Branson, Missouri: Something for everyone

Yes, there is country music in Branson but today the music includes all genres from country to soul. Branson has grown to be so much more than music. There are fascinating museums plus fishing, hiking, boating, and much more. Truly there is something for everyone.

1. Big Cedar Lodge: Just a few miles from the center of Branson is a beautiful full-service resort tucked in the wooded hills. Big Cedar Lodge, located on Table Rock Lake, is the perfect retreat offering boating, fishing, and swimming in a natural setting.

2. Golf: With a name like Murder Rock Golf & Country Club golfing has to be exciting. The name comes not from golfers but from a legend about a gang that ambushed travelers during the mid-1800s. Today it is a place of beauty with lush fairways, pristine greens, and expansive views.

3. Dogwood Canyon: Fall in love with the beauty of the Ozarks hiking, biking, or horseback riding. The 2,200-acre nature park sprawls across the Missouri-Arkansas border, just south of Branson. Fly fishing lessons and guided fishing trips are available.

4. Shopping: Branson is a shopper’s delight. Explore Branson Mill where local craftsmen demonstrate their skills. The new Branson Landing includes more than 100 shops. Don’t miss Dick’s 5 & 10, an eclectic mix that includes the owner’s collection of sports and aviation memorabilia.

5. Museums: Car lovers will enjoy the more that 100 vehicles on display at the Branson Auto Museum. Pretend to be one of the paparazzi while visiting the Hollywood Wax Museum, the only wax museum devoted entirely to celebrity figures. The spirit of the Titanic lives on at the Titanic Museum with over 400 artifacts on display.

6. Silver Dollar City: It would take several days to see and do everything at Silver Dollar City. Enjoy thrilling rides including the new $7 million Tom and Huck’s RiverBlast, watch craftsmen at work, explore Marvel Cave, take a Culinary Class to learn how to make the local version of succotash, relax in the shade while listening to a storyteller, and visit the circa 1800s church and school.

7. Dining: Enjoy Andy Williams’ favorite family recipes at his Moon River Grill or head to Mel’s Hard Luck Diner with the singing waiters. Not to miss is the Chuck Wagon Dinner at Big Cedar Lodge and the Hilton’s Level 2 Steakhouse. Try the local version of succotash, which is a meal in itself.

8. Ozark Zephyr: Take a scenic ride on a vintage train through foothills of the Ozarks. Travel over trestles, through tunnels, and past small communities while listening to local stories. Enjoy their seasonal Polar Express experience complete with snow upon arrival back at the station.

9. Music: Of course music is Branson’s mainstay. Enjoy the music of the Baldknobbers, Platters, Oak Ridge Boys, Andy Williams, and many more performing artists. It is possible to enjoy a different show every morning, afternoon, and evening. Branson is especially exciting at Christmastime when the town pulls out all the stops to celebrate the season.

There is so much more. Visit Bonniebrook, the home of Rose O’Neil, creator of the Kewpie doll. Enjoy the trill of the Branson Ballknocker and the Vigilante ZipRider, parasail high above Table Rock Lake, visit a winery, take a cruise on the Lake Queen, dine while enjoying a great show on the Branson Belle, and/or relax with a spa treatment. For a free vacation guide log on to www.explorebranson.com or call 800-296-0463.