About Us
Meet the Crew!
Sandpiper Landing Inn, originally Branson Motor Court, has been a lodging establishment since 1947. It was owned by many prominent Branson families over the years. Kenny and Gloria Acton bought the hotel in January 1974. Grandpa Acton & the Acton brothers are no strangers to operating lodging establishments; they owned the Hillbilly Inn, The Village Inn, The Paramount Inn, and The Blue Haven Resort, all in Branson. Orchard Hill Motel in Nashville Indiana, Wintergarden Mobile Home Park in Wintergarden Florida, and Old Mill Run Campground in Thorntown, Indiana. In 1993, Brian and Deana Acton took over operations when Kenny retired. In 2009, Piper joined the workforce as our mascot. And in 2017, we changed the name to Sandpiper Landing Inn.
My name is Piper. I am a fifteen- year- old Chinese Shar-pei. My mission in life is to greet people. I have the perfect job to do that. I am the greeter and mascot at Sandpiper Landing Inn, which was named after me and my sister Sandi (who is no longer with us). I believe I am amazing at my job. I went totally blind about 4 years ago and I still rock at my job. I go for daily walks at various parks and trails around the Branson area. Just ask me and I will tell you which one I went to today. I like variety so I go to many different ones. They all have their own smell. I still play with my stuffed toys. I nap a little more than I used to do but I still greet just about everybody that comes into Sandpiper Landing Inn. I have lots of friends that ask my mom and dad how I am doing when they call or come in. They know me better than anybody else here, even Mom and Dad. Every once in a while, someone will even bring me treats. Peanut butter and chimken are my favorites. I like to celebrate holidays. Especially Christmas, I get to get a new outfit each year. Well, I probably should get off here, I am getting sleepy and want to take a nap. But before I go I just wanted to remind you to check out our events calendar so that you can come see me soon.
Sandpiper Landing Inn Awarded $30,000 Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant through American Express and Main Street America
The $30,000 Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant from American Express and Main Street America recognizes small businesses for their dedication and impact. This grant celebrates our family’s 50 years of hard work and commitment, honoring the effort and perseverance that has contributed to our success. We take great pride in receiving this distinguished award, highlighting the ongoing legacy of our family’s business.
This grant is a game changer for our property, allowing us to invest in sustainable flooring, eco-friendly amenities, and energy-efficient heating/cooling units. We are committed to working with fellow small businesses in our community to bring these improvements to life. Additionally, Branson’s growing mural initiative has inspired us to dedicate a portion of the funds to installing a retro Americana-themed mural. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to track our progress and stay tuned for the unveiling ceremony announcement.
A Walk Through Our History
Sandpiper Landing Inn, formerly Branson Motor Court (and briefly Branson Motel), was established in the mid-forties by Mr. and Mrs. Knox to provide lodging for the weary road travelers of the new and exciting interstate freeway system and fishermen looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks. Motor Courts of the time had cutting edge amenities that weren’t always found in hotels/motels of that era. Branson Motor Court thrived in this time, and things only got better when Silver Dollar City and the original country music and western shows put down roots and became attractions unto their own. Upgrades were always occurring here, with a very large pool added in the sixties, also covered porches and new rooms. In 1983, Ken & Gloria Acton removed a few older cabins and a house to put in a modern fifteen unit building towards the rear of the property. In 2017, Brian & Deana Acton decided to modernize the name to Sandpiper Landing Inn, knowing that younger people weren’t aware of what a “Motor Court” is. (This is NOT where you pay your traffic ticket!) To this day, there are folks staying with us, (or just stopping to take pictures) and say “I stayed in cabin 7 on my honeymoon” or “my daughter learned to swim in that pool.” The traditions of the past are not forgotten at Sandpiper Landing Inn.