Silver Dollar City & Big Cedar Lodge win 2025 USA Today reader awards

BRANSON, Mo. -- Two Branson-area attractions -- Silver Dollar City and Big Cedar Lodge -- were named as some of the best in America for 2025.

Silver Dollar City held onto its crown as the best theme park in America by placing first in USA Today's 2025 reader awards, marking the third straight year it has won this award. The park has ranked in the top five for best theme park by USA Today since 2018.

USA Today says Silver Dollar City sees around two million visitors annually, and the park features 40 rides and attractions for visitors to explore.

The park's president -- Brad Thomas -- says the thrilling rides, home-cooked menus, entertaining shows and more keep visitors coming back every year.

Silver Dollar City also ranked in the top 10 in multiple other awards. The park ranked second for best theme park restaurants with Rivertown Smokehouse and best theme park entertainment with the Rivertown Ramblers, as well as ranking sixth for best roller coaster with the Time Traveler.

USA Today readers also voted Big Cedar Lodge, located in Ridgedale, as the number one golf resort in the United States for 2025.

The resort on Table Rock Lake -- created by Bass Pro Founder Johnny Morris -- boasts its conservation efforts and as well as offering a great public golfing experience.

USA Today noted the variety of accommodations, incredible natural beauty, and amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools and a spa as selling points for their highest-ranking golf resort.

“It’s very humbling to be recognized with this honor, especially because the voting was done by golfers and guests who have visited Big Cedar Lodge and golf resorts and destinations across America,” Morris said in a press release. “It’s a testament to our beautiful Ozarks and to the shared passions of many talented people, including our team members, who wake up every morning committed to providing the most genuine, friendly hospitality and creating lifelong happy memories for our guests.”

The full top 10 lists for best theme park and best golf resort can be found on USA Today's website.