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.
In Loving Memory of Piper 🐾
Our Innkeeper in Fur and Spirit
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we remember our beloved Piper—faithful companion, greeter-in-chief, and the gentle soul behind countless smiles at Sandpiper Landing Inn.
Piper wasn’t just a dog; she was part of our story. From the moment she trotted into our lives, she brought joy, warmth, and a sandpiper’s curiosity to every corner of the motel inn. Guests often say it best: she had a way of making everyone feel instantly at home.
Whether she was patrolling the grounds, lounging in the sun, or keeping a watchful eye on the treat jar, Piper reminded us to slow down and savor the simple things. If you ever stopped by the inn, chances are she greeted you with a hopeful gaze and a soft tail wag that said, “You’re welcome here.”
We miss her deeply—but her spirit lives on in grounds she loved to patrol, the guests she greeted, and the heart of Sandpiper Landing Inn itself.
Thank you, Piper, for your years of loyal service, boundless love, and quiet leadership.
You were more than a pet. You were family.
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.