Whether spelunking in a cave, dunking in a water park or plunking in a line and fishing hook, Branson provides the ideal bunking spot for a fun-filled family vacation.

More than ever, families are selecting Branson as their vacation destination for much the same reason seven million others do—Branson provides a unique combination of exciting shows, attractions and shopping areas along with natural features such as lakes, caves and nature trails. And, while summer is the time most families visit Branson, actually everyday is family day in the Branson/Lakes Area.

No matter the time of year, families will always find exciting activities and a host of live entertainment options. In fact, every show in Branson is appropriate for kids, parents and grandparents, every day of the year.

Lodging accommodations in the Branson/Lakes Area are ideal for families.

Luxury, full-service resorts with family-sized cabins, hotels with family suites and large sleeping rooms provide comfort for the entire family. Area eateries also cater to families. Mile long buffets, casual upscale restaurants and on-the-go quick stops all serve meals that will appeal to every family member.

ATTRACTIONS
Attractions throughout the Branson/Lakes Area are sure to bring out the kid in everyone. Silver Dollar City, voted the top theme park in the World in 1998 by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, offers shows, bands, demonstrating crafters and great food in addition to several exciting rides all in a 1890s atmosphere. The new high flying, mulit-looping, cobra-rolling coster Wildfire drops drops 15 stories and reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour. Buzz Saw Falls, the world’s first liquid roller coaster of its kind, thrills kids of all ages. This, in addition to the Thunderation roller coaster, Lost River and the World’s Largest Tree House at Splash Harbor.

Silver Dollar City also offers special events including the nation’s largest children’s festival, National Children’s Festival, making it a truly special place for families.

The all-new theme park Celebration City celebrates the top events and entertainment of the 20th Century. The new theme park features 30 themed rides, attractions and activities, including the wooden roller coaster, Ozark Wildcat. The park also features themed eateries, shops and an outstanding multi-media laser production show Celebrate.

At Dixie Stampede, families can enjoy a fingers only full-course dinner while cheering on their trick ridin’, whip crackin’, gut bustin’ team. The show filled with unique special effects, colorful costumes and hilarious comedy—including the only Ostrich races in town!

Missouri is known as the “Cave State” for good reason. In the greater Branson area, three caves await the family that loves to explore. Cosmic Cavern, an hour south of Branson in Berryville, AR., Fantastic Caverns, approximately 40 miles north in Springfield, and Marvel Cave, at Silver Dollar City offer tours through these fascinating natural wonders.

Ride the Ducks, one of the area’s most popular rides, is great fun for kids and parents. With “quackers” in hand, riders get a brief history of the area while riding on brightly painted amphibious vehicles and then dive into Table Rock Lake with a splash. Kids are encouraged to take a turn at the wheel and receive a complimentary “Captain’s Certificate” when the stint at the helm is complete.

Families can experience the tropics and cool off during the warm summer months at White Water. This spectacular 12-acre park is a great way to cool off. From the giant Surfquake pool to the 207-foot drop of Paradise Plunge to Splash Island for Kids, White Water is a wet and wild family adventure.

For those looking for a little zip, the Track, with several locations in Branson, offers go-carts, mini golf and arcades for hours of fun. Miniature golf can also be found inside the Grand Country Square. Rain or shine this entertainment complex offers shows, shops and fun all year long.

Two intriguing museums add a touch of the weird and wonderful to any family’s vacation. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum showcases the strange and unusual and includes the world’s largest ball of nylon string. At the Hollywood Wax Museum, legendary stars are depicted in life-like replications.

Branson is also home to the Discovery IMAX Theater. Here, families can enjoy spectacular films on a 10-foot high screen everyday of the year. The complex also includes a restaurant and shops.

For a unique combination of history and entertainment, families should stop by the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. This National Historic Landmark is home to the outdoor amphitheater production of “Shepherd of the Hills.” Visitors can also see old-time craftsman and take the elevator high atop Inspiration Tower for a panoramic view of the entire Branson/Lakes Area.

SHOWS
Family shows are an important tradition in the Branson/Lakes Area. Since the beginning of Branson’s entertainment scene, families have been performing together in great music and comedy shows. The Presley and Mabe (the Baldknobbers) families have been providing visitors with family-oriented shows for more than 40 years.

Several other entertainers also include family members in their show including The Lennon Sisters and their sons and daughters, the Shoji Tabuchi Show features daughter Christina and the Jim Stafford show includes numbers with his children.

In addition, the Lennon Brothers, the Osmonds, the Duttons and the Hughes Brothers all have shows that are not only family comprised, but family-oriented as well.
Branson also offers large production shows that feature non-stop music and great special effects. In addition to the musical entertainment, comedy and magic shows are sure to delight every member of the family.

NATURAL FEATURES
Branson’s three lakes, Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo and Bull Schoals Lake, provide myriad opportunities for families to enjoy the great outdoors. Boating, fishing, swimming or building sandcastles along the beaches are just some of the many exciting lake activities. Many of the resorts on the lakes offer boat and water craft rentals.

The Ozark Mountains also offer hiking, biking and nature trails that provide the ideal chance to learn about the wildflowers and wildlife that call the Ozarks home.

Branson is also an deal place to celebrate a family reunion. Lots of activities for the whole group and a great wholesome atmosphere will make for a memorable gathering.

Branson, Missouri, one of the most popular destinations in the country, boasts 50,000 theater seats—more than on Broadway, three pristine lakes, dozens of attractions, 22,000 lodging rooms 30,000 restaurant seats and more than 200 outlet retailers. Home to big-name entertainment and breathtaking scenery, Branson offers year round entertainment for the whole family.

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