Barnson Missouri

No other destination under the sun provides families with as broad an array of activities in an environment that centers around family-style entertainment as does Branson, Missouri. From the family-oriented shows to the area attractions and lodging properties, Branson accommodates families unlike any other destination. No matter the time of year of the show or attraction, Branson is ideal for every member of the family. This is why families have been visiting Ozark Mountain Country for decades-to experience a vacation that delights kids, parents and grandparents. The celebrities are committed to keeping the material clean and the performances great.

Branson provides a unique combination of exciting shows, attractions and shopping areas along with natural features such as lakes, caves and nature trails-all activities a family can do together. And, while summer is the time most families visit Branson, actually everyday is family day in the Branson/Lakes Area.

Shows
What grew out of the Ozark family music parties in the 1950’s, has become an enduring Branson tradition. Families have been performing together in great music and comedy shows. The Presleys and Mabe (the Baldknobbers) families have been providing visitors with family-oriented shows for more than 40 years and now include multi-generational cast of remarkably talented performers.

Several entertainers include family members in their show including Mel Tillis with his daughters Pam, Carrie and Connie, The Lennon Sisters and their sons and daughters, Bobby Vinton includes his daughters and octogenarian mother, the Shoji Tabuchi Show features daughter Christina, and the Jim Stafford show includes numbers with his wife and children. In addition, the Lennon Brothers, the Osmonds, the Duttons and the Hughes Brothers all have shows that are not only family comprised, but family-oriented as well.

Branson also offers large production shows that feature non-stop music and great special effects. In addition to the musical entertainment, comedy and magic shows are sure to delight every member of the family.

Attractions

Attractions throughout the Branson/Lakes Area are sure to bring out the kid in everyone. Silver Dollar City, voted the top theme park in the world in 1998 by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, offers shows, bands, demonstrating crafters and great food in addition to several exciting rides all in an 1890s atmosphere.

For a fascinating combination of history and entertainment, families should stop by the Shepard of the Hills Homestead. This National Historic Landmark is home to the outdoor amphitheater production of "Shepherd of the Hills." Visitors can also see old-time craftsman and take the elevator high atop Inspiration Tower for a panoramic view of the entire Branson/Lake area.

At Dixie Stampede, families can enjoy a fingers only full-course dinner while cheering on their trick ridin’, whip crackin’, gut bustin’ team. The show filled with unique special effects, colorful costumes and hilarious comedy-including the only Ostrich races in town!

Branson is also home to the Discovery IMAX Theater. Here, families can enjoy spectacular films on a 10-foot high screen everyday of the year. The complex also includes a restaurant and shops.

Activities
Branson Creek golf course officially opened in 2000, but 2001 will mark its first full season of operation. Voted as one of the top ten new courses in the country by Golf Digest, the Tom Fazio-designed course offers dramatic landscaping and scenery coupled with a challenging 18-hole championship course.

Lodging accommodations in the Branson/Lakes Area are ideal for families. Luxury, full-service resorts with family-sized cabins, hotels with family suites and large sleeping rooms provide comfort for the entire family.

Natural Features
Branson’s three lakes, Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo and Bull Schoals Lake, provide myriad opportunities for families to enjoy the great outdoors. Boating, fishing, swimming or building sandcastles along the beaches are just some of the many exciting lake activities. Many of the resorts on the lakes offer boat and water craft rentals.

The Ozark Mountains also offer hiking, biking and nature trails that provide the ideal chance to learn about the wildflowers and wildlife that call the Ozarks home.

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Published in the May 2001 issue of the AAA Traveler.