James Carlton: The Grand Village Shops: Home to Timeless Classics and New Favorites

The Best of Branson crew hit the streets of Branson and Silver Dollar City on a two-day Christmas writing adventure. James Carlton, a correspondent for the site, shared some of his thoughts.

For a quaint, classy and unforgettable holiday shopping and dining excursion, The Grand Village Shops in Branson can’t be beat. For starters, you don’t have to hike for miles to get from one end to the other. Some of these shops will lead you through to another shop out behind it, which is nice. It gives the whole experience a natural flow and allows for a laid-back pace where you feel comfortable looking at everything the shops have to offer, which is also nice because you’ll find so many unique and delightful things here.

Since it was my first time in Branson, this was also my first time at The Grand Village Shops. Here’s a rundown of my favorite spots.

First up was a cup of coffee at the Sugar Leaf Bakery & Café. In addition to its adorable décor, this place had some amazing baked goods. All of their quiches looked delicious, and I could have eaten all the sweets on display. They offer sandwiches, soups, salads, quiches, a variety of cookies, spectacular cakes, teas and coffees in a cheerful café atmosphere; but their display case full of treats is what I’m going back for.

The first shop that caught my eye after leaving the café was Mulberry Mill. This shop is filled to the brim with uplifting home décor, designer fashions, luxurious bath and body products, candles and so much more. What piqued my interest was their tasting room in the back. Stocked with gourmet foods to sample, this is the perfect spot to find new favorites. From the chips they provide to the dips they’re beside, everything you sample is available to buy -- even the dip-warmers they’re served in. Each unique dip had a proper dipper to go with it. My favorite combination was the Toasted Coconut cookie thins paired with a colorful Triple Berry Twist dip.

It’s almost overwhelming how many one-of-a-kind shops there are, each one filled with crafts you won’t find anywhere else. From hand-carved Native-American buffalo bone art and hand-crafted leather goods, to Mom and Pop’s hand-scooped ice cream, hand-made jewelry, and woodcarvings, the Shop has it all. I couldn’t believe the variety of all-American craftsmanship displayed at The Grand Village Shops.

For the young and young-at-heart, the Back In Time Toys shop is packed with unique and classic toys from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and today. You’re sure to find a classic from your childhood.

Located at 2800 West Highway 76, The Grand Village Shops are celebrated as Branson’s most enchanting shopping and dining adventure, but don’t take our word for it. Make it part of your Branson tradition and discover a few new favorites of your own.