Hidden Gems of Silver Dollar City

Last Updated:April 24, 2024
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Hidden Gems of Silver Dollar City Hidden Gems of Silver Dollar City
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What sets Silver Dollar City apart from other theme parks? Well, there are one hundred demonstrating craftsmen, of course. There are also world-class festivals, award-winning food, amazing rides and some of the friendliest folks you’ll find anywhere. But we’d like to take a moment to appreciate some of the unique and off-the-beaten-path areas and attractions that help give Silver Dollar City its one-of-a-kind personality.

Marvel Cave

Sometimes you just can’t do any better than Mother Nature when it comes to awesome attractions. Marvel Cave is where Silver Dollar City got its start and it continues to amaze and inspire explorers today. The cave is both ancient and alive, with living, growing formations. You’ll find adventure around every corner during your guided tour and learn a lot, too. Then take a train ride 500 feet back to the surface!

McHaffie's Homestead & Barnyard

This authentic 1843 saddlebag cabin provides guests with an opportunity to step back in time and explore what life was like for a pioneer. Two cozy rooms with authentic furnishings fire the imagination and pique the curiosity of young’uns. Folks looking to relax can sit back on the porch and listen to some old time tunes from the Homestead Pickers.

Of course, farmyard animals were part and parcel of life in a 1880s Ozarks village, and just behind the Homestead cabin you’ll find some pretty cute critters. Pet a friendly goat, meet a miniature horse and see sweet bunnies along with a host of farmyard fowl.

Oak Trail School

You can get a rare peek into a 1800s-style one-room schoolhouse at Oak Trail School. The school marm leads visiting students through penmanship lessons on real slates and imparts some essential 19th century knowledge.

The Wilderness Church

Originally built near Galena, Missouri, in 1849, The Wilderness Church offers you the chance to step into a quiet sanctuary and enjoy peaceful views overlooking Ozarks woodland. You can even attend a church service on Sundays during the operating season as well as old-fashioned hymn sing-alongs.

Grandfather's Mansion

From the outside, Grandfather’s Mansion looks pretty ordinary, but once you step over its threshold things start to get eerie. Kooky décor and odd angles will have you questioning gravity and wondering what in the world is going on!

The Flooded Mine

Opened in 1968, The Flooded Mine was one of Silver Dollar City’s first major attractions, and it’s still a lot of fun today. The addition of laser guns and targets in the 1990s added another layer of fun, giving guests the opportunity to compete for glory as the highest scoring sharpshooter.

One-Of-A-Kind Photo Ops

It’s inevitable – you go to Silver Dollar City for a day of innocent fun and end up in the slammer. The Silver Dollar City Jail has been a mandatory Midtown stop for decades. Don’t forget to snap a family photo while you’re there and try not to wake the fella in the cell behind you. When you finally get out of jail, you can conveniently get measured up for a coffin right up the street! You might even meet up with The Undertaker…

Swinging Bridge

This piece of old-time engineering has been delighting guests since 1962. Spanning the space over a wooded gulch, the Swinging Bridge lives up to its name, as you gently bounce and sway your way to the other side.

The Locals

Silver Dollar City is full of colorful characters and you never know when you’re going to get an impromptu show or see some hilarious hijinks. You might accidentally get mixed up in some trouble between the Hatfields & McCoys, or enjoy some delightful conversation with the charming Whoopsie Daisy.

Surprises Everywhere

All over Silver Dollar City you’ll find whimsical details and curiosities that you just have to explore. From the water clock near the park entrance to the “Talking Bucket” by the Train Depot, there are so many things to see and investigate. Oh, and if you happen to see a peep hole with a warning sign…definitely look! You never know what fun you’ll find.

Picture of Suzanne Colvert

Meet Suzanne Colvert

Suzanne has spent over two decades working and playing at Silver Dollar City. Even after all these years, she still finds new things to love about The City every day…

Full Bio

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