Branson

As the pathway through the Ozark Mountains, the Branson Scenic Railway offers a 40-mile roundtrip journey through spectacular tunnels and breathtaking foothills. Panoramic views of the Ozarks are seen through each of the dome cars and wide windows, and seating is unassigned. Passengers learn the history of the area as concessions are offered on the Silver Lake car, and a luxurious dinner train runs May through December on Saturdays. As seating is limited on the dinner train, reservations are required.

Nestled amidst the Ozark Mountains is Table Rock Lake, a Mecca for aquatic enthusiasts and fishermen. Swimming, wake-boarding, skiing, tubing, racing, and diving can all be done in the lake, while hikers will find the endless trails and wildlife alluring. Underneath Table Rock is the massive Missouri cave system—which is also open for exploration. Fishermen will be interested to know the record largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and other fish reside at the lake. And all of Branson’s attractions lie just beyond the hills.

George Dyer has long been synonymous with Branson’s main performance attractions. Dyer has been celebrated worldwide for his silky tenor: Classics, Gospel, Love songs, Power Ballads, Broadway favorites, Opera, and even modern hits line Dyer’s arsenal of awe-inspiring shows. Not just Dyer takes the stage, though—he features an array of equally talented artists throughout his performances.

Silver Dollar City is the epicenter of entertainment in Branson. 30 amusement rides comprise the thrills, plus 10 family rides. 40 live shows happen daily, and over 100 craftsmen make Silver Dollar City a great shopping location. For dining, a variety of restaurants and concessions will satisfy any hunger. Silver Dollar City hosts six world events annually: Family Spring Break Days, Young Christian's Weekend, Bluegrass & BBQ Festival, SDC Season Pass Appreciation Days, National Kidsfest Festival, Moonlight Madness, Southern Gospel Picnic, and National Harvest Festival.

Only yards from the Dick Clark Theater is the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area. With 130 acres of gorgeous hiking areas, Lakeside is found on the bluff above the equally gorgeous Lake Taneycomo. Two trails may be explored, with trail maps posted at the trailhead.

Lake Taneycomo is accessed by way of Downtown Branson, south of highway 76 in Hollister. The lake is clear and coldwater, restocked each year with around 750,000 rainbow and brown trout. There are full-service marinas, outfitters, resorts, campgrounds, and RV parks on Lake Taneycomo, making it a great vacation destination.

Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery offers free guided and self-guided tours of the area. The hatchery provides much of the rainbow and brown trout found in Lake Taneycomo, and it has a phenomenal aquarium that displays the trout for everyone to see. Fishing areas are located onsite, and four nature trails allow visitors to explore the hills.

Having even been featured on the 2012 season of “America’s Got Talent,” Taylor Reed is a grand illusionist and magician—one of the world’s best. Reed combines his talents to create a magic, comedy and dance show for Branson audiences, having even added a new NASCAR illusion and fire-eating performance.

Historic Downtown Branson consistently draws tourists year-round to see the multitudes of attractions and events it has to offer. Museums, theatres, musical productions, retail shops, and restaurants make Downtown Branson a premier entertainment district in Missouri. Walking tours of the history and spooky legends are offered daily, and free trolley rides are even given between Historic Downtown and Branson Landing. Annual events held include the Plumb Nellie Days, Fiddle Festival, Autumn Daze, Piccadilly Women’s Event, Veteran’s Day Parade, and the Adoration Parade.