The word conjures
up a world of entertainment in America's heartland, a veritable
family-friendly Las
Vegas located in the MO Ozarks where visitors come
by the millions each year to an American original vacation destination
to be entertained by some of the nation's most popular
performers.
What to
see and do in Branson
Think of Branson as one giant vacation buffet.
Follow the signs to popular Branson
acts
such as Andy Williams, Jim Stafford,
and comedian Yakov Smirnoff.
On the menu? 52 theaters, 12 championship golf courses, 3 scenic lakes for swimming, fishing and boating, 3 theme parks, 2 giant outlet factory malls located right in Branson, dozens
of family entertainment centers, and literally hundreds of restaurants, hotels and other lodging facilities.
Branson, which bills itself as having "more theater seats than Broadway" is famous for venues built specifically by veteran entertainers such as Andy Williams, Jim Stafford, and comedian Yakov Smirnoff.
However, don't miss dozens of more theaters that offer everything from rodeo extravaganzas to Chinese acrobats.
Branson 101: must-sees
Before you set foot in Branson, plan ahead and take advantage of the hundreds of hotels and vacation condos available in and around town competing for your tourist dollar. In Branson, it truly does pay to shop around!
On arrival, head straight for the Branson Tourism Center for schedules, discount coupons, and expert tips on what to see and do. Then, hop aboard the very popular "Riding the Ducks" tour featuring an overland trip of Branson's major attractions combined with a fun splashdown into Table Rock Lake.
Amusement park rides at Silver Dollar
City are among Branson's most popular.
Later, don't miss the Branson Belle riverboat cruise around the lake, combining a 4-star dinner and service with live entertainment. If your budget allows, also don't miss one of the most popular Branson music theaters The Grand Palace which regularly features spectacular entertainment by such country superstars as The Oak Ridge Boys, Martina McBride, Merle Haggard, George Jones, and more.
With kids in tow, Silver Dollar City theme park remains one of Branson's top attractions with a Dollywood-style funhouse of amusement rides, live entertainment and crafts demonstrations.
Getting to Branson
While Springfield is the traditional major hub for air travelers, a more convenient way to fly into Branson is the recently opened Branson Airport. The airport is conveniently located only eight miles from all major attractions.
By car, head for Springfield then south on US 65 to exit 82A.
More about Branson travel & tourism around the Web:
Branson
Missouri Chamber of Commerce - Information on live shows,
festivals & events, hotel & restaurant guides, camping
& RV parks, shopping outlets, & kid friendly attractions, with ticket and tour reservations.
Explore
Branson - The official travel & tourism site offering
a complete guide to entertainment schedules and venues, online
booking for hotel and lodging, restaurant guide, shopping, nearby
attractions.
Branson,
Missouri - Wikipedia guide with historical background,
a guide to all major theaters, museums and other attractions with
photos, related references and resources.