Category Archives: Branson Attractions

Five reasons why Thanksgiving in Branson is so fascinating!

From the splendor or millions of Christmas Lights, to a Thanksgiving meal aboard a luxury yacht, shows from our families to yours, and world class shopping Thanksgiving in Branson is fun, unique, and inspiring.

The splendor or millions of Christmas Lights, a Thanksgiving meal aboard a luxury yacht, shows from our families to yours, world class shopping, and so much more help make Thanksgiving in Branson the unique fascinating event it is.

“From feasting, to entertaining, shopping, and so much more, Branson’s Thanksgiving cornucopia is overflowing with fun, excitement, adventure, and the spirit of Christmas,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. Garrison suggests five reasons why spending Thanksgiving in Branson is a fascinating way to celebrate Thanksgiving while having fun and making special family memories that could last a lifetime:

1. Bountiful Choice of Thanksgiving Meals: From the traditional Thanksgiving fare like that served at the Welk Resort’s Stage Door Restaurant to mouthwatering Thanksgiving buffets and brunches such as those served at Grand Country, College of the Ozark’s Keeter Center, and the Chateau on the Lake, non-traditional Thanksgiving food such as the Italian cuisine at Florentina’s Italian Ristorante, and dozens more Branson diners will have a bountiful choice Thanksgiving dining options for every pallet and budget including a scrumptious traditional Thanksgiving dinner served aboard Main Street Lake Cruises’ Landing Princess, amid the luxury of a 100 foot yacht, while cruising on beautiful Lake Taneycomo.

2. Branson’s Great Shows: Although some of Branson’s shows will not be performing on Thanksgiving Day, many of its most popular shows will, including the Acrobats of China, Amazing Pets, Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza, Grand Jubilee Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Legends in Concert, Million Dollar Quartet, New Jersey Nights, Puttin’ on the Ritz, The Haygoods, The Lettermen, Shoji Tabuchi, and many more. The full complement of Branson shows, including Billy Dean In Concert With Jarrett, Christmas Wonderland, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Moses, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, SIX, The Texas Tenors, will resume their normal performance schedules for the remainder of the season on November 25.

3. Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas: Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas Festival is one of America’s top holiday events. Its spectacular display of five million Christmas lights throughout the park, entertainment, parade, Broadway style shows, and much more has been recognized and featured nationally by USA Today, CNN Travel, The Travel Channel, Good Morning America and many others. One of the many features of this festival happens each evening at dusk, in the Square on Main Street with the lighting of the 5-Story Special Effects Christmas Tree. As it sparkles to life with its 350,000 colorful sparkling LED lights, choreographed to Christmas music, and making over 100 light changes per second; it signals the beginning of Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Christmas Light Parade led by “the most famous reindeer of all.” Rudolph leads a spectacular parade of “nine musical, lighted floats, illuminated with 200,000 ultra-bright LED lights accompanied. “by 33 colorful costumed characters, including Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, 14-foot moose characters, 12-foot tall elves and 10-foot candy canes, plus penguins, elves and a troupe of marching wooden soldiers” that will amaze and delight all ages.

4. Fun, Attractions and Activities for Everyone: Many of Branson’s attractions will be open on Thanksgiving Day, and all over the weekend, including the extremely popular Branson Titanic Museum Attraction, as it celebrates its unique and beautiful Winter Celebration filled with beautiful decorations, unique shopping, and different special events, including, over Thanksgiving Weekend, 1500 luminaries casting a beautiful glow over its entrance. How about three spectacular drive through light displays including Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights, Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village, and Branson Gift of Lights; a round of golf at one of Branson’s championship courses, or any one of dozens more exciting attractions and activities?

5. Shopping: Branson provides a world class shopping experience anytime of the year, and that is obvious over Thanksgiving, as Black Friday, and Christmas shopping takes center stage. Branson’s major shopping areas, such as Branson Landing, Tanger Outlets, The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, historic downtown Branson, Grand Village Shops, Branson Mill Craft Village and its more than 250 different boutiques, specialty shops, national chain stores, flea markets, craft malls, and famous-name outlet stores provide a wonderful opportunity to “shop till you drop” while making it easier to find that special gift for that special person. National chain stores in Branson will have the same Thanksgiving sale hours as elsewhere, and just about all Branson retailers and shops will be having Black Friday specials. Not surprisingly, the Friday after Thanksgiving is the busiest shopping day of the year in Branson.

For additional information on Thanksgiving in Branson, Ozark Mountain Christmas or for information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website Branson Tourism Center.com.

The Best of Branson Insider Highlights for November 2016

Silver Dollar City's Old Time Christmas is a beautiful "centerpiece" of Ozark Mountain Christmas.**

Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas is a spectacular “centerpiece” of Ozark Mountain Christmas.**

“November is one of Branson’s most inspirational and exciting months of the year,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Starting with the nation’s largest Veteran’s Day Celebration, to one of the biggest celebrations of the traditional American Christmas, and much more, the month of November in Branson is bursting with special events and other activities,” he added.

Here’s our Featured Show, Event, and Limited Engagement of the Month, along with a list of the major, special limited engagement performances and events you can enjoy in Branson during November, 2016:

Featured Show: Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza continues the tradition of “Mr. Christmas” and the “Andy Williams Christmas Show” with its variety, color, and excitement and showing why It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year! The vocal stars of the show, the Osmonds and Lennon Sisters, present the music of Christmas as only they can! That would be enough for most shows but, in keeping the Andy Williams tradition of variety, there’s more, a lot more! When you add the amazing magic of illusionist Rick Thomas and his lovely wife Tara, with elements of their magical “Let It Snow” act, the adagio dancing and quick change artistry of Pasha & Aliona, and other surprises, the result is like opening Christmas presents under the tree on Christmas morning. You don’t know what it is, but what a wonderful surprise it is when you get the wrapping off and open the package.”

Daniel O’Donnell, left, Osmonds and Lennon Sisters, from the Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza, Titanic Dance, and the Armed Forces Flags in honor of Veterans Week

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: A favorite of Branson visitors and residents alike, the incomparable Daniel O’Donnell returns to Branson, after a year’s absence, for a very limited engagement of 2:00 PM shows, running from October 31 through November 19 in the Welk Theatre at the beautiful Branson Welk Resorts. Incorporating his charismatic and engaging style, he will present a blend of traditional Irish ballads, country favorites, and traditional gospel with an Irish twist that shows why he has sold millions of records and has been “a household name across Ireland and Great Britain for decades.”

In 2016, O’Donnell became the first artist to have a new album in the UK charts, each year, for 28 consecutive years. In the United States, O’Donnell has starred in several Public Broadcasting Network Specials as well as charting 18 albums in the Top 20 of Billboard’s World Music Album Chart.

Featured Events of the Month: Normally, for each month we have just one, but for the month of November there must be two:

Branson Veterans Homecoming Week is one of the biggest, Veterans Day tributes in America, and is celebrated from November 5 through November 11. It features dozens of events all keyed toward honoring those who have served our nation and sacrificed so much.

Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas celebrates the true meaning of this special magical season amidst the glow of over 5 million dazzling lights. Proclaimed as “The Most Illuminated Park on Earth” by the Travel Channel and “One of the most sparkly, lively holiday celebrations anywhere” by Midwest Living, “you’ll take home beautiful holiday memories destined to last a lifetime!”

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT PERFORMANCES (Sorted by starting date)

Nov. 1-19: Daniel O’Donnell
Nov. 1-17: Oak Ridge Boys
Nov. 1-29: The Urban Cowboy Reunion
Nov. 2-17: Neal McCoy
Nov. 2: Gary Lewis & the Playboys
Nov. 4: Charlie Daniels Band
Nov. 9-20: Titanic Dance
Nov. 9: Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers
Nov. 11-12: Johnny Mathis with Gary Mule Deer
Nov. 14-15: Boot Daddy Presents Jimmy Fortune
Nov 16: Chubby Checker
Nov.26: Kenny Rogers
Nov. 27-29: Boot Daddy Presents Dailey & Vincent

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Nov 5-Dec 30: An Old Time Christmas Festival at Silver Dollar City
Nov 6: Veterans’ Spouses Luncheon^*Nov 6: Sunday November 6-WWII Veterans Recognition^*Nov 6: Sunday November 6-Tribute to Veterans Sunday Worship Service^*Nov 7-Nov 11: Veterans Week-Branson IMAX Military Film Festival^*Nov 7: Monday November 7-Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Opening^*Nov 7: Monday November 7-Persian Gulf War Veterans Mini Reunion^*Nov 7: Monday November 7-Vietnam Veterans Mini Reunion^*Nov 7: Monday November 7-Sandbox Party^*Nov 7: Monday November 7-Medics, Nurses, and Combat Vets Mini Reunion^*Nov 8: Tuesday November 8-POW/MIA Service of Remembrance^*Nov 8: Tuesday November 8-Women Veterans Mini Reunion^*
Nov 8: Tuesday November 8-Annual Tribute to Women Veterans & Rose Petal Ceremony^*Nov 8-Nov 13: Railway to Heaven^*Nov 9: Blue Star Mothers Afternoon Dessert^*Nov 9: Korean War Veterans Mini Reunion^*Nov. 9: P.O.W. Network 20th Annual Military Gala & Banquet^*Nov 10: Veterans Grove Tree Dedication^*Nov 10: 4th Infantry Division^*Nov 10: Wal-Mart Tribute to Veterans^*Nov 10-11: 6th Annual Indoor Open Car Show
Nov 11: Morning Flag Raising/Wreath Laying Ceremony^*Nov 11: WWII Mini Reunion^*Nov 11: Annual Branson Veterans Day Parade^*Nov 14: Free Golden Corral Dinner for VeteransNov 19: Most Wonderful Time of Year Holiday Parade
Nov 21-Nov 27: Thanksgiving Week in Branson
Nov 24: Thanksgiving Day Cruise on Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess
Nov 24: Thanksgiving Day
Nov 24: Moonlight Madness & After Thanksgiving Sales at Tanger Mall Outlet
Nov 24: 5th Annual Branson 5K Turkey Trot
Nov 24: Golden Corral Thanksgiving Day Buffet
Nov 24: Osage Restaurants at Top of the Rock Thanksgiving Brunch
Nov 24: Arnie’s Barn at Top of the Rock Thanksgiving Brunch
Nov 24: Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks Thanksgiving Day Brunch
Nov 24: Chateau on the Lake Thanksgiving Brunch
Nov 25: Branson Landing’s Black Friday Blowout!
Nov 27: Carols on the Belle on the Showboat Branson Belle Nov. 27

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

* Branson Veterans Week Event
** Photo furnished courtesy of Silver Dollar City

Plan to cruise into the splendor of Mother Nature’s spectacular Ozarks fall foliage show!

View of the first “blush” of Fall foliage from the bow of the “Landing Princess.”

“The rains we have experienced thus far this summer are setting Branson up to have a great fall foliage season,” said Melissa McGowan, Marketing/Groups and Special Events Manager for Main Street Lake Cruises. “It’s a once a year spectacular show put on by Mother Nature and, cruising aboard one of Main Street Lake Cruises’ boats, provides ‘premium seating’ to see it, in all of its vivid color and wonder,” she added.

Starting gradually in September, the foliage changes color in conjunction with cold nights and sunny days, turning panoramic Ozark vistas into magnificent colorful “masterpieces” that have to be seen to be believed. Lake Taneycomo, a long narrow impoundment of the White River, with shorelines that are much closer together than those of Table Rock and Bull Shoals Lakes, provides the ideal “theatre” from which to view this unique annual show, close-up and in all its wonder and brilliance.

Main Street Lake Cruises “Landing Princess.”

And what better seats to have to see “the show” than aboard the only cruise boats on Lake Taneycomo. Whether cruising on a sightseeing cruise aboard Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen, a modern day replica of the grand riverboats which used to ply the White River, or enjoying a dinner cruise aboard its 100 foot luxury yacht Landing Princess, you will have an unparalleled view of not only the magnificent beauty of the changing Ozark’s foliage, but of Lake Taneycomo and its natural scenic wonders.

A cruise aboard one of Main Street Lake Cruises’ boats is a spectacular experience any time of the year offering an up close chance to view Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, other birds, deer, other wildlife, panoramic vistas and bluffs not available through any other means except by boat on Lake Taneycomo. They are seen by very few of the millions who visit Branson each year. The amazing wonder of Ozarks’ fall foliage takes an already special Branson experience and memory and makes it even more so.

Main Street Lake Cruises’ McGowan said that, depending on the weather, the first blush of color is generally toward the second half of September with its peak at about the third week of October. She also points out that Main Street Lake Cruises has moved to a new more convenient location at 9 South Boardwalk, located along the shoreline of the Bass Pro Parking lot, that is easy to find and provides close, drive-up parking, and immediate access to its main entrance from a flat parking lot

Because of the popularity of these cruises McGowan suggests making advance reservations. For additional information on Branson’s fall foliage season or cruises on either Lake Queen, or dinner cruises on the Landing Princess, or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services; call 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The Best of Branson Insider Highlights for September 2016

One of the over 115 craftsmen who will be demonstrating at Silver Dollar City's National Harvest & Cowboy Festival; Clay & Tina Cooper performing in "Clay Cooper's Country Express;" and the Oak Ridge Boys.

One of the 125 craftsmen who will be demonstrating at Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest & Cowboy Festival; Clay & Tina Cooper performing in “Clay Cooper’s Country Express;” and the Oak Ridge Boys.

“September is a wonderful time in the Ozarks, as Branson transitions from summer into fall mode, with moderating temperatures and our Ozarks’ Foliage gradually beginning to display its spectacular autumn colors,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Add in the number, variety, and quality of the exciting attractions, shows, shopping, and other things that Branson offers, and it’s easy to understand why a visit to Branson in the fall has become a popular tradition with so many people,” she continued.

Here’s our Insider Highlight list of some of the unique and exciting special events that Branson visitors will be able to enjoy during September, including our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month:

Featured Show of the Month: Clay Cooper’s Country Express combines the vocal talent and audience charisma of Clay Cooper, with the best dancers and choreography on any Branson stage, the vocal talents of featured female vocalist Kari Garrison, the talent and comedy of Matt Gumm, the rope and gun handling performance of Johnny Lonestar, one of the most talented live bands in Branson, and so much more. It’s two hours of great music, dancing, fun, laughter, and variety that whisks adults and children alike, “down the tracks” on a delightful entertainment journey.

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: Country music legends, the Oak Ridge Boys return to Branson, with their phenomenal harmonies and an amazing career spanning several decades that includes five Grammy Awards, the Song of the Year, from both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music, for their hit Elvira, which also crossed over to the pop charts, and many others. Their hits include Touch a Hand, Make a Friend; Make My Life with You; American Made; (I’m Settin’) Fancy Free; It Takes a Little Rain (To Make Love Grow); Bobbie Sue; and many more.

Featured Event of the Month: Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest & Cowboy Festival showcasing the largest gathering of demonstrating craftsmen in the country; the Wild West Show; Western Musicians; chuck wagon cooking by Kent Rollins; Extreme Mustang Makeovers as expert horse trainer Fred Woehl tames beautiful wild mustangs; Silver Dollar City’s Barn Dance, returning for 2016 by popular demand; and much more.

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT PERFORMANCES (Sorted by starting date)

Sep 14: Restless Heart
Sep 18: Big Daddy Weave
Sep 19: Larry’s Country Diner-Rhonda Vincent
Sep 20 – 29: Oak Ridge Boys*
Sep 20: Larry’s Country Diner-Gene Watson
Sep 21: Larry’s Country Diner-Jimmy Fortune
Sep 22: Larry’s Country Diner-Mo and Holly Pitney
Sep 23: Larry’s Country Diner-T. Graham Brown
Sep 24: Larry’s Country Diner-Mark Lowry
Sep 24: MJ LIVE
Sep 25 – 27: Boot Daddy Presents Dailey & Vincent**
Sep 29 – 30: Boot Daddy Presents Suzy Bogguss
Sep 30: Jay Leno

* Also appearing select dates in October and November
** Also appearing 27-29 November

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Sep 1 – 5: 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit – Titanic Museum Attraction
Sep 1 – 5: Silver Dollar City Southern Gospel Picnic Festival
Sep 1 – 4: Southern Gospel Cruises on the Showboat Branson Belle
Sep 1 – 30: Tanger Outlets Thanks Teachers Month
Sep 2: Boogie Wonderland – A Tribute to Disco Live in Concert
Sep 2 – 4: CAF Air Power History Tour
Sep 2 – 5: Labor Day Weekend Sale at Tanger Outlets
Sep 3: K-Life Taney County Stars & Stripes Run-Walk
Sep 4: Labor Day Picnic and Fireworks at Big Cedar
Sep 4: Chateau on the Lake Celebrates Labor Day
Sep 9 – 11: Country Music Weekend at Silver Dollar City
Sep 10: Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Sep 13: Foraging in the Ozarks: Wild Edible-Medicinal Plant and Bird ID Mosey
Sep 14 – Oct 29: National Harvest & Cowboy Festival at Silver Dollar City
Sep 15 – 17: Autumn Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
Sep 23 – 25: Baseball Youth Future Games
Sep 24: Encounter Ministry – Encounter Celebration
Sep 26 – 27: Branson Hammer In & Knife Show

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550.

The Best of Branson June 2016 Insider Highlights

The “Amazing Pets Show” and “Silver Dollar City’s Star Spangled Summer Festival,” featuring the return of The Harlem Globetrotters, celebrating their 90th Anniversary, are two of the Branson Tourism Center’s featured events for June.

“With school out and families coming to Branson for their vacations, there’s a special feeling in the air,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “From Silver Dollar City on the west, to the boats of Main Street Lake Cruises at Branson Landing on the east, it’s filled with happy smiling families enjoying each other as they share the fun, excitement and adventure of sharing Branson memories that could last for a lifetime,” she added

Along with our highlight list, containing some of the best of what’s going on in Branson during June, here’s our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month:

Featured Show of the Month: The whole family, especially the kids will love the Amazing Pets show featuring “more than 30 happy, well-trained critters performing a wide array of tricks” that’s a touch of magic, a bit of mayhem, and a whole lot of furry frivolity and fun! “These are everyday house pets! Cats galore, cuddly canines, and even brilliantly colored exotic birds who put on a show that delight’s all ages. Well-respected animal trainer, Valery Tsoraev, has created a delightful line-up of animal acrobatics and tricks, and has performed with the famous Cole Bros. Circus of the Stars as well as being featured with one of his incredible cats in the movie, Big Fish. “He has cared for these beautiful creatures, including cats adopted from shelters and those that have simply wandered into his life, and taught them how to entertain and enjoy the affection and encouragement from their human co-stars and their adoring audiences.”

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: Rockapella, formed in the mid-80’s, is pretty much the group who wrote the book on making music without instruments. They expertly deliver original compositions, Motown classics, pop, and soul music, all without the aid of the usual guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums making all the sounds themselves. They have enjoyed a phenomenal career since their inception and introduction “to a broad audience on Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego, an incredibly popular PBS show in the 90’s.” Those loving a cappella music will not want to miss the opportunity to experience Rockapella while it’s in Branson for a 25 performance limited engagement, starting on June 13.

Featured Event of the Month: Silver Dollar City Star Spangled Summer Festival, starting June 11 will feature the return of The Harlem Globetrotters, celebrating their 90th Anniversary, The Magic of Peter Gossamer – Up Close & Personal, Championship Cloggers, Meet and Greets and Breakfasts with kid’s favorite cartoon characters, and much more. Of course, all this will be in addition to the other 40 rides, attractions, activities, and excitement one would expect from a world class theme park including “the world’s most daring wood coaster – Outlaw Run.”

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT PERFORMANCES (Sorted by starting date)

June 10: Diamond Rio
June 13-June 30: Rockapella
June 15: Huey Lewis and The News
June 17: Sara Evans

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

June 2 – June 5: Branson Z Fest
Jun 4: Afternoon Tea – Keeter Center
Jun 11: Run for a Vet; 5K & Half Marathon
Jun 11: Promenade Pop-Up Shop
Jun 11: 32nd Annual Oinklawn Downs Pig Races – Charity Fundraiser
Jun 11 – Jun 18: Law Enforcement Recognition Week Celebration in Branson
Jun 11 – Jul 24: Silver Dollar City Star Spangled Summer Festival
Jun 12: Tanger Club Member Exclusive Event – Bring A Friend
Jun 16: Law Enforcement Recognition Week – Light Cruise Car Parade
Jun 18: 2nd Annual Art Walk – Downtown Branson & Hollister
Jun 18: Branson Landing Celebrates 10 Years Concerts & Fireworks
Jun 18 – Jun 24: Ball Parks of America Opening Week Baseball Tournament
Jun 19: Father’s Day
Jun 19: Father’s Day Brunch and Car Show at Keeter Center
Jun 19: Chateau on the Lake Father’s Day Champagne Brunch
Jun 19: The Taneycomo Festival Jazz Orchestra – Live in Concert
Jun 26: Honor America “4th of July” Celebration – College of the Ozarks

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com, or calling 1-800-785-1550.

The stunning Branson metamorphosis of the gigantic Navy Pier Ferris Wheel

Aerial overview of the Branson Ferris Wheel.*

Special Update: In a June 2, 2016 tweet Track Family Fun Parks announced that the Branson Ferris Wheel will open to the public at Noon on June 23. [https://twitter.com/bransontracks/status/738462403025731584]

“It’s truly an amazing thing to see the gigantic Branson Ferris Wheel towering elegantly over the Branson Strip” said Preston Garrison, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest providers of tourism services and information. Garrison was referring to the transition and metamorphosis of the famed Chicago Navy Pier Ferris Wheel from Chicago, where it was to be replaced by a bigger one, to Branson, thanks to the efforts of the Track Family Fun Parks.

Craig Wescott (CW), President of Track Family Fun Parks sat down for an interview with the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) recently. He presents a unique perspective on the transition, which we are presenting in question and answer format and hope you will enjoy, as you learn some insider facts about Branson’s newest attraction and how it all came about:

BTC: Why did you guys decide to purchase the Ferris Wheel?
CW: We believed that it would fit right into our mission of creating unforgettable moments for visiting families not only to our parks, but to Branson in general. This particular Ferris wheel was an icon on Navy Pier in Chicago. It was ridden by nearly 17 million people from 1995-2015. With Branson being in the Midwest as well, we figured that many people who live in or visit Branson would know of this Chicago icon. With the stories we have heard from people in just over three months since making our announcement, there is no doubt that many people have great memories (and many cold ones!) of the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel. We purchased something that came with many emotional connections; you can’t get those with a brand new attraction. Branson area locals and visitors appreciate stories, and there is no doubt that this Ferris wheel comes with many. It was also great timing because it tied in with the 35^th Anniversary of our company, which we are celebrating this year.

BTC: What is the best estimate as to when it will open?
CW: We are shooting for the middle of June . [Note: In a June 2, 2016 tweet Track Family Fun Parks tweeted that it would open to the public at Noon on June 23.]

BTC: Will its name be changed?
CW: Yes, it will be called “The Branson Ferris Wheel”

BTC: How much will it cost to ride?
CW: $12.00 for adults, $8.00 for kids 4-11. And kids under 3 ride free.

BTC: What Ferris Wheel was it modeled after?
CW: You could say that it was inspired and modeled after the original Ferris Wheel designed by George Ferris Jr. for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exhibition in Chicago. The original was bigger and had different gondolas, but it is clear that the inspiration for the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel came from it.

BTC: How Tall is it?
CW: 150 feet.

Each of the 40, fully enclosed, gondolas will hold up to six guests. *

BTC: How many gondolas does it have?
CW: It has 40 gondolas, each of which is fully enclosed.

BTC: What’s its maximum capacity?
CW: 240 riders. Each gondola can handle up to six with a maximum limit of 990 pounds per gondola.

BTC: How will guests be restrained bar, belt, etc.
CW: There is no seat restraint because the seats are inside a completely enclosed unit.

BTC: Will guests be able to carry babies and small children on laps?
CW: Absolutely. They will be sitting inside a completely enclosed unit.

BTC: What are the hours of operation?
CW: From 10 AM through approximately Midnight.

BTC: How will the wheel operate?
CW: We will use basically the same procedure they used on the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel. The wheel will remain in motion at all times, traveling slow enough that people can board from one side while those finishing their ride are exiting from the other side.

BTC: How long will the ride be?
CW: The ride will last for about seven to seven and a half minutes from the time you enter the gondola until you exit and consist of one complete revolution of the wheel.

BTC: How long was it at Chicago’s Navy Pier?
CW: For 20 years.

BTC: When did you find out it was for sale?
CW: In early October of 2015.

BTC: Had you been eyeing a Ferris Wheel for a long time, or was this just a right place/right time-type of situation?
CW: We have been intrigued by Ferris wheels for a couple of years, but I wouldn’t say that one was in our short-term strategic plan by any means. We knew that Branson would be a great place for one because of its scenery and energetic entertainment corridor, but we just had the idea in a file somewhere. In 2015, we did make connections with some industry friends who had knowledge and expertise in Ferris wheels. As it turned out, we were asking questions and dreaming a little bit at the right time. That fortunate timing put us in a position to learn of the Navy Pier replacing their Ferris wheel with a new, bigger one. So, it was definitely knowing the right people at the right time. Our scenario is a testament to the importance and benefit of expanding your network of industry peers…it landed us an iconic Ferris wheel! With there being both national and international interest in the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel, we were extremely fortunate to get it.

BTC: How much did it cost?
CW: The total cost involved with its purchase and transition to the Branson Ferris Wheel represents about a $4 million investment.

BTC: Who originally manufactured it?
CW: It was originally manufactured by Vekoma Rides in the Netherlands.

BTC: Who is rebuilding the Branson Ferris Wheel?
CW: A team of eight from Dutch Wheels, a division of Vekoma Rides, has been here to help get it to this point. Their head engineer has put together 150 Ferris Wheels around the world during his 32-year career.

BTC: What improvements will be the most obvious to those seeing the Branson Ferris Wheel?
CW. Its brand new paint job and the change from its original incandescent lighting system to a new programmable system of over 16 thousand LED lights and music that was designed and is being installed by Michael Haygood’s company.

BTC: When did it arrive in Branson?
CW: About the middle of February.

BTC: How many trucks did it take to get it to Branson?
CW: The wheel was loaded on 26 semis over a period of four days and transported to Branson where it took four days to unload them.

View of face of the Branson Ferris Wheel from Highway 76.*

BTC: How wide and deep are the anchors and how many cubic yards of concrete are in them?
CW: Each is 54 inches wide and they vary in depth from 8 feet to 24 feet depending on the soil conditions underneath. The piers, pier caps, and tie beams making up the foundation for the wheel contain 250 yards of concrete and 40 tons of rebar.

BTC: How was the decision made in what direction to face it?
CW: We wanted people coming down Highway 76 in either direction to be able to see the face of the wheel.

BTC: What about this ride excites you the most?
CW: We are getting something with this ride that money can’t buy. It has a great story and is something that many have an emotional connection with that we wouldn’t have gotten with a new Ferris Wheel. It will be exciting to be a part of the new stories and emotional connections that it will be a part of in Branson over the decades to come.

For more information about the Branson Ferris Wheel and Track Family Fun Parks please contact Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550 or visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com

*Photos courtesy of Track Family Fun Parks

It’s a breathtakingly unique Branson experience your family will not want to miss

Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen

“A scenic sightseeing cruise on beautiful Lake Taneycomo, aboard Main Street Lake Cruises’ 84-foot-long riverboat replica Lake Queen, is truly a one of a kind experience that will become one of your family’s most treasured Branson memories,” said Allison Jussel, the administrative assistant for Main Street Lakes Cruises. “A cruise aboard the Lake Queen is an experience reminiscent of the boats and the White River that played such an important part in Branson’s early history and is one of Branson’s most magnificent shows produced by Mother Nature herself,” she added.

Here’s some things to consider about this amazing 1.5 hour Branson adventure aboard the Lake Queen:

New Easy Accessible Location: With the move earlier this year, of Main Street Marina, the 428-foot-long and 112-foot-wide home of Main Street Lake Cruises, to its new Branson Landing location off the Bass Pro parking lot at 9 South Boardwalk, passengers can park right in front of the Marina.

See Sights Not Seen by the Vast Majority of Branson’s Visitors: These sights include one of Missouri’s largest Blue Heron Rookeries; amazing bluffs carved naturally by Mother Nature over the centuries; spectacular Ozark vistas; a unique mid-lake view of Branson Landing and its $7.5 million fountain with its spectacular synchronized fire, water, light, and music show; and much more.

This Bald Eagle is just one of the different types of birds and wildlife commonly seen on cruises.

Experience Ozarks’ Birds and Other Wildlife: From your vantage point aboard the Lake Queen you’ll come upon the birds and other wildlife that abound on Lake Taneycomo and its shoreline. You could see deer, mink, river otters, the great blue heron, bald eagles, various species of ducks, Canadian geese and other geese, as well as many other species.

Tastefully Narrated: Although there is plenty of time to relax and just enjoy the serenity of being on the lake, at key points, the Captain will provide a live, interesting narrative of what you’ll be seeing, both fixed and spontaneous sights … a bald eagle sitting in a tree, or a mink scurrying along the shoreline, or any number of things that just can’t be planned!

Relax: Whether in the fresh air of the open top deck, or inside the climate controlled lower deck, it’s hard to imagine anything more relaxing than cruising on Lake Taneycomo aboard the Lake Queen while enjoying the peace and serenity of the Ozarks.

Safety: The safety of you and your family is foremost. The Lake Queen and its crew are licensed, and the boat is inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard on a regular basis.

Enjoy Full Modern Amenities: The Lake Queen is fully handicap accessible and offers modern amenities including full-sized modern restrooms, a well-stocked bar, snack food service, a fully enclosed environmentally conditioned lower deck and an open-air upper deck.

Special Moonlight Cruise: Starting June 3, there will be a 7:45 PM moon light cruise which provides a whole new experience of sights and sounds as night descends over the lake, the stars sparkle in the clear Ozarks sky, and you are treated to the full brilliance and majesty of the Branson Landing Fire and Light Fountain show against the backdrop of the Ozarks night. It is something that will not soon be forgotten!

Main Street Lake Cruises’ Aussel also points out that the 100-foot luxury yacht Landing Princess offers a scenic dinner cruise boarding at 4:15 and leaving at 4:45 PM. The cruise arrives back at 6:15 PM leaving plenty of time to enjoy one of Branson’s great shows after a relaxing cruise and great dinner.

The delicious, plated and served, dinner includes a mixed Garden Salad, 4 ounces of Texas Beef Brisket, Slow Roasted Chicken, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Country Style Green Beans, Cornbread Muffin, and Bread Pudding for dessert. Coffee, Water or Tea is included with meal and a cash bar available. Gluten free, vegetarian, and other special dietary needs can be accommodated provided they are requested prior to 3:00 PM.

For additional information or tickets for a cruise aboard the Lake Queen or Landing Princess please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

One thing you should absolutely not miss at Branson’s Silver Dollar City?

Silver Dollar City’s new $8 million “Fireman’s Landing” has ten rides and attractions for the younger kids to enjoy.

“One of the neatest things about Silver Dollar City is that it has so many exciting and fun-filled rides, shows, and activities to experience. Not only does it have something for everyone, but it has multiple things that everyone loves and that’s why it’s Branson’s most popular attraction and has been helping families ‘create memories worth repeating’ for over 50 years,’” said, Preston Garrison, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest providers of tourism services and information.

Garrison’s comment was based on responses, from a portion of the over 32,000 people who interact with Branson Tourism Center’s Facebook page, to the question, “Branson’s most popular attraction is Silver Dollar City; what’s the one thing you would advise a friend visiting SDC for the first time not to miss?”

Interestingly, the vast majority of those responding, although asked for the “one thing they would advise a friend visiting SDC for the first time not to miss,” listed more than one. Perhaps the reason why is best summed up by the comment of Amanda Cox Cranfield when she said, “EVERYTHING- don’t miss a thing!”

Silver Dollar City is an international award winning 1890’s style themed park that, combined with Marvel Cave, around which it is built, is Branson’s longest continuous running attraction. It features six annual world class festivals, of which its Old Time Christmas is its longest running and most award winning; over 40 plus rides and activities, shows, demonstrating craftsmen, and much more. There is so much to see and do, especially if you take a tour of Marvel Cave, that many people buy a two-day pass which costs less than $6.00 more than a one day pass.

Silver Dollar City’s iconic world class coaster “Wildfire.”

It has rides for every age from world class coasters, such as the exciting iconic Wildfire and the heart-pumping roller coaster, Outlaw Run®, voted the “Best New Ride of 2013” by Amusement Today, to rides and activities for the smallest members of the family, such as Happy Frogs, Lady Bugs and Half Dollar Holler. One of the things that keeps Silver Dollar City so popular is that it is constantly adding new things to see and do, such as the new $8-million-dollar Fireman’s Landing, featuring six new rides and four new attractions for families to enjoy together which was added in 2015.

Silver Dollar City is noted for the quality and variety of the food that is served throughout the park, from full meals to snacks and more, but let’s let two of the commenters sum it up in their own words:

Kevin L. Wilson: The succotash!!!!! The fried okra and corn and onions and grilled chicken and, well, I’m getting hungry.

Joe Slay: Kevin Wilson stole my thunder. I also recommend the kettle corn, pork rinds, funnel cakes, and fudge. Get to the succotash kiosk early ’cause the line gets long fast. Yeah, I’m all about good grub and SDC has it.

By age, it’s Branson’s oldest attraction, yet it remains one of its newest in terms of maintaining its freshness and excitement by constantly updating and adding exciting new things to see and do, making it the number one single paid attraction in Branson, both in terms of why people pick Branson as a vacation destination and what they actually do while in Branson. Why? Perhaps the words of Erin LeBlanc-Wise sum it up best when she answered saying, “The craftsmanship and peanut brittle….pretty much everything Silver Dollar City has to offer. It’s the best theme park ever!!!”

Exciting move increases access to Lake Taneycomo cruises aboard Main Street Lake Cruises

Portion of Main Street Marina and entrance to Main Street Lake Cruises awaiting installation of ramps and final adjustments.

After many months of planning and effort, many of those walking along the Branson Landing Boardwalk on Sunday, February 21, 2016 were astounded to see the largest structure ever floated on Lake Taneycomo in the middle of the lake and moving ever so slowly and carefully upstream. The amazing sight was the Main Street Marina, at 428-foot-long and 112-foot-wide, being moved from its old home at 7 North Boardwalk on Branson Landing, to its new location at 9 South Boardwalk.

Main Street Marina is a multi-function facility; home to Main Street Lake Cruises, as well as restaurant and retail facilities. “This is a game changer,” said Larry Milton, the co-owner of Main Street Marina with his wife Lianne. “The marina’s new prime location, along the shoreline of the Bass Pro Parking lot, provides not only increased visibility, but drive-up parking and immediate access to our main entrance from a flat parking lot, all of which will enhance the experience of our guests,” he added.

Main Street Lake Cruises offers Lake Taneycomo sightseeing and dinner cruises aboard its two vessels, the 140 passenger riverboat replica Lake Queen, and the 100-foot luxury yacht, the Landing Princess. 2016 cruises from the new location are scheduled to begin on May 1. “Our goal is to provide our passengers with a unique, exciting, and unforgettable experience that will become a special part of their favorite Branson memories,” said Steve Johnson, the General Manager of Main Street Lake Cruises. “A cruise aboard the 84-foot-long riverboat replica Lake Queen is reminiscent of the travel on the White River that played such an important part in Branson’s early history, and each cruise is truly a living, one-of-a-kind adventure show with the sights, sounds, and excitement produced daily by Mother Nature.” he added

Johnson says that although there is plenty of time to relax and just enjoy the serenity of being on the lake, the Captain will provide a live, interesting narrative of what you’ll likely see, both fixed and spontaneous sights. How can you plan for a bald eagle sitting in a tree, a great blue heron soaring overhead, a mink scurrying along the shoreline, or any number of the amazing things that just happen daily along the lake shore?

Fixed sights include a unique mid-lake view of Branson Landing and its $7.5 million fountain, a spectacular synchronized fire, water, light, and music show; one of Missouri’s largest Blue Heron Rookeries; amazing bluffs carved naturally by Mother Nature over the centuries; spectacular Ozark vistas; and much more. In addition, from the comfort of your vantage point aboard the Lake Queen or the Landing Princess, you’ll come upon the birds and other wildlife that abound on Lake Taneycomo and its shoreline such as deer, mink, river otters, the great blue heron, bald eagles, various species of ducks, Canada geese, and much more. Although there are fixed elements in each cruise, each cruise experience can be as different as a snowflake when it comes to the wonders that Mother Nature will reveal.

Both of Main Street Lake Cruises’ boats and their crews are licensed, and the boats are inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard on a regular basis. In addition, they are fully accessible to the disabled and offer a full complement of modern amenities, including full-sized modern restrooms, a well-stocked bar, as well as snack and food service, as appropriate. The Lake Queen has a fully enclosed environmentally conditioned lower deck and an open-air upper deck, while both the decks of the Landing Princess are fully enclosed and environmentally conditioned.

For additional information on sightseeing cruises on the Lake Queen, or dinner cruises on the Landing Princess or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services; call 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Johnson points out that there are also opportunities to lease the marina’s restaurant and retail space at the exciting new prime location. Anyone interested in any of these leasing opportunities should contact him at 417-239-3980

$1.7 million Titanic Violin ignites a spectacular Titanic 10th anniversary celebration

Shoji Tabuchi viewing the Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin and paying his respects to his fellow musicians who perished that night.

Why would someone pay $1.7 million for a violin that can’t be played and has not played a note in over 100 years? There can’t be too many reasons, but one would surely be because it’s believed to be the very violin played by the Titanic’s bandleader, Wallace Hartley, the night of April 14, 1912 when the RMS Titanic hit an iceberg and sank into the deep depths of the icy north Atlantic, and became a legend for the ages.

“RMS Titanic bandleader Wallace Hartley’s violin has become the iconic symbol of the Titanic saga. Found strapped to his body after the sinking, it was returned to his wife-to-be, only to be lost to the world until it resurfaced almost a century later. Now, for the first time since an unnamed owner took possession of the violin, visitors to the Titanic Museum Attractions will be able to experience, for themselves, the overwhelming sense of emotion it evokes,” says Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, co-owner of the Titanic Attractions.

She also points out that 2016 is the 10^th anniversary of the Titanic Museum Attraction’s “setting anchor” in Branson, and to honor the occasion, they are pleased to present a 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit, the display of the $1.7 million Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin; it will be at the museum from March 7 through May 29 along with the only Bible to survive the sinking.# “The Titanic Violin may never be played again,” admits Kellogg. “But one of the final songs Wallace Hartley was said to have been playing during the ship’s final moments can still be heard in our imaginations: ‘Nearer, my God to thee, Nearer to thee…’”

Although the violin exhibit is a major feature of its 10th anniversary celebration, there will be other events at Titanic during the year to honor the occasion. One of these is a special $10.00 admission to the attraction for children ages 5 through 12 throughout all of 2016.

When asked why Branson was picked as the “home port” of the Titanic Museum, Kellogg pointed out that it was a process that started over a decade before its 2006 opening. More than 10 years before that, while serving as the Executive Vice President of Television for The Walt Disney Company, she bought the national TV show “Live With Regis and Kathie Lee,” to the Grand Palace in Branson as the result of a letter received from Steve Presley, on behalf of the Ozark Marketing Council. During the process, a warm friendship with the Presleys developed and Mary and her husband John fell in love with Table Rock Lake. As a result, they kept in contact with the Presleys and came back to Branson and Table Rock Lake every 4^th of July.

Through the years, her husband John, who had been touring with the Titanic artifacts throughout Europe and the United States, thought that they needed a permanent location for display. When he decided it was time, their love of Branson and friendship with the Presleys, along with the demographics of the Branson visitor, made Branson an ideal location. The museum opened in 2006 and the rest is history.

“Congratulations to the Titanic Museum Attraction on the occasion of its 10^th anniversary in Branson, and on being able to obtain a 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit, the display of the $1.7 million Wallace Hartley Titanic Violin,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “What a blessing the Titanic Museum Attraction has been for Branson and its visitor as it honors those who were on board by telling their stories in a special and dignified way, while providing Branson visitors of all ages with a special, unique, and fun-filled experience they’ll never forget,” she added.

For additional information or tickets for the Titanic Museum Attraction, or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services; call 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

# From June 7 through Labor Day Weekend the violin will be on display at the Titanic’s sister ship in Pigeon Forge, TN