Category Archives: Tourism

Branson’s Table Rock Lake hosts special Fall events for Ironmen and Kids

Launching the Branson.Com boat into Table Rock Lake for the Purple Heart tournament held earlier this year.

“Branson is blessed with Table Rock Lake and its 43,000 acres of pristine water for fishing, boating, swimming and other activities. That, along with the natural beauty of the Ozarks Mountains and Branson’s great selection of shows, attractions, restaurants, shopping and other entertainment,  provide the synergy for a wonderful and unique travel experience,” said Levi Kurtright, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Over the next few weeks and into the Fall, Table Rock Lake will be the home of a number of special events hosting everyone from Ironmen to kids and fishermen to families and kids.”

Kurtright points out that the “KSwiss Ironman 70.3 Branson Inaugural Race,” a triathlon, will be held in Branson, Missouri on September 19. The triathletes will be competing against each other in a test of endurance for a share of  $25,000 in prize money and to qualify for the “2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3″ in Clearwater, Florida. The course includes a 1.2 mile swim in Table Rock Lake, a 56 mile bike race through the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains and a 26.2 mile run ending at the Branson Landing Fountains on the shores of Lake Taneycomo.

The “Central Pro-Am Association’s (CPAA) Pro-Am and Team Tournament Series” will end its 2010 season with a Pro-Am Tournament on August 21 and a Team Tournament on August 22 out of Ahoy’s in Kimberling City. Jim Thompson, the owner of CPAA points out that this tournament will determine the CPAA Pro and Amateur Champions of the year. “That’s a real big deal this year,” said Thompson. “In addition to the CPAA tournament winnings, the highest placed finisher in both the Pro and Non Boater (Amateur) Divisions, who are also members of the Professional Anglers Association, will win a paid ‘ride’ to fish the entire 2011 PAA Tournament Series including paid entry fees, food, fuel and lodging allowances for the entire season.”

The final event in the national “Professional Anglers Association’s (PAA) 2010 Tournament Season” will be held on Table Rock Lake October 14 through October 16. The tournament is jointly hosted by the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and BransonOnTheWeb, an affiliate of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. The PAA anglers will be competing for $400,000 in prizes, will depart the State Park Marina daily with the weigh-ins scheduled for the State Park Marina on October 14 and 15 and at “Branson Landing/Bass Pro Shops” on Oct. 16.

On October 23, KTTS Radio, Central Pro-Am Association and K.A.S.T. (Kids Are Special Too)  will join together at the Port of Kimberling Marina to help fight childhood cancer with a benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event will combine a Buddy Bass Tournament hosted by Central Pro-Am and KTTS and a family fun event hosted by K.A.S.T and KTTS.

The tournament will start at 7:00 a.m. with a weigh-in at 3:00 p.m. The entry fee per team is $170.00 with 70 % going for payouts and 30% to St. Jude’s. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. there will be fun and games for the kids with a kid’s fishing contest, casting contest, games, treats and lots of fun for families. CPAA’s Thompson encourages all fishermen to enter the tournament and invites all families with children to participate in the family fun event.

Kurtright reminds everyone that as these events are taking place on Table Rock Lake that Branson and all it has to offer is but minutes away. Couple that with the Fall of the year in the Ozark Mountains and Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and the opportunities for fun and excitement in Branson seem as numerous as the beautifully colored leaves that will be falling from the trees.

Because of the Fall Foliage, Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and all the other exciting events going on in Branson in October such as “The Front Men” featuring Alabama’s Randy Owen, Lonestar’s Richie McDonald and Restless Heart’s Larry Stewart together in one concert, he recommends that advance reservations be made for shows and lodging to ensure not only availability, but to obtain the best seating and accommodations available. Kurtright offers the service of Branson Tourism Center in that regard and points out that the Branson Tourism Center  can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

“Diana the People’s Princess” is an iconic Branson experience

At the time of her tragic death on August 31, 1997, the woman born Diana Frances Spencer had achieved iconic status as Diana, Princess of Wales. The initial exhibit of the Branson Exhibition Center, “Diana, the People Princess,” tells the story of that iconic rise from her birth and early years through the fairy tale engagement and wedding to Charles, Prince of Wales, her service as a member of the royal family, motherhood, divorce, separation from royalty and what she did with that iconic status up till her death.

Tony Doblin, President & COO, Exhibition Dynamix feels the exhibit is an excellent fit with Branson. He said, “Diana will resonate well with the Midwest and the people who come to Branson because, whether you were a millionaire or a pauper, Diana treated you exactly the same. It’s an incredible exhibition that provides a very interesting and exciting introspective look into her life.”

The vast majority of the items on display are the property of John Hoatson, a life-long collector of Princess Diana memorabilia and pieces. He said, “I have been collecting Diana memorabilia since my early childhood and have over 6,000 pieces in my collection.” In addition to the over 2,000 pieces from Hoatson’s collection, the exhibit has a number of her actual Royal Dresses and other unique and interesting items including photos, videos, other items that most people have never seen and actual tapes of Diana’s voice obtained from a private answering machine message to a dear friend.

The Royal Dresses in the exhibition were acquired by Maureen Rorech Dunkel when Princess Diana auctioned off a collection of her dresses in a well planned and publicized auction for charity on the evening of June 25, 1997 at the world famous Christie’s in New York City. The auction and sale of the auction’s catalog raised over $5.6 million for the charities selected by Diana to benefit her humanitarian efforts.

Over $700, 000 of that came from an anonymous buyer who was not even at the auction and had only found out about it five days before it was held. That buyer was Ms. Dunkel who purchased 13 of the dresses as an investment based on Prince William’s anticipated future ascension to the throne. Due to the tragic and untimely death of Princess Diana less than two months later, the investment value of the all the dresses sold that night has gone up drastically.

A number of the actual Royal Dresses are displayed in the exhibition and help separate the different stages of the life of this remarkable woman. One example is the elegant pink wild silk dress, with its bodice elaborately embroidered with a “tapestry of flowers, sequins and gold,” that she wore on her State Tour of India in 1992.

As important as the items in the exhibit are it is the way they are arranged and presented that contributes substantially to the experience guests will have while touring the exhibit. The experience starts by entering a theatre where a short video gives an overview of the stages of Diana’s life, from birth to death and her rise to iconic status. This provides an excellent foundation for the self-guided tour that follows.

When you exit the theatre you will enter the first major exhibit area, “Althorp,” her ancestral home where you will begin an experience that will share the life of this remarkable women from her birth to her death and the impact she has had even after her death. The tour uses videos, story boards, and an elaborate system of visual indexing and identification to identify each item in the exhibit which enhances the overall experience of the exhibit’s visitors.

One example of the variety and what to expect while viewing the exhibit is its “Engagement and Wedding” presentation. When you walk into the room, you are surrounded by huge video screen showing the actual wedding which creates increases the sensation that you are really there. Among many of the interesting items that most people have never seen is an actual preserved piece of the wedding cake.

Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “This exhibit is a great addition to the Branson entertainment scene. From the ‘Beverly Hill Billies’ TV truck to a Princess and the Titanic, the World’s Largest Toy Museum and so much more, the exhibit ‘Diana the People’s Princess’ is another excellent example of the choices Branson has to offer its guests.”

For additional information or tickets for the exhibit “Diana the People’s Princess” or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

A peoples review of the Branson show “NOAH the Musical”

Noah dancing with part of the spectacular 300 foot Ark in the background

“NOAH the Musical’ is one of Branson’s most spectacular stage productions,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center.” She points out that the epic bible story is performed on a 300 foot long wrap around stage filled with 26,550 square feet of live and animated animals; talented actors, singers, dancers and great costuming and an ark that ends up towering over 40 feet above the stage. “It is one of the most popular shows we sell and consistently receives great reviews from our customers.”

In a recent review this writer said, “To anyone who knows the story of Noah and the Ark, the ending is no surprise, but the entertaining journey to the end of the story in “NOAH the Musical” is filled with a wonderful mixture of surprises, original music, pageantry, adventure, fun, spectacular sets and drama. It is a Branson show unrivaled in spectacle, uniqueness, entertainment and message that everyone from children to adults will enjoy.”

The Forums of the website 1Branson.Com are an excellent place to get information on all that is Branson from shows, attractions, lodging, events and much more. It provides an excellent place to ask questions and share opinions of all that is Branson. The two-way flow of information between those living in or familiar with Branson and those with questions about Branson is unique and effective. The comments made by people who have made a Branson show part of their Branson experience provide a “person to person perspective” on a show.”

Recent posts to the thread entitled “REVIEW: Noah The Musical” speak volumes about what a fantastic entertainment experience “NOAH the Musical” is. The poster’s screen name is in parentheses followed by their comments.

“Sunnikc” said, “We went the last time we were in Branson, it was the fall of the year it opened in Branson. My children are still talking about it. They absolutely loved it. It’s also the only show I’ve actually been to in Branson outside of SDC [Silver Dollar City] shows.”

“Busymomx3” said “Awesome show for all ages! Well worth the $ Our group of 6 consisted of ages 70-1 and all enjoyed it. FYI–they have 2 cry rooms for the little ones, so you won’t have to go out and miss part of the show. The building is huge and very well built for a large flow of people. Everything flowed real nicely–with bathroom breaks and exiting after show. Would recommend to everyone.”

“Flutterby” said, “We went to see Noah this past weekend and it was absolutely amazing! It is more expensive than most other shows, but it is worth every penny. Before we could even get out of the theater, my teenage daughter was asking if we could go back to see the Christmas show this season.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said, “The Christmas show referred to is the “Miracle of Christmas,” another spectacular show, which replaces “NOAH the Musical” for the Christmas season from November 2 through December 31. She said that the first season for the “Miracle of Christmas,” in Branson was in 2009 and it appears that it will become a part of the Christmas tradition for many Branson visitors. Johnson also points out that the Christmas Season is a very popular time of the year in Branson and suggests making show and lodging reservations as early as possible to ensure the best choices of show seats and lodging.”

For additional information or tickets for these or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson’s “hot” attractions provide cool relief from summer heat

Silver Dollar City's new $7 million dollar RiverBlast literally provides a watery blast of relief from the summer heat.

Even in the midst of the summer’s heat, Branson’s “hot” shows, attractions, activities and the excitement and adventure they offer makes it one of the ‘coolest’ vacation and entertainment destinations in America,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “Branson’s attractions and activities provide a variety of ‘cool’ fun filled ways to get relief from the heat.”

Silver Dollar City, an international award winning 1880s themed park and Branson’s most popular paid attractions has many ways to cool off. The “American Plunge” is an exciting traditional log flume ride providing a thrilling five story plunge at speeds up to 35 miles an hour into a splashdown that guarantees a refreshing soaking. Other rides that provide a similar soaking would be the “Lost River of the Ozarks” or Silver Dollar City’s newest water ride, the $7 million “RiverBlast” which provides a leisure float into what might be the biggest “water fight” on the planet. Another interesting way to get cool at Silver Dollar City is to take the Marvel Cave Tour.

The Branson area is blessed with three fresh water lakes, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, and Lake Taneycomo. Many people are aware of the great fishing, boating and other recreational activities available on the 43,100 plus acres of pristine waters of Table Rock Lake. One feature a lot of Branson’s visitors might not be aware of however, is Moonshine Beach located just north of Table Rock Dam on State Highways 165/265 within minutes of the Branson Strip. Moonshine Beach is operated by the U.S. Corps of Engineers and, in addition to its large sand swimming beach has a play ground, picnic areas, a boat launch ramp, flush toilets and showers. It is open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and there is a daily charge of $4.00 per vehicle.

White Water, southwest Missouri’s largest water park, is located on 12 acres right on the famed Branson Strip. It has two million gallons and of cool liquid excitement, more than 7,000 feet of water slides and a dozen rides to help provide a fun filled way to find relief from the summer’s heat. One of its major rides is “Kalani Towers”, a seven story tall six slide ride. Two of the slides have 300 foot drops enabling speeds of up to 40 mph and four have 312 foot slides located immediately adjacent to each other that permit lane racing at speeds up to 25 mph. Other cooling rides are the Raging River Rapids a two slide ride wrapping around a huge five story high waterfall as riders race to the pool below; the Bermuda Triangle, a fast paced enclosed slide; the Caribbean Plunge and Tropical Twister rapid-water raft rides; Surfquake, a 500,000 gallon wave pool producing 4-foot waves and the Lazy River, a gently moving river for just floating and relaxing.

The majority of Branson’s shows and indoor attractions are air conditioned but iceberg located near the entrance to the Titanic Museum is an indication of some special “cool things.” Does it get much cooler than touching an iceberg? In addition, as guests near the end of their exciting adventure aboard the Titanic, after it has hit the iceberg, they will encounter a chilling experience followed by a real “cool “hands on experience in the interactive area near the lifeboats.

For additional information on these and other really cool Branson shows, attractions, and activities or for lodging arrangements please call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-875-1550 or visit www.BransonTourisimCenter.com.

Mission Possible – “Your mission, should you chose to accept it is” to exit Branson efficiently

Branson Tourism Center Map (Click on "Branson Tourism Center Map" link for enlarged map.)

In the old TV series “Mission Impossible” they said “Your mission, should you chose to accept it is…”. In deciding whether or not to accept the mission they had about as much choice as a visitor to Branson does in deciding whether or not they are going to leave Branson when they are ready to return home. The only choice is how the “mission” is performed.

Just as there was a choice as to how the Mission Impossible Team performed their mission visitors to Branson have a choice on how they leave Branson. Making the right choice can save a lot of time and frustration.

In a recent article entitled “Branson’s colored traffic routes ‘shows’ the way,” a spokesperson for the Branson Tourism Center, discusses how to get around Branson efficiently and how to go on line and view or print the Branson Tourism Center Map. Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center suggests that a little time studying that map will not only enhance the enjoyment of your Branson experience while in Branson by enabling you to get to Branson’s shows, attractions, lodging, shopping and everything else Branson has to offer.

In terms of leaving Branson,” she said, “Sometimes, depending on how backed up traffic is, traveling a little longer distance can save a lot of time.” For example, she points out how those traveling south might save time by taking State Highway 165 south to its intersection with Highway 65 even though it is farther in distance than going directly down Highway 76. It has been this writers personal experience that even those traveling north can save time using the same route if Highway 76 is really backed up.

Other alternate routes include getting to Branson’s Red Route, basically Shepherd of the Hills Expressway or Gretna Road and heading east until they intersect with State Highway 248. At that juncture a choice has to be made, either go east or west.

Going east will take you to the intersection of Highway 248 and Highway 65. If one turns west on Highway 248 they can proceed west to the intersection of Branson Hills Parkway, turn south (right) and get on Highway 65 at its intersection with Branson Hills Parkway. Going west on 248 can avoid potential bottlenecks at the Highway 248/65 interchange that occur as the four east bound lanes of Highway 248 become two lanes at the Highway 65 bridge.

The new Fall Creek extension to the north of Highway 76 also provides another way to get to Highway 248. Instead of turning east onto Highway 76, get in the “straight ahead lane” and stay on Fall Creek Road north until the next stop light where in intersects with Roark Valley Road. At that point you can turn right and take Roark Valley Road back to Highway 76 where you will re-enter it right where the four lane begins. Another option is to continue through the stop light on James Epps Road to its intersection with Highway 248 at which point you may turn either east or west as described above.

For additional information on the map, how to get around Branson or information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements Johnson suggests contacting the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. She said that BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

A whirlwind overview to a bit of great free Branson family fun

The Branson Landing Boardwalk runs along the Lake Taneycomo shoreline.

“We are often asked if there are any ‘free’ things to do in Branson,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The answer is ‘Absolutely;’ it is the combination of the excellent value provided by Branson’s shows and attractions and the free activities that make Branson such a fun value family destination.”

“From trout hatcheries to grist mills and the fire and water show at Branson Landing there are many things that families and visitors to Branson can do for free.” Here is one itinerary she suggested that will share Lake Taneycomo, Historic Downtown Branson and Branson Landing. It is flexible in terms of time from about two hours to up to eight hours depending on how much time is spent at each activity.

Let’s start out on the shores of Lake Taneycomo adjacent to Scotty’s Trout Dock, at the unofficial duck feeding area that most people coming to Branson don’t even know exits. It’s conveniently located near Branson Landing and the public boat loading ramp on the southeastern corner of the City of Branson’s Camp Ground. Just drive south off of Branson Landing Boulevard on to Box Car Willie Drive toward the city of Branson’s Lakefront Campground and follow the signs to Scotty’s.

Lamar Patton, the owner of Scotty’s says that on any given day there are about 100 to 200 Canada Geese, pigeons, Mallard ducks and other water fowl around, depending on the season. “Many will come right up to you,” Patton points out. Although he sells bags of corn to feed them they will also eat bread, crackers etc. This is a great place to take some great pictures of the kids and grandkids “feeding the ducks.” (Time for Feeding the Ducks: 15 minutes – Elapsed time: 15 minutes)

From feeding the ducks go back to Branson Landing, drive to the north parking lot, Belk’s, and park as close to Belk as you can. Walk directly east toward Lake Taneycomo and you can’t miss the Boardwalk running along Lake Taneycomo’s shoreline. Turn left (north) and you can walk through the a park area to the mouth of Roark Creek or turn right (south) and see a unique view of the Branson Landing as you walk along its lake side.

Along either route you will be able to see various species of ducks, Canada Geese, Grey Herons, Black or Turkey Vultures (buzzards), an occasional Bald Eagle and other birds and water fowl that inhabit Lake Taneycomo. It is also interesting to observe the boat traffic on the Lake including the Branson Landing Princess and Lake Queen. Go 15 minutes in either direction and return to the spot where you parked your vehicle. (Time on Boardwalk- 40 minutes – Elapsed time including travel time from feeding the ducks: 60 minutes.)

The free Discovery Trolley goes between Branson Landing and Historic Downtown Branson.

Walk past that spot to the boarding area for the the Historic Downtown Branson “Discovery Trolley.” Don’t confuse it with the tram that runs up and down the promenade within the Branson Landing. The Discovery Trolley boards at the edge of the parking lot near Belk’s and is clearly marked. It runs a 15 minute loop through Historic Downtown Branson and back down to Branson Landing and has multiple stops along the way. The convenient 15 minute loop makes, it easy for those shopping down at Branson Landing to take the trolley up to the Historic District to experience its unique shopping and restaurants and vice versa.

The Trolley ride provides an excellent view and perspective of the historic downtown area, the Branson Convention Center and Branson Landing. Along the way you will pass Branson’s first theatre, the Owens Theatre and the spot where the “ Baldknobbers” performed Branson’s first live music show over 51 years ago and the grave of the man the city of Branson is named after Ruben S. Branson. About 15 minutes after boarding, the Trolley will drop you off at the spot where it picked you up. (Time on Trolley including waiting – 25 minutes Total Elapsed time: 85 minutes.)

The reason this article is entitled, “A whirlwind overview to a bit of great free Branson family fun” is because it is just that, an overview of an itinerary based on a minimum time for each activity. The times are very flexible and could very easily be expanded to include a whole day if one decided to spend more time feeding the ducks, walking on the Boardwalk, visiting Branson Landing or exiting the Trolley in historic downtown Branson to visit one of its many shops including the famous “Dicks 5 & 10.”

Those with more time might consider exiting the Trolley when it stops at Bass Pro Shops on the north end of Branson Landing and exploring what Branson Landing has to offer as they work their way south through the Landing back to their parked car. Johnson offers the assistance of Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most trusted vacation planning services, to answer any questions anyone might have about what Branson has to offer including information or tickets on Branson’s shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Planning a trip to Branson Jeopardy style

Silver Dollar City, Branson's most popular paid attraction, is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.

America’s favorite TV quiz show “Jeopardy,” has a unique format. For each round, the game board displays six categories each of which contains five clues. Each of the clues have a dollar value. Contestants win by answering, in question format, with the question that the clue was based on. The ultimate winner of the game is the one with the most money at the end.

Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most trusted vacation planning services said, “If ‘Planning a Trip to Branson Missouri’ was a category on Jeopardy the the five clues below just might be included.”

$200 – Hotels and Lodging
$400 – Branson’s live shows.
$600 – Having fun at Branson Attractions
$800 – Silver Dollar City
$1000 – Presleys’ Country Jubilee

The answers (questions) for each clue are as follows:

$200 – What should be taken care of first in planning a trip to Branson?
$400 – For what  form of entertainment is Branson most noted?
$600 – What are most of the kids who come to Branson interested in?
$800 – What is Branson’s oldest and most popular attraction?
$1000 – What is the name of the first show on the now famous “Branson Strip?”

The last round of the game is called “Final Jeopardy” where the contestants can wager from $0 to the total amount they have won up to that point. After placing their wager the clue is revealed and they have 30 seconds to write down their response. The game’s winner is the one who has the most money after “Final Jeopardy.”

In terms of planning a trip to Branson Jeopardy Style, the Final Jeopardy Category might be “Experiencing Branson” and the Clue “Branson Tourism Center”. The Answer (Question) would be “Who provides free personal service in planning a Branson vacations, has sold over 2 million Branson show and attraction tickets, is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau and is dedicated to ensuring that each Branson visitor has a great experience.”

Branson Tourism Center can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson skies will light up with 4th of July Fireworks

Fireworks light up the Branson skies.

NOTE: The following article was written for the 2010 4th of July fireworks displays.  For 2012 information, please click on the following for the latest information on 2012 4th of July fireworks displays.

Branson, Missouri, “the Live Music Show Capital of the World,” will light up the skies with fireworks in celebration of America’s Independence and the 4th of July. The General Manager for the Branson Tourism Center said that although most will be in and around the 4th of July, some of the celebrations will be as early as June 27.

Branson Tourism Center advises that those planning to attend the events allow plenty of time, arrive as early as possible and bring their own chairs unless they are assured of some other seating. Branson Tourism Center also reminds visitors that the Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest of the year in Branson and suggests it might be advisable to book shows and lodging in advance to ensure not only availability, but the best choice of seats and accommodations.

The major Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays are listed below sorted by date. A contact phone number is provided for each and should be contacted for further information such as rain dates etc..

Name: Honor America
Place: College of the Ozarks by Lake Honor
Phone: College of the Ozarks – 417-690-2212
Date/Time(s)/Comment(s): June 27, Picnic 4:30 p.m., Entertainment 6:00 p.m., Patriotic Program & Concert 8:00 p.m. with entertainment provided by the cast of Red, Hot and Blue and the Peterson Family Band. The program and concert will be followed by Fireworks. Please bring your own chairs and come early.

Name: Branson Landing 3rd Annual Liberty Light Up
Place: Branson Landing Town Square by Fountains
Phone: Branson Landing – 417-239-3002
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s) July 3, Concert by “Chain Reaction, A Tribute to Journey” at 8:00 p.m. followed by Fireworks.

Name: Branson Landing Lake Queen or Landing Princess
Place: Branson Landing
Contact: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Miller says, “An unique and exciting way to see the Branson Landing fireworks display is while cruising on either the Lake Queen or Landing Princess on Lake Taneycomo. On July 3rd these cruises will be positioned to provide not only a spectacular and unique view of the Branson Landing fireworks displays, but Branson Landings spectacular Fire and Light show.” Although there is still availability, Miller advises making reservations as early as possible in advance by calling the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550.

The Chateau on the Lake Fireworks.

Name: Treasure Lake Resort
Place: Treasure Lake Resort behind the IMAX
Phone: Treasure Lake Resort 417-334-1040
Date/Time/Comment(s) July 3 at dusk. Advice is come early and bring a chair.

Name: Fireburst Fireworks Display
Place: Kimberling City
Phone: Kimberling City Table Rock Chamber of Commerce – 1-800-595-0393 or 417-739-2564
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk with food vendors and activities starting at 2:00 p.m. Fireworks will start at dusk. Good Viewing Area: Right on Route 13 in downtown Kimberling City, near Kimberling City Shopping Mall, about 6 miles south of Branson West. It can be viewed very well from Table Rock Lake near the north end of the bridge.

Name: BBQ and Fireworks at Chateau on the Lake
Place: Chateau on the Lake – North of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165/265
Phone: Chateau on the Lake 417-334-1161
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Paid BBQ event, complete with live music will be followed by fireworks display which is easily and conveniently viewed for free from Table Rock Lake via boat or park in loop just south of new overrun floodgates on Table Rock Dam or the Chateau’s public areas.

Name: Showboat Branson Belle
Place: Showboat Branson Belle
Contact: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date /Time/Comment(s): July 4, 8:00 p.m. dinner cruise. Miller points out that there are no guarantees and you take your chances, but the 8:00 PM Dinner Cruise on the 4th of July has been known to anchor and watch the Chateau on the Lake’s Fireworks display as part of the cruise. This cruise is generally sold out so the further in advance reservations are made the better.

Name: Hollister’s 57th Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration
Place: Historic Downing Street in Hollister
Phone: City of Hollister- 417- 337- 8315 or Hollister Chamber of Commerce- 417-334-3050
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Good Viewing Area: Along Business Hwy 65 in Historic downtown Hollister.

Name: Rockaway Beach 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Display
Place: Downtown Rockaway Beach
Contact: – Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce – 417-561-4280
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Family activities with events such as the “Little Miss & Mister Rockaway Beach Contest” start at 12:00 p.m. and Fireworks start at dusk.

Name: Big Cedar Fireworks Display
Place: Big Cedar Lodge
Location: Off State Highway 86 in Ridgedale, MO
Phone: Big Cedar – 417-335-2777
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Good Viewing Area: In front of Registration Building or from Table Rock Lake.

Name: Shell Knob Fire & Thunder Fireworks Display
Place: Shell Knob, MO, 1 mile S. of Bridge
Contact: Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce – 417-858-3300
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk.

Name: Shepherd of the Hills
Place: Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Theatre
Phone: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date/Time/Comment(s):July 4th immediately after the presentation of the outdoor drama “Shepherd of the Hills.” It will be only for those who viewed the outdoor drama. Branson Tourism Center advises that tickets for Shepherd of the Hills are available through the Branson Tourism Center.

July Family Fun in Branson

July is a great month for some wet fun at Silver Dollar City on rides like the Lost River of the Ozarks.

“Branson, Missouri is a fun place all year round,” says Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “However for kids and families, July is special.”

He points out that arguably, on a year round mile by mile basis, there is not a destination city anywhere that has more variety, fun, atttractions and activities for families than Branson. He suggests that it would be very difficult to find any other place that has a pristine 43,000 acre fresh water lake like Table Rock Lake; world class fishing; the selection of live entertainment and shows Branson offers; Silver Dollar City, a world class theme park; a 12 acre outdoor water park like White Water; world class golf and attractions as diverse as Branson’s Titanic, the world’s biggest museum attraction; Branson Scenic Railroad; The Butterfly Palace and Rain Forest Adventure; cruises on the 278 foot long paddlewheel Showboat Branson Belle; the excitement and adventure of Dixie Stampede and many more all located within minutes of each other.

Silver Dollar City, Branson’s largest and most popular paid attraction, is celebrating 50 years of helping people “Make memories worth repeating” during 2010. The award winning 1880s theme park has skilled Ozark craftsmen demonstrating their crafts, food, shows, interactive activities and over 30 rides and attractions offering as much excitement, thrills and adventure as most families could ever want.

“The neat thing about the rides at Silver Dollar City,” Miller says, “is that there is something for every member of the family to enjoy from the multi-looping coaster ‘WildFire’ to ‘The Grand Exposition,’ offering a selection of rides that can be shared by the whole family right down to the littlest child.” He also points out that its new $7 million “River Blast” ride will be just the ticket to cool off during the hot July weather. “You’ve never seen a water fight like this before,” he said.

The free Discovery Trolley provides an entertaining rountrip through historic downtown Branson to Branson Landing.

July is a special month at Silver Dollar City for families and kids because of “KidsFest,” which will be running from June 5 through August 8, and will continue during the whole month. In addition to everything else there is to do at Silver Dollar City, from Sponge Bob to VeggieTales to the magic of Peter Gossamer and Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience (TM) KidsFest is filled with a variety of additional entertainment and activities specifically for kids and families.

In addition, from go karts, movies, miniature golf, museums and helicopter rides to fishing, golfing and shopping, Branson offers exciting attractions and activities of every kind. Miller said, “And there is plenty of ‘Free’ stuff to do in Branson.” He points out that riding on the free Historic Downtown Branson “Discovery Trolley,” taking a tour of the Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery at the foot of Table Rock Dam, walking along the Branson Landing Boardwalk or feeding the ducks and geese down a Scotty’s Trout Dock are examples of the many things that families can do together that don’t cost anything.

He said that July is one of Branson’s busiest months and suggests making advance reservations for lodging and shows to ensure availability. For free personal concierge help in planning a family vacation to Branson Miller suggests contacting the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550 or by visiting their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Water safety is important part of Branson vacation

Table Rock Lake Dam plays an important part for two of Branson's Lakes, the 43,000 acre Table Rock Lake, behind the dam and Lake Taneycomo flowing 22 miles down stream from the foot of the dam.

In a recent article entitled “Why spend Memorial Day Weekend anywhere else but in Branson?,” Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, said, “Every weekend in Branson is special, but there’s just something about Memorial Day Weekend in Branson. Perhaps it’s because that’s the long weekend many people associate with the ‘unofficial’ beginning of summer, but one thing is for certain, there is a synergy in the air in Branson that just seems to shout, ‘Let the summer fun begin.’”

“For many families, a part of that summer fun will involve swimming, boating, fishing or other activities on one of the three beautiful lakes, Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo and Bull Shoals Lake , that help make Branson the unique, one of a kind fun filled travel destination it is,” Miller continues. He points out that even with the recent rains, Table Rock Lake is at ideal levels for every type of water activity from boating to swimming and everything in between. This includes “Moonshine Beach,” the public beach operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, located off the north end of Table Rock Dam. It has full facilities, a sandy beach and a beautiful view of Table Rock Lake while being only five minutes drive from the famed “Branson Strip.”

Moonshine Beach is a popular public beach operated the Corps of Engineers.

“Safety, is an inherent part of water activities and helps ensure that an outing on the water becomes a memorable activity of the best kind,” Miller said. “A recent U.S. Army Corps of Engineers press release reminds us of some safety tips that can ensure that happening.”

It points out that at certain times, such as major Holiday Weekends like Memorial Day Weekend, “parks, lakes and rivers will be congested” and reminds “visitors to be courteous while waiting at boat ramps, sharing beaches or traveling waterways” and to “obey signs and barricades that restrict access to any areas that are closed off.”

In addition it contained specific water safety tips in two general areas “Swimming” and “Boating:”

“Swimming:

Learn to swim.
Watch your children at all times, and put a life jacket on them.
Never dive into lakes or rivers.
Never rely on inner tubes, water wings or other toys to stay afloat.
Don’t over-estimate your swimming skills.
Reach or throw a flotation device to help someone in trouble.  Don’t go in the water!
Swim only in designated areas.
Never swim alone.

Boating:

Don’t drink alcoholic beverages while boating.
Wear a life jacket.  It’s the law for children 12 and younger and a great idea for adults.
Know your boat and know the rules of the water.
Check your boat for all required safety equipment.
Don’t overload the boat.
Check the weather forecast and flow conditions if boating on a river [Lake Taneycomo]…”

Miller says, “Our areas lakes and waterways, when used safely, are an inherent part of many people’s Branson experience and memories along with its shows, attractions, shopping and other exciting fun activities.” For additional information or tickets for lake attractions such as the Showboat Branson Belle’s dinner show cruise on Table Rock Lake, any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center. They can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.