Branson Ranked No. 1 Destination Spot

Branson ranked as the No. 1 destination spot for the first half of 2008 on the domestic travel planning Web site Vacationfun.com, based on requests for tourist information.

"Branson's location and reputation as a value destination pushed it to the top of the list," said John Hudak, publisher of Vacationfun.com, which is currently ranked in the top 10 percent of U.S. travel Web sites by the independent tracking firm Hitwise.

Despite economic concerns affecting the tourism industry, travel planning on Vacationfun.com is growing—visits to the site increased by 36 percent in the first half of 2008 compared to the same time period in 2007. According to Hudak, most Americans are not giving up vacations altogether, but staying closer to home and looking for vacation deals.

A traveler survey co-authored by the Travel Industry Association and Ypartnership and released in May revealed that, of respondents who stated their plans will change if gas prices continue to rise, the greatest percentage will respond by driving a shorter distance to their vacation destination.

"Branson fits the bill perfectly for what travelers need this year," said Hudak.

The average daily hotel rate in Branson is $75.90, compared with a national tab of $103, according to industry research group Smith Travel. Show tickets in Branson average $29, compared to an average $130 to $150 per ticket for Las Vegas.

In addition, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB sponsors a popular "Gas Buster" program to further offset the cost of travel. The program provides visitors who present at least $40 in gas receipts at either of the Chamber's two Welcome Centers with a card worth $50 in discounts.

These factors, combined with recent additions and upgrades to Branson lodging, shopping and attractions, put the city in position to continue to attract growing numbers of travelers. Local tourism leaders project growth for 2008 between 2 and 3 percent over last year's total visitor figure of 8.4 million.

Vacationfun.com attracts 1.85 million user sessions per year and is referenced as "America's leading source of free official travel information." The site enables travelers to research destinations and request information, by mail or electronically, from tourism organizations nationwide. Consumers requested more than 7.8 million visitor guides and brochures through VacationFun.com in 2007.

St. Louis captured the No. 2 destination spot on Vacationfun.com for the first half of 2008, followed by Boston, Savannah, Ga. and San Antonio.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Dive in to Summer Fun in Branson, Missouri

Branson, Missouri is diving into the summer season, and this year, it’s making the biggest splash ever! When the summer sun heats up, it’s time for summer fun. Luckily, Branson is located in the midst of the Tri-Lakes area which boasts three supreme lakes, including Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, and Lake Taneycomo. Providing the perfect way to cool down, these beautiful Branson lakes also allow visitors to heat their summer fun by taking part in swimming, water sports, fishing and many other lake activities.

Table Rock Lake is by far the most popular lake, as it is very close to Branson attractions but still far enough away to make you feel like you’re really experiencing the Ozarks. Table Rock Lake also has several marinas, including the Table Rock State Park Marina, where visitors can rent ski boats, pontoons and other water sports craft. The Table Rock Dam is also a sight to see, as is the Fish Hatchery and Dewey Short Visitor Center. With over 750 miles of shoreline and around 45,000 acres of lake surface, there is plenty of room for everyone to stay and play at Table Rock Lake.

Bull Shoals Lake is another lake touting summertime fun and relaxation. Located to the east of Branson, this lake is a haven for both fisherman and water enthusiasts. It has numerous spots to swim where the water is deep enough for rock jumping, and the crystal clear water is perfect for divers and snorkelers. With a variety of access points and numerous places to reel in the catch of the day, Bull Shoals Lake is a beautiful oasis in the Ozarks.

The third lake, Lake Taneycomo, is a world class trout fishing lake, making it a must for any fisherman. Stocked annually with approximately 750,000 10-12" rainbow trout, Lake Taneycomo is a cold water lake attracting the best fishing in the Ozarks. Along with its great fishing opportunities, Lake Taneycomo is also a sight to see. It is accessible from multiple points throughout the area, including the famous Branson Landing. Another highlight of Lake Taneycomo is the available fishing guide services, boat rentals, and water sports fun such as canoes and kayaks.

The Tri-Lakes area and Branson go hand in hand. The beauty of Branson is elevated by the scenic, natural elements of the lake and the lakes are complemented by the environmentally friendly way Branson has developed. In addition to the lakes, summer fun in Branson also includes popular Branson shows and Branson attractions. Silver Dollar City and White Water are two hot weather favorites, and there are several hotels near Silver Dollar City. Plenty of lodging is available in Branson, however, complete with pet friendly Branson properties and discounted Branson hotels.