Could Branson be the adventure capital of the world?

Kalani Towers is just one of the adventures at White Water.

Many people know that Branson Missouri has so many live shows it is sometimes referred to as “the live music show capital of the world.” Still others know about the fabulous shopping that is available at venues like Branson Landing or the specialty shops in historic downtown Branson and other places throughout Branson, but one has to wonder how many people look at it as an adventure destination. Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center says, “From one end to the other, day in and day out, Branson is one big adventure.”

With almost a gleam in his eye Miller says, “The term ‘Adventure’ has various definitions one of which is ‘an undertaking involving risks or unknown dangers.’ Another, and the one that applies to the type of adventure Branson offers, is ‘an exciting or remarkable experience.’” He goes on to say, “The ‘adventure’ most families coming to Branson are looking for is to share a special time of fun, newness, and excitement with each other. From that perspective and in terms of its uniqueness, variety of activities, natural beauty and its friendliness, Branson could be the ‘adventure capital’ of the world.”

The Payne Stewart Tribute Course is but one of Branson's many golfing adventures.

Branson has so many live music shows presenting just about every genre of music anyone could want, but Miller points out, the adventure of Branson’s shows transcends just music. Shows such Acrobats of China, Yakov’s Moscow Circus, the magic, comedy and ventriloquism of the Hamner Barber Variety Show, the amazing dinner entertainment experiences provided by the Showboat Branson Belle or Dixie Stampede or a performance of shows such as Cirque Montage provide still a different type of adventure.

Branson provides a golfing experience second to none. From nationally recognized championship courses such as Payne Stewart and Branson Creek to other great courses such as Thousand Hills, Pointe Royale and others, Branson provides golfing adventure and excitement for every level of play from the beginner to the PGA pro.

Not a golfer, how about an adventure on one of Branson’s beautiful lakes such as fishing, swimming or boating on Table Rock Lake with its 43,000 acres and hundreds of miles of shoreline. If fishing is your thing, Branson area lakes provide a unique opportunity to catch lunker Large Mouth and Small Mouth Bass in Table Rock and Bull Shoals Lakes as well as trophy sized Rainbow and Brown Trout all within about five minutes of each other. If you want a watery adventure in a theme park environment, then White Water with its 12 acres and 2 million gallons of wet fun, and 7000 feet of water slides, featuring the seven story Kalani Tower, is for you.

It's hard to top the excitment & adventure of Silver Dollar City's "Wildfire."

Branson largest and oldest attraction, Silver Dollar City, is an 1880’s themed amusement park with over 30 rides, craft demonstrations and shows providing adventure at every turn. From the excitement of its world class coaster “Wildfire” and its newest ride the $7 million Tom & Huck’s RiverBlast to its Grand Exposition Area containing rides that the oldest to the youngest members of the family can share together; Silver Dollar City will provide all the adventure, fun and excitement that most families could ever want.

“And that’s just the highlights of the adventure and excitement that awaits families in Branson,” said Miller. “From attractions such as the Titanic Museum, the Hollywood Wax Museum, Butterfly Palace and Rain Forest Experience, Branson Scenic Railway and Ripley’s Believe It or Not to go carts, miniature golf, hiking, bird watching, helicopter rides, kayaking, Branson’s newest thrill Adventure Zip Lines of Branson and many more activities, Branson has an adventure to share with everyone.”

For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, 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.

Why should you bring your family to Branson for their vacation?

Righteous Brother Bill Medley and daughter McKenna Medley performing at the Starlite Theatre in Branson.

Is it Branson’s great shows offering entertainment as diversified as the Amazing Pets, Righteous Brother Bill Medley, Cirque Montage, Paul Revere and the Raiders, Yakov’s Moscow Circus, Pierce Arrow or unique Branson originals such as The Baldknobbers Jamboree and Presleys’ Country Jubilee? Perhaps it’s great amusement parks such as the 1880s themed Silver Dollar City or White Water; museum attractions such as Branson’s Titanic or the Hollywood Wax Museum; pristine lakes such as Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo; golfing; hiking; shopping or any one of the hundreds of other great activities that families can share and do in Branson.

Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center says, “Those are all excellent reasons why someone should vacation in Branson, but they are just things. It is the experience people have while doing those things that, to paraphrase Silver Dollar City’s words, ‘Have been creating Branson memories worth repeating for over 50 years.’”

As this writer listened to the Righteous Brother Bill Medley sing “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” during a show recently the words “You’ve lost that lovin’ feeling, Whoa, that lovin’ feeling, You’ve lost that lovin’ feeling, Now it’s gone ..gone ..gone ..wooooooh,” gave him pause to think. He thought, “That’s one of the primary reasons Branson is so successful. When the majority of our visitors leave, in terms of their Branson experience, they know Branson ‘hasn’t lost that lovin’ feeling.’” In fact, that very “lovin’ feeling” becomes an integral part in the memory of their Branson experience and will bring them back again and again.

Much of that “lovin’ feeling” is embodied in “The “Branson Promise,” a formalized statement and commitment from the Branson community to its guests and the communities adherence to that promise. It does two things, provides our visitors with an expectation that transcends things and activities and reminds those of us having the privilege of living and working in these beautiful Ozarks hills and serving our guests of what it is that makes Branson so special.

Among other things it says, “We believe that a vacation is not an escape from reality but a connection to what is real, you, your family, laughter, music, pure fun, and doing the things you really want to do, together…We believe in our American values and celebrate them every day, respect for the individual, patriotism, faith, hope, optimism, family, courage, generosity, and opportunity for all…We’re proud of who we are and where we are going. We’d love to show you around, because we love the ways in which we will surprise you. We’ve found what we want in Branson, and we know you’ll find what you want here too. Our doors are open, come on in.”

Recently, Branson entertainer Mike Grimm, who had only been in Branson for about six months, took leave of the Righteous Brother Bill Medely Show to pursue his dream on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” During an interview he was asked what his first memory of Branson was. He replied, “My first memory of Branson is the hospitality and friendliness of everybody. This is God’s country out here, this is America and that’s what I love about it.”

That’s the Branson Promise in action and one of the primary reasons why your family will have a great vacation experience in Branson. As the promise says, “We’ve found what we want in Branson, and we know you’ll find what you want here too.” We believe there is a synergy in to share it with you and your family.

For additional information or tickets for or any of Branson’s shows, attractions and 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 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.

Showboat Branson Belle is 1,250 tons of floating entertainment and excitement

The magnificent Showboat Branson Belle

“Branson, Missouri has so many fun filled things for people and families to do that the choices almost boggle the mind,” said Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center. “One of its most unique shows and attractions, from its banana launch on August 12, 1994 to the entertainment experience it provides is the Showboat Branson Belle.”

Themed to capture the beauty, legend and lore of the early 1800 showboat era; the Showboat Branson Belle provides her passengers with a unique chance to experience the elegant grandeur of a bygone era while being able to dine, see a show, and experience the beauty of the Ozarks and its constantly changing scenery as they cruise the pristine waters of Table Rock Lake. “The whole Showboat Branson Belle experience, has made its cruises one of the most popular attractions in Branson for individuals, families and groups of all sizes,” Miller said.

“When you first see her, you know that she is something special,” He continued. Her four decks and smoke stacks reach over 112 feet into the Ozark’s sky and her picture book grandeur transcends time, reminding everyone of the romance, adventure, and history of riverboats and sets the mood for the adventure, fun and entertainment that those boarding her will have.

As impossible as it sounds, the Showboat Branson Belle was built completely on the shores of Table Rock Lake in the immediate area of the White River Landing, where she is now berthed. On August 12, 1994 she was launched down a 140 foot launch ramp, that had been greased with an environmentally friendly two tons of bananas instead of other lubricants, into Table Rock Lake. She was christened on April 13, 1995 and made her first cruise that same month.

At 278 feet in length, 78 feet in width, and weighing 1,250 tons, the $8 million Showboat Branson Belle is almost as long as a football field and carries over 700 passengers as she cruises the scenic waters of Table Rock Lake. She is believed to the largest paddle wheel excursion vessel sailing in a landlocked waterway and is one of the few vessels of her size that does not provide alcoholic beverages or gambling of any type.

Like the true sternwheelers of the past, the Showboat Branson Belle is actually propelled through the water by her two huge stern paddlewheels at a peak speed of 11 miles per hour and an average speed of six miles per hour. Each is 24 feet in diameter, 16 feet wide and propelled by its own independent motor. Although her navigation into and out of her mooring facility is handled by bow and stern thrusters she is steered by a 10 foot 2 inch Captain’s Wheel “made of solid maple wood Restored from the C.C. Slider which operated 1928 – 1952.”

Miller said that the theatrical entertainment and great meals prepared onboard the ships galley for its lunch and dinner cruises are provided in an atmosphere that is as close to the elegance and adventure of the historical river boat era as one is likely to find. “In addition,” he said, “The Ozarks scenery seen from Table Rock Lake, as the Showboat Branson Belle cruises its waters, provides an unsurpassed constantly changing show of its own.

For additional information or tickets for the Showboat Branson Belle or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and 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.

How families can save money going to Branson Shows

Branson's first show on "The Strip" the "Presleys' Country Jubilee" is one of many shows offering "Family Passes."

Even in these challenging economic times, millions of visitors and their families will come to Branson, Missouri because of the vacation synergy generated by its lakes, shows, attractions, shopping, entertainment, many other family activities and value. Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most reputable seller of show and attraction tickets and lodging, said, “According to recent tourism statistics, the vast majority of visitors to Branson see three or more of Branson’s great live shows. Many of those are families.”

Miller points out that most Branson shows provide an exceptional entertainment experience not only in terms of the performance, but price. “Some of Branson’s most popular shows, such as Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Jim Stafford, Pierce Arrow, Yakov’s Moscow Circus, Hamner Barber Variety Show, Duttons, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Neal McCoy, and the Rankin Brothers to name a few, become even a better value, in terms of price, because they offer “Family Passes” with significant savings. “The challenge,” says Miller, “is to find those theatres that offer “Family Passes” in an efficient manner, especially on the internet.”

Miller said, “Our constant passion at the Branson Tourism Center is helping the customer have a great Branson experience and that experience starts with great customer service. What we call internally, the “Internet Family Pass Identification System” is an extension of that service.”

He said, “Branson Tourism Center operates two major web sites. www.BransonTourismCenter.com, specifically designed to provide free personal one on one assistance and service between potential Branson visitors and a trained Branson Tourism Center Travel Specialist via the 1-800-785-1550 number listed on the website and www.BransonOnTheWeb.com for those who want to make their own online reservations. Both sites use the Internet Family Pass Identification System.”

On www.BransonTourismCenter.com, a list of just those Branson shows offering Family Passes is available by selecting the “Family Pass” link from the top of the Show Schedule page. On www.BransonOnTheWeb.com there is a “Family Pass” filter that can be used with its advanced state of the art search engine to display just those shows offering Family Passes. In terms of the Branson Tourism Center, Miller emphasizes that it has an “A+ Rating” from the Better Business Bureau, there is never any additional service charge of any kind and personal assistance is only an 800 number call away, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., every day of the year except Christmas.

Miller also points out that it is not uncommon for Branson shows to let small children, generally ages four or less, in for free providing they are sitting on the lap of someone who has purchased a ticket. Miller says that “Cirque Montage” admits all children up to age 16 to the show free with a paid adult admission and others may, at certain times during the year, provide free tickets for children up to ages 17 with the purchase of an adult ticket. Although different theatres and ticket sellers handle the situation in different ways on www.BransonTourismCenter.com and www.BransonOnTheWeb.com the prices will show “Free” for the applicable ages if that is an option a particular show offers. In addition, for those using the free personal service provided by www.BransonTourismCenter.com and its 1-800-785-1550 number, the BTC Travel Specialist will provide that information.

For additional information on Family Passes or discounts for families or children to Branson shows or attractions or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Finding Branson and where you want to go in Branson the easy way

One of Branson's most recognizable landmarks, The Titanic Museum, located at the western end of Branson Blue Route.

“As recently as today, there was a question from a potential Branson visitor saying, ‘I don’t know for sure how to get to Branson,’” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “Others either want detailed maps of Branson or help on how to navigate around in Branson once they get here.”

Johnson continues, “Although there are many ways to get maps and directions to Branson, one of the simplest is to go to www.BransonTourismCenter.com and click on “Driving Directions” located under “Help” in the left hand column. This one click takes you to the page “Directions and Maps to Branson Tourism Center.”

In the “Your Address” box type in your city and state i.e. “Chicago, Illinois.” Click the “Go” box” and a specific map from that city and state, along with detailed driving directions to Branson, will be generated. If a map and driving directions from a specific address is desired just enter the address prior to the city and state. Although the map and directions generated are based on the location of the Branson Tourism Center, they are in essence a map and directions to Branson because of BTC’s central location, one tenth (.1) of a mile west of U.S. Highway 65 at the first Branson Exit (Branson Hills Parkway/ Bee Creek Rd) coming south from Springfield, Missouri.

“Once in Branson, getting to where you want to go is easy using the one page Branson Map showing its main routes and colored coded alternate routing system.” said Johnson “The full colored Branson map is easily accessed at www.BransonTourismCenter.com,” by clicking on “Map of Branson” under “Branson Info” in the left hand column. The map may also be downloaded in PDF format for easy printing and is available free at the Branson Tourism Center, located 220 Branson Hills Parkway in Branson.

Johnson also points out that Branson’s excellent system of alternate routes provides convenient alternate access to many Branson shows, attractions and activities. These alternate routes are color coded for ease of use and generally run parallel to the famous “Branson Strip (Highway 76),” with the Yellow Route paralleling to the south and the Blue and Red Routes to the north. The colored routes are appropriately signed, provide north south access to Highway 76 through arterial roads and are featured on the Branson Map mentioned above.

She mentioned that the Branson Map and colored alternate routes are extensively covered in an article entitled, “Branson’s colored traffic routes ‘shows’ the way.” Johnson said “The article also shows the location of specific Branson shows, activities and Branson attractions and explains how to use the alternate routes to get to them.

For additional information or directions on how to either get to or around Branson, or for tickets to any of Branson’s shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Why spend Memorial Day Weekend anywhere else but in Branson?

White Water is two million gallons of water fun and excitment for the whole family.

“Every weekend in Branson is special, but there’s just something about Memorial Day Weekend in Branson,” says Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center. “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.’”

What better place than Branson, Missouri for that to happen? Pristine lakes, great fishing, boating, golfing, hiking and access to the natural beauty of the Ozarks, coupled with its live shows, attractions, shopping and activities, make Branson the most unique and one of the most fun filled destinations in the world. Factor in the it’s a long holiday weekend and some of the other exciting things happening that weekend and why would anyone want to be anywhere else but in Branson over Memorial Day Weekend?

While the vast majority of Branson attractions are already open, its biggest water park, “White Water,” opens over Memorial Day Weekend. Featuring “Kalani Towers,” a 7- story, 6- slide, thrill ride, the 12 acre attraction has more than a dozen rides, and 7,000 feet of water slides all set in a tropical theme. From play areas for toddlers to the towering “Kalani Towers” White Water offers more than two million gallons of water excitement and fun for Branson visitors and is a wonderful adventure for all ages and families.

Silver Dollar City, celebrating its 50th Anniversary this season, will be hosting its “Bluegrass and BBQ Festival” featuring succulent BBQ served with a choice of over 100 sauces and great Bluegrass music. The festival includes over 50 Bluegrass bands and groups that will be presenting hundreds of performances of both traditional and contemporary Bluegrass music throughout the park. Over 15 of these groups will be appearing over the Memorial Day Weekend including the last day of “The Grascals,” 2010 SPBGMA Bluegrass Band of the Year, on May 28 and IBMA Hall of Fame Inductee Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press on May 31.

The father and son team of Herkimer and Cecil provide some of their unique action filled comedy at "Presleys' Country Jubilee."

The Bluegrass and BBQ Festival is in addition to everything else that the 1880s Ozarks theme park is famous for. Its 100 craftsmen demonstrating glass blowing, basket weaving, blacksmithing, pottery, candy making, candle making, and many other crafts; over 30 rides and attractions; 60 unique shops; restaurants and the award winning friendliness of its staff have been “Creating memories worth remembering” for over 50 years.

Miller points out that Branson’s full schedule of live shows features a wide variety of live entertainment for every taste. From the amazing skill and agility of the “Acrobats of China,” to the magic, comedy and ventriloquism of “Hamner and Barber” and the spectacular biblical production “NOAH the Musical,” the majority of Branson’s most popular shows, such as “Jim Stafford,” “Presleys’ Country Jubilee,” “Pierce Arrow,” “SIX,” “Liver Pool Legends,” “Twelve Irish Tenors,” “Broadway the Star Spangled Celebration,” The Spirit of the Dance,” “The “Showboat Branson Belle,” “Duttons,” “Rankin Brothers”, “Haygoods,” “Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express,” “Hughes Brothers, ” “Dixie Stampede,” “The Platters,” “Legends in Concert” and “The Righteous Brother Bill Medley,” will be performing.

“And those are just some of the dozens of regular Branson shows that will be open over the Memorial Day Weekend,” said Miller. He points out that in addition “The Oak Ridge Boys” and “Ronnie Reno and the Cumberland Highlanders” will be performing limited engagement appearances that weekend and that Branson’s unique Polynesian show “Island Fire,” starts its season on May 28.

From lakes, to water parks, Bluegrass, BBQ, attractions, live entertainment and fun for everyone in the family, Branson is the place to spend your Memorial Day Weekend. Miller advises advance reservations for lodging and shows to ensure availability and the best accommodations and seating. For additional information or tickets for any of the shows or attractions mentioned in this article or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. It can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Its historic downtown is a unique part of the Branson experience

In the snow of winter or the heat of summer, Dick's 5 & 10 is just one example of the unique things Historic Downtown Branson has to offer.

“Many downtown areas are a shell of what they used to be,” says Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, “but historic downtown Branson is alive and vibrant. It has history, shows, restaurants, shopping and attractions and is truly the place ‘where it all started.’”

The Mabe family and their “Baldknobbers Jamboree,” Branson’s first show, is credited as being the “show that started it all.” They first performed in a small rented space in a civic building located behind the historic Owens Theatre in 1959 and now, 51 years later, the rest is history. The only buildings to survive the 1912 fire that virtually destroyed Branson’s downtown district within months after it became a city, the grave of the man it is named after and it’s oldest free standing commercial building are also located in historic downtown Branson.

Interestingly, Branson’s first show started its performances behind Branson’s first theatre, the “Owen Theatre,” built in 1936 by Jim Owen, a local float trip operator on the White River, to provide entertainment for the fishermen when they weren’t fishing. It was originally called the “Hillbilly Theatre” and, although originally a movie theatre, is considered Branson’s first “theatre,” movie or otherwise. Its distinctive architecture and beautiful interior stone walls make it one of the most unique buildings in Branson.

Miller goes on to point out that the term “Elvis is in the building” takes on new meaning in historic downtown Branson with two “Elvis” shows right across the street from one another. Dave Ehlert is currently performing “Elvis and the Superstars” in the “Hot Hits Theatre.” He has been performing the show in Branson for 16 seasons with one hour of his show devoted to “Elvis.”

The Kyle Hall family has completely remodeled and restored the historic Owens Theatre right across the street and it is the venue of Branson’s newest Elvis show, “Joseph Hall Presents Eras of the King.” Hall has placed in the top ten of the “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest,” since its inception in 2007, had a top ten finish on “NBC’s America’s Got Talent” in 2008 and is officially recognized by “Elvis Presley Enterprises.” It is two hours of nonstop Elvis, one number after another covering all the eras of “Elvis’ career.

Historic downtown Branson has a variety of restaurants from Thai to good old fashioned Ozarks café cooking. “In fact,” Miller says, “Branson’s oldest cafes and restaurants are located in historic downtown Branson within a block of each other including the “Branson Café,” “Farm House,” “Clocker’s and “The Shack.” Also located within the historic downtown district is Thai Thai Cuisine,” “Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar,” “Rocky’s Italian Restaurant” and Branson’s newest upscale restaurant, the “Level 2 Steakhouse,” located in the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

In terms of shopping, historic downtown Branson has too many opportunities to mention by name, but suffice it to say from the working art studio of noted outdoor and wildlife artist T. Morgan Crain to the unique merchandise of specialty shops such as “Branson Bills Emporium” and the beads of the “Plum Bazaar,” a shopping experience in Historic Downtown Branson is unique and special.

“Dick’s 5 & 10” is not only a one of a kind shopping experience harking back to the old time “5 & 10” stores, but is also one of Branson’s most popular attractions. It’s wide selection of varied merchandise has led some to say, “If you can’t find it at Dick’s you don’t need it.” Historic Downtown Branson also has a horse and carriage ride, a free “Discovery Trolley” that runs through the historic downtown area to Branson Landing and along the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront and the Branson Scenic Railway offering scenic excursions throughout the beautiful Ozark area surrounding Branson.

Keeping Branson’s history and heritage alive is an inherent part of doing business in Historic Downtown Branson. Among other things, Historic Downtown Branson sponsors a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The “37th Annual Plumb Nellie Arts & Crafts Festival,” featuring 200 crafters exhibiting their work, demonstrations, seminars entertainment and special sales by downtown merchants will be held in historic downtown Branson May 21st through the 23rd. Click here for a full schedule of the various events and festivals sponsored Historic Downtown Branson.

In terms of its history and heritage, historic downtown Branson is “The Heart of Branson.” In terms of having fun and sharing in a special unique experience, historic downtown Branson has it all and has it all within walking distance of each other.

For further information on historic downtown Branson or its events please call Historic Downtown Branson at 417-334-1358 or visit their website www.downtownbranson.org. For Branson lodging, show or attraction information or reservations please call 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.