Thousands of people visit Silver Dollar City daily. It's a great thing to do when you visit Branson. They have world class roller coasters, lots of shows, water rides, shops and kiddie rides. There is literally something for the whole family.
To get the complete experience you need to plan on spending a couple of days here. The best way to do that is with a season pass. Currently a season pass is only about $20 more than a one day pass.
A season pass has other benefits as well. Here they are as listed on the SDC website.
Unlimited visits to Silver Dollar City. Save $5 off the regular one-day adult or child admission price for up to 6 guests visiting with you on all operating days, except March 29, 2008. Save 10% on meals over $4.00 for you and up to 6 guests (Not valid on concessions). Save 20% on breakfast at Molly's Mill 8-11am through October 25 for you and up to 6 guests with you. Save 20% on Eva & Delilah's signature loaf breads (Limited quantity). Kids eat FREE at the Mine Restaurant after 4pm through October 25 with adult meal purchase. Only one discount or offer applies to food purchases. Valid 2008 operating season only.
The best way to plan your trip is to spend the morning on the rides and the afternoon in shows or the shops. The lines get very long as the day wears on. If you get wet have lunch and dry out before going into the shows. Some of them are very well air-conditioned and some have cloth seats. If you go on the Lost River Ride, The Water Boggan and Fire in the Hole you will get wet. If you have a water fight in Geyser Gulch you'll be soaked to the skin.
Don't forget their free night time show comes with the ticket. It's always a really good show. And it doesn't cost extra. If you're staying for a week or so you can always plan to attend it another night.
Keep in mind, there is no transportation through the park. The terrain is very steep and hilly. I wouldn't plan on using a regular wheelchair or trying to get through it with a walker. You need to be in pretty good shape. If you use a motorized wheelchair make sure the brakes are in excellent condition and your battery has a full charge before you attempt this park.
Lockers are available but they're all the way up by the ticket booth so it isn't convenient to run back out and get something that you've left there.
They do have stroller rentals if you didn't bring yours along. You'll park in a lot and ride a bus or trolley up to the park entrance. So if you've got a large stroller be prepared for that. If you don't want to deal with parking and driving the Best Western nearby runs a shuttle service if you're staying with them.
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay you can try Tall Pines Camping Cabins. They are a good alternative when you're on a budget.
When you get to the park you can purchase an insulated mug and get refills inexpensively all day. Well maybe not inexpensively but it's cheaper than buying fountain drinks all day. And you'll have another souvenir mug to add to your collection. Also I've found that the restaraunts will fill it with ice water at no extra charge.
Just remember to pace yourself and enjoy the day. With that season pass you don't have to worry about cramming it all in. If you get tired, go back to the room and have nap. After all it's a vacation. Naps are allowed.
Have a great trip!