Category Archives: Tourism

Hospitality and shows bring couple back to Branson for 17 years

George and Sally Kaup during 2011 Branson Trip.*

BRANSON, MO, June 2, 2013 – “The quality and quantity of Branson’s live shows is a major reason many people come to Branson,” said Tiffany Isnard, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “That’s not surprising, given the reputation Branson has for the variety and quality of its live entertainment, but it is a wonderful testimony to Branson’s shows and how important they are to Branson when people like George and Sally Kaup, from Woodridge, IL, come back to Branson year after year primarily to see them and have seen as many as 32 in one visit.”

The Kaup’s loyalty to Branson and its shows came to light while George and his wife were having a discussion with personnel from Main Street Cruise Lines in connection with a sightseeing cruise on scenic Lake Taneycomo aboard the paddlewheel river boat replica, “Lake Queen.” Although “Branson – Up Close and Personal,” a service of the Branson Tourism Center, normally provides readers with an up close and personal look at a Branson star or personality we thought it would be interesting to interview the Kaups. The interview with George Kaup (GK), with input from Sally, uses a “Question and Answer” format with the interviewing being done for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by Gary J. Groman, a 27 year resident of the Branson area, local columnist and freelance writer.

BTC: How long have you been coming to Branson?

GK:  Since 1996, at least once a year, sometimes by ourselves and other times, like last Thanksgiving with family members.

BTC: What do you like the most about Branson?

GK: Its shows, friendliness of the people and hospitality.

BTC: What is your favorite thing to do in Branson?

GK: Go to shows.

BTC: When was your last trip to Branson?

GK: We arrived late on May 22 and left on May 29. Our last trip prior to that was the week of Thanksgiving so that we could show our Grandchildren what Christmas was like in Branson.

BTC: How many shows did you see during your May trip?

GK: We saw 14 shows.

BTC: What were your favorite top three shows on this trip?

Rankin Brothers vocal cast performing a beautiful rendition of "Shenandoah," with Lori Kelly, left, Matt Rankin, Mark Rankin and Amy Coffer.

GK: Rankin Brothers, ABBA Tribute – Thank You for the Music and Ozark Murder Mysteries.

BTC: What is the most shows you have seen on one trip?

GK: We had a 13 day trip during which we saw 32 shows.

BTC: With all those trips to Branson do you have a favorite place that you stay?

GK: Over the years we have had the Branson Tourism Center book us into different hotels. This last trip they booked us into the Dutton Inn. We were very impressed with the continental breakfast, how clean their rooms were and their hospitality. I would put them at the top of our list and, over the years, we have stayed at a variety of different Branson lodging establishments. When we come back we are sure going to try to stay there because it really made an impression on us. Again, not only were the rooms extremely clean, but whatever people you dealt with at the hotel seemed to bend over backwards to do anything they could for you. Hospitality goes a long way.

BTC: On your last trip you took a sightseeing trip on Lake Taneycomo aboard the Lake Queen. How did you enjoy the trip?

GK: It was fantastic.

BTC: What did you like most about the trip?

GK: The relaxing ride, beautiful scenery and the narration the Captain gives about Branson history and the sites we were passing on the trip.

BTC: Would you recommend a sightseeing cruise on the Lake Queen to others?

GK: Definitely. As a matter of fact we did already while we were down there.

BTC: What other Branson attractions did you see?

GK: None this trip, but we saw the Titanic Museum Attraction on one of our recent trips and really enjoyed it.

BTC: About how many times have you used the services of the Branson Tourism Center to plan a Branson vacation?

GK: For at least the last ten years.

BTC: Would you recommend the Branson Tourism Center to others?

GK: Oh definitely!

BTC: Why?

GK: It’s the only way to go. You make a call to them, decide what shows and attractions you want to see, the type of lodging you want and they arrange it all. You just sit back and wait for the call from them confirming your reservations, where you are staying and pricing. Everything is locked in. It’s a super place to work through, friendly, hospitable and ready to bend over backwards to help you. On our last trip we decided to come a day early, called the BTC about getting an extra night lodging at the Dutton Inn when we were about 20 minutes out of Branson and by the time we pulled into their reception center at 8:00 PM, they had made the arrangements with the Dutton Inn for our extra day.

BTC: When are you coming back to Branson?

GK:  Next year in May.

BTC: Is there anything in Branson that you haven’t done yet that you are planning to do on your next visit?

GK: We have never been to Silver Dollar city and we are talking about going next year.

BTC: Anything else you would like me to include?

GK:  Great place to visit and we would love to live there.

*Photo courtesy George and Sally Kaup.

 

Are discounted show tickets the best value for Branson vacation?

BRANSON, MO, April 9, 2013 — “Buying tickets for a Branson show is just like buying anything else,” said Tammy Johnson Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), Branson’s largest seller of Branson show and attraction tickets. “You get what you pay for.”

As is the case with most tourist destinations, there are places in Branson that offer “2 for 1” or other extremely discounted tickets. “This brings to mind a time tested caveat, ‘Buyer beware’ Johnson added.

In dealing with “discount ticket brokers, “among others, a potential buyer might want to consider some of the following points. Is the business offering the tickets a member of the BBC (Better Business Bureau)? If so what rating does it have? What conditions apply to receiving the discount? Are they getting the best seats available? Is there a service charge? Does the establishment selling the tickets offer tickets to all of Branson’s most popular shows and attractions? Are they a one stop provider of Branson travel services? Do they offer show, attractions and lodging packages that can result in total savings of more than just the discounted tickets they offer?

Johnson points out that the Branson Tourism Center has sold well over three million Branson show and attraction tickets, has been an accredited member of the BBBfor over a decade and enjoys an “A+” rating. BTC never charges a service fee, offers tickets to all Branson shows and enjoys an excellent relationship with the shows and attractions with which it does business. This results in getting its customers the best available seats at the time of booking as opposed to the “remnants.”

Employing over 100 people, BTC offers a full range of Branson travel services, including lodging for just about every budget and taste. The savings resulting from “packaging,” combining lodging with tickets for shows and attractions, will in many cases be much more than that of just the discounted tickets with added convenience and less risk.

The convenience and comfort factor in dealing with a full service travel provider with the reputation of the Branson Tourism Center does not cost any more, generally results in better seats and value with a savings of both time and money if packaging is used and all without any conditions or stipulations.

As Peggy Barthel, the purchaser of BTC’s 3 millionth ticket, pointed out; after spending most of the day on the internet trying to decide where to go and what to do while in Branson she discovered the Branson Tourism Center and called their 800 number,1-800-875-1550. In summing up the results of that call she said, “One call that’s all, they just took care of everything. We’re just going to go up there and have fun.” Isn’t that what you want for your Branson vacation?

 

Tammy Johnson – a friend of the Branson traveler

Tammy Johnson Branson Tourisim Center's Director of Operations

BRANSON, MO, March 11, 2013 —  The term “Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center” has appeared after her comments in hundreds of internet articles on Branson over the last four years. That’s not just because she works for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and a BBB accredited business with an A+ rating that has sold over 3 million Branson show and attraction tickets. Simply put, it’s because she has over three and a half decades of specific experience in serving Branson visitors, is dedicated to helping them have the best Branson experience possible and, perhaps more importantly, knows what she is talking about.

Tammy Johnson is no “Betty Crocker” type marketing creation, she is the real deal. During an interview Johnson said that she started in the Branson tourism industry cleaning rooms when she was 11 years old. Since that time she has acquired extensive experience in the Branson tourism industry by working in many of its different aspects from funnel cakes and waiting on tables to working the front desk, auditing, sales and managing one of Branson’s largest lodging properties.

Her last position, prior to starting with the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) in 2008, was as the General Manager for Branson’s Radisson Hotel, a position which she held for 12 years. In her current position, as the Director of Operations for BTC, she works directly under the owners of the business, Lianne and Larry Milton, supervising and coordinating the activities of over 100 employees with the tens of thousands of Branson visitors and hundreds of Branson shows, attractions, lodging establishments and other vendors BTC serves each year to insure that its customers have the best Branson experience possible.

Johnson points out that BTC is an internet based marketing company dedicated to marketing the fun, excitement and adventure that Branson has to offer. Remarkably, none of that marketing is based on either outbound calling or by intercepting visitors once they get to Branson. It is all done through people establishing a relationship with BTC prior to coming to Branson by calling 1-800-875-1550 or one of its other toll free numbers, or directly through the internet, as a result of its presence on the internet. This presence is reflected through one of its websites such as Branson’s original website, www.Branson.Com, www.BransonTourismCenter or www.BransonOnTheWeb; social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter or one of the hundreds of articles on Branson and what it offers that BTC publishes on the internet each year.

As mentioned above, in addition to her many other duties Johnson’s expertise is often used in the articles BTC publishes on the internet because of her broad Branson tourism background and the fact that she is intimately involved with its operation on a daily basis. To paraphrase the Hallmark Card slogan, when it comes to serving its customers and potential Branson visitors, “BTC cares enough to give its very best.”

Color by the numbers to get around in Branson like a pro

BRANSON, Mo., September 7, 2017 – “Compared to a lot of destination cities, navigating around Branson is a joy,” said Preston Garrison, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The relatively compact size of its entertainment district, route numbering and color coded route system makes it very easy to efficiently find and get to Branson’s shows, attractions, shopping, lodging, or just about any other place you would want to go.”

Branson's color coded route map

Branson’s Numbered/Color Coded Route Map

The vast majority of people coming into Branson do so via Highway 65, which, as is the case with the major odd numbered routes such as 165 and 265, in the Branson area, runs north and south. Even numbered routes such as 76, 248 and 376 run east and west. A quick look at the incorporated Branson Map, click to enlarge, verifies this fact and shows that the major north-south route through Branson is Highway 65 and Branson’s major east-west route is Route 76. East from that junction leads to Historic Downtown Branson, Lake Taneycomo, Branson Landing and the Branson Convention Center. West leads to the famous Branson Strip, located on Route 76, Branson’s major attractions such as the Titanic Museum Attraction, Tanger Mall, White Water and, farther west, Shepherd of the Hills and Silver Dollar City.

Branson’s system of alternate color coded routes also helps make it easy to find where you want to go and how to get there. There are three, Blue, Red, and Yellow. It can be generally said that they are overlaid on existing routes and roads and parallel Route 76, running east and west, with the Yellow Route doing so to the south of Highway 76 and the Blue and Red to the north. “A little time spent familiarizing oneself with these color coded routes can go a long way toward making travel around Branson more efficient, minimizing involvement with traffic congestion, and ‘timely arrivals,'” Johnson added.

The Yellow Route provides access to lodging and shows located on Fall Creek Road, Wildwood Drive, and Green Mountain Drive and an entry into shows such as Legends in Concert, Bretts, , Dixie Stampede, Andy Williams Moon River Theatre, Caravelle Theatre, Duttons, Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers, and others. Arterial streets provide access to theatres such as Clay Cooper, SIX, Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theatre, it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre, and others along with Tanger Mall and White Water.

The northern most color coded route is the Red Route which intersects with Highway 65 at its “State Route 248” or “Shepherd of the Hills Expressway” exit. The eastern terminus of the Red Route is the junction of Route 76 and Business Highway 65 in Historic Downtown Branson with its western terminus being the junctions of Route 76, Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Route 376 near IHOP.

At its eastern end, among other things, the Red Route provides access to Branson Landing, Main Street Marina, Main Street Lake Cruises, Historic Downtown Branson with Dicks 5 & 10 and much more, Lake Taneycomo, the city of Branson’s Lakeside RV Park and Scotty’s Trout Dock. As one travels west on the Red Route from its junction with Highway 65 on Route 248/Shepherd of the Hills Expressway they will pass by the Mansion Theatre, Sight & Sound Theatre with its spectacular productions, Pierce ArrowHamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show, Shoji Tabuchi and the IMAX Complex with its great shopping, Elite III movie theatres, giant screen IMAX theatre, and the Little Opry Theatre.

The Blue Route starts from its eastern end at the intersection of Highway 76 and Roark Valley Road and runs west, paralleling Branson’s Strip to its north, until it ends at the intersection of Route 76 and Gretna Road right at Branson’s largest museum attraction, The Titanic Museum Attraction and kitty-corner from the Clay Cooper Theatre. It runs past the entrance to Ballparks of America, and by arterial roads, providing direct access to the Tanger Mall, Starlite Theatre, and other strip attractions.

detailed map of Branson

Detailed Map of Branson

For additional information on Branson’s color coded routes, getting around Branson or any of Branson’s shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please feel free contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by calling their toll free number 1-800-573-5529.

Chances are what “they” love most about Branson is what you will love about Branson

Silver Dollar city's world class coaster, "Wildfire" and its spectacular view of the Ozark Hills and a small portion of Table Rock Lake.

BRANSON, Mo. Recently, in connection with making a video for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, the question, “What do you love most about Branson?,” was asked. When the question was posted on www.1Branson.com, the responses paint a wonderful picture of Branson, what it has to offer and why Branson just might be the ideal place to visit or plan your next vacation.

Originally, I was going to separate the ten representative responses into categories, but in retrospect, their testimony speaks for itself and needs no categorization. Each post is preceded by the poster’s online name in italics:

Suselit… The Patriotism is what I love because I love America and Branson shares my love of God and County. And Branson has the right mix of Excitement and that comfortable feeling you get when you feel at home some place. Live Entertainment! We love attending Shows and Branson has some wonderful Shows!

Irishgirl… My home state is quite beautiful, but there is something magical about the hills there in SW Missouri….especially when the fog/haze comes over them. My second favorite thing will always be Shepherd of the Hills – the story, the play, and the park. The history of the area is fascinating to me.

shis1…The thing that brings us to Branson is the live music, the live Country Music. And the music we love the best is that music we hear at Clay Cooper‘s theatre!

biscuitcreek… Silver Dollar City, the lake, the variety of music available, the history of the area, the hills…

Lynndaof NJ…Branson is more than 1,000 miles from where we live, yet we’ve visited for the past 3 summers and already have reservations for July. We keep coming back because we feel that Branson epitomizes patriotism and basic American family values.

rjw1991A1…I could say a lot about the shows, SDC, the great restaurants, and of course my favorite, and what started it all for me, the trout fishing. But with all that, it’s the general friendliness of the people I met when I’m there. From the resort owners, and staff to the restaurant servers. From shop owners and clerks to ticket sellers and ushers in the shows, and everybody at Silver Dollar City, their friendliness has always come to the forefront and has been sincere.

MNtrveler…I like that a small city of about 10,000 permanent residents, with all the friendliness and values of a typical small town, has entertainment, dining and shopping options that you usually only find in cities of over 100,000 people. It is a great place to visit in a beautiful part of the country. Yes, at times I think they need to broaden their offerings, but it is still a GREAT vacation destination.

Zack7777…As MNtraveler has mentioned and I totally agree….It is really awesome to live here in a small town atmosphere and have big city options in a beautiful area of the USA….anything you want is within minutes, lakes, caves, dining, shopping, entertainment of every sort….shows, movies, golf, SDC. And great medical options here and only a few miles to the north….my regrets are I didn’t move here sooner. These last 10 years have been heaven.

ggh…The dogwood, the water, fishing, the fall colors, water skiing, the winding roads, nature, with SDC, shows, music, lights, go karts, and shopping all intertwined. You can enjoy upscale lodging, and restaurants, or enjoy some rustic lodging and comfort foods. There is definitely something for everyone in Branson.

Jalva2…I can name a lot of things I like about Branson, but if I have to pick one, It’s the Ozark landscape. Absolutely beautiful. If I can add a couple more: An outstanding theme park (which is also an outstandingly THEMED park) [Silver Dollar City]; and some of the best hotel prices in the country!

The responses indicate the wonderful experience most who visit have and are reasons why those who haven’t might want to consider doing so,” said Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC). For information on all that Branson offers, provided by people who live and work in the Branson area, please feel free to contact BTC by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Silver Dollar City’s Southern Gospel Picnic is soul stirring music & hearty home cooked food

The "Downing Family" is one of the dozens of Southern Gospel groups performing at Silver Dollar City's "Southern Gospel Picnic."

BRANSON, Mo.  “Some things just seem to fit together,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “There’s just something about combining the sounds of Southern Gospel music and people laughing and having fun at Silver Dollar City during Silver Dollar City’s ‘Southern Gospel Picnic’ that is special and relates to both the spirit and values of what Branson represents,” she continued.

Silver Dollar City’s Southern Gospel Picnic is one of the seven world class festivals held at the park throughout the year and will run from August 25 – September 5. Although it’s one of the newest festivals, as well as one of its shortest, lasting for only 12 “inspirational toe-tapping” days, it is a great opportunity for Southern Gospel music fans, as well as for those who have never been exposed to it, to hear it at its “uplifting soul-stirring” best.

Among the dozens of groups performing over 400 performances during the event will be the Downing Family; the legendary Blackwood Quartet; The Chuck Wagon Gang; The Isaacs, 2010 Dove Award Winners and 2011 Dove Award nominees; The Peterson Family, 2010 winners of the 2010 Branson CAM Gospel Sing Off; Karen Peck & New River; Gold City; The Perrys; The Hoppers and the Legacy Five.

The daily performances will be followed each night by the “Southern Gospel Nights” concert which will be held in Echo-Hollow, Silver Dollar City’s 4,000 seat amphitheater. On Sunday August 28 and September 4 there will be a worship service held in the Red Gold Heritage Hall with Hosea Bilyeu on August 28 and noted humorist and evangelist Dennis Swanberg on September 4.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out that the “picnic” in the “Southern Gospel Picnic” will feature “The House of Chicken & Fixin’s” featuring Apple Butter Glazed Chicken, Golden Fried chicken, Orange Glazed Chicken and BBQ chicken, all with picnic-style fixings.” This will be in addition to all the delicious food normally available throughout the park.

Along with the special activities and events involved in the Southern Gospel Picnic, all the excitement and adventure that the international award winning 1880s’s theme park is noted for is also available. This includes “100 resident craftsmen, 2 dozen rides and attractions including the new million dollar play area for kids: Half Dollar Holler.”

For further information on Silver Dollar City, the Southern Gospel Picnic 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.

KidsFest embodies the spirit and essence of Branson family fun

The Wallendas performing a three person pyramid. It gets even more exciting as Delilah comes to the full standing position on the chair.

BRANSON, Mo The sound of laughter and people having fun is a normal part of a visit to Branson’s oldest and most popular attraction, Silver Dollar City, but it has a special ring during Silver Dollar City’s “National KidsFest” currently being held at the 1880s theme park until July 24. It is “America’s largest KidsFest” and, through the unique combination of the special events and activities associated with KidsFest and the 30 attractions and rides Silver Dollar City offers on a daily basis, provides an unrivaled experience filled with fun, excitement and adventure for the whole family.

Attractions and rides are an exciting part of everyday at Silver Dollar City, but they just seem to naturally fit into the fun and adventure of KidsFest. The parks rides and attractions have something for everyone in the family from the sedate and relaxing “Grand Exposition,” where all the members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, can share a fun filled ride together to the more exhilarating adventure of “Wildfire,” a world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour or relief from the Summer heat with water rides such as RiverBlast, Lost River of the Ozarks and many other exciting rides and attractions.

In addition, KidsFest is featuring exciting acts and activities for the whole family. The “Fabulous Wallendas! Famous Family Circus,” staring members of the legendary high wire “Wellenda” family as well as the “Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog ExperienceTM” will be performing throughout KidsFest. One of the other KidsFest activities that the younger kids just love is the appearance of their favorite cartoon characters throughout the festival. The following are scheduled to appear on the dates indicated:

Ben 10, June 16-18
Chowder, June 23-25
Scooby Doo & Shaggy, July 1-4
Fred Flintstone, Barney & Dino, July 7-9
Mac & Bloo, July 14-16
Sponge Bob & Patrick, July 21-23
Tom & Jerry, July 28-30
Backyardigans, August 4-6

Silver Dollar City is noted for the outstanding quality and value of the food it normally serves throughout the park, but, as is the case for all its world class festivals, will be adding additional food selections themed for KidsFest. This will include items such as “Hot Diggety Dogs,” “Dippy Dogs” or “Chicken Crunchers,” served with the choice of Fruit Cup or Crinkle Fries and Juice Box or 12 ounce soda; a choice of five tasty flavors of Snow cones; specialty drinks including strawberry smoothes and fresh squeezed lemonade; pizza and salad bars that are sure to be kid pleasers. The KidsFest selections are in addition to the normal selection of tasty food and nonalcoholic drinks available throughout the park.

Silver Dollar City is always a place filled with those experiences from which “memories worth repeating” are made and that is even more so for families during KidsFest.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City and KidsFest or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to 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 https://www.bransontourismcenter.com.

* Photo courtesy of Silver Dollar City

Fireworks to light up the Branson sky in celebration of the 4th of July

The Chateau on the Lake Fireworks.

BRANSON, Mo Branson will not disappoint those wanting to see spectacular fireworks displays celebrating the Fourth of July. In fact, although the majority of the firework displays will be over the Fourth of July weekend, Branson’s celebration of America’s independence will start in spectacular fashion with the College of the Ozark’s “Honor America” celebration on June 26.

From concerts with fireworks, to picnics and BBQ with fireworks or just plain beautiful and exciting firework displays, Branson area skies will be lit up with spectacular fireworks. The following is a list of the major Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays for the Branson area sorted by date along with a contact phone number to obtain 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 26, Picnic 4:30 p.m., Entertainment 5:00 p.m., Patriotic Program & Concert 8:30 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: 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 2 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 also be viewed very well from Table Rock Lake near the north end of the bridge. The event will be a full day of activities, including 2 bounce houses, a 16 foot blow up water slide and basketball hoops for the kids. Food, craft, retail and nonprofit vendors will be there as well to keep young and old busy throughout the day and bands including “M-Dock” and “Members Only.” will be performing.

Name: Treasure Lake Resort
Place: Treasure Lake Resort behind the IMAX
Phone: Treasure Lake Resort 417-334-1040
Date/Time/Comment(s) July 2 at dusk. Advice is come early and bring a chair.

Name: Branson Landing 4th 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 “SOULED OUT,” at 8:00 p.m. followed by Fireworks.

Name: Branson Landing Lake Queen or Landing Princess
Place: Branson Landing
Phone: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s) July3. This is a unique and exciting way to see the Branson Landing fireworks display while cruising on either the Lake Queen or Landing Princess on Lake Taneycomo. On July 3rd these cruises will be positioned to provide a spectacular and unique view of the Branson Landing fireworks display. Although there is still availability, it is advisable to make reservations as early as possible in advance by calling the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550.

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: Call the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550 for information on the fireworks or to make reservations at the Chateau on the Lake for the Fourth of July Weekend.
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 3 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 information through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date /Time/Comment(s): July 3, 8:00 p.m. dinner cruise. There are no guarantees and you take your chances, but the 8:00 PM Dinner Cruise on the night of the Chateau on the Lake’s Fireworks display has been known to stop and provide passengers with a spectacular view of this fireworks display as part of the cruise. This cruise is generally sold out so the further in advance reservations are made the better.

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): July3th immediately after the presentation of the outdoor drama “Shepherd of the Hills.” It will be only for those who viewed the outdoor drama. Miller advises that tickets for Shepherd of the Hills are available through the Branson Tourism Center.

Name: Branson Spirit of 76 Independence Day
Place: Branson Landing
Phone: Branson Veteran’s Task Force – 417-337-8387
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4, 9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m. (Simultaneously both locations) Show your patriotism on Independence Day by wearing Red, White and Blue and join the celebration.

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 and events start at 10:00 a.m. and Fireworks start at dusk. Rain date July 5

Name: Hollister’s 58th 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: 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
Phone: Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce – 417-858-3300
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. One mile S. of Bridge. Rain date July 5

Name: Cape Fair Fireworks Display
Place: Cape Fair Marina
Phone: 417-538-2222
Date/Time/Comments: July 4 at dusk.

Those planning to attend these events should allow plenty of time, arrive as early as possible and, except for paid events, should bring their own chairs etc. It should be remembered that the Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest of the year in Branson and advance reservations are advisable to ensure not only availability, but the best choice of seats and accommodations.

The staff of Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, would be pleased to provide information on any of these fireworks displays or information or tickets to any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements.  please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC). BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.
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A Branson family summer vacation provides excitement, value, fun and special memories

White Water's seven story high "Kalani Towers" provides wet, exciting and thrilling relief on a hot summer day.

Even with all that is going on in today’s world and the personal pressures being generated, many people know that they and their families need and deserve a vacation this summer. Branson, Missouri is a premier Midwest vacation destination noted for its unique blend of value, fun and its spirit of family, God and country. It is a special, almost magical place for families, at any time of the year, but there’s just something about the Summer and the pronounced influx of families with children that makes it my favorite time of the year.

What can show the heart and spirit of what Branson is more than the sound of kids and families laughing, talking and having a good time together. From its restaurants and lodging facilities to its attractions, lakes, shows and other activities it seems that there is a special vibrancy and intensity as families relax, spend time together, unwind and just have fun as they create vacation memories.

“In these economic challenging times, the cost of a vacation is certainly a consideration,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC). “Branson is one of the best vacation values anywhere and has been recognized nationally, by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), as the “third most budget friendly destination in America.”

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

Johnson points that Branson’s value gets even better if travelers bundle lodging, shows, attractions and activities together into one package. For example, the “Branson Family Fun Package,” offered by BTC, provides lodging for two nights and a full breakfast at either Grand Plaza Hotel or Hotel Grand Victorian; family passes to your choice of one of two great shows for families with kids, The Hamner Barber Variety Show or the Legend of Kung Fu; a family pass to one of Branson’s premier attractions, the Titanic Museum Attraction; a Branson Vacation Savings Book with more than 500 coupons and over $1,500 in savings and more, all at a saving of 27 percent!

If one places any value on their time, another way to increase value, avoid stress and, in a real sense start your vacation early, is to use the free personal “concierge” type planning services of a company like the Branson Tourism Center. It has built its well deserved reputation, A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accreditation and sold over 2.5 million Branson show and attraction tickets, by providing hundreds of thousands of Branson visitors with the assistance and help needed to have a great Branson vacation. Factor in “Gas Discounts” and the perks of BTC’s free new customer loyalty “Concierge Program” and the value of a Branson vacation increases even more.

When it comes to fun and things for families to do while on vacation, from its lakes to its live shows, attractions, shopping and other activities, Branson provides a choice of unique, fun and exciting things to do that is unmatched by any other tourist destination of its size. Where else can a family vacation where they can frolic and enjoy a 45,000 surface acre lake like Table Rock Lake, with its 745 miles of shoreline, located just minutes away from the fun, excitement and adventure of everything else that a special place like Branson offers?

Whether its Silver Dollar City and KidsFest, the 12 acre two million gallon water park White Water, the Titanic Museum Attraction, Butterfly Palace & Rain Forest Adventure, a tour through the Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery, something as simple as a walk along the Branson Landing Boardwalk or any of dozens of other attractions and activities, Branson is filled with activities for families to share and enjoy together from the oldest to the youngest. It also has a variety of activities that can be enjoyed as a “slip away” such as shopping, championship golf, some of the finest bass and trout fishing available anywhere, scuba diving and much more.

“Branson is referred to by some as ‘The live music show capital of the world,'” said Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson. “In terms of summer fun and excitement for families, it should be remembered however, that Branson’s live entertainment has not only some of the world’s best music, comedy and variety shows, all of which are suitable for children, but also has a number of shows that will have a special appeal for younger children and the whole family. These shows include a variety ranging from the Acrobats of China, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, NOAH the Musical, Hamner Barber Variety Show, the Showboat Branson Belle, Yakov’s Dinner Adventure, Dixie Stampede and many more.

You deserve a vacation with your family. Branson, Missouri offers the ideal combination of value, fun and excitement that will provide a vacation full of memories that will last a lifetime.

A high flying death defying start to Silver Dollar City’s KidsFest

“Silver Dollar City’s KidsFest is America’s biggest KidsFest for a good reason,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It is designed from the ground “up,” from food to special acts, entertainment and activities just for kids and their families.” KidsFest will run from June 11 through July 24 at the 1880’s themed park.

“When it was announced that one of the acts appearing at KidsFest included the legendary ‘Flying Wallendas and Nik Wallenda, double Guinness World Record holder for his feats on the high wire, everyone knew the excitement was going up to a new level,” Johnson continued. “However, today’s announcement from Silver Dollar City literally adds yet another level of danger and excitement to KidsFest and shows why the Wallendas are still, after seven generations, exciting audiences all over the world and the excitement and adventure never ends at Silver Dollar City.”

Nik Wallenda, “King of the Highwire,” will perform a special one time performance as a spectacular kick-off for America’s largest KidsFest and as part of a Discovery Channel TV event for its new series “Life on a Wire.” At approximately 4:00 p.m. on June 10, Wallenda will perform “never-before-seen, high-flying acrobatics  from a helicopter, 200 feet above the ground” and the audience that will be watching from Silver Dollar City’s “Echo Hollow Amphitheatre.”

Starting on June 11 and running through July 24, Wallenda and his family will be performing an exciting “all-new show, ‘The Fabulous Wallendas! Famous Family Circus,’ created exclusively for KidsFest at Silver Dollar City. ” Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out that the Wallendas are just part of the excitement that KidsFest will feature other acts such as Chris Perondi and his stunt dogs performing amazing feats of “canine athleticism and agility;” your kid’s favorite cartoon characters, and other exciting activities that will be integrated with the dozens of rides, craft demonstrations and excitement that Silver Dollar City provides its guests every day.

For additional information about KidsFest or tickets to Silver Dollar City 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. To make an exciting event even more exciting, Johnson points out that every Silver Dollar City ticket purchased through BTC provides for two days fun at Silver Dollar City for the price of one.

Photo courtesey of www.NikWallenda.com.