by Scott Shaddox

Created on: September 05, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks sits the entertainment capital of Mid-America. Branson, Missouri offers a variety of recreation opportunities to people of all ages. Breathtaking scenery, a wide array of water activities, and foot stomping country music make this small town near the Arkansas border the vacation destination to please the most diverse of families.

Branson has been known for many years as a haven for country music. Entertainers from around the country journey to the Branson area to perform. Stage shows like the Baldknobbers and Presley's Mountain Music Jubilee have entertained generations of visitors to the Ozarks. These shows combine quality country music with comedy routines that play off the "hillbilly" stereotype of southern Missouri. Better known performers such as the Oak Ridge Boys and Dolly Parton also have theaters in Branson. At Parton's Dixie Stampede guests dine on a four-course meal as they enjoy a rodeo arena show.  The show, which is based on the Civil War, features riders from both the Union and Confederacy and is sure to provide an exciting evening for all.

If music is not your cup of tea, there is still something for you in Branson. Silver Dollar City, a full scale amusement park, is sure to thrill kids of all ages. Thrilling rides like "Wildfire," "Thunderation," "Powderkeg," and "Fire in the Hole" will satisfy the most daring of riders. The park is set as an Ozark town from the late 19th century and provides visitors a glimpse of what life was like in the rugged Ozark hills many years ago.

There are many other exciting activities in the Branson area. White Water, a large water park featuring a giant slide and aquatic activities for everyone, is a great way to cool off from the blazing heat of a Missouri Summer. Other Branson attractions include Predator World, where a wide range of animals, both land and aquatic, are found. Museums like Ripley's Believe it or Not and Titanic are popular destinations for visitors to Branson. At the Titanic museum visitors are able to experience a full size replica of the grand ballroom found on the original ship. The Ripley's museum has a vast selection of the strange, bizarre, and unusual.  Things one would expect from a facility branded with the Ripley name.

A multitude of shopping opportunities can be found in Branson. Branson Landing, along the shores of Lake Taneycomo, features many well-known retailers like Justice, Hollister, Pac Sun, Belk, Aeropostale, Bass Pro Shops, Coldwater Creek, Maurice's, and many more. A few of the restaurants in Branson include Chili's, Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Golden Corral, and Applebee's. Many lesser known restaurants which specialize in native Ozarks cuisine also exist in Branson.  The historic downtown Branson district is home to several specialty shops.  Some, like Dick's 5 & 10, have catered to locals and tourists alike for over 50 years.

Branson is a nature lover's paradise and is surrounded by several scenic lakes. Table Rock, Taneycomo, and Bull Shoals Lakes are all short drives away and are well known for their magnificent scenery and spectacular fishing. World War II amphibious "ducks" take visitors on tours of the area lakes. The Branson Belle is a large showboat that takes guests across Table Rock Lake while they enjoy a full course meal.  

Branson is the perfect getaway for those looking to relax in a family friendly environment. There are a multitude of options awaiting those who visit this Ozarks treasure. If you are seeking musical entertainment, the thrill of a high speed roller coaster, or anything in between; a visit to Branson, Missouri is sure to please most any family.

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