Going later this week for the first time so super excited. We are playing Payne's Valley, Ozark National, and the new par 3 course, Cliffhangers. Any recommendations for food or things to do outside of golf in Branson?

Local hole in the wall called pour house in hollister is one of my favorite burgers anywhere

spurs210 said:

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Going later this week for the first time so super excited. We are playing Payne's Valley, Ozark National, and the new par 3 course, Cliffhangers. Any recommendations for food or things to do outside of golf in Branson?

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When we were there we just cooked at the house every night so no food recommendations. You did pick the right two courses to play and I want to get back for Cliffhangers. It looks amazing! If you are getting a forecaddie I'd ask if Keno is still around there. He was a badass for our 36 holes.

We rented a bowrider on Table Rock one day and just tooled around, swam, and ate lunch in the boat. It was an excellent day.

We ate at the steakhouse one night and then just casual down at the sports bar the rest of the nights. We were all happy with that combination. Enjoy. It's a fabulous place.

Make sure and hit the whiskey bar down the stairs from the main restaurant for a nightcap.

Are you staying at the resort? Osage and Worman House were both fantastic.

Staying there Thursday night as we're playing 36 on Friday and then got an airbnb for the rest of the weekend. Will be sure to try one of those for dinner Thursday.

Love Paynes! We were there back in March for our kids SB and my son went -1 on the back for a 75. 16th bday present and he toasted me. Cliffhangers was under construction, cant wait to get back this October to finally play it. Bison Dog at the Turn House is a must at the 7th, then hit it again before the 10th. Get you a hat or polo, something from the Turn House, the only place in the country you can get apparel with the iconic fist pump from Payne Stewart as the logo. Everything else in the Clubhouse is his club lean logo. Take it all in, such a beautiful peace of property. Just like Yesterday said, I'd play it everyday if I could

If you have time, get to Dogwood Canyon. You wont be disappointed

Am I in the minority that thinks Paynes is the worst big cedar course?

You may be in the minority but you're not alone. Several guys in our group preferred Ozark National.

we went for spring break this year.

for osage, try to go close to sunset they have sunset ceremony with bagpipes and civil war cannon.

Worman's was excellent,

Had lunch at the Payne's Valley course, good food and good views

Any kids?

Yesterday said:

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You may be in the minority but you're not alone. Several guys in our group preferred Ozark National.

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I played a lot better at Payne's Valley, Ozarks had me fighting for me life. So i definitely favor Payne's more.

Paynes Valley is a classic Tiger Design. Wide fairways and short first cut rough. Similar to Augusta. They put the most into Paynes as it's their signature course so it's in phenomenal condition. Not to mention the Zoysia fairways that are always easier than Bermuda.

I liked both courses about equally. Paynes Valley is definitely more forgiving that Ozarks National.

Are there replay rates at any of the Big Cedar courses? We are looking at a golf trip here (4 rounds) but budget is a concern unless there are good replay rates for same day rounds. Separately, what are the best courses within a 30-minute drive that are closer to $100-$150/round? Typically, we aim for at least 2 rounds around that cost and then 1-2 more expensive ($250-400) rounds.

colten.c said:

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Am I in the minority that thinks Paynes is the worst big cedar course?

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You are correct. Take Tiger's name off of it and it's not in the top 100.

I LOVE ozark and buffalo ridge. Paynes is not worth anywhere near what they charge for it. I played it back when it first opened for around $200 and will be fine if I never play it again

DallasAggie89 said:

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colten.c said:

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Am I in the minority that thinks Paynes is the worst big cedar course?

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You are correct. Take Tiger's name off of it and it's not in the top 100.

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Payne's is awesome. Yall are crazy.

We usually stay in Ledgestone when we are in Branson. Just like the area, and its relatively close to town, but also right across from Silver Dollar City. Dogwood Canyon we always go to, so its easy to head that direction on the west side of town to get to.

The course is gorgeous, fun track to play especially while staying on property.

Thanks for the suggestion. Just booked it for an upcoming trip to Branson.

Played Payne's, Ozark National, Top of the Rock, and Mountain Top last year. Payne's is immaculate, but agree with others that it isn't the best course up there. Still an awesome course though. Wide fairways made it a much easier course than Ozark National. Loved Ozark even if it did eat my lunch that day. Wasn't a big fan of Osage restaurant. Very pricey for just ok food. Service was great.

I agree with most on here. Payne's is amazing, but built like a resort course and Ozark is definitely the best out there. I just played Cliffhanger 2 weeks ago…absolute blast! (A few pics below). Don't take it too serious; have fun with the layout, slopes and undulated greens. Back 9 much more challenging. You will thoroughly enjoy it!

Good buddy of mine opened a spot called the Social Birdy. Mini golf, Pickle Ball, darts, simulator, bowling and bar/grill. If you get a chance, hit it up and support a fellow Aggie.