Destinations,  Hotels & Airbnb Stays,  Missouri

Top Ozark Hotels for Your Next Outdoorsy Getaway

A look at the best hotels in the Ozarks
Image from expedia.com

The Best Hotels in the Ozarks for a Scenic and Comfortable Stay

I’m not going to lie–as a San Diego girl, the Ozarks weren’t even on my radar until the show came out. But my friend just recently asked for my help in planning a summer trip for her and her family, and I had so much fun helping her out. There is so much to do there.

The Ozarks are a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to relax in a scenic setting. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo retreat, finding the perfect hotel can make all the difference. Here’s a roundup of some of the best Ozark hotels, complete with details on amenities, ambiance, and price points.

1. Big Cedar Lodge – Ridgedale, MOOne of the most luxurious Ozark Hotels

Ozark hotels for your next vacation
Image from expedia.com

Price: $$$$ (Luxury) Amenities: Spa, golf course, multiple dining options, pools, private cabins, and lake activities.

Big Cedar Lodge is one of the best family vacation destinations in the midwest. It’s the crown jewel of Ozark accommodations, offering a rustic yet upscale experience nestled along Table Rock Lake. Whether you choose a private cabin, a grand lodge room, or a cozy cottage, you’ll be treated to stunning views and top-tier service.

The lodge features an award-winning spa, world-class golf courses, and family-friendly activities like fishing, paddleboarding, hiking and bowling. If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway that celebrates the beauty of the Ozarks, this is the place to be.

2. The Crescent Hotel & Spa – Eureka Springs, AR

Image from expedia.com

Price: $$$ (Mid to High Range) Amenities: Full-service spa, rooftop restaurant, historic tours, and ghost tours.

Perched atop a hill in charming Eureka Springs, The Crescent Hotel is one of the most famous historic hotels in the Ozarks. Known as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” it offers nightly ghost tours, but don’t worry—its luxurious spa and cozy rooms ensure a comfortable stay. The SkyBar Gourmet Pizza restaurant offers some of the best views in town, and the hotel’s proximity to downtown Eureka Springs makes exploring easy. Kids also love the on-site ice skating at this hotel.

3. Serenity Shores Resort – Kimberling City, MO – A Tranquil Lakefront Retreat for Families

Image from expedia.com

Price: $$$ (Upper Mid-Range) Amenities: Two pools (including a 5,000 sq ft luxury pool with lazy river and waterslide), hot tubs, mini golf, pickleball, sand volleyball, arcade, fitness center, and private lake access.

Nestled on 44 private acres along Table Rock Lake, Serenity Shores Resort offers a serene yet activity-rich environment perfect for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. The resort features spacious lakefront lodges and villas, each equipped with modern kitchens, screened-in porches, private hot tubs, and high-speed internet. Kids will delight in the splash pad, waterslide, and arcade, while adults can unwind in the infinity-edge pool or enjoy a game of pickleball. With its blend of luxury accommodations and family-friendly amenities, Serenity Shores is an ideal destination for creating lasting memories.

4. 21c Museum Hotel – Bentonville, AROne of the more unique Ozark Hotels

Image from expedia.com

Price: $$$ (Mid to High Range) Amenities: Contemporary art museum, on-site restaurant, fitness center, pet-friendly rooms.

For travelers who appreciate modern luxury with an artsy twist, 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville is a fantastic choice. This boutique hotel doubles as a contemporary art museum, offering an immersive experience for guests. It’s within walking distance of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, making it perfect for art lovers. The on-site restaurant, The Hive, serves delicious Southern-inspired cuisine, and the hotel’s chic rooms provide a stylish retreat after a day of exploring.

5. The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks – Hollister, MO

Image from cofo.edu

Price: $$-$$$ (Mid-Range) Amenities: Farm-to-table restaurant, handcrafted furnishings, complimentary breakfast, beautiful campus setting.

This unique hotel is located on the College of the Ozarks campus, where students manage much of the operations as part of their education. The result is exceptional service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated with handcrafted furniture, and the on-site Dobyns Dining Room serves some of the best farm-to-table meals in the region. If you appreciate charm, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of community, The Keeter Center is a wonderful place to stay.

6. Margaritaville Lake Resort – Osage Beach, MO

Ozark hotels on the lake
Image from margaritavilleresortlakeoftheozarks.com

Price: $$-$$$ (Mid-Range) Amenities: Water park, multiple restaurants and bars, golf course, marina, family-friendly activities.

For a laid-back and tropical-inspired stay in the Ozarks, Margaritaville Lake Resort is a top pick. This resort brings the fun with its indoor water park, lakeside activities, and themed restaurants. Guests can relax by the pool with a cocktail, enjoy live entertainment, or take advantage of the various outdoor adventures, including boating and golf. There’s also on-site bowling and miniature golf It’s a great spot for families and groups looking for a mix of relaxation and excitement.

7. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center Branson, MO.

The best Ozark hotels
Image from expedia.com

Price: $$$ (Mid to High Range)
Amenities: Full-service spa, multiple dining options, marina, indoor and outdoor pools, scenic lake views.

This upscale Ozark resort sits on the shores of Table Rock Lake, offering breathtaking views and a luxurious experience. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, enjoy gourmet dining, or take advantage of the marina for boat rentals and lake activities. It’s a great choice for couples, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing lakeside retreat.

Final ThoughtsAbout the Best Ozark Hotels

The best Ozark hotels on the lake
Image from expedia.com

Whether you’re drawn to the history of The Crescent, the luxury of Big Cedar Lodge, or the artistic flair of 21c Museum Hotel, the Ozarks offer accommodations for every traveler. With breathtaking scenery, top-notch amenities, and a range of price points, these hotels provide the perfect base for exploring this beautiful region.

Be sure to also take a look at these waterpark resorts in Branson, Missouri, for even more fun places to stay.

And, if you’re looking for more lake vacation inspiration, check out these amazing lake resorts in Minnesota along with these top family hotels in Gatlinburg.

Note: Affiliate links on this page may earn me commission if used to make purchases. This doesn’t cost you a penny extra, and it helps to keep my website up and running for free.


Discover more from

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

jaime

Thanks for reading my post. My name is Jaime and I am a mom to three busy children. When we're not at the soccer and football fields, we try to get away as often as possible. I'm a teacher and my husband is a firefighter, so we mostly get away for long weekends or over the school breaks. I hope to inspire busy families to take time to recoup and relax while making memories on camping trips or cruise ships, or at the fancy resort pool--we love it all! Follow me on Instagram for real-time inspiration.

Leave a Reply

Discover more from

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

privacy overview, logo
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.