically entertain, like this one that fascinated me when I found it.
~ Grab a Bite to Eat ~
Now, we have to be realistic here. No true entertainment complex is complete without an amazing place to eat. Right? I mean, there has to be more than just fudge and popcorn!
Well, the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex is home to the one and only McFarlain’s Family Restaurant. This is a restaurant like no other in my opinion. It’s a local favorite and, like I said, a Branson exclusive.
For me, this place already holds memories! It was the first place I ever tried fried green tomatoes and now I can’t wait to have them again! I even became a part of the McFarlain’s Rising Table Club, which I’ll be detailing in a future post coming in the not so distant future. The food we had was so good and the atmosphere was more than inviting ~ it was fun! If you enjoy homemade pies, slow-cooked pot roast, sweet tea and feeling like family, be sure to stop here for a bite to eat . You will not walk away disappointed.
~ A Fun-Filled Place To Visit ~
So, there you have it. One place ~ many things to enjoy! There really is an afternoon of fun to be had at the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex! Whether you are looking to catch a movie on the ginormous IMAX screen, watch a live show on stage, purchase a quick souvenir for the kids back home or enjoy fried green tomatoes for the first time, this place has it all! Give it a try if you’re passing through! I know I don’t have to encourage the locals to go ~ they already know how great this place is (wink, wink).
Branson IMAX Complex:
- Location: 3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson, MO 65616
- Phone: (417) 335-3533 or 1-800-419-4832
- McFarlain’s Family Restaurant: (417) 336-4680
For more Branson fun, check out some of these other posts about our trip!
Attractions:
- Silver Dollar City
- The Titanic Museum
- The Track Family Fun Parks
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction
Shows:
Restaurants:
And don’t forget to check out the themed rooms and suites at Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center!
I grew up in Southeast Kansas and my family used to visit Branson all the time. I still have some magnets my grandma picked up there that have my name on them, ha.
My mom used to collect magnets, too! They are a great reminder of a special trip. I bet you have some great Branson memories, Sarah!
Whenever I visit an area I prefer to dine at local restaurants and McFarlains’ sounds like one I need to visit!
You would love McFarlains’ then!! It’s one of the local faves!! I honestly can’t get those fried green tomatoes out of my head!!! Yum!!
Talk about the makings of a fun night all in one place… THIS is family friendly! My daughter is 8 so shopping, dinner, and a movie is high on our list of things to do. Visiting the Complex would be great for us! #BloggingBranson
Sounds like the perfect afternoon for you guys!! Be sure to try the fried green tomatoes! They are – to – die – for!!!