by P. Payne

Created on: May 19, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Over the past 30 years, Branson, Missouri, has grown from a small town with a few music shows and a nearby theme park to a vacation destination that attracts visitors from all over the United States and several foreign countries.

Whether visitors are looking for quiet seclusion to enjoy nature's beauty by the lake, boating and swimming, or taking in the variety of entertainment options, Branson offers something for everyone. Theme parks include Silver Dollar City, a place that takes you back to the 1800s when you walk through the gate. Among the music, crafts, and demonstrations, visitors line up for water rides, roller coasters, and other innovative entertainment. Celebration City provides a carnival-like atmosphere and rides, while Whitewater cools off the hottest visitors. Museums include Ripley's Believe It Or Not, and the Titanic museum, which takes visitors through the events leading to the ship sinking and familiarizes them many of the ill-fated passengers.

Hotels, motels, campsites and resorts are plentiful and cater to visitor's needs. Both public and private facilities are available for camping and swimming. Restaurants abound, from the mom and pop family restaurant to well-know name brand chains and steakhouses, including Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede. For lunch or dinner on the lake, take a cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle. For a real treat, although not inexpensive, try Zoey's Mediterranean Cuisine in the old section of downtown Branson. Or, take a ride to the Bearded Clam in Kimberling City and dine near the lake. Kimberling City, situated on Table Rock Lake, also hosts an art gallery, and is the site of frequent national bass tournaments.

In the old part of downtown Branson, visit Dick's 5 and 10-cent store, with more than 50,000 items with everything from soup to nuts. It also carries visitors back in time to the old dime store atmosphere long gone. The older section of Branson is home to many other small shops, and an area where visitors can park and walk along the lake or just sit.

The city salutes veterans each year with activities and special events designed to honor them and provide entertainment and enjoyment for those who have served our country. Other special events are held throughout most of the year. However, there still is a period of time in the winter that most shows and shops are closed because of temperatures and the possibility of snow and dangerous roads.

My first memory of visiting Branson is from at about 30 years

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