Branson, Missouri, known as the “live music capital of the world” has been attracting visitors for well over 100 years. Starting as a river town, the Branson area really made a splash back in 1907 with the publication of the book “The Shepherd of the Hills” by Harold Bell Wright. As a result of the popularity of Wright’s book, people started flocking to the Ozark mountains and tourism for Branson grew in leaps and bounds. Branson’s rich history, wholesome family-oriented entertainment and multitude of outdoor experiences make the town a top year-round vacation destination. You’ll find more than enough activities to fill your days from spending time on pristine lakes, going bass and trout fishing, playing a round of golf, visiting museum and theme parks, shopping downtown, taking in live entertainment at a dinner show, or spending time on the water on a cruise. The following are only some of the reasons why vacationers return to Branson, Missouri and the Ozark Mountains time and time again:
Here’s a sampling of things to do while on your Branson vacation:
Branson Live Entertainment Shows – Take your pick of more than 100 live shows including appearances by top entertainers from morning until late at night. Choose from a variety of themes and venues. Enjoy Country, Gospel, Big Band, Rock n’ Roll, Broadway, Acrobatics, Comedy, Magic, Dance, Dinner shows, Cruises and so much more!
Silver Dollar City – Open from March through December, this theme park will whisk you back to the good ole days of the 1880’s with demonstrations by craftsmen as well as plenty of live music, entertainment and thrilling rides. Go deep underground and explore the wonders of Marvel Cave. During the holidays, don’t miss the highly acclaimed “An Old Time Christmas” festival. Check out some amazing zip lining with several highly rated companies to choose from, even after dark options are available.
Table Rock Lake – There’s plenty to do on this clear and relaxing 52,000 acre lake. Spend the day boating, sailing, swimming, waterskiing, jet skiing and fishing. Some wonderful guided fishing tours are available seven days a week. Take a paddle wheel river boat cruise for a leisurely view of the pristine lake.
Trophy Run Resort – When planning your next visit to the Ozarks, a stay at Trophy Run Resort will certainly surpass your expectations. Uniquely situated in its natural Ozarks’ wilderness setting, Trophy Run is on the banks of Lake Taneycomo, at its closest confluence to Tablerock Lake. Trophy Run is named after the “trophy” trout section of Taneycomo, where large rainbow and browns are caught and released. Plus, the warm waters of Tablerock are only ¾ mile from the cabins, famous to water sports enthusiasts for its crystal clear waters and warm water fishing. A spur from the resort, places you onto over 10 miles of a manicured biking and hiking trail system, right along the shores of both lakes. This resort features spacious cabins in a variety of sizes and rustic but elegant and comfortable décor. Relax in your cozy, private cabin, take a dip in the pool, spend time on the lake, or enjoy the recreation center. For a real thrill of the great outdoors try your hand at bass or trout fishing right on-site. Trophy Run Resort offers all the conveniences of home and is located with exceptionally easy access to all that the Branson area has to offer. Located on the south bank of Lake Taneycomo, Trophy Run’s cabins are only a measured 16 minute drive from all the above excitement. The Strip – where you can experience all of the live shows, miniature golf, go-karts, zip-lines, museums, attractions and dining that the family-friendly City of Branson is famous for! For more information about Trophy Run visit www.trophyrun.com
Branson has been nationally recognized by many organizations as standing out for its celebration of Christmas, honor and recognition of veterans, favorite family and bus destinations, natural beauty, entertainment suitable for the entire family, etc. See more here: www.explorebranson.com
— contributed by Chris Golden
