World record breaking wooden roller coaster brings fresh Branson excitement

Outlaw Runs heart dropping nearly vertical first drop of more than 16 stories.

BRANSON, Mo., January 21, 2013 — “One of the reasons people come back to Branson time after time is because of the efforts of its live shows and attractions to keep what Branson offers fresh and exciting,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Silver Dollar City, Branson’s oldest and most popular attractions is a perfect example of that freshness and excitement with its world class festivals, practicing craftsmen, and dozens of rides always offering something fresh and new, but 2013 is extra special! Potential Branson visitors and locals alike are eagerly awaiting the opening of Outlaw Run, the park’s new first of a kind $10 million record breaking world class wooden coaster ride,” she added.

From its very first drop of more than 16 stories, 162 feet, the steepest wood coaster in the world, puts its riders nearly vertical at 81 degrees as its starts them on ride that will thrill even the most ardent roller coaster aficionado. During the approximately 1 minute and 30 second ride, the world’s second fastest wooden coaster will travel 2,937 feet as it reaches speeds of up to 68 miles per hour, but that’s not all. It is “the world’s first and only double barrel roll on a wood coaster, with a 720-degree (double) barrel roll,” will have nine periods of “air time” where there will be a feeling of floating and weightlessness and it is the only wood coaster to twist upside down.

Outlaw Run will be themed around stage coach travel in the old west with it riders riding the custom-designed “stagecoach” trains of “Silver Dollar City’s Western Missouri Stagecoach Company.” Brad Thomas, senior vice president, Silver Dollar City Attractions said, “”All generations will enjoy this bold and daring ride where the ‘good guys always win, leaving the bad guys in the dust'” as they go “on a journey of unexpected drops, thrilling twists and rolling inversions” passing through “a storied place where civility is waning, outlaws may lurk…”

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, Outlaw Run 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 by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550. Johnson also points out that Silver Dollar City Tickets purchased through the Branson Tourism Center give the purchaser two exciting and fun filled days at the park for the price of one.

Favorite Branson Breakfast spots

Grand Country Buffet is a favorite breakfast spot for visitors and locals alike.

BRANSON, Mo., January 19, 2013 — “Even with people eating Breakfast at their hotel or lodging as part of the amenities offered, one of the things many Branson visitors like to do while in Branson is go to one of Branson’s many restaurants for breakfast at least once during their stay with some having a family breakfast tradition that spans generations,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Earlier this week we asked the question, ‘Where’s your favorite place in Branson to eat Breakfast?’ on our Face Book Page,” she continued.

The top five listed, out of the 24 people named, in order were:

Grand Country Buffet, 1945 West 76 Country Boulevard – Known for the quality of its food and wide choice, its breakfast is no exception. As one local poster said, Grand Country Buffet “has the best tasting breakfast around. I live in Branson and I have ate in a lot of places for breakfast. The best place and friendless place in town. Every time we have company come in that’s the only place I will take them for breakfast.”

Billy Gail’s Café, 5291 Hwy 265 – It’s the only one of the five not on the Branson Strip. Billy Gail’s is particularly noted for its humongous pancakes, is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. One poster opined, “Billy Gails, is always the best if you can get in the parking lot.”

Bob Evans, 801 West Main Street (Highway 76) – Ok so technically, it is two blocks south on Highway 76 of where most people consider the Branson Strip starts. Bob Evans, a national chain, is noted locally, for the variety and quality of its breakfast offerings and its specialty breakfast items as reflected by one poster who said, “Bob Evans for their sausage gravy and biscuits- unlike any other!!!”

IHOP Restaurant, 3120 West 76 Country Boulevard – A national chain, located on the western edge of the strip at the junctions of Routes 76 and 376, IHOP is famous for the variety and quality of its pancakes and French toast.

Belgian Waffle and Pancake House, 3120 West 76 Country Boulevard, – Another favorite of locals and visitors alike. One poster noted, “I love their French toast!!”

Only two of the top five are national chains. Interestingly, even with the addition of “Cracker Barrel” there are only three national chains listed in the top 10 which includes “Clocker’s Cafe,” “Silver Dollar City Breakfast Buffet” and the “Farmhouse Restaurant.” Johnson suggests that while the answers to the question do not constitute any kind of valid scientific study there is a correlation between the answers and the names of spots where locals and visitors eat breakfast commonly appearing on other reviews and forums such as the 1Branson.Com Dining Forum. One thing appears certain however, a great Ozark Breakfast is never very far away in Branson!

Branson magic is no illusion

The unique one of a kind bird illusion of Dave and Denise Hamner is just part of the magic and amazing entertainment of the Hamner Barber Variety Show.

BRANSON, Mo., January 14, 2013 — “It’s no illusion, Branson’s magic shows are a ‘magical’ experience for the whole family,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center . She goes on to point out that although known primarily for the variety and quality of its live music shows, Branson is also blessed with a variety of award winning magic shows offering something for every taste.

The Hamner Barber Variety Show features the spectacular magic of Dave and Denise Hamner who have won numerous awards for their magic including having twice received a “Merlin Award” from the International Magician Society. From the opening through the subtle beauty of Hamner’s presentation of the “Magic of the Silver Coins, ” the death defying excitement and danger of “Vertigo” and inspiration of the “Ark of the Lost Covenant” the illusions in this show keep audiences on the edge of their seats as illusions unfold and hold them in a constant state of excitement as to what was coming next not only in terms of the illusion, but the production, sets, and color that is part of each.

And that’s just part of the “magic” of the show. The ventriloquism genius and comedy of Jim Barber, one of the world’s top ventriloquists is woven together with the Hamner’s illusions the result is a unique magical blend of entertainment not available anywhere else in Branson.

Kirby VanBurch, another International Award-Winning Magician, and his signature ” family of exotic animals including a Royal White Tigers has been entertaining Branson audiences with shows filled with huge illusions, “big time production numbers dancing and hilarious comedy” for over a decade. It has been described as “a thrill-a-second production packed full of astonishing disappearing acts, a helicopter appearing in 3 seconds flat, assistants cut in half, and other never-before-seen illusions.”

Taylor Reed, who has been entertaining audiences in Branson for eight years, was seen by millions when he appeared on the hit NBC primetime show, “America’s Got Talent” and ” amazed judges Howie Mandel, Sharon Osborne, and Howard Stern when he made a motorcycle appear during his performance. In 2013 this talented magician will have his own theatre and a new show called “The Magic & Comedy of Taylor Reed”, featuring along with Reed, special guest illusionists that will be appearing throughout the season.

The show will feature ” original illusions, comedy, and dance, along with his menagerie of furry friends,” a “fire eating performance and a disappearing NASCAR illusion.” In announcing the new show Reed said that in performing at his own theatre, ” I am presented with an amazing opportunity to bring out the “Big Gun” illusions, with professional lighting, sound, and special effects. And, the original set from the Las Vegas EFX show designed by David Mendoza.”

For additional information or tickets for any of the shows mentioned in this article 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 by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550.

Branson a perfect Valentine

The Titanic Museum Attractions spectacular "Grand Staircase" is a precise replica of the original.

BRANSON, Mo., January 13, 2013 — What better place than in Branson to express the meaning to your Valentine of what Thomas Hood meant when he said, “Oh, if it be to choose and call thee mine, love, thou art every day my Valentine?” Branson is filled with ways to show that special someone just how special they are and that they “Art every day my Valentine!”

Whether your Valentine’s Day is a one day celebration on Thursday, February 14 or runs into the weekend, Branson, with its shows, attractions, restaurants, shopping and other activities is a special Valentine to share with that special someone. A number of Branson’s shows will be offering a wide variety of live entertainment to share with your Valentine includin

Hamner Barber Variety Show

Haygoods

it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre

Legends in Concert

Ozark Mountain Jubilee

Ozark Murder Mysteries

Pierce Arrow

Sunday Gospel Jubilee

New Jersey Nights

Twelve Irish Tenors

For that special Valentine’s Day meal Branson has a variety of choices ranging from the simple down home cooking of “Clocker’s Café” in historic downtown Branson to the elegant cuisine of the Level 2 Steak House, Table 22, Cosmopolitan Bistro, Chateau on the Lake and others. For a truly special Valentine’s Day memory how about a romantic champagne cruise and dinner aboard Main Street Lake Cruises 100 foot luxury yacht the Landing Princess as it cruises beautiful Lake Taneycomo from its berth in Branson Landing.

The romance of Valentine’s Day is a perfect fit for the Titanic Museum‘s “Sweetheart Month” as they remember the honeymoon couples and brides-to-be who sailed on the ships fateful maiden voyage. The Titanic’s elegant full sized replica of the “Titanic’s Grand Staircase” is a unique and beautiful spot for a wedding or to renew Wedding Vows on Valentines Day or any time.

For those coming for the Valentine’s weekend, the Branson Tourism Center offers a Valentine’s packages combining lodging, shows, attractions, cruises and more that offers not only a romantic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but to save money. One example is its Valentine’s Day Package offering 3 days and 2 nights lodging at the Hilton Promenade, choice of show tickets, two tickets to the Titanic Museum Attraction, a special “romance basket” and more.

Why not plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day, with your special Valentine, in Branson? For additional information on celebrating Valentine’s Day in Branson or tickets for Branson’s 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 by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Grand Country is simply Grand Entertainment and Fun

Farm themed 18 hole mini golf currently under construction at Grand Country.

BRANSON, Mo., January 11, 2013 — “For convenience, location, variety and fun in the middle of the Branson Strip, regardless of the weather, Grand Country just about has it all,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. In the midst of adding two outdoor 18 hole mini golf courses with interactive sound effects and animations, the Grand Country Entertainment Complex, located in the heart of the world famous “Branson Strip” offers a virtually “one stop” vacation for the entire family.

From a variety of clean, relaxing and spacious accommodations at the Grand Country the complex offers a variety of shows; dining experiences; shopping; games and activities that is unrivaled in Branson. This including indoor, and soon to be available outdoor, miniature golf; an indoor pool with water park and the “Fun Spot,” one of the most complete video and arcade game facilities in Branson.

“Splash Country Indoors,” Missouri’s first-indoor water park, is connected to the Grand Country Inn. It offers its guests 20,000 square feet of tumbling, falling squirting, and watery fun 365 days a year regardless of what the weather is like outside.

Branson is noted for its shows and the Grand Country complex’s “Grand Country Music Hall” offers a variety of exciting shows sure to entertain just about every member of the family. A favorite of families with children is Amazing Pets, an amazing troupe of cats and dogs, many which have been rescued from dog pounds and humane societies across the country. It’s a show that delights children and the young of heart as, along with many other magical surprises, the show lights up the faces of its audience with excitement and anticipation.

The Grand Country Music Hall is also the home of one of Branson’s most popular shows, the fabulous Grand Jubilee. Produced by Mike Patrick, and featuring one of the best live bands in Branson, this musical/comedy variety show features the music of the one of Branson’s most outstanding quartets, “New South,” the vocals of Jackie Brown and Todd Bradshaw and the comedy and talents of Jamie Haage as “Jim Dandy.” In addition, the Grand Country Music Hall has a variety of other shows including the Down Home Country, Comedy Jamboree, New South Gospel, Branson Country USA, Sunday Gospel Jubilee and Ozark Mountain Jubilee.

Farm themed 18 hole mini golf currently under construction at Grand Country.

The complex offers indoor miniature golf and the ‘Grand Country Fun Spot’ featuring a state of the art video arcade game facility that has the most popular video and fun arcade games of every style. From motocross racing to space exploring, it has all the latest arcade attractions along with the ‘White River Black Light Mini-Golf Course in 3D;‘ Mini-Bowling with “cool lights illuminating the bowling lanes along with, rockin’ videos and music” and much more

The Grand Country complex is also home to one of Branson’s most popular buffets the “Grand Buffet,” offering a bewildering selection of items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is also home to “Pappa Grand’s Pizza” and “Glenn’s Frozen Custard” while being within five to ten minutes walking distance of a variety of other Branson restaurants and Wal-Mart

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson suggests that, in terms of convenience and the variety of entertainment, lodging, food and exciting things to do that it offers, the Grand Country Complex is hard to beat. For additional information on the Grand Country its shows, lodging or entertainment or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550.

Al Capone’s Ozark Hideaway?

Al Capone's summer retreat?

BRANSON, Mo., January 5, 2013 — When Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen slipped her moorings at Main Street Marina in Branson Landing for her sightseeing cruise on beautiful lake Taneycomo the morning of January 4 most of the passengers on board expected to see majestic Ozark vistas, bluffs that are “tens of thousands” of years old, Bald Eagles and more. Some might even have expected a mention of the Baldknobbers, a vigilante group featured in Harold Bell Wright’s famous novel, “The Shepherd of the Hills” and a mainstay of local history. What most didn’t expect was anything tying one one the most “famous gangsters “of all time, Al Capone, to the Branson area..

Capone was a “famous” Chicago gangster during the prohibition era in Chicago and was the head of the “Chicago Mob.” Although no one was every tired for it, it is suspected that he was responsible for the infamous 1929 “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” in retaliation against Bugs Moran, the leader of a “rival gang” during which seven were brutally shot to death. Capone’s criminal career came to an end when he was convicted on federal charges of income tax evasion sentenced to federal prison in 1932, spending the majority of that sentence in Alcatraz, until his parole in 1939. The effects of his neurosyphilis, the repeal of prohibition in 1933 and his incarceration led to Capone’s retirement in Florida where he died of a heart attack at the age of 47.

The question comes to mind, “What does a Chicago gangster have to do with the Ozarks?” After gliding past just about the full length of Rockaway Beach’s scenic lake front, Captain Brian Ayers alerted the passengers to the ruins of a very old two story stone and wooden house at the foot of a bluff, immediately off the right side of the boat and on the opposite shore from Rockaway Beach. He pointed out that in its heyday Rockaway Beach was the premier vacation destination in southwest Missouri and that local legend has it that Al Capone, not only vacationed in Rockaway Beach, but stayed in that house while he was there because of its isolated location and water only approach.

There is no hard evidence that he did, but neither is there that he didn’t, but during the 20s he was known to disappear for periods of time. Could this house be one the places where he went? Who knows for sure, but one thing is certain, as Captain Ayers tells the story of Capone’s Ozarks legend, it sure seems possible and one almost expects to see cigar smoke curling out the windows of the house.

Agility at core of Branson success

Displaying the agility that has made it Branson's oldest and most popular paid attraction, construction is well along on Silver Dollar City's newest thrill ride "Outlaw Run."

BRANSON, Mo., January 1, 2013 — Although many words come to mind to describe Branson, “agility” is not typically one of them. Yet from its earliest days over 100 years ago to Branson’s entry into 2013, “Agility” has been at the core of Branson’s success and what it has become today.

“Agility has been defined as “mentally quick, acute or quick in movement.” It helps keep us, be it a city, company or individual, to be efficient and flexible enough to accept and tackle the challenges necessary to “evolve and meet the future in new and innovative ways.”

In August of 1912, less than five months after being incorporated as a city on April 1 of that year, a devastating fire destroyed downtown Branson’s entire commercial district except for three buildings. Branson’s agility in handling that situation and others along the way put it in a position where, at the beginning of its Centennial Year in 2012, it was and had been for decades one of the premier family travel destinations in the United States, entertaining upwards of 8 million guests annually.

Families like the Herschends, Presleys, Mabes, Trimbels, Snadens and so many others had the agility to recognize the full future potential of tourism to the Branson area and act on that recognition in a timely manner. Each of them, and many others, in their own way evolved segments of Branson’s Tourism industry using what was at the time, and to some of them personally, life changing, new and innovative concepts.

Where would Branson be today without the agility of the Herschend family in recognizing the potential of Silver Dollar City and the numerous innovative things they have done over the last 50 plus years to evolve it into one of the top theme parks anywhere? The agility of the Mabes and Presleys as they pioneered Branson’s early entertainment industry? The agility of the Presleys in evolving their original theatre, that could also be used to store boats if all else failed, into one of Branson’s first state of the art theatres and their innovation in sharing their show and Branson on a weekly basis with millions of TV viewers via RFD-TV?

How important was the agility of the Trimbles and Snadons in establishing the spectacular outdoor drama “Shepherd of the Hills” in helping to preserve the area’s history and culture and promoting the heritage that is such a major part of Branson’s charm? Where would Branson’s entertainment industry be without the agility of the long list of entertainers, entrepreneurs and others who quickly recognized Branson’s potential and had the flexibility to not only become part of it, but to help its shows and attractions evolve into what they have become today?

The same agility that has helped make Branson the wonderful place that it is to visit for millions of tourists today is as necessary tomorrow as it is today. If the past is any indication, that agility is an inherent part of the Branson’s spirit and heritage that will help ensure that the excitement, fun, and adventure that is Branson will continue into the future providing Branson visitors with a great experience that will bring them back again and again.

Winter or Summer Branson is “Hot” fun

Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction takes passengers on an exciting “voyage” no matter what the weather.

BRANSON, Mo., December 28, 2012 — “The ‘Hot’ fun Branson offers has nothing to do with temperature,” said Tiffany Isnard, the Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Whether the temperature is 100 degrees or 17 degrees, Summer or Winter, there is always a choice of entertainment, attractions, shopping and other activities in Branson providing visitors with the ‘hot’ fun that is an inherent part of the Branson experience.” Isnard points out that even though Silver Dollar City and many of Branson’s shows are closed for the season, that there are always shows open and the vast majority of Branson’s attractions and shopping are not weather dependent and remain open year round. Even in January and February the weather is comparatively mild permitting an exciting range of outdoor activities such as golfing, hiking, biking, fishing and other outdoor activities.

In fact, as reported consistently over the years in the Weekly Branson.Com Fishing report, the trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo and bass fishing on Table Rock Lake is excellent during the Winter months. From the National Tiger Sanctuary and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not to the Titanic Museum Attraction, built to one half the size of the original ship and towering a hundred feet above the famed Branson Strip, Branson attractions provide “hot” fun, excitement and adventure year round.

The cruise boats of Main Street Lake Cruises, the river boat paddle wheel replica Lake Queen and the 100 foot luxury yacht, The Landing Princess, with their fully enclosed environmentally controlled decks, provide sightseeing and dinner cruises on Lake Taneycomo. Each cruise includes an unique view of Branson Landing and its dazzling $7.5 million light, fire and music attraction at the Branson Landing Fountains, with fire blasting from “cannons” in choreographed splendor with 120 foot geysers of water, and light, as well as an unparallelled view of the constantly changing Ozarks scenery, water fowl, animals and a chance to see the Bald Eagles that make Lake Taneycomo their home.

Although the Winter weather impacts on the ability to use Table Rock Lake for swimming, Branson’s selection of indoor water parks offers an opportunity to swim and enjoy water activities. Welk Resort’s “Splash-A-Torium, Grand Country’s “Splash Country” and Castle Rock Resort all provide the convenience and comfort of an indoor water attraction providing water slides and fun filled water excitement even on the coldest and snowiest of days. In addition many of Branson’s hotels and lodging facilities open during the Winter, such as the Grand Plaza Hotel, Hilton Promenade, Baymont Inn and Suites and others have indoor heated pools.

Regardless of the season of the year, it’s always a “hot” shopping experience in Branson. The spectacular Branson Landing, major discount malls and hundreds of specialty, art and craft shops are open year round providing a unique shopping opportunity.

“New South” performing “YMCA” during performance of Grand Jubilee.

Although many of Branson’s shows are closed in January and February the Branson show scene is still “hot” with some of its best shows performing during that period. This includes shows such as Absolutely Patsy, Amazing Pets, Branson Country USA, Comedy Jamboree, Dixie Stampede, Grand Jubilee, Hamner Barber Variety Show, Haygoods, “it” at the Hughes Brothers Theatre, Ozark Mountain Jubilee, Pierce Arrow, Tribute to Four Seasons and The Beach Boys and the Twelve Irish Tenors.

Branson Tourism Center’s Isnard points out that all shows will be operating on a Winter schedule with some of them opening up at various times during that period. She suggests because of that, and the reduced availability of shows and lodging, that advance reservations be made especially for the water park properties and over holiday weekends. For additional information or tickets to any of Branson’s 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 calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or on their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Will Old Time Christmas add glow of Rudolph’s nose in 2013?

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer "lighting Up Christmas.*"

BRANSON, Mo., December 22, 2012 — Recognized nationally for its outstanding Christmas lighting with its millions of sparkling Christmas lights, is it possible that the addition of just one more “light” would even be noticeable at Silver Dollar City’s “Ole Time Christmas in Branson?” “Well if that light happens to be ‘red’ and on the nose of ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer®’ it sure could,” said Tiffany Isnard, the Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center.

The story of Rudolph and his red nose was first told by Robert L. May in 1939 and became a part of Christmas tradition when his brother-in-law adapted the story into a song which was made famous by cowboy crooner Gene Autry. The song actually went to the top of Billboard’s Pop Singles Chart and Rudolph has been featured in full length movies, children’s books and TV specials ever since, becoming a special part of the Christmas memories of many children and their families.

Recently, Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE), the country’s largest family-owned theme park company and the operator of Silver Dollar City, announced that it has “a licensing agreement which provides” it “with rights to develop and showcase new entertainment attractions based on the beloved and iconic Christmas character, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer® and his cast of friends, including the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice and the Island of Misfit Toys..” It grants HFE the “opportunity to develop original interactive experiences, attraction films, short and long form live stage shows, parades, light shows and other attractions centered on the famed reindeer and his cast of friends.”

“For more than half a century, HFE has successfully created family-centric attractions and
experiences which tell classic holiday stories such as ‘A Christmas Carol,’ ‘The Christmas Story’
and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ in new ways. We’re thrilled to now bring Rudolph and his friends to life for our guests,” said Anthony Esparza, senior vice president, guest experiences for HFE. “Their appeal and story is universal. We’re eager to creatively expand their popularity using new media and environments.”

Although no specific announcement was made as to when or which HFE properties would feature any “new Rudolph-themed attractions,” it was announced that HFE plans to do so “as early as Christmas 2013.” Whenever it happens, the addition of “Rudolph’s red nose” to the over four million lights already displayed at Silver Dollar City during its Old Time Christmas celebration will just enhance Silver Dollars City’s legend of “Creating memories worth repeating®.”

Photo courtesey HFE

There is nothing like New Years Eve in Branson

The Haygoods are just one of the shows having special New Year's Eve celebrations.

BRANSON, Mo., December 17, 2012 — “What a great place to celebrate New Years Eve and bring in the new year,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “There is always so much for families and individuals to see and experience in Branson. From Zip lines, butterflies, museums, shopping and scenic cruises to an amazing choice of live shows and New Years Eve celebrations. There is a multitude of choice of exciting and entertaining ways to build memories and have fun as 2012 fades away and 2013 starts,” she added.

The vast majority of Branson’s attractions will be open New Years Eve day offering a full range of fun things to do. What better way to spend the last day of 2012 with your family than sharing an historic last chance to commemorate the 100th year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic at the Titanic Museum Attraction, seeing the unique and spectacular “White Flight” at the Butterfly Place & Rainforest Adventure, taking an exciting cruise on Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen with the chance of seeing Bald Eagles or some of the other exciting attractions and activities that Branson offers. The following list, sorted alphabetically, is a list of some of Branson’s most popular attractions and includes a link to more information on each, including pictures, videos, schedules and pricing:

ATTRACTIONS

Adventure Ziplines of Branson

Amazing Waltzing Waters

Branson Limousine Christmas Light Tour

Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

Castle of Chaos

Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors

Hollywood Wax Museum

IMAX Adventure Films

Inspiration Tower

Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum

Shoot for the Stars Mini Golf

The Track Family Fun Parks

Titanic Museum Attraction

Trail of Lights

Vigilante Ziprider

SHOWS

Branson will offer a variety of exciting quality live shows and entertainment with something for everyone. From the Amazing Pets show at 10 AM until the curtain falls on the last show as 2013 begins, Branson’s famed shows will provide a breadth and quality of live entertainment that is as spectacular as it is amazing. Many of Branson’s shows will also be offering special New Years Eve shows and “parties” to celebrate the New Year. The following is a list of the shows, sorted alphabetically by time, that will be open on December 31 with a link to more information on each, including pictures, videos, schedules and pricing. In addition, if a show has indicated they are doing something special to celebrate New Year’s Eve the words “New Year’s Eve Show” follows the shows name

10:00 am

Amazing Pets

2:00 pm

Doo Wop and Chico Vega Drifters

Todd Oliver & Friends

3:00 pm

Acrobats of China featuring New Shanghai Circus

Comedy Jamboree

4:00 pm

Showboat Branson Belle

5:15 pm

Christmas on the Trail

5:30 pm

Dixie Stampede

6:00 pm

Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show

7:30 pm

Grand Jubilee

8:00 pm

Acrobats of China featuring New Shanghai Circus

Hank Williams Revisited

Paul Harris & The Cleverly’s

Showboat Branson Belle

8:30 pm

Branson Limousine Christmas Light Tour

9:00 pm

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express New Year’s Eve Show

Doug Gabriel’s #1 Hits Tribute Show New Year’s Eve Show

Hamner Barber Variety Show New Year’s Eve Show

Haygoods New Year’s Eve Show

Hughes Brothers Christmas Show

Jim Stafford New Year’s Eve Show

Kirby VanBurch New Year’s Eve Show

Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen New Year’s Eve party cruise

Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess New Years Eve party cruise

Pierce Arrow New Year’s Eve Show

9:30 pm

Legends in Concert New Year’s Eve Show

“From attractions’ and shows to great shopping, golf, fishing, cruises and so much more, its hard to imagine a better place than Branson for families to celebrate New Year’s together,” said Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson. She also points out that, particularly at this time of the year, schedules and activities could be impacted by weather. She offers the services of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, the Branson Tourism Center in answering any questions anyone might have or assisting with tickets or lodging arrangements. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550.