Spring Exposition Festival 2026

What I have found about the 2026 Spring Exposition Tasting Ticket so far.

This Tasting Ticket will be available April 2nd - May 4th.

Please add your own photos, and reviews, the portion size you received, and pictures of prices to help this thread tremendously.

For complete, comprehensive guide to how to use my Tasting Tickets guide, and how Tasting Tickets work refer to my guide linked below -

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/7PoGyBRaRX98zJQP/?mibextid=oFDknk

This guide is written with the information I have on Tasting Tickets before this year, things may be different this year, I will update information as I learn it.

If things go as previous years, some items on the Tasting Ticket will be full size, the same size you would receive if you bought it without using a Tasting Ticket, other items will be smaller. My guide is to help you see which items will be full size, and which items are smaller portions when using the Tasting Ticket. 

If you are looking for the best values on the Tasting Ticket, you can follow my post for items that are at least 7.60 or more without the Tasting Ticket, and only use your Tasting Ticket for those items. Anything below 7.60 dollars, or not full size it may be a better value for you to buy outright and not use a scan on your Ticket for. 

Look in the link below for what I think the best values are and how to get the best bang for your buck for this Season's Tasting Ticket. As well as what my personal favorites are or are predicted to be.

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THE PLAZA

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FRIED FISH 

Half size order most likely, as a Tasting Ticket choice, last year it was 1 piece of Fried Fish. 

Full sized portion of Fish, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket - 13.99

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STRAIGHT CUT FRIES

Most likely a Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 7.99

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TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD 

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 8.99

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BUTTERMILK COLE SLAW

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 6.99

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WILDBERRY LEMONADE 

Full sized Lemonade, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Lemonade, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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CHOPPED SALAD FRIES

Most likely a Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 8.99

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FRIED GREEN TOMATO

Most likely a Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 8.99

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CUCUMBER LEMONADE 

Full sized Lemonade, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Lemonade, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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JOHNNY CAKES with FRIED GREEN TOMATO

Most likely a half sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 9.99

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ROASTED CORN ON THE COB

Full sized Corn on the Cob, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Corn on the Cob, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 8.99

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FRUIT LEIGE WAFFLE

Full sized Waffle, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Waffle, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 8.99

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COOKIES & CREAM WAFFLE

Full sized Waffle, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Waffle, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 8.99

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ORANGE TANGERINE LEMONADE

Full sized Lemonade, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Lemonade, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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FRIED PICKLES

Last year, they gave full sized portions, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 11.99?

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FEST HOUSE at 

RED GOLD HERITAGE HALL 

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VOODOO FRIES

Most likely a 1/2 sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 8.99

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MAQUE CHOUX

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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GUMBO with RICE

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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BRATSWURST with SAUERKRAUT

Full sized Brat, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Brat, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 9.99

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FRIED CHEESE CURDS 

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice.

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 8.99

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GERMAN POTATO SALAD 

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 7.99

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SHRIMP & GRITS

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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CAROLINA GOLD BBQ PORK

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice.

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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WATERMELON CUCUMBER SALAD 

Full sized Salad, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE LAYERED DESSERT 

Full sized Dessert, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Dessert, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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LEMON BLUEBERRY BAR

Full sized Bar, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Bar, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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STRAWBERRY RHUBARB PIE

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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ENTRANCE, MAIN STREET

& VALLEY ROAD

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Eva & Delilah's Bakery 

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BLUEBERRY CINNAMON ROLL with BLUEBERRY ICING

Full sized Cinnamon Roll, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Cinnamon Roll, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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BLUEBERRY MUFFIN LATTE

Full sized Latte, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Latte, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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HANNAH'S ICE CREAM PARLOR 

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PEACH COBBLER SUNDAE IN A KONERY CONE

Full sized Cone, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Cone, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 7.99

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WAGON WORKS GRILL 

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VEGETABLE COBB SALAD

Full sized Salad, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Salad, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 8.99

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CORN RIBS

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 7.99

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CONCESSIONS

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BLUE RASPBERRY LEMONADE

Full sized Lemonade, as a Tasting Ticket choice.

Full sized Lemonade, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.29 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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FROZEN STRAWBERRY LEMONADE 

Full sized Lemonade, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Lemonade, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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FANNY'S FUNNEL CAKES 

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STRAWBERRY CRUNCH FUNNEL CAKE 

1/3 sized Funnel Cake, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Funnel Cake, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 11.99

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BUCKSHOT'S SKILLET COOKERY 

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SAUSAGE and CABBAGE SKILLET 

Half sized Skillet, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Skillet, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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TRAVELER'S STOP 

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ULTIMATE GARLIC TOMATO GRILLED CHEESE 

Full sized Sandwich, as a Tasting Ticket choice.

Full sized Sandwich, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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HATFIELD'S TATER PATCH 

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CORN CHOWDER 

Full sized Chowder, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Chowder, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 9.49

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DIRTY MR. PIBB  SODA

Full sized Soda, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Soda, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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CAKES & CONES 

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FRUITY PEBBLE FUNNEL CAKE 

1/3 sized Funnel Cake, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Funnel Cake, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 11.99

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LADY LIBERTY 

DINING PAVILLION 

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DIRTY FRIES

Most likely a 1/2 sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without using a Tasting Ticket choice - 8.99

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DIRTY ROOT BEER SODA

Full sized Soda, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Soda, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99 

(a Specialty drink in the All Day, or All Season refill mug - 3.99. Or FREE with your VIP Tumbler.)

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HILL STREET, RIVERTOWN 

& WESTERN OUTSKIRTS

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FRIED FANCIES 

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BLACKBERRY CREAM CHEESE FUNNEL CAKE 

1/3 sized Funnel Cake, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Funnel Cake, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 11.99

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HUGO'S ON HILL STREET 

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Cajun Chopped Cheese

Full sized Sandwich, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Sandwich, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99 

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LUMBERCAMP 

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FRIED PICKLES 

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 11.49

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STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE 

Full sized Shortcake, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Shortcake, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 6.99

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CROSSROADS PIZZA 

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CHICKEN CAESAR SALAD FLATBREAD 

Full sized Flatbread, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Flatbread, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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RIVERTOWN SMOKEHOUSE 

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HOG BACK TATER

Full sized Potato, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Potato, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 12.99

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FRIED OKRA

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 9.49

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CORN RIBS

Full sized portion, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized portion, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 9.49

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JIM OWEN'S DOCKSIDE GRILL 

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VEGETABLE HASH in  BAKED SWEET POTATO

Full sized Potato, as a Tasting Ticket choice. 

Full sized Potato, purchased without a Tasting Ticket - 9.49

Busy Days!

Here's my advice - go early!

The turnstiles open at 8:30 every day, no matter when opening is scheduled. 

Be in the Parking lot by 8:15. Go inside the park at 8:30. 

Eat breakfast, Molly's Mill, Sulivan's Mill, the Apple Butter Shop or Eva and Delilah's. 

Hint - my favorites are Biscuits & Gravy at Molly's Mill breakfast buffet, Apple Turnovers at the Apple Butter Shop, and Cinnamon Apple Biscuits at Sulivan's Mill. 

Pro tip - Sulivan's Mill also has Starbucks coffee! And they grind thier own wheat every morning for thier baked goods, the most tender baked goods I have ever had in my life!

Shop around. 

Get your birthday button from the General Store if it's your birthday. 

Relax! 

Watch a show. Sometimes there is a show in the Gazebo around 8:45, check the schedule for details.

If you are into rides go on rides the first 1 to 2 hours the park is open. Most people won't be coming to the park till opening time, which if you went inside early, you are a good hour maybe more ahead of them - they have to park, gather stuff, get to the gates, get in, then get down to the areas where the rides are etc. 

Ride, rides till it gets crowded!

Then eat lunch early - 11am, is when food will be freshest. Otherwise wait til after 2pm.

Molly's Mill is usually the least crowded, and has delicious fried chicken, then sometimes Wagon Works isn't as bad as other restaurants, because it is not close to the rides. And they have the very best burgers.

Avoid Crossroads Pizza and my personal favorite Rivertown Smokehouse. While my kids love Crossroads and my husband and I absolutely adore Rivertown Smokehouse. So does everyone else! So both are completely jam packed during busy days/times. And so is Tater Twist!

While it's busy go to shows like Hot Time in Rivertown - fast paced music and dancing, Homestead Pickers - comedy and music, or many other shows in the schedule every day.

Chat with and visit the Craftsmen. 

Visit the Homestead. 

Shop.

The crowds start dying down around 2pm (at the back of the park) usually completely die down by 3 or 4 pm. That's when you can go back to rides.

But, if you do choose to do more popular things during the most busy part of the day, like thrill rides, and popular restaurants, please bring lots of patience and grace. Understanding the staff is doing their best, considering the high volume of guests.

Here's a collage of a few things to do during peak times.

Molly's Mill or Bakeries for Breakfast. 

Enjoying a Show

Train Ride (less popular with teen school groups)

Craft/Baking Demonstrations

Swinging Bridge

Grandfather's Mansion

Engaging with the Citizens and relaxing on a porch.

Homestead schoolhouse, and Petting Zoo!

The Fivr!

Summer Suggestions for Silver Dollar City

Zircus 1 hour long in the a.c. not been that crowded. Saloon show also has ac but will have a very long line.

Mystic River Falls will have a crazy long line, try Tom and Huck's River Blast, just as wet, not near the line. American Plunge has a fairly quick line too compared to Mystic River Falls. 

Get lots of drinks. 

The cave is almost 1 hour, 62 degrees.

I suggest Molly's Mill - inside A.c. Crossroads also is inside with a.c. but not as many inside tables and it's completely crazy full.

Outdoor shows under a roof will have shade and fans grab a drink and set there for a bit.

Shops, most indoor shops have ac. Pottery, Leather and Candy will have ac and demos. It's always nice to grab a drink, go to Brown's Candy Factory, go to the top stair step up on the wall, and set and watch them make Candy. You get fresh samples afterwards too.

Rivertown Smokehouse is a nice place to watch people on Mystic River Falls, set closest to the water for extra cooling splashes of water.

Refill mug breakdown!

 Ok here's a big tip for saving money on drinks at Silver Dollar City. 

There are several kinds of refill mugs/cups to do this with. Each choice is very different. This post is designed to break down how each works, so you can figure out what the best option for you and your family might be.

1. Current plastic discount refill mugs.

2. Plastic Christmas mugs. 

3. VIP metal Tumbler.

4. Grandfathered mugs A & B

A - Plastic, prices varied.

B - Locked in to specific prices, for lifetime, plastic and glass.

1. Current plastic discount refill mugs are probably the least expensive initial investment. They run about 18 dollars retail. But, there are many ways to get them for less. They come free with Gold and Diamond season passes. Also when you buy 1 they will Discount all additional mugs bought at that time. And they give a significant discount when purchased as a bundle with a Tasting Passport - 13.50. 

They are around 2.00 to refill with soda, Coffee, tea, Cocoa and such, and about 3.00 to refill with a specialty drink - frozen lemonade, icee, floats, Boba etc. They do NOT include Starbucks. Any drink from Sulivan's Mill or Clara Belle's is considered a Starbucks drink. 

In my opinion, I kind of like getting my complementary one we get with our Diamond Pass, but we rarely use it to actually pay for refills. Lol we use it to pour our less expensive refill mugs into it. So we can re-use our less expensive Grandfathered mug quicker, or put it away to avoid losing it or it getting stolen. 

The biggest pro - is it can be bought pretty inexpensively. And if you are only going 1 or 2 days a year or ever in a lifetime. Just getting 2 or 3 specialty drinks in it will save you money that one or 2 days you go.

The cons - only good for 1 year. Does NOT include Starbucks, even if you aren't a Starbucks fan, this can still be a con if you want Cocoa or some other drink and are near Sulivan's Mill or Clara Belle's, but have to walk further away to get a refill in your mug. The price of the refills. I personally like cheaper refills. 

2. Plastic Christmas mugs. Most all the above - they do not come with season passes, but you can get them at cheaper rates by buying more than 1 at a time.

The biggest pro to this one is - they are good for the Christmas season you buy them in, and through the entire following year. So if you buy one at Christmas Fest 2023, you can use it the rest of the 2023 year, plus the entire 2024 year.

They have all the same cons as the regular refill mug basically though. Only good for Christmas season and the next year, after that you must buy a new one, still kind of expensive refills, and still no Starbucks. 

3. VIP metal Tumbler - free refills on all drinks, except for ice cream.

This is extremely literal. I see people asking about every single specialty drink at Silver Dollar City, asking if it's included. Yes, as long as it does not have ice cream, it IS included. Frozen lemonade, Boba, icees, do NOT have ice cream, so yes, they are free. And it also includes Starbucks!

The cons - to the VIP Tumbler, it's the most expensive initial investment, they only last 1 year, you have to buy a new one each year, if you want to continue to get free refills. No ice cream, meaning no floats! We love floats during the Saloon Show!

The pros - it includes literally everything but ice cream. If you love Starbucks, it is the only way to get a discount on Starbucks, and this discount makes them completely free. If you live close and are going every week (I know many people who do), or every day (yes I know a few), you will for sure get your money back and more! I have a friend who goes every day, and gets at least one, and usually 2 Starbucks a day! He probably got his money back the first week Silver Dollar City was open. I think you have to go at least 5 days a year and get at least 2 Starbucks each time to break even. After that it's all gravy. Another pro, at the do it yourself refill stations you don't have to go stand in the pay line for a refill. Go directly to the drink machine line! And you never have to worry about digging money or a card out to pay for refills.

So it's worth will depend greatly on how often you will go, and exactly which drinks you want.

4. A - Grandfathered Plastic Mugs - discount refill Mugs that were sold previous to 2012 - with screw on lids, priced at the current refill price each year.

These are a bit harder to find. But, sometimes you can score at a garage sale or estate sale. Also thrift shops and ebay. Apple Mall almost always has them.

Any Grandfathered mug will get you discounted refills of both regular drinks and specialty drinks, but do not work st Starbucks. 

However, here is where it gets tricky. Some Grandfathered Mugs are locked in to specific prices, but most are not. Most the grandfathered mugs are refill price the same as the current years mug refill price.

If you have more than 1 person in the family, I highly suggest just buying or at least only bringing one grandfathered mug at a time with you to the park. Buy a refill in it and then pour that refill into a different cup/mug so you only have to keep track of 1 mug. They do sometimes get stolen. So after child number 5 or 6 we started just leaving all but one at home. Everyone else in the family brings a different mug, that isn't valuable if lost or stolen to pour their drink into. It got to be too stressful to try to make sure, that many mugs didn't get lost or stolen.

The cons - initial investment can be a little steep. I usually see them in the 20 dollar range. But, some people score them at garage sales/estate sales for free to 50 cents too! Can not get Starbucks in them, nor a discount at Starbucks. The refill prices are subject to change to the current refill price each year. Specialty drink refills cost more than regular drink refills. (Still at a discount, just not as cheap).

Pro - never have to buy a new mug again! Can bring year after year. Discount refills, on absolutely everything, including ice cream. Just not Starbucks.

4. B - Grandfathered Mugs with locked in refill prices! Glass and plastic with pop in lids - not screw on.

The plastic versions are mainly pre2001/2002 (before 2001 or 2002). The glass ones I'm pretty sure started being sold in the 70s, continued to be sold through 2021!!! 

The plastic ones that are locked in at 1.00 refills for both soda, and specialty drinks, including ice cream (except Starbucks does not include Starbucks) are the kind with a pop in lid, mainly sold before 2002. I believe buzzsaw fall mugs may of been the last year they were made.

12 oz (could be 16 oz, I will have to measure) glass mugs are locked in at .75 cents for both specialty, including ice cream and regular drinks, just not Starbucks. 

There is also a locked in huge glass mug, weighs at least 3 lbs!! Not kidding, for 1.50 refills but there isn't photos of them in the books and some of the employees really don't know about them, and it's hard to carry them around or get unknowing employees to give the correct discount. (My dad, brothers and husband insisted on buying them..I hate them..lol heavy!!!!)

The cons to this is - the plastic pop in lid mugs normally start at 40 each on eBay, so initial investment can be costly. But, again can be found sometimes at garage sales or estate sales. I scored two small glass ones for 50 cents at a local estate sale! Glass is harder to carry around. However we have rarely ever ever broke any. Beware of them not getting stolen or lost. Again I just bring one, use it for the discount then pour it into a cup that I don't care gets lost or stolen. You will probably need a card at most the stands for the refills. And if you are ever going to only go once or twice to Silver Dollar City in your entire life, than not worth the investment. The glass ones you cam usually also score for less than 15 on eBay, and there are a lot more of them around since they continued to sell them up through 2021!

The pros are obvious! Never have to buy a mug again, never have to worry about a higher price for refills, they remain 75 cents and 1.00 forever! The plastic mugs are much much lighter and easier to carry.

Favorite Snacks at Silver Dollar City

1. Funnel Cakes

2. Brown's Candy Factory - free samples! But everything is delicious!

3. Frozen Lemonade - in-house, not Minute Maid 

4. Cokes & Floats

5. Hannah's Ice Cream Parlor 

6. Cinnamon Bread 

7. Kettle Corn 

Favorite Breakfast items at Silver Dollar City

Molly's Mill Buffet is our absolute favorite Silver Dollar City Breakfast. 

But, when we want something smaller, we like -

Ozark Mountain Summer Celebration Tasting Passport Guesses

My predictions on what will be the best values on this Tasting Passport. 

Mac & Cheese Pizza - it will most likely be close to full size. Full size will probably retail without the Tasting Passport at 12.99, looks like it's going to be the best value in this Tasting Passport. If the Meatball Sandwich is full size, then it will be a close second place for best value, since it's 11.99 for a full size Sandwich withouta Tasting Passport.

While, basically the burger from Wagon Works, both sandwiches from Traveler's Stop, and the Chicken Sandwich from Lady Liberty, Classic Tater Twist, Taste of the City Corn on the Cob, and the Kettle Corn will all be tied for saving about the same amount (with in 50 cents to 1.00) of each other. All will save a couple to a few dollars each, not huge. But, a savings none the less, and if you have a large family, or go a lot in the summer, the savings will add up for sure.

Depending on portion sizes, I think Hugo's Cheesesteak Fries and Rivertown Smokehouse meat selections, especially the ribs will all tie for honorable mention on value. They may save a little bit of money, probably not much. But, it will be a good value to be able to try Hugo's selections without shelling out full price. And my husband and son would both be getting several Ribs and Brisket choices on this Tasting Passport.

While, I don't feel the desserts or drinks are a good value to get with the Tasting Passport most the time - saves more money to use a refill mug for drinks, and to just purchase desserts separately from using a Tasting Passport choice - they all look amazing and I want all of them! Especially the Berries and Cream!

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Conclusion -

I do a full breakdown and review of every Tasting Passport. For more information also look for my group, Saving Your Dollars, at Silver Dollar City. 

My synopsis -

In my opinion, by what I am seeing people receive on this Tasting Passport vs the prices, these are what I feel are best values.

The Mac and Cheese Pizza is top value for your money, and thankfully the Meatball Sandwich is full size so it's coming in a close second as best value. 

The Pork Belly Skewer - 1, Corn on the Cob, Lady Liberty Loaded Fries and Chicken Sandwich, Tater Twist, the Kettle Corn, Traveler's Stop Chicken Sandwich and Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Wagon Works Southwest Burger all pretty much tie for good value, each saves 2 to 3 dollars each by using a Tasting Passport. All are full size.

The Smokehouse Meats have been about 4 oz servings and most people are not liking the serving size they are getting for the price of a Tasting Passport choice. 

So far some people have said they didn't like Hugo's Cheesesteak Fries, and some have loved them. While they are not full size, most people have been very happy with the serving size for these, and for sure worth a choice if it's something you want to try, and not sure if you will like. As this makes trying them almost half price, compared to the price you would pay without using a Tasting Passport. 

So far, everyone is agreeing they are loving the Mac and Cheese Pizza, the Meatball Sandwich, and Lady Liberty Loaded Fries - these seem to be most peoples favorites.

The Southwest Burger, Funnel Cake, Blackberry Gooey Cake, and Shake all got good reviews as well, but not as many people have posted about them.

Ozark Mountain Summer Celebration

What I have found about the Ozark Mountain Summer Celebration Fest Tasting Passports so far.

Please add your own photos, and reviews, the portion size you received, and pictures of prices will help this thread tremendously. 

The regular price of a Tasting Passport this year without tax or discounts is 35.00, you can add a discount refill mug for 13.50.

Making each choice equal 7.00, when you divide 35.00 that you paid for the Passport, by 5 choices.

If you have a Season Pass you will receive a Season Pass Discount on the Tasting Passports as well, making them less than the price I quoted.

So if you are looking for the best values on the Tasting Passport, you can follow my post for items that have at least a 7 dollar or more Regular Price cost without the Tasting Passport, and only use your Passport for those items. Anything below 7 dollars it may be a better value for you to buy outright and not use a punch on your Passport for. 

Look in the comments for what I think the best values are in the park, for this Season's Tasting Passport, and how to get the most bang for your buck on the Seasonal Food choices.

WAGON WORKS GRILL 

Southwest Burger 

Probably Full size Sandwich, but without fries.

Full size Sandwich with fries without a Tasting Passport- 12.99

Strawberry Shortcake Biscuit Dessert 

Full size

Without a Tasting Passport - Probably 6.99 - 8.99

Will update when I know positively.

JIM OWEN'S DOCKSIDE GRILL 

Pulled Pork Skillet 

1/2 size portion

Full size portion,  without a Tasting Passport - 12.49

CROSSROADS PIZZA 

Meatball Sandwich 

Probably 1/2 Sandwich 

Full Sandwich, without a Tasting Passport - 11.99

Mac and Cheese Pizza

Probably close to full size - 7"

Full size pizza, without a Tasting Passport - 12.99?

TRAVELER'S STOP 

Classic Chicken Sandwich 

Probably Full size Sandwich

Full size Sandwich, without a Tasting Passport - 8.49

Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich 

Probably Full size Sandwich. 

Full size Sandwich, without a Tasting Passport - 8.69

Lady Liberty Dining Pavillion 

Classic Chicken Sandwich 

Probably Full Size Sandwich without fries.

Full size Sandwich including fries, without a Tasting Passport - 11.29

BBQ Bacon Ranch Fries 

1/2 size portion. 

Full serving, without a Tasting Passport - 8.99

Lumbercamp Falls Skillets

Family Fued Skillet

1/2 portion 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 12.49???

Jambalaya Skillet 

1/2 portion 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 14.49????

CHESTER'S KETTLE CHIPS 

1/2 size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport -

TATER TWIST 

Classic Tater Twist 

Full size Tater Twist!

Without a Tasting Passport - 8.99

HANNAH'S ICE CREAM PARLOR 

Blackberry Shake

Full size Shake!

Without a  Tasting Passport - 7.99 ???? Probably. 

TASTE OF THE CITY 

Bourbon Smoked Pork Skewer 

Probably 1 or 2

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport -

Roasted Corn On The Cob

Full size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 8.99

Fresh Traditional Lemonade 

Full size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 6.29? Or the price a a refill in a refill mug.

Fresh Blackberry Basil Lemonade 

Full size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 6.29?

Berries & Cream 

Full size portion.

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 8.99??

RIVERTOWN SMOKEHOUSE 

Smoked Brisket

Pulled Pork 

Smoked Turkey 

Smoked Sausage 

These are each a separate order/choice on the Tasting Passport, but most likely will be served the exact same way. I am guessing you will receive a good size portion of meat, but without sides.

Full size portions of all the above with sides, without a Tasting Passport - 16.29

BBQ Ribs -

In the fall they gave 1/4 rack no sides. I'm guessing the same for this Summer.

1/2 rack, with 2 sides, without a Tasting Passport - 17.49

Blackberry Gooey Butter Cake 

Full size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 6.29

FRISCO KETTLE CORN 

Original Kettle Corn 

Full size large bag. 

Without a Tasting Passport- I believe 8.99???

HUGO'S CHEESESTEAKS

Tangerine & Passion Fruit Lemonade with Strawberry Bursting Boba 

Full size drink.

Without a Tasting Passport - 6.29???? Or the price of a refill in your refill mug.

Chicken Cheesesteak Fries

1/2 size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 13.99

Beef Cheesesteak Fries 

1/2 size portion. 

Full size portion, without a Tasting Passport - 13.99

CAKES & CONES 

Blackberry Funnel Cake 

1/3 size portion 

Full size Funnel Cake, without a Tasting Passport - 12.99???

Fanny's Famous Funnel Cakes 

Blackberry Funnel Cake 

1/3 size portion. 

Full size Funnel Cake, without a Tasting Passport - 12.99??

Kid Friendly Food in Silver Dollar City

Our Favorite Branson Restaurants

1. Billy Gail's

2. Smithcreek 

3. Shogun's 

4. Steamy Joe's 

5. Sugar Leaf

6. Lambert's 

7. Flatcreek 

Honorable Mention 

1. Grand Country

2. Mellow Mushroom 

3. Pizza Ranch 

1. Billy Gail's is a don't miss for at least 1 breakfast every visit to Branson. Our children love it. And since the meals are gigantic, they can easily be split. 

All my children love the pancakes. I love the fried fish, my husband's favorite is the chicken Fried Steak but also the Fish. My son really likes the burgers and fried okra! 

Trust me, 2 kids can usually split a kids meal, and 2 adults can usually split a adult meal. A kids meal is plenty for most adults!

2. Smithcreek at the Landing - free samples of Moonshine!!! Lol plus they really do have fantastic Hamburgers. I don't normally like Hamburgers, but I love Smithcreeks. They are extremely friendly. And my entire family, including our children all love the atmosphere and the food!

3. Shogun's - 

4. Sugar Leaf - I have been going here for decades. Very nice lunch cafe. Coffee, sandwiches, Soups and baked goods. Very nice atmosphere at Grand Village.

5. Steamy Joe's - yummy, almost the sane options as Sugar Leaf, cappuccinos, sandwiches, Soups, pastries, and absolutely beautiful views of the lake a Ozarks. 

6. Lambert's - we love them. I only put them in 5th place because they are not directly in Branson. My husband and kids like their steak best. I like the grilled salmon best. We are not fans of their corn, or green beans, but the candied yams, and beans are delicious. They have all you can eat pass arounds - fried okra (my kids love it!!!), black eyed peas, fried potatoes and onions, Macaroni and tomatoes  and amazing hot rolls, better than Texas Roadhouse!!

Keep in mind even though the servings are huge, you also get unlimited second helpings of whatever main course you order as well!

7. Flatcreek, in Cape Fair, do NOT mistake for Fallcreek! We love this restaurant. Huge, delicious portions. Fantastic seafood, very good prices! They also currently own Billy Gail's! So if you like Billy Gail's, you will most likely love Flatcreek. 

It's only number 6 on my list, because it's not technically in Branson. But, it's worth the 20 minute drive!

Honorable Mention 

1. Grand Country Buffet - the main reason this is on Honorable Mention, is I don't really care for Buffets. But, this is one I can tolerate! It's one of the better ones I have been to. Most people love it. Most my family really does enjoy it as well.

2. Mellow Mushroom - the main reason this is a Honorable Mention, is because it is a chain. However, it's only 1 of 4 chains in the USA that offers dairy free pizza. And we personally do not have a local one to us. This is the best dairy free pizza we have ever had. And they have really yummy, unique pizza toppings and flavors to mix and match. Best Hawaiian pizza I have ever had. The Holy Shirtaki is also delicious! We have tried several others too, and loved all of them.

3. Pizza Ranch - also on the Honorable Mention because of being a chain. It's better than Cicis for the pizza itself, but not my favorite pizza. However  my kids love it. And my husband and I like the fried chicken and soup. As well as kids eat free on Tuesdays. So makes it extremely affordable. They also have soft serve ice cream and Rootbeer, and my kids love making Rootbeer Floats for dessert. The hot chocolate chip cookie pie is also delicious!