Family 50 Quest

While Louisiana was buzzing with Mardi Gras parades, our family of five traded beads and king cake for a road trip through Missouri and Oklahoma. Early March 2025 gave us the perfect window—cool weather, fewer crowds, and the freedom to explore two states rich in history, hidden gems, and kid-friendly fun.

Day 1: The Road to Branson 🚗✨

Nine hours on the road brought us from Louisiana to the hills of Missouri, where Branson awaited. This wasn’t just another stop on our Family 50 Quest—it was the beginning of something new. For the first time, we were traveling with our friends.

Meeting up at the hotel felt like the start of a joint adventure. The kids, already buzzing from the drive, seemed to feed off each other’s energy. Instead of winding down, we headed straight to The Social Birdy for mini golf.

It was exciting. It was fun. It was freezing. But bundled in jackets, with laughter echoing across the course, we realized how much richer travel feels when shared. Watching our kids play side by side, celebrating every hole-in-one and laughing through every miss, we knew this trip would be remembered not just for the places we visited, but for the friendships deepened along the way.

Dinner with Dolly 🎶🍗

After shaking off the road-trip jitters with mini golf, we headed to Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction—a Branson classic we weren’t sure what to expect from. To our surprise, it was one of the most memorable parts of the night.

The food was hearty and delicious, the kind of comfort meal that hits the spot after a long day of travel. But the real magic was in the entertainment. Horses thundered across the arena, performers dazzled with music and stunts, and the kids sat wide-eyed, soaking in every moment.

What we thought might be a “tourist stop” turned into a shared family favorite, and by the end of the show, we were all clapping, cheering, and grinning ear to ear.

Day 2: Exploring Dogwood Canyon 🌿🐟

The morning air in Lampe, Missouri carried that crisp, early-spring freshness—the kind that makes you want to breathe a little deeper. We began our adventure at the Dogwood Canyon Nature Trail museum, where the kids were fascinated by the exhibits of wildlife and natural history. It set the stage perfectly for what lay beyond the doors.

From there, we wandered into the treehouse, a whimsical stop that felt like stepping into a storybook. The kids darted up the stairs, peering out windows and imagining adventures among the treetops.

Our path then led us to hikes and scenic walks throughout the property. Waterfalls tumbled over rocks, streams sparkled in the sunlight, and bridges carried us deeper into the canyon’s beauty. Every turn seemed to reveal another postcard-worthy view.

But Dogwood Canyon is vast, and with only a few hours to explore, we quickly realized we’d only scratched the surface. There were bike trails, horseback riding, and even trout fishing opportunities we didn’t have time to experience. It left us with a promise: we’ll be back.

Refueling at Branson Landing 🍔🍻

After hours of hiking and exploring Dogwood Canyon, our crew was more than ready for a break. Hungry and thirsty, we made our way to Branson Landing, a bustling waterfront district that mixes shopping, dining, and entertainment.

We settled into Bricktown Brewery for lunch, and it hit the spot. The menu had something for everyone—juicy burgers, crisp salads, and a lineup of craft beers that gave the adults a chance to unwind. The kids loved the casual vibe, and we all enjoyed watching the energy of the Landing outside the windows.

It was the perfect reset: hearty food, refreshing drinks, and a chance to sit back and soak in the atmosphere before heading off to our next adventure.

A Night of Magic ✨🎩

As the sun set over Branson, we traded hiking boots for theater seats and stepped into a whole new kind of adventure: Reza’s Live Illusion Magic Show.

From the moment the lights dimmed, we were captivated. Reza’s illusions weren’t just tricks—they were full-scale performances blending music, suspense, and jaw-dropping sleight of hand. Each act left us gasping, clapping, and whispering “how did he do that?” The kids were wide-eyed, leaning forward in their seats, completely mesmerized.

The highlight came when some of us were invited to participate in the show. Being part of the magic made the experience even more unforgettable. And just when we thought the night couldn’t get better, we received backstage passes. Meeting Reza in person, asking him questions, and hearing about the artistry behind the illusions gave us a deeper appreciation for the craft.

It wasn’t just entertainment—it was an immersive experience that reminded us how travel isn’t only about places, but about the moments that spark wonder and joy.

Day 3: Big Cedar Lodge Adventures 🏞️🎮

If Branson is the heart of Missouri entertainment, then Big Cedar Lodge is its soul. We quickly realized we could have spent the entire day here and still not experienced everything it had to offer.

We kicked things off at Fun Mountain, where the kids dove into arcade games, laser tag, bowling, and darts. The energy was contagious—laughter bouncing off the walls as parents joined in on the fun. It was the perfect way to let the kids burn off excitement while we enjoyed a little friendly competition.

Next came one of the highlights: the cave tour at Top of the Rock, taken by golf cart. Winding through caverns and past waterfalls, the ride felt like stepping into another world. The kids loved the adventure, and we all agreed that next time we’ll return at night—the twinkling lights strung throughout the caves promised an even more magical experience after dark.

Our final stop was the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, a sprawling collection that surprised us with its depth. From artifacts and exhibits about Branson’s history to powerful displays about Native American tribes and the Trail of Tears, it was both educational and moving. The kids asked thoughtful questions, and it sparked meaningful conversations about the history woven into the land we were exploring.

Day 4: Mardi Gras on the Road 🎭🐠

While Louisiana was celebrating Mardi Gras with parades and beads, we marked the holiday in our own way—on the road. Day four was our last in Missouri, and it began with heartfelt goodbyes to our friends. Traveling together for the first time had been such a gift, and parting ways reminded us how much richer adventures feel when shared.

Before crossing into Oklahoma, we made one final Missouri stop: the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield. Rain poured outside, but inside we were transported into a world of vibrant marine life and fascinating American history.

The aquarium was alive with color—schools of fish darting through coral, sharks gliding past glass tunnels, and jellyfish glowing like lanterns. Beyond the aquatic exhibits, the museum offered an incredible look at conservation and the role wildlife has played in shaping our nation’s story. The kids were equally captivated by both sides: the underwater wonders and the historical displays.

It was the perfect pit stop for a rainy day, giving us a chance to recharge, learn, and marvel before continuing our journey. By the time we left Springfield, we were ready for the next chapter: Tulsa, Oklahoma!

A Breakdown on I-44 🚙🔧

Just as we were leaving Missouri behind and heading toward Tulsa, Oklahoma, our car decided to add its own plot twist. A warning light flickered on the dashboard, and within minutes, the engine gave up completely. We coasted to the shoulder of I-44, rain still falling, and sat there in disbelief.

Long story short: the car never turned back on. Roadside Assistance came to the rescue, towing us the remaining 45 minutes into Tulsa. What felt like a minor inconvenience at the time turned out to be the beginning of the most ridiculous month of March we’ve ever had with a vehicle.

In that moment, though, we were just grateful to be safe, together, and still on track for our Oklahoma adventure. Sometimes travel throws curveballs, and this one reminded us that flexibility (and a good roadside plan) is just as important as packing snacks and itineraries.

Family Tip: Always double-check your roadside assistance coverage before a long trip. Breakdowns happen, and having a plan in place can turn a stressful situation into just another story to laugh about later.

Day 5: Tulsa Treasures 🌆🙏🌳

Even though our car was still in the shop, we refused to let it slow us down. With a rental car secured, we set out to explore Tulsa.

Our first stop was the Golden Driller, a towering oil worker statue that stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The kids craned their necks to take it all in, amazed at its size and presence. It was a quick but memorable photo-op that reminded us how every city has its own unique symbols.

From there, we attended Ash Wednesday Mass at Holy Family Cathedral. The cathedral’s stunning architecture and reverent atmosphere offered a grounding pause in the middle of our trip. It was a meaningful way to mark the day, blending our family’s faith with our journey.

The afternoon was reserved for pure fun at The Gathering Place, Tulsa’s sprawling, free playground and park. With imaginative play structures, gardens, and trails, it felt like a wonderland designed for families. The kids ran, climbed, and explored to their hearts’ content, while we parents soaked in the joy of seeing them so engaged.

We all agreed: if we ever return to Tulsa, the Gathering Place will be at the top of our list. It was a highlight not just of the day, but of the entire trip.

Family Tip: The Gathering Place is free and perfect for families of all ages. Plan to spend several hours here—it’s more than a playground, it’s an experience.

Dining in History at The Vault 🏛️🍷

For our last night in Tulsa, we wanted something special—and we found it at The Vault. More than just a restaurant, The Vault is a mid-century modern treasure with a fascinating past. Once a bank building, it now serves up delicious food and craft cocktails in a space that feels both retro and chic.

Dinner was relaxed and flavorful, the kind of meal that invites conversation and reflection. The kids enjoyed their meals while we adults savored drinks and soaked in the atmosphere. Sitting there, surrounded by history and design, it felt like the perfect way to wrap up our Oklahoma adventure.

Wrapping Up the Adventure

Our Mardi Gras break may not have been filled with parades and beads, but it gave us something even better—memories made on the road. From mini golf in Branson with the Brunsons, to hiking through Dogwood Canyon, exploring Big Cedar Lodge, marveling at wildlife in Springfield, and discovering Tulsa’s treasures, every stop reminded us why we set out on the Family 50 Quest in the first place. Travel isn’t always perfect—cars break down, plans shift—but the laughter, learning, and togetherness make every detour worthwhile. Missouri and Oklahoma gave us history, culture, and joy, and as we checked two more states off our list, we carried home not just stories, but a deeper appreciation for the journey itself.