Welk Resorts Branson Hotel

Set amid the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains, the Welk Resort Branson offers scenic views and a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere than what can be found at many hotels in town. Its style is that of a well-maintained modern chain; in the large lobby, an oversized, dark-wood front desk and modern stone tile floors set the tone for the rest of the resort. The somewhat dark lobby is filled with patterned carpeting and comfortable, stylish seating in brown and burnt orange, with a few large tables for groups to gather. Unique orange chairs provide more-interesting-than-normal seating in the business center, while the wood-paneled walls, leather sofas, and plaid drapes in the game room make you feel like you’re hanging out at someone’s house. Grounds are well-maintained and there are large wooden rocking chairs on the porch, and adirondack chairs by the pool. The mini-golf course and water park are especially popular with families, and there is an air of fun throughout the resort, although it can get loud and a bit crowded at times. The hotel also has a half-size replica of the Vietnam War Memorial that it puts up several times a year and upon special request for occasions such as veterans' events.

The Welk Resort Branson sits atop a hill in the Ozark Mountains, just off of the main highway (76). The surrounding area is picturesque and quiet, with a handful of other neighboring resorts. You will need a car to get to restaurants, shops, and attractions in central Branson; Table Rock Lake State Park is an eight-minute drive away, Table Rock Dam a five-minute drive, and the entertainment district -- home to many of the area's attractions -- is about a 10-minute drive from the hotel.

Red and tan bedspreads paired with yellow and gray drapes add contemporary color to the rooms at the Welk Resort Branson. Although most of the design is standard for an upper-mid to mid-range chain hotel, it is a bit nicer than what can be found at other hotels on the main strip and in the area. Desks have ergonomic chairs and the contemporary furniture is made of dark wood. Some rooms also have extra square footage, in addition to soft sofas and occasional chairs that provide extra comfort and seating. All rooms have coffeemakers, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and padded headboards. Bathrooms are mostly yellow and white in color, with large granite countertops. Some bathrooms have a sink outside the bathroom. Eco-friendly toiletries are provided. It's worth noting that, when the hotel is busy, some rooms experience outside noise.

The crown jewel of the Welk Resort Branson is its large water park, called the Splash-A-Torium. With a 117-foot water slide, 10,000 square feet of space, indoor/outdoor pools and hot tubs, and indoor/outdoor splash zones, this park has something for the whole family. The splash zones even include interactive water features that kids can play with. There are plenty of loungers and seating areas both indoors and out, and the park is usually open year-round, except for any off-season renovations (you'll want to check with the hotel in advance of your stay). There's also poolside food and drink service.

There's an outdoor mini-golf course that's popular with both kids and adults. Activities are offered by the hotel on a seasonal basis, and specific decorations can be put up for groups upon request. There's a kids' club, as well as an indoor game room with a pool table, air hockey, and foosball.

The hotel's Branson Theatre seats up to 2,300 guests and has hosted musicians such as BB King. The hotel’s concierge service offers discounted rates at the theater and popular on-site restaurant, Stage Door.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel and there is a fitness center with several modern machines and bright windows. There are also meeting and event spaces, and a business center. Note that the hotel operates a timeshare and some guests complain about the pitch events.