Ten Ways to Play in Branson Missouri

There are plenty of things to do in Branson. With a wide range of outdoor activities, as well as indoor fun available, Branson offers a little something for everyone when they visit. Whether you are a new Branson visitor or a repeat traveler, there’s always something new to do in Branson.

1) Silver Dollar City: Branson’s #1 attraction is home to old-fashioned fun as it is themed as a 1880s style theme park. There are demonstrating craftsmen at the park, delicious food, 40 live shows daily and thrilling rides like WildFire to keep your day in Branson filled with fun. Silver Dollar City also features six world-class festivals, so anytime you come there is something different to see and do. Currently, KidsFest is underway, which is a great festival for kids because it’s all geared towards them.

2) Branson Shows: Branson is home to a variety of shows. With more theater seats than Broadway, this town knows how to put on a show. Branson is known for its country music, and at shows like Pierce Arrow, The Duttons, The Presleys, The Baldknobbers and Country Tonite, there are plenty of country tunes to keep audiences entertained. There are a variety of other shows in Branson that don’t feature country music, including Bill Haley’s Original Comets, Broadway!, Noah – The Musical, Six, and the Acrobats of China. Of course, perennial favorites Yakov Smirnoff, Shoji Tabuchi, Dixie Stampede and Jim Stafford perform throughout the year, offering first class shows right in the heart of Branson.

3) White Water: Branson’s beach within reach is a great place to spend a day while you’re in town. Dive into summer fun on their over 12 acre park which pumps over two million gallons water daily. There are thrilling water rides like Kalani Towers, Ohana Falls, and Raging River Rapids for the older kids, and a lazy river, splash island, and wave pool for guests wanting to lounge and soak up some sun.

4) Table Rock Lake: Table Rock Lake is a beautiful Branson treasure offering swimming, boating, fishing and amazing scenery. People flock to this lake to enjoy the sights and activities found here. Located just minutes from the heart of Branson, a day at Table Rock Lake provides families with some time to enjoy the great outdoors while also enjoying the amenities of an entertainment town such as Branson.

5) Branson Shopping: Branson is a fantastic place to shop because it is home to three outlet malls, the waterfront Branson Landing, and plenty of craft malls to find that unique treasure to call your own. When you visit, make time to go to the various shops at Branson because there is always a deal to be found!

6) Ride the Ducks: These unique amphibious vehicles provide an entirely different way to see Branson. When you ride on duck, you are treated to a 70 minute tour given by a guide who has some interesting insight into Branson. 30 minutes of your 70 minute tour is spent on Table Rock Lake, cruising and enjoying the splendor of the area. One thing is for sure, when you go to Ride the Ducks you’re in for a quack-tastic sightseeing adventure.

7) Titanic Museum: Spend some time at the Branson Titanic Museum while you visit and you’ll learn all there is to know about this fateful ship. Housed in a massive half-size replica of the original ship, the museum itself is a sight to behold but once you’re inside there is even more to explore. With over 400 artifacts to discover and interactive displays, like touching an iceberg, make the Titanic Museum a must-see attraction in Branson.

8) Shepherd of the Hills: The Shepherd of the Hills complex offers a lot for visitors to see and do. They are home to the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama, the longest running outdoor drama in America. Based on the story written by Harold Bell Wright, Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama features life in the Ozark Mountains in the late 1800’s. This story was one of the first things to make Branson’s Ozark Mountains famous and is still one of the more popular shows in town. The complex is also home to Inspiration Tower and they offer a Homestead Tour.

9) Golf in Branson: Branson is home to outstanding golf courses that offer some of the finest courses in the Midwest, if not the country. Whether you’re a novice or a pro player, there’s a course that’ll fit your needs. A few of the courses to choose from include Pointe Royale Golf course, which is newly renovated, Thousand Hills Golf Course, Branson Creek, Murder Rock Golf Course and LedgeStone Golf Course.

10) Sightseeing: There is a lot to see in Branson. Between the lights of the famous country music boulevard that is Hwy. 76 & the gorgeous Ozark Mountain scenery, you can spend a lot of your time just checking out the sights and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Be sure to make time to soak it all in and enjoy the beauty that is Branson.

Branson Blooms with Entertainment this Spring

From March through May, Ozark Mountain Spring’s full calendar will feature the thrill of NAIA college basketball and one of the nation’s largest air shows; collector car auctions and culinary demonstrations; FLW bass tournaments, as well as the international folk music and cuisines of World-Fest at Silver Dollar City and historic downtown’s Plumb Nellie Days, to name just a few.

New in 2009, The Great American Pie Show, featuring NBC’s Al Roker from the “TODAY” show as a celebrity judge, will be held April 24-25 at the Branson Convention Center. Culinary events are popular nationwide and Taste of Home magazine’s cooking demonstrations will be a part of the festivities that weekend. For more information, visit tasteofhome.com/cooking-schools.

Special events are planned each week during Ozark Mountain Spring, including Legends in Concert and Elvis Presley Enterprises 3rd annual “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest,” the Branson Tri-Lakes Building and Home Show, Kewpiesta at Rose O’Neill’s beloved Bonniebrook and Silver Dollar City’s Bluegrass & BBQ Festival.

Branson Airport, the first privately operated commercial service airport in the United States, will host one of the nation’s largest air shows during its grand opening celebration May 8-10.

• The Baldknobbers Jamboree will celebrate its 50-year anniversary of music and comedy in 2009.

• The Welk Resort Theatre has added Lee Greenwood and the Bellamy Brothers to its fall line-up.

• Andy Williams Moon River Theatre will welcome Righteous Brother Bill Medley, Paul Revere & the Raiders and The Original Comets.

• The Haygoods, Tony Roi, plus Red, Hot & Blue, have moved to the New Americana Theatre. The Haygoods have added a fourth show in 2009 — “Cassandré, The Voice of An Angel,” with a full production show of pop, Broadway and classical songs backed by a 10-piece orchestra.

• RedHead Express has a new show at the Circle B Chuckwagon. The band has just come off a winter tour of the South and the Appalachian Mountains, bringing with them a new producer, new CD and sound.

• #1 Hits of the 60’s Show has moved to the Caravelle Theatre.

• Mary Duff will co-star with Daniel O’Donnell and then perform in her own show for limited dates in May.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Baldknobbers Prepare for Stellar 2009 Season

Family entertainment and fun are an important part of the Branson tradition. The Baldknobbers Jamboree, now celebrating their golden anniversary, started that tradition, in 1959 when the four Mabe brothers began entertaining visitors coming to Branson. The tri-lakes area has been a popular tourist destination since the publishing of the Shepherd of the Hills in 1907. The family legacy continues to wow audiences with a variety of country music and hilarious comedy. The highly successful Baldknobbers Jamboree, owned by The Mabe Family, is the longest continuously running show in Branson, Missouri.

Today’s Baldknobbers Show is a musical powerhouse featuring a talented cast of dynamic singers, musicians, comedians and entertainers as they perform your favorite country classics, hot new country hits, toe tappin’ gospel and lots side-splitting comedy.

The Mabe brothers adopted the name of an Old Ozarks vigilante group that held their meetings on a treeless hilltop or “bald knob." So when they started Branson’s first show, it was just natural to take a regional name.

With 50 years of experience in the Branson tourism industry, the Baldknobbers is the ticket for your next trip to Branson. Guests are entertained from the moment they step foot in to the theater. The Baldknobbers Jamboree is two hours of power packed music and comedy guaranteed to entertain all ages that established the benchmark for what Branson is today, the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World!”

Tim Mabe, comedian and Baldknobbers producer says, “Family comedy has been a central part of the show. My dad and uncles framed good clean comedy around great country music and the formula they started still exists today, not only in our show, but many of the Branson shows. Granted, the costumes are brighter, our cast is bigger and our song selections is more varied, but we still give people coming to Branson what they want to see, hilarious comedy and wonderful music! “

Brent Mabe, second generation Baldknobber and Band Leader says, “My earliest memories go way back. I grew up around the show and that was all I knew. When I was a baby my mom and dad would put me in a guitar case to sleep during the show. There is nothing better than playing great music with my family and friends. We have the best job in the entire world,” said Brent, who started playing the guitar at the young age of 10 and joined the show in 1985.

“Almost every night someone comes through the autograph line at intermission and tells me, that they came with their parents as a kid and now they’re back with their children, I am very proud to be a part of my family’s tradition of great country music and comedy that has lasted for generations!” says, Brandon Mabe.

Known as the “Show That started It All” in Branson, Missouri where celebrating American entertainment is a family tradition. Show times are 8:00 P.M. Monday ~ Saturday. The Baldknobbers Jamboree Show, is located on the famed 76 Country Music Boulevard. Join the Baldknobbers in 2009 as they celebrate their golden anniversary and be part of the legend!

Information courtesy of The Baldknobbers

Branson's Baldknobbers Announce Valentine Weekend Shows

The Baldknobbers have added Valentines weekend to their 2009 show schedule with shows at 8pm on Friday February 13 and Saturday February 14.

“Join the entire cast of the Baldknobbers for an evening of great country music and hilarious comedy this year for Valentines Weekend,” says Tim Mabe, producer and comedian “Droopy Drawers, Jr.”

Tim adds, “Branson is a great place to visit anytime and when you come to Branson, you must see us, Branson’s First Show. With Stub Meadows and Hargus Marcel, we have one of the best comedy teams in Branson and you can’t beat the Baldknobbers for family harmony and entertainment.”

The Baldknobbers Jamboree Show, Branson’s First Show, is located on the famed 76 Country Music Boulevard. Join the Baldknobbers in 2009 as they celebrate their golden anniversary and be part of the legend!

Information courtesy of The Baldknobbers

Branson Shows Ready to Shine in 2009

Legends in Concert has announced it has signed a multi-year agreement with GEP Inc., owner of Dick Clark American Bandstand Theater, to become its headline show in 2009.

“Legends has enjoyed tremendous success in the Branson market since 1996,” said Jeannie Horton, general manager for Legends in Concert. “This new theater will allow the introduction of many exciting enhancements to our production. We look forward to an even brighter future as our show moves to this fabulous new entertainment facility, a true state-of-the-art venue.”

The Dick Clark American Bandstand Theater boasts more than 900 seats.

Legends will perform two shows daily, at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. except Wednesdays.

At the Andy Williams’ Moon River Theatre, Bill Medley, Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame inductee and founding member of the Righteous Brothers, will appear in concert with rockers, Paul Revere and the Raiders.

The shows are scheduled for selected dates from April through October 2009.

Andy Williams said, “I have always been a fan of these guys and now I get to see them every day at my theater. This is a great thing for Branson.”

Medley, along with longtime Righteous Brothers partner Bobby Hatfield, created “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling,” a song which has been touted as the most-played tune in radio history.

Other chart-toppers include “(You’re My) Soul and Inspiration,” “Rock and Roll Heaven,” “Ebb Tide” and “Unchained Melody.”

Teaming with Jennifer Warnes, Medley recorded the mega-hit “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.”

Medley said, “We love Branson so much that we’ve bought homes here. The fans are great. And how could it get any better than appearing at Andy Williams’ Moon River Theatre. It’s going to be a fun 2009.”

Often cited as the comedy princes of rock n’ roll, Paul Revere and the Raiders, are best known for their smash hits “Kicks,” “Hungry,” “Good Thing” and their blockbuster “Indian Reservation.”

Fans around the world have dubbed them as one of their favorite live, onstage performance groups.

Bill Haley’s Original Comets have been rocking the world since the early 1950s when they produced never-to-be-forgotten hits such as “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” “Rock Around the Clock,” and “See You Later Alligator.”

Here is a current listing of 2009 shows and attractions and opening dates according to the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Web site.

•50’s at the Hop opens Jan. 1.

•’57 Heaven Car Museum opens Jan. 1.

•Acrobats of China opens March 12.

•Amazing Pets opens Jan. 1.

•Andy Williams’ Moon River Theatre opens April 21.

•Baldknobbers opens Feb. 13.

•Bill Haley’s Original Comets opens April 21.

•Branson Landing Cruises Lake Princess opens Jan. 16.

•Branson Landing Lake Queen Sightseeing opens March 13.

•Branson Scenic Railway opens March 9.

•Buck Trent opens Jan. 4.

•Butterfly Palace opens Jan. 1.

•Cassandre’ Voice of an Angel opens March 16.

•Circle B Chuckwagon opens March 5.

•Clay Cooper Music Express opens March 7.

•Comedy Jamboree opens Jan. 1.

•Crossties Bluegrass and Gospel opens Feb. 3.

•Dinosaur Museum opens Jan. 1.

•Dixie Stampede opens March 4.

•Friday Late Night Country USA opens Jan. 30.

•Grand Jubilee opens Jan. 12.

•Hamner Barber Variety Show opens Feb. 12.

•Haunted House opens Jan. 1.

•Haygoods opens March 3.

•Hollywood Wax Museum opens Jan. 1.

•Hughes Brothers opens Feb. 4.

•Imax Entertainment Complex opens Jan. 1.

•Jim Stafford opens Feb. 5.

•Keith Red Allen opens March 17.

•Kirby Van Burch opens March 13.

•Legends in Concert opens Feb. 12.

•Liverpool Legends opens March 10.

•Lomascola’s Million Dollar Piano Show opens March 10.

•Magnificent 7 opens March 9.

•Moe Bandy opens March 19.

•News Country opens Jan. 22.

•Noah! The Musical opens March 20.

•Ozark Mountain Jubilee opens Feb. 15.

•Paul Harris opens March 5.

•Pierce Arrow opens Jan. 1.

•Presley’s Country Jubilee opens March 13.

•Redhead Express opens March 5.

•Red Hot & Blue! opens March 15.

•Ride The Ducks opens March 7.

•Righteous’ Brothers Bill Medley & Paul Revere and the Raiders opens April 21.

•Ripley’s Believe It or Not opens Jan. 1.

•Roy Rogers Jr. Show opens Feb. 26.

•Roy Rogers Museum opens Jan. 8.

•Showboat Branson Belle opens March 20.

•SIX Show opens Feb. 3.

•Strait Country opens Feb. 3.

•Sunday Gospel Jubilee opens Feb. 8.

•Titanic Museum opens Jan. 1.

•Tony Roi’s Elvis Experience opens March 5.

•Veterans Memorial Museum opens Jan. 1.

•World’s Largest Toy Museum opens Jan. 1.



Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Branson Ranked as Top Place to Visit

Add another accolade to the list of many for Branson.

In its second annual report, San Diego-based Eventful Inc., a leading online source for local events across the country, has recognized the “entertainment capital of the world” as a top place to visit in the United States.

Branson took second place in the music category, beating out Los Angeles and Chicago. New York was ranked No. 1.

“It is quite an honor to be recognized,” said Lynn Berry, director of public relations for the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. “For us to be ranked by Eventful shows that we have put our very best effort forward to make Branson a popular destination.”

Eventful analyzes U.S. cities with populations exceeding 100,000, as well as cities with smaller populations.

Berry said travelers do a lot of research before choosing a destination and rankings available on the Internet make it easier to make decisions.

“Everyone likes to check out a top 10 list before they go to a destination. It gives them an idea of what to expect,” she said.

Branson’s No. 2 ranking by Eventful was great news for Marketing Director Dave Ledford at Andy Williams Moon River Theatre.

“Anytime Branson can be recognized, it’s great for our community,” he said. “People are always looking for a place that offers great entertainment and lodging and Branson is just the place for it.”

Hollye Gurley, general manager of the Baldknobbers Theatre, said that more than ever, Branson is making a name for itself.

“Branson does some pretty impressive events like Veterans Homecoming and Festival of Lights. With our 50th anniversary coming up, we are proud to be a part of the exciting things that go on here,” she said.

Eventful has many categories, including most eventful cities, small but eventful cities, top cities for music lovers and even top cities for pet lovers.

According to Eventful, its community of users enjoy the world’s largest selection of local events taking place in markets across the globe, from concerts and sports to singles events and political rallies.

Eventful provides multi-platform services to its users via eventful.com, e-mail programs, mobile applications and content distributed through widgets and apps.

Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Celebrate Christmas with Branson's Baldknobbers Jamboree Show

Celebrate Christmas with Branson's First Family - The Baldknobbers! "Deck the Halls" with the side-splitting comedy of Stub Meadows and Hargus Marcel for Branson's funniest Christmas show. Add sidekick Droopy Drawers, Jr. and you have the ticket for great Yule tide fun.

During the first half, see the best of this year's show featuring great country classics and hot, new country hits performed by one of Branson's favorite casts.

Then after intermission, the curtain goes up on a real family Christmas special.

"We work extremely hard to make this a family Christmas event from the Baldknobbers family to yours," said Tim Mabe, producer and comedian Droopy Drawers, Jr.

Tim goes on to say, "Our song selection ranges from traditional Christmas carols to the fun songs of the season, so that there is something for everyone. Then, when you add the comedy of Stub Meadows and Hargus Marcel, we have a great holiday show for the entire family!"

Show time is 8:00 PM Monday - Saturday beginning November 1, 2008 and running through December 13, 2008. Don't miss the show that started it all in Branson, and as the Baldknobbers say, "Ya'll come see us!"

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas Begins November 1st

The Live Music Show Capital of the World - Branson - kicks off Ozark Mountain Christmas on Nov. 1 with star-filled Christmas music shows and a Holiday Promenade of Stars parade at Branson Landing.

Branson's star entertainers and holiday production numbers are ready to dazzle visitors and their families in November and December. From "Mr. Christmas" Andy Williams to Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters at the Welk Resort, a multitude of shows deck the halls and showcase Branson's Christmas spirit.

"Christmastime in Branson reminds me of Christmas when I was a boy. There's an excitement about Christmas in Branson with the shows, Silver Dollar City and all the other attractions. The atmosphere in Branson around Christmas always seems that much more welcoming and warm," said Williams, whose trademark Christmas sweaters add to the holiday cheer.

Familiar carols fill the air at family shows like the Presleys, Baldknobbers, and Hughes Brothers and peals of laughter roll down the aisles at Jim Stafford, Hamner-Barber and Yakov Smirnoff's shows. From the Oak Ridge Boys' Christmas show, to Broadway's Spirit of Christmas with The Osmonds, Branson wraps up its musical packages with one-of-a-kind festive family fun. And, for the kid in everyone, there's a "magical" Christmas show as well, at world-famous Kirby VanBurch's Christmas Spectacular.

Silver Dollar City's An Old Time Christmas (Nov. 1 - Dec. 30), one of America's most acclaimed Christmas celebrations, is kicking off its brightest season to date with new shows and activities, plus more lights than ever presented throughout the streets of the 1880's-style theme park. Newly enhanced lighting, through the addition of thousands of energy saving lights and all-new wrapping of 40-foot-tall trees, the spectacular Christmas on Main Street, with its showcase five-story special effects Christmas tree and all-immersive light and sound show, is even more spectacular. Also new this year, Silver Dollar City presents Frosty, an interactive musical, and the Culinary & Craft School that will premier this holiday season. Returning favorites include the Holiday Light Parade with colorful musical floats and the acclaimed production A Dickens' Christmas Carol. And for nighttime thrills, the roller coasters are open after dark with great views of the park's four million lights.

On the first Sunday in December, thousands of people gather in downtown Branson to watch a Christmas parade dedicated to "the true meaning of the season." This year marks the 60th Adoration Parade, an evening event with dozens of high school bands and lighted floats. The theme has always been "Keeping Christ in Christmas."

The Showboat Branson Belle is bedecked in all its Christmas finery and charts a course for holiday food and fun on Table Rock Lake though December. Also, the World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction will be decorated with thousands of merry lights and holiday trim that recall those elegant Christmases past.

Holiday shoppers will discover Branson's newest "Winter Wonder Landing" at the Branson Landing waterfront. The Landing features a promenade of trendy specialty shopping and dining establishments, the brilliant water and fire spectacular that dances to the sounds of the season in the Town Square and Santa Claus, who has even been known to vacation in Branson himself.

Three name-brand outlet malls, boutique shops at the Grand Village, Ozarks craftsmen at Branson Mills and Engler Block and shops throughout Branson are decked out in lights with holiday decorations that beckon Yuletide visitors.

Christmas traditions in the Branson/Lakes Area include a Christmas light display at the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Rd., the Christmas on the Trail show and Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead and the animated lighting displays of the 1-mile Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through.

For rest and relaxation following a fun holiday entertainment and shopping outing, a host of Branson lodging options and special offers are available from a cozy cabin at one of the lakeside resorts to luxurious hotel rooms and condos throughout the area.

Branson has more than 100 live shows, theme parks, pristine lakes, golf courses, family attractions, shopping and other features that are fun for everyone!

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Branson's Baldknobbers Turns 50!

Branson's entertainment industry turns 50! And 2009 also marks the 50th anniversary of Branson's first show, The Baldknobbers.

In 1959, when the Mabe brothers started entertaining visitors to the lakes in downtown Branson, they did not know they would start a tradition that would later become the "Live Music Capital of the World."

Calling themselves the Baldknobbers, brothers Jim, Bill, Lyle, and Bob Mabe decided the fisherman needed something to do in the evenings. Using the great American entrepreneurial spirit, they donned hillbilly costumes and used homemade instruments to play country and hillbilly music. Those instruments included a washtub bass, washboard for rhythm, dobro or flat top guitar, acoustic guitar and the jawbone of a mule in lieu of drums. Although the instruments have changed, the focus on family entertainment has not.

Today's Baldknobbers feature the children and grandchildren of the original brothers plus a dynamic cast of singers, musicians, and comedians who continue to showcase a variety of country music. Guests enjoy great country classics, hot new country hits and some of the funniest comedians anywhere.

"I believe our best quality is that we entertain everyone from the age of 2 to 92," said Tim Mabe, producer and comedian Droopy Drawers Jr. "Our 2009 show is going to be fantastic! We have been working on this show for over a year. Each year we feature new songs, new costumes, and lots of new comedy. For our golden anniversary we will touch your heart and leave audiences thoroughly entertained."

"In addition to a fantastic show, we will have events all year long to mark this milestone in Branson's entertainment history," Mabe said. "We will update our website each time we add a new event."

Join the Mabe family and the entire cast of the Baldknobbers for the year-long 50th Anniversary celebration in 2009. The Baldknobbers Jamboree Show-"The Show That Started It All"-is located on the famed 76 Country Music Boulevard in Branson, Missouri, with performances Monday through Saturday at 8 PM.

Information courtesy of The Baldknobbers

Branson, Missouri is the Place to Be for Summer Fun

The summer season is in full swing in Branson, Missouri, evident by the full line-up of entertainment, activities and perfect Branson summer weather. During the tough economic times many families are facing, Branson is reaching out to let visitors know they are not only visitor friendly but budget friendly as well. The great thing about Branson is there are a lot of sights to see and outdoor fun to pursue that is completely free! Now, there’s one word that’s music to everyone’s ears. Branson is also being proactive about helping visitors save money by offering stimulus check incentives, gas buster cards and other discounts throughout the area.

With the discounts available for visitors to Branson, guests can concentrate on the activities available in town and plan a great getaway trip. As always, Branson’s Silver Dollar City is a hot spot for families. This year, going to Silver Dollar City is even easier with the money-saving Silver Dollar City packages available. Plus, you can also get two days for the price of one at Silver Dollar City on ReserveBranson.com.

There are plenty of other exciting things happening in Branson this summer, including a variety of entertaining shows featuring everything from country music to rock ‘n roll. Branson, Missouri show schedules are filled with a multitude of performers and show times so it’s possible to see up to 3 shows a day if you’d like. Branson shows like Shoji Tabuchi, Dixie Stampede, Baldknobbers, Andy Williams, Showboat Branson Belle and Noah – The Musical sell out quickly, so making advanced reservations are recommended.

Attractions in Branson also provide a great way to pass those summer days. Many families venture to Celebration City after spending time at Silver Dollar City. Celebration City is the place to be after dark. The carnival-like atmosphere, coupled with rides, delicious food and an end-of-the-night fireworks show is a definite family pleaser. Ride the Ducks, a land and water cruise, is another Branson tradition popular with visitors. And, The Track is always a visitor favorite. With an unlimited Track Go-Card, the amount of fun you have is up to you!

When you travel to Branson, Missouri you’ll be happy to find a variety of lodging options available. There are discount Branson hotels, pet friendly Branson hotels and hotels in Branson with Internet Access, which means every option you might be searching for is here.

This summer, treat yourself to a vacation...Branson style!

Country Music Capital Branson Turning into Top Golf Destination

A case could be made that Branson is sort of the mini-Las Vegas of the Midwest, just add corn bread and take away the casinos.

The little town south of Springfield, high in the Ozarks, has exploded in the last couple of decades into the gangly epicenter of live country music, country kitsch and country money.

It all started with a cave, believe it or not - they have Ripley's here, too by the way.

About 100 years ago, people came to see Marble Cave, which is actually limestone. Then they made a movie about the area from the best-selling book, "The Shepherd of the Hills," starring John Wayne, and people started flocking in.

A couple of brothers calling themselves the Baldknobbers began putting on shows, showcasing both country and western music - in case you're wondering, there is a big difference between the two. Slowly, musical acts began trickling in until they reached a flood, and in 1991, "60 Minutes" did a story on the town.

Then things really took off.

They're still going strong, and have only felt the country's economic woes mildly; the value of new construction in 2006 in Branson topped $200 million, breaking all previous records. People may be feeling the money pinch, but you can't keep them away from the Presley Country Jubilee.

And it ain't all country. You want to see Andy Williams, Tony Orlando, Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Osmonds, Twelve Irish Tenors and Yakov Smirnoff, you come to Branson.

Or how about a Red Skelton impersonator? Come to Branson.

When a place gets this big, it often starts thinking about becoming a golf destination, because, let's face it, golfers spend a lot of money.

That's where Branson is at. They have about a dozen courses in the area now, and some of them are excellent.

"We're just starting to get to the point where we can call ourselves a golf destination," said Cliff Easum, the head pro at the Thousand Hills resort.

The area will get a huge boost when the Payne Stewart Golf Course opens some time in the fall.

Must-play Branson golf courses

• Branson Creek Golf Club isn't just the class of the Branson area, it's the class of Missouri, according to many golf publications.

The golf course plays up and down the hills of the high plateau that takes up most of southern Missouri. Those holes that play along the high, rocky ridges give off grand, misty views, and the holes that plunge down to the valleys are perhaps even more scenic, with purple-flowered hills rising gracefully above the fairways.

It is a dazzling layout in this part of the postcard-ready Ozarks, and its scenic beauty is matched only by the artistry of the Tom Fazio design.

"I've played all the nice courses in Missouri, and there aren't any that compare to this," said Easum.

You won't find many public, daily fee golf courses of this caliber. One beautiful hole flows from the next, and although there seems to be a plethora of dogleg lefts, every hole brings a separate adventure.

The scenery is everything you'd expect from a mountain course high in the Ozarks: Lakes, ponds, little mountain streams and rugged rock outcroppings to go along with the purple redbuds, white dogwood, and pine and cedar trees.

The green fees here are substantially cheaper than they would be for a golf course of this standing in certain other parts of the country.

• LedgeStone Championship Golf Course unfolds inside the ritzy Stonebridge Village, just outside Branson. The Ozarks aren't a mountain range in the typical sense, but LedgeStone is, for all intents and purposes, a mountain golf course with sweeping, distant views and steep, rocky hills rising above the fairways.

It is an excellent course, consistently ranked among the best in the state by golf magazines. The course was designed by Thomas Clark, who's done such courses as the TPC at Avenel in Maryland and Blue Ridge Shadows and the Woods Course at Kingsmill Resort, both in Virginia.

At LedgeStone, Clark let the surroundings showcase the course; it climbs up and down the steep terrain, with some serious elevation changes. LedgeStone is indeed a dramatic layout, 6,800 yards from the tips with a slope rating of 133, but it is also playable, especially if you don't get too bull-headed and play on the conservative side - at least on your first few trips around.

Golf Digest has described it as a "masterpiece of mountain golf architecture."

• John Daly's Murder Rock Golf and Country Club is 6,600 yards from the back tees. The next set of tees goes down to less than 6,200 yards, one of the few drawbacks to this lofty layout, high in the Ozarks and south of the live, country music capital of Branson.

In fact - gulp - it's been called "lady friendly" by Murder Rock officials, and we're not talking about Hooters girls. The course has few forced carries, and many of the greens are open in front, qualities many women enjoy.

"Obviously, it's not a long golf course," Assistant Golf Professional Mike Meade said. "But, it can be demanding as far as accuracy. The back nine, it can get breezy, and it's all about hitting the right spot on the green."

It gets breezy because Murder Rock occupies the highest place in Taney County, 300 feet above the neighboring Branson Creek, which itself is considered a mountain golf course. The view from the big window at Murder Rock's clubhouse bar is spectacular.

"I guarantee you this is the longest 6,600-yard golf course you'll ever play when the wind blows," Meade said.

The greens are excellent. They're Crenshaw bentgrass and have a very lush look and feel. Though slower and smaller than Branson Creek, the greens at Murder Rock have enough slope and undulation, but not too much, to make putting on them a pleasure.

Branson golf: Solid seconds

• Thousand Hills Golf Resort is a Bob Cupp design with fairways that dip, swoop and twist, falling off to rocky creeks and canyons. It has excellent elevation changes, despite being in the heart of the Branson strip.

The only factor holding this course back is its lack of length; it measures only 5,111 yards from the back tees with a par of 64. That includes nine par 3s. Thousand Hills is a good course to test your short game with all the par 3s.

• Holiday Hills Resort & Golf Club suffers from a myriad of problems. The fairways are too close together for one thing, and the course isn't in particularly good shape. It's a short course - none of the four tees measures over 6,000 yards with the longest being 5,625 with a slope rating of 115. It has a par of 68.

All that being said, the course does have its charms because it is busy; it's one of the locals' favorites. It does have history on its side. It is the oldest golf course in Branson - Charlton Heston used to play here. Also, there are some interesting green complexes and some of the mounding around the greens is imaginative, and the fairway mounding does what it can to keep wayward balls in the proper fairways.

Information & Image courtesy of Travel Golf

July Events in Branson

July Events in Branson

Laura Ingalls Wilder: Across the Prairie Museum Exhibit
June 3, 2008 - August 30, 2008
Location: American Presidents Museum is located in the Old Majestic Steakhouse Bldg at 2849 Gretna
Created by the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum, this panel exhibit will be combined with Pioneer Life, an exhibit and activity program taking visitors through a day in the life of a pioneer.
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National Kids Fest
June 7, 2008 - August 10, 2008
Times: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Location: Silver Dollar City
Kids' Fest presents an all-new show: The Magic of Peter Gossamer, Circus of the Century on Ice, a circus-themed show with a cool twist for summer - playful animals and clowns on ice. Also a Kid Concoctions creativity center where kids can make their own Gooey Gunk or Splongee Balls, or learn to make a volcano, from the acclaimed Kid Concoctions books and television show.
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Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
July 2, 2008
Times: 7:00 pm
Location: Legends in Concert Theater
Admission: $20 for preferred seating and $15 for general admission seating
Judges will look for the “best representation of the Elvis legacy” in talent, appearance, performance, stage presence, and overall tribute to Elvis in naming the "2008 Elvis Tribute Artist of the Year."
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Branson Landing's 1st Annual Liberty Light Up
July 3, 2008
Location: Branson Landing
Activities all day, with a concert by Bucky & the Boys at 7:30 p.m. followed by fireworks at dark.
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Summer Sale at Factory Merchants Branson
July 3, 2008 - July 7, 2008
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Phone: (417) 335-4041
Join us for wonderful savings at the 4th of July summer sale! Stock up on savings at the annual sidewalk sale, just look for the red roofs.
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11th Annual I LOVE AMERICA Celebration
July 4, 2008
Times: Gates open at 11:00
Location: 65 & Division
Sponsored by James River Assembly
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Annual Fourth of July Celebration
July 4, 2008
Location: Rockaway Beach
Phone: 800-798-0178
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Big Cedar Lodge Fireworks Display
July 4, 2008
Times: Begins at Dark
Location: Big Cedar Lodge
Phone: (417) 335-2777
Admission: Free
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Fireburst Fourth of July Fireworks Show
July 4, 2008
Location: Kimberling City, MO
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Fireworks Display & BBQ
July 4, 2008
Times: BBQ begins at 4:00 p.m.
Location: Flat Creek Resort, Cape Fair
Phone: (417) 538-2222
Join us for food and fun!
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Hollister's 55th Annual 4th of July Celebration
July 4, 2008
Times: Fireworks begin at dark
Location: Old Hollister Elementary School
Longest running fireworks display in Taney County.
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Shell Knob 33rd Annual Fire & Thunder Fireworks
July 4, 2008
Location: Shell Knob
Phone: (417) 858-3300
Sponsored by Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce. (In case of rain, will be rescheduled for July 5th)
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Spirit of 76
July 4, 2008
Times: 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Location: 4 area Branson parks, Alexander, Cantwell, Murphy, and Stockstill
Phone: (417) 337-8387
Show your patriotism on Independence Day by wearing Red, White and Blue and join us. Get Free Ice cream and a free flag! For more information contact Steve Weyher.
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AREA '57 CRUISE IN & Drive-In Movie Night
July 5, 2008
Location: Dick Clark's
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Chateau on the Lake Fireworks Display
July 5, 2008
Times: Begins at Dark
Location: Chateau on the Lake
Fireburst Flotilla on Table Rock Lake
July 5, 2008 Add to Itinerary
Location: Pt. 6 Cow Creek to KC Bridge
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Ozarks Fun Run F-100 Truck Show
July 11, 2008 - July 13, 2008
http://www.dickclarksabbranson.com/area57/
Location: Dick Clark's
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American Kids Inc. National Finals
July 14, 2008 - July 18, 2008 Add to Itinerary
Location: The Baldknobbers Theater
Phone: 417-337-8964
The nation's only little league of entertainers hosts its membership competition & grand finale event. Grand prize of $1,000 in cash to be awarded to a top finalist in addition to age & category prizes.
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National Day of Atomic Remembrance
July 16, 2008
Times: 11:30 a.m.
Location: God and Country Inspiration Garden
Phone: (417) 337-8387
The 62nd anniversary of the first atomic explosion and all veterans who were exposed to radiation in the line of military duty will be recognized during the National Atomic Veterans Day of Remembrance Observance. Navy Retired Lieutenant David Combs will present a special message during the observance. President George W. Bush declared July 16th as a National day for all military groups and veterans associated with the nuclear programs. For more information contact Dawn Easton.
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AREA '57 CRUISE IN & Drive-In Movie Night
July 19, 2008
Location: Dick Clark's
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Gateway Chevy HHR
July 25, 2008 - July 27, 2008
Location: Dick Clark's
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2008 HHRitage Nationals Benefit Show & Shine!
July 26, 2008
Times: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Dick Clark’s Area 57
Phone: (417) 332-1960
Admission: FREE
Enjoy an afternoon of fun at Dick Clark’s Area 57. Chevy HHR car owners will compete in variety of show categories from stock to wild custom. This will be a great time for all car enthusiasts. (Proceeds benefit the Children’s Miracle Network)
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Korean War Armistice Day
July 26, 2008
Times: 10 a.m.
Location: Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery
Phone: (417) 337-8387, (417) 546-3150
The Harry S. Truman Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association will host a memorial ceremony marking the end of "The Forgotten War," remembering veterans who returned and those who did not. For more information contact Sean Murray.
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Living Green & Loving It! Summit & Expo 2008
July 26, 2008
Times: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location: Tri-Lakes Center
Phone: 417-739-2185
Admission: $8.00 Adults / $6.00 Local Residents & 12 & Under Free.
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Muscle Car Show
July 26, 2008
Location: Dick Clark's
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Crown Victoria Association National Convention
July 27, 2008 - August 2, 2008
Location: Branson Hilton Convention Center
Phone: (620) 256-6630
For more information please contact J. Scott Love, Treasurer.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Branson, Missouri Goes Upscale

Nearly everyone who's a regular visitor has an I-remember-Branson-when story. Here is Bob Allen's version: "When I first came down here, the only things in Branson were the Presleys, Silver Dollar City and bait shops."

Branson started as an Ozark fishing hole, with the Presley family setting up a metal building on Highway 76 in 1967 to provide wholesome entertainment for the sportsmen who used the man-made lakes. That simple start multiplied into some 50 theaters, earning Branson the title of America's live music capital. The evolution is continuing today, and Allen is a part of it.

Allen grew up in Springfield, Mo., where he was friends with Payne Stewart, the pro golfer who died in a plane accident in 1999 at the age of 42. Now, Allen is the club pro for Branson Hills Golf Co., which is putting the finishing touches on the Payne Stewart Golf Club, a tribute to his friend.

"Each hole of the course tells a story about Payne's experience on the tour," Allen said. "The golf course is $27 million, with five sets of tees from 7,400 yards. We can host national events, everything from Tiger to little tigers."

He led the way through the clubhouse, which has dark wood paneling, an outdoor pool and an area that will display memorabilia, including trophies won by Stewart and pairs of his signature gold-toe golf shoes. Everything in the clubhouse will be linen, crystal and silver — "no paper plates and Styrofoam cups," Allen said. "It's all going to be tip-top, Payne would be proud."

The public golf course will be the 12th in the Branson area — joining John Daly's Murder Rock as the latest additions — and cements Branson's role as a golf destination.

Add the upscale shopping at the new Branson Landing, the growing retirement and second-home community, and the recently opened convention center and second Hilton Hotel, and it's easy to see why Branson's backers say it has turned the corner in attracting the boomers needed to fill the vacancies left by fading World War II-era veterans and their spouses.

While the housing industry in other parts of the United States is ailing, Branson's market is holding its own during the national slowdown, said C. Craig Richards, president of Ozark Mountain Bank. "There's a lot of interest from people outside the area who see real estate in Branson as a good buy," Richards said. "The cost of construction is lower, as is the cost of land. People from California or Florida can sell their home there and buy three or four times the home for the money in Branson. We've got a good school system, good health service. That attracts people who are retirees but also families who want to get away from the big city. There's a strong feeling of family values in the area, probably tied to strong Christian beliefs."

The only downside, for Richards, is increased competition. "We've had five new banks in the last 10 years," he said. "They see the same numbers we do as far as commercial development and new home sales. In 1998, there were two homes that sold for over $350,000. Last year, there were more than 30."

And don't forget the new full-size airport scheduled to open next spring, said Dan Lennon, vice president of the Chamber of Commerce. "As soon as you get outside an eight-hour drive to Branson, some people perceive it's difficult to give up a day to get here," Lennon said. "With the new airport, it starts to be more practical for people to fly in. With those further out markets, Branson becomes a weekend getaway."

Branson's annual visitation grew 5.2 percent to 8.39 million last year, Lennon said. Over the last two years, total growth was 14 percent while the rest of the national tourism market was seeing 2 percent annual increases. How those numbers will shake out this year, in the face of high fuel prices and a sluggish economy, was an unknown, he added. Lennon emphasized that the culture that Branson was known for is alive and well. You can still find cornpone humor at the Presleys and Baldknobbers shows, motels still offer "2 for $32.95" in the off-season, go-kart tracks and water slides still line Highway 76, and traffic this summer will crawl as the commercial strip fills with gawkers.

But now you can shop for fancy undies at the Victoria's Secret at Branson Landing, or try out a new boat at the Bass Pro Shop dock on Lake Taneycomo. "The thing that brought the people in the 60s and 70s — the Ozark Mountain experience — that still happens, we've just added these higher amenities," he said. "Fifteen years ago, you'd have the Lawrence Welks. With the boomers, you have Dick Clark, the Acrobats of China, the Liverpool Legends."

The best known side of the town, the live music shows, also has a new player this season. The $65 million Sight and Sound Theater Branson will open May 24 with a stage area of 26,550 square feet, the equivalent of more that five basketball courts. The stage, largest in North America, is 300 feet long and wraps around three sides of the 2,085 seats, giving the audience the feeling of being inside an ark, with all the animals, for a production of "Noah — The Musical."

Sight & Sound Theatres is the nation's largest professional Christian theater company. Its headquarters theater in Lancaster County, Pa., is one of the most-attended live theaters on the East Coast with an annual audience of more than 800,000. Founded in 1976 by Glenn and Shirley Eshelman, the company produces epic biblical stories. Some 100 live animals, 200 "animatronic" animals and 45 human actors will be used in Branson to tell the story of the journey of Noah and his family.

"It's sometimes called Christian Broadway in Pennsylvania," said Joan Chowning, who ushered me into the theater where trainers were working with the live animals. "The employees all profess to be Christians. But we welcome the unchurched, as well as the churched, at our theaters."

Admission for both is $49 an adult, $25 for a teen and $15 for children.

As Allen, the golf pro, mentioned, Silver Dollar City has been around since the beginning. But it also continues to evolve, from a re-created Ozark mining town built above Marvel Cave and featuring arts and crafts, to a quality theme park in a landscaped setting with rides and a full schedule of live entertainment.

The biggest new attraction this season is at Silver Dollar City's sister park, Celebration City, where Roaring Falls, a $2 million water adventure, makes its debut this spring. General manager John Fitzgibbons gave a blow-by-blow description of the new ride: "Twenty passengers go up five stories in a boat, which falls in a 55-degree drop, ending with a splash that gets everybody in the boat, and everybody on the land nearby, wet. It has an Amazon theme, with crocodiles and hippos and fossilized rocks. There'll be fog and a mister going, and Amazon noises."

Celebration City, which is entering its sixth season, now has some 30 rides and attractions, including three roller coasters and a Ferris wheel. The park closes each evening with "Ignite the Night," which uses three projectors to display images on a water curtain, along with lasers and fireworks and music.

"We have a 50-foot Elvis walking on water and singing," Fitzgibbons said. "There's a dance party on the Great Lawn. We get kids, parents and grandparents up and dancing."

Silver Dollar City, which is a short ride away from Celebration City, also has a full schedule of events with World-Fest, April 3-May 4; Bluegrass & BBQ, May 10-June 1; National Kids Fest, June 7-Aug. 10; Southern Gospel Picnic, Aug. 28-Sept. 7; National Harvest Festival, Sept. 11-Oct. 25; and An Old Time Christmas, Nov. 1-Dec. 30.

Lisa Rau, spokeswoman for Silver Dollar City, said the park uses continuing feedback from customers to update attractions and facilities. "The bottom line is: We are not the boss, the guests are the boss and mostly Mom," Rauh said. "Roaring Falls is exactly what they wanted. A big, get wet, whole family, thrill ride."

Information courtesy of St. Louis Post-Dispatch

April Events in Branson

April 2008 Calendar of Events

C-SPAN American Presidents Museum Exhibit

March 3, 2008 - April 30, 2008

Location: The American Presidents Museum

Created by the C-SPAN Cable News Network and the White House Historical Society, this a one-of-it's kind exhibit on the history of the American Presidency. Only in Missouri twice before, at the 2000 and 2004 Presidential Debates in St. Louis.

"Resin Sculpture & Installation" by artist Neil Ward

April 2, 2008 - April 23, 2008

Location: College of the Ozarks, Boger Gallery

Phone: (417) 334-6411

Ward's work incorporates molded forms made from resin and materials suspended in resin.

WORLD-FEST at Silver Dollar City

April 3, 2008 - May 4, 2008

Times: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays. Open Wednesdays - Fridays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Location: Silver Dollar City

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Ireland with Ireland's Feet of Fire! This elaborate All-NEW Stage Show features live Irish music, champion step dancers and symbolic fire dancing. See this talented ensemble of Celtic Isles performers as they share their country's traditions and folklore on the world's stage.

BransonFest

April 8, 2008 - April 12, 2008

Location: Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater

New location for 2008 at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater!

At the daily "Big Shows" inside, you can sample some of Branson's best shows each day. If you attend all the Big Shows, you'll sample at least 50, yes, 50 shows! No wonder this festival has been named a "Top 100" Event in North America by the American Bus Association since 2004! The five-day event kicks off on Tuesday, April 8th. Activities begin at Noon on the grounds and the first "Big Show" is in the American Bandstand Theatre at 7 pm. Wednesday through Friday, the outdoor activities begin at 9 a.m. and the daily "Big Shows" are at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. On Saturday, the final Big Show is at 2 p.m. Individual show tickets and packages are available.

Titanic Kick-Off/Third Season

April 10, 2008

Location: The World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction

Major celebration -- in honor of ther 1912 April 10 maiden voyage.2nd annual Ham Radio Operators to broadcast from Titanic all over the world including Belfast, Newfoundland and Southampton England. Honorary guests to visit from Belfast, Ireland. Titanic honors James Cameron's Titanic movie, 10th anniversary of its release -- See for the first time Kate Winslow "Rose" dresses from the movie and the "Heart of the Ocean" necklace.

Persian Gulf War Cease Fire

April 11, 2008

Phone: (417) 337-8387

Admission: Show tickets will be half price only on April 11, 2007 for soldiers who served during that time. This day commemorates the Official Cease Fire in 1991 of the Persian Gulf War and will be dedicated to the soldiers who served in Iraq during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Ceremonies and recognition of soldiers will be held at Branson Fest and the Welk Theater. All soldiers from Desert Shield and Desert Storm need to go by the Branson Veterans Task Force Booth at Branson Fest to get information and leave their name. For more information contact Steve Weyher.

3rd Annual Titanic Princess Tea Party

April 12, 2008

Times: Noon to 5p.m.

Location: The World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction

Admission: $13.50 per child, 17.00 per adult

This event sells out at least two months ahead. We have room for 500 young ladies.

AREA '57 CRUISE IN & Drive-In Movie Night

April 18, 2008 - April 20, 2008

Phone: (417) 332-1960, (877) 588-1957

Branson Collector Car Auction

April 18, 2008 - April 19, 2008

Location: Branson Convention Center

Phone: 800-335-3063

Springtastic Show Spree

April 21, 2008 - April 27, 2008

Admission: Available on-line only.

Fans can see ten of their favorite shows in Branson during the Springtastic Show Spree week. Shows include productions such as Jim Stafford, Yakov, Mickey Gilley, Twelve Irish Tenors, Legends in Concert, Baldknobbers Jamboree, New Shanghai Circus, The Hughes Brothers, Broadway!, The Haygoods, Country Tonite, Magnificent 7 Variety Show, The Dutton's and many more.

Kewpiesta

April 23, 2008 - April 27, 2008

Location: Bonniebrook Park

Phone: 417-561-1509

Kewpiesta is a celebration of Rose O'Neill's famous Kewpie dolls. While enjoying the Kewpie's take a tour of Rose's home Bonniebrook.

Branson Landing's Spring Fashion Show

April 26, 2008

Times: 1 pm

Location: Town Square, in front of the Landing Fountains

Please join us for the Branson Landing Spring Fashion Show. You won't want to miss these exciting spring fashions on display during the Fashion Show from more than 10 Branson Landing Merchants. Each participating retailer will also supply an item from their shop to be raffled off in support of The Hiding Place and our local Crisis Center. With your donation, you will receive a ticket and the chance to take home a new spring fashion of your own. Everyone is a winner in this raffle - because not only will your ticket help in the support of two local charities, but it will also earn you a wonderful discount towards your purchase at the participating shops that day.Be sure to check back for more information and updates on this exciting new event.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Shows in Branson are Open for Visitors

The winter season may still be upon us, but in Branson they’re ready to heat things up with some sizzling shows. The Branson show season is gearing up to kick off another season, with many shows already in production. The Branson Show Schedule is already looking full as everything from country shows to magic shows begin another exciting season.

If you’re looking to visit Branson, Missouri in the next couple of weeks, you’ll be glad to hear of all the spectacular shows currently being performed.

Country Shows

The fabulous Dixie Stampede begins their new season on February 29th. This season’s show has a new addition, Texas Longhorns, which are sure to bring a whole new level of excitement to the show.

Branson’s famous Baldknobbers bring their brand of family fun, comedy and music to the stage for another great season of Family Tradition. Their show season begins March 7th.

Grand Jubilee is an infectious show featuring a talented quartet performing country, gospel, 50’s classics and more. Their show is currently open.

Ozark Mountain Jubilee is a show centered on tradition. It features family friendly entertainment complete with music, comedy and real good time! Their show is currently open.

Country Tonite has been a fan favorite for years, and it’s easy to see why. This Branson show dazzles audiences with its country hits, dancers and musicians. Country Tonite in Branson opens March 7th.

Roy Rogers Jr. & the High Riders take guests back to the days when Cowboys were king and horses were the favored mode of transportation. This charming tribute show features the music of Roy Rogers as well as Dusty’s treasured memories of his parents.

Pierce Arrow is a top-rated vocal group whose talented singers create harmonies unlike any other. Their show is a can’t miss on the Branson Show Schedule. Pierce Arrow is open now.

The Branson Brothers is a unique show combining the stylings of a male quartet along with the music of a female vocalist. Their show has an all new format this year, so be sure to check it out! The Branson Brothers season begins February 28th.

Magic Shows

The Hamner Barber Magical Variety show features the award winning illusions of The Hamners, the amazing vocal comedy of ventriloquist Jim Barber, and a talented cast of dancers and singers. Their show is now open.

Kirby VanBurch is the Prince of Magic, evident in his amazing illusions and magical tricks that are performed throughout his show. Families will especially love this production, open now!

Comedy Shows

Comedy Jamboree is a throwback to classic comedy hours, where the gags don’t stop and the laughs keep coming. You might even get to participate in the show. Comedy Jamboree is performing now.

Jim Stafford is a talented comedian who keeps Branson visitors in stitches with his hilarious songs and many jokes. The Jim Stafford show is full of surprises and is open now.

Variety Shows

Magnificent 7 Show is a great combination of hits from yesterday and today. Comedy, dance and over 50 musical productions take place during this exciting show. Magnificent 7 is open now.

Legends in Concert features an amazing line-up of impersonators who pay tribute to everyone from Elvis to Garth Brooks. The performers at Legends will make you believe they’re the real thing. Legends in Concert is open now.

Spirit of the Dance is a classic Branson favorite. Their unique and skillful interpretation of beautiful dance numbers includes numbers from all stylings, including Irish Dance to Flamenco. Spirit of the Dance opens March 6th.

Red, Hot & Blue! is a ragtime era show that takes families on a journey through the decades of music. The music, dance and comedy of this show are unlike any other. They open March 1st.

January & February Events in Branson, Missouri

White Flight

Through January 15, 2008

Location: The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

Available exclusively during the holidays, White Flight will feature thousands of white butterflies fluttering like living snowflakes amid a rainforest sparking with thousands of twinkling lights. All of this while holiday music fills the soul. Simply unforgettable!This holiday journey also includes a stop in our 3-D theatre, rainforest critter center, and Emerald Forest Mirror Maze.

Second Annual Ice Carving Event

January 19, 2008

Location: The Titanic Museum

The nation’s most prestigious ice sculptors will compete on-site at the Titanic Museum Attraction’s outdoor entertainment center by the ship’s bow on Saturday, January 19, 2008. The event is free and open to the public.

Visitors will be invited to watch as each sculptor shapes 250 pounds of ice into cool visions of Titanic while putting the heat on competitors for more than $7,500 in prize money and world recognition.

Children and families interested in exploring the world of ice carving can learn the latest techniques, get handy hints and see the unique tools that our Titanic sculptures are using.

"Sweetheart Month” Celebrations with TITANIC’s Jack and Rose

February 1, 2008 - February 29, 2008

Location: The Titanic Museum

It’s Valentine’s Day every day during February on Titanic. Guests will be invited to celebrate their own personal love stories as they relive the on-screen romance between “Rose” and “Jack”, the star-crossed lovers in James Cameron’s Academy Award-winning movie, Titanic.
In the spirit of the occasion, Titanic will be awash in hearts and flowers, from the enchanted Grand Staircase to the magical gift shop where romantic, keepsake offerings can be found for sweethearts of all ages.

Hot Winter Fun Show

February 11, 2008

Times: 7pm

Location: Jim Stafford Theater

14th Annual Hot Winter Fun Big Show. Hot Winter Fun is heating up in Branson. This show features a wide variety of shows that are open throughout the year in Branson in one exciting night. Shows represented include Jim Stafford, Grand Jubilee, Doug Gabriel, Baldknobbers, Legends in Concert, Comedy Jamboree, Celebrate America, The White House Theatre, and others.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Image courtesy of Titanic Museum

Celebrate the Holiday Season with an Ozark Mountain Christmas

Do you find yourself asking, "Whatever happened to a traditional family Christmas?" Come to Branson, Missouri, and celebrate the true meaning of the Christmas season. Nationally recognized by newspapers and travel associations as one of the top Christmas destinations in the nation, America's Live Entertainment Capital is all aglow in the spirit of the season. It all begins on November 1! With lots of star-filled Christmas shows, the famous 76 Strip and a glittering array of animated lighting displays including the 1-mile Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through, a visit to Branson will create beautiful memories and new Christmas traditions for your family.

Branson's star performers, special effects and elaborate holiday production numbers are ready to dazzle visitors and their families in November and December. From the famous voice of "Mr. Christmas" Andy Williams to the multimedia extravaganza of The Christmas Sounds of Mannheim Steamroller at The Grand Palace, as well as Mel Tillis and Connie Smith at the Welk Resort, there's a multitude of Branson Christmas shows that deck the halls with boughs of holly and showcase the holiday's finest talent. Music fills the air at Branson's family shows like the Presleys, The Baldknobbers, and the Hughes Brothers and peals of laughter roll through the aisles at Jim Stafford, Hamner-Barber and Yakov Smirnoff's shows. From the Lennon Sisters with the Gatlin Brothers to Barbara Fairchild, the Twelve Irish Tenors and Broadway's Spirit of Christmas with The Osmonds, Branson wraps up its musical packages with one-of-a-kind holiday family fun. And, for the kids in all of us, there's a "magical" Christmas celebration as well, at world-famous Kirby VanBurch's Christmas Spectacular.

Silver Dollar City, an internationally awarded theme park, presents an all-new, $1 million light and sound extravaganza for "An Old Time Christmas" the park's biggest light show ever. Called "Christmas on Main Street," the show features a new 5-Story Special Effects Christmas Tree that blazes to the musical movements of Christmas songs, joined by one million lights on trees, shop fronts and hanging canopies all flashing, as surround-sound fills the Square. The entire park glows with millions of flickering lights and a Holiday Light Parade with colorful, musical floats winds through the streets.The acclaimed Dickens' "Christmas Carol" returns with the special effects said to be one of the best productions in the history of the park. Plus, holiday food, strolling Christmas carolers and the roller coasters are open after dark for the thrill of the lights from above.

The Showboat Branson Belle is bedecked in Christmas finery and charts a course for holiday food and fun on Table Rock Lake though December. Also, the World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction will be decorated with thousands of merry lights and holiday trim that recall those elegant Christmases past. Your family can discover Branson's newest "Winter Wonder Landing" at the Branson Landing waterfront, featuring a promenade of trendy specialty shopping and dining establishments, the brilliant water and fire spectacular that dances to the sounds of the season in the Town Square and Santa Claus, who has even been known to vacation in Branson himself!

For all of your Christmas shopping, there are three name-brand outlet malls, boutique shops at the Grand Village and Ozarks craftsmen at Branson Mills and Engler Block with their stores all decked out in lights with elaborate holiday decorations that beckon Yuletide visitors.

A host of Branson lodging options are available from a cozy cabin at one of the lakeside resorts to luxurious hotel rooms and condos throughout the area.

While in the Branson/Lakes Area you can also enjoy a Christmas light display at the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Rd. and the Christmas on the Trail show and Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead. On the first Sunday in December, thousands of people gather in downtown Branson to watch a Christmas parade dedicated to "the true meaning of the season." This year marks the 59th Adoration Parade in Branson, an evening event with dozens of high school bands and lighted floats. The theme has always been "Keeping Christ in Christmas."

"When I started my solo career, I believe God told me to come to Branson and sing with my kids. I'm a Southern California guy, but Christmas in the Ozarks is truly magical," says Righteous Brother Bill Medley, member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, who performs at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater.

Branson's Veterans Homecoming, Nov. 5-11, pays tribute to our nation's heroes from all wars and conflicts and all branches of service. For details about this weeklong series of events, tribute shows, reunions and more, click the above link.

Outdoor activities in the Ozarks like fishing, hiking, camping and other outdoor pursuits are year-round opportunities for sporting enthusiasts in the Ozarks. The cool, crisp weather in late autumn and early winter is an appealing time for outdoor activities. Those three pristine lakes never freeze, so they are ideal for fishing for bass, trout, crappie and other species, and there is boating and many other types of water activities even in mid-winter. The mild winters also allow visitors to enjoy the area's dozen championship Golf courses.

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Summer Sizzles in Branson!

Branson, Missouri is the perfect place to escape to for summer fun. This live entertainment capital is known for its great shows, but there are plenty of things to do in Branson, Missouri! The summer only adds to these great opportunities, because visitors can take advantage of the wonderful outdoor recreation found in the beautiful Ozarks.

Many families, couples and retirees travel to Branson each summer for a vacation that includes a little bit of everything. Branson’s history of fantastic shows began with the Baldknobbers, with the Presley’s following shortly after, and continues today with shows like Pierce Arrow, The Duttons, Grand Jubilee and the Branson Brothers. These fantastic country music shows highlight the best of yesterday and today, providing entertainment for those of all ages. Branson is more than just country music, though, and shows like Acrobats of China, Broadway!, Magnificent 7, Shoji Tabuchi and Kirby VanBurch prove it! There’s a great variety of shows in Branson, where everything from magic to comedy to Broadway is performed.

After visitors see a show, they love taking in the sights, either by walking, boating or even a duck! That’s right! At Ride the Ducks, visitors can take advantage of a WWII style amphibious vehicle that drives on both land and water. Riders can choose from the Branson entertainment district route, where you’ll cruise on Table Rock Lake, or from the Branson Landing District, where the Ducks will cruise on Lake Taneycomo. Either choice is a wonderful way to view Branson’s beauty and learn a few things about this wonderful vacation destination.

Other great ways to see the beauty of the Ozarks in Branson is by hiking or going to the lake for boating and swimming fun. Outdoor recreation in Branson includes water sports on gorgeous Table Rock Lake, including a swimming beach named Moonshine Beach, as well as scenic hikes through beautiful forest and lakeside areas. Two of the best areas for hiking opportunities include Henning State Forest and Lakeside Wilderness Area. Another great way to see the rolling hills of Branson is a trip to the top of Inspiration Tower. This scenic wonder is found on the Shepherd of the Hills grounds and on clear days, you can see for 90 miles. It truly is a breathtaking experience.

Of course, Branson attractions include several ways for guests to have fun in the sun. With three theme parks in Branson, there’s a park for every time of the day! Silver Dollar City celebrates the kid in all of us, with their National Kids Fest, and continues their tradition of thrilling coasters and water ride fun, with a dash of pioneering spirit mixed in for a unique experience. Celebration City is a night time park, complete with a carnival-like atmosphere and laser light show. Branson’s beach within reach, White Water, provides exciting rides like Kalani Towers, Lazy River and Caribbean Plunge. It’s a great place for families to enjoy summer fun in Branson!

The list of things to do in Branson is endless. Between great Branson shows, exciting Branson attractions and beautiful outdoor recreation opportunities, Branson truly is the place where you can do it all…one trip at a time!