Kickin’ it Old School 

By Alora Ryan

 

You’re starting to see it. Patterned tailored dresses, bell-bottomed jeans, neon eye shadow, and t-shirts of bands with real talent on them (I’m only joking). Let’s face it — retro is making a comeback. We see it in our TV shows and hear it in the soundtracks of our favorite movies, but where can you truly experience it firsthand? The name’s Missouri. Branson, Missouri.

 

“Here's Where the Fun Begins” 

 – Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977)  

 

 

1984 Branson Arcade  

What is more reminiscent of the ’80s than an arcade filled with pixelated screens and teens carrying around bags of quarters while they hover over the shoulders of champions? 1984 Branson Arcade offers the same classic games and doesn’t require the bag of quarters to play. With one entry fee, you will have access to their preservation museum, an ’80s themed lounge, and games from the ’70s all the way up to the occasional ’90s. The only activities that require quarters are pinball, air hockey, and prize machines. Will you make it to the leaderboard as the next Donkey Kong dominator?     

 

Skate World  

To many, roller skating was more than a mere pastime; it was a passion. Playing rink games with friends, the aroma of hot dogs and pizza lingering in the air, feeling free and fearless as you speed past fellow skaters, trying out new moves that make you feel like a superstar, it all attributes to an exciting night out with friends and loved ones. While roller rinks may not be as popular today as they once were, that doesn’t make them any less fun. Skate World is the only skating rink in Branson and hosts all the classic games and snacks that will send you spiraling back into the ’70s and ’80s. "I feel the need, the need for speed." – Maverick, Top Gun (1986)  

 

Beyond The Lens!

One of the newest attractions in Branson, Beyond the Lens hosts over 150 interactive exhibits that encompass history, celebrities, conspiracies, and more through an experience they call “techno-tainment!” While you can go to catch Bigfoot or take a trip on the FlyRide Adventure, many go to partake in their retro exhibits. Their Pop Culture exhibit allows you to view mass culture changes from the ’60s to the present as well as try your hand at some classic video games. The JFK exhibit sends you into the world of conspiracies concerning his mysterious assassination. And the Michael Jackson exhibit explores Michael’s life of fame, showcasing a replica of his body in a hyperbaric chamber that he used while he was alive and even displays the evolution of his nose!  

 

Retromania 

Retromania is the epitome of ’80s nostalgia in Branson. Sit in a movie theatre with friendly Gremlins, play a round of black-light mini golf with musical legends, take a walk through the ’80s museum, and admire the decorative movie props and memorabilia throughout the place. Did I mention they have escape rooms, a free play arcade, and a haunted house lined with movie monsters like Leatherface and Freddy Krueger? With wax-figures stationed around every corner, there are several opportunities to take pictures with some of your favorite retro characters and celebs. Did all that Pac-Man make you hungry? Get a bite to eat at the New Wave Café on the other side of the building. Their menu consists of delectable American cuisine and offers adult beverages as well, making for a great date night or a tubular place to hang out. Trust me, you won’t leave without saying “I’ll be back,” but just be sure to say it in an Austrian accent.  

 

“Feed Me, Seymour!” – Little Shop of Horrors (1986)  

 

 

Cakes-n-Creams 50’s Diner & Drive-In  

By definition, the ’50s technically aren’t considered “retro” to us anymore. That said, Vintage diners were known to be an affordable, “cool” hangout spot for friends and a resting place for weary travelers up until the fast-food industry began to supersede them in the 1970s. Founded in 1981, Cakes-n-Creams 50’s Diner has been an iconic doppelganger to these classic joints and does a swell job at keeping the retro-feel alive. They serve funnel cakes, burgers, banana splits, sandwiches—a nostalgic fare for our old-fashioned foodies out there. And, as if it couldn’t get any better, behind the diner is the American 76, a free Drive-In replica that plays “classic movies, ’50s trailers, and era shows” from spring break until fall each year. “Be there or be square.”  

 

Mel’s Hard Luck Diner 

Another beloved Branson eatery is Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, a ’50s fashioned, music-themed establishment with talented singing staff. At Mel’s diner, you will be welcomed and waited upon by professional singers and musicians, some of which make an appearance in popular productions around town. Delight in the “Blue Suede Chef Salad” as your main meal and try the “Great Balls of Ice Cream” for dessert. If you’re a true retro fan, you’ll appreciate the diners’ aesthetic memorabilia and the period references in their classic menu.  

 

Mr. B’s Ice Cream Parlor 

As Dorothy put it, “there’s no place like home,” and that’s exactly what Mr. B’s Ice Cream Parlor has called Downtown Branson for over 40 years. Mr. B’s has remained the oldest ice cream shop in town—and it shows. The black and white tiled floor, the red and white striped patio cover, Coca-Cola signs and other antiques adorning the parlor’s interior; everything about Mr. B’s reflects a comforting and nostalgic atmosphere to accompany their delicious dessert and snack menu.   

 

Mellow Mushroom 

Ah, the ’70s. Peace and platforms. An eccentric sense of art and style. While the ’80s may be the trending decade of today, Branson still favors the flower children. Let me give you the skinny. Mellow Mushroom, a pizza joint founded in Atlanta, Georgia in 1974, takes pride in using the freshest, healthiest ingredients to craft their groovy cuisine. Mellow Mushroom’s crib is enriched with psychedelic artistry, and if that’s something that you’re in to, they have a whole clothing line of trippy threads. So, if you happen to find yourself hungry while strolling the Branson Landing, be sure to “veg out” at the Mellow Mushroom.   

“Can you dig it?” 

 

“It’s Showtime!” – The Mask (1994) 

 

 

Million Dollar Quartet Dinner Show 

Inside a small recording studio in the late 1950s, a milestone in music history was made. Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis came together for one of the greatest jam sessions known to man. Million Dollar Quartet is a musical drama that follows the boys back to Sam Phillips’ studio, the legendary producer coined as the inventor of Rock ‘n’ Roll, where they have a wild, rockin’ time. Enjoy a delectable dinner as you tap your foot to “Great Balls of Fire,” “Hound Dog,” and many more legendary hits.   

 

Pierce Arrow: Decades

Through the phenomenal vocals of the Pierce Arrow Quartet, this musical comedy will take you on a journey through the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. A wholesome performance appealing to all age groups, you’ll be clutching your sides from the comedic genius of James Sibley in between charismatic and nostalgic jam sessions from the boys! Pierce Arrow is comprised of award-winners and record-setters, so it’s safe to expect a sensational production of rock ‘n’ roll, disco, hair bands, and more!   

 

The Ultimate 70’s Show – Dancing Queen 

If you’ve never done the “Y.M.C.A.” dance or jumped around to “We Are Family,” where have you been for the last five decades? It’s no wonder why songs from the ’70s are played at almost every party and special event—they make you want to boogie down! If you’re looking to get your groove on in Branson, check out The Ultimate 70’s Show. With high-energy and kaleidoscope colors, this show is nothing but a spectacular display of classic ’70s hits and dance moves that will have you jiving out of your seat!  

  

Decades passed are not decades gone. What was once pop culture years ago is being intertwined with ours today, allowing the retro decades to live on. So, let’s not take it for granted, because “life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” – Ferris Bueller, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)  

 

Check out the ultimate Kickin' it Old School Spotify playlist!