The old image of Branson, MO as a town of little more than country music and country bumpkins isn’t quite accurate any longer. As recently depicted in a 2013 documentary entitled “We Always Lie to Strangers,” this Midwest town has blossomed over the years as a place that attracts some of the most hardworking, talented performers and entertainers to a thriving city full of family fun and lots of natural beauty.
As it is, tourism brings in over 7 million visitors annually, though the city is home to only 11,000 residents of their own. This growing tourist hotspot has become increasingly popular as Branson continues to diversify all that it has to offer those who come, while keeping all age groups and personal tastes in mind.
Spirit of 76
The city has recently undergone a multimillion-dollar revitalization project known as Spirit of 76, which covers a 5-mile stretch of Highway 76. This revamping project has added brand new theaters, attractions, hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. It’s also the home to new modern lighting, landscaping, and roads, making traffic flow more smoothly and strolling around that much more enjoyable. The overhaul project brings a lot more beauty, modern convenience, and entertainment to the area with final completion expected for 2024.
Unique Attractions in Branson
Starting in summer of 2016, visitors can begin enjoying the changes that have already taken place, including riding the 15-story Ferris wheel that used to reside in Chicago’s Navy Pier. This iconic structure can hold a total of 240 passengers in its 40 gondolas and is installed at the Track Family Fun Park on Highway 76 as part of the company’s 35th anniversary celebration. Other exciting attractions to enjoy this summer will include:
- Bigfoot on the Strip – This 200-foot tower offers three different thrilling experiences, including a saddle-swing ride, a freefall ride, and a rotating ride that delivers a 360 degree view of the whole city.
- Fritz’s Adventure – Located at the site of the old Silver Fountain Inn, this attraction will feature three stories of fun which will include: slides, swings, tunnels, zip lines, a ropes course, climbing walls, and lots of other challenging obstacles.
Aside from these attractions, there is so much more to experience in Branson, including lots of live shows, a wax museum, live theater, rows and rows of restaurants, several roller coasters, and so much more! Consider Branson, MO this year when you think of a great vacation spot to take the family!
As summer approaches, a family man’s thoughts turn to summer vacation! It’s the time of year that can bring fear into the strongest of hearts; no one forgives or forgets the year the family vacation involved a small town, tornadoes, and many cans of Spam. A repeat of that vacation could change the way a man’s family looks at him forever!
Fortunately, this year, that same man discovered the luxury cabins Sunset Nightly Rentals offers and the joy of a small town with the heart of a big city, Branson, Missouri. This year, this family’s going to have the vacation of a lifetime as they experience all the activities, events and attractions this scenic town has to offer, making dad the hero once more!
Silver Dollar City
This 18th century themed amusement park offers a little bit for every member of your family: exciting rides, world class festivals, music, and a glimpse into what life might have been like in the 18th century. Glass blowers, blacksmiths, even candy makers and bakers provide demonstrations on their crafts throughout most of the year, giving you the opportunity to buy their wares after. At Christmas, Silver Dollar City becomes a Christmas wonderland with over 5 million lights and over a thousand Christmas trees. This park is a joy to visit year round.
The Lakes
Home to three unbelievably beautiful lakes, Table Lake, Lake Taneycomo, and Bull Shoals Lake, Branson offers world class fishing, boating, and all around frolicking in an area rich with rugged appeal. Picnic on the shores of Lake Taneycomo, fish in the shallows of Table Lake, or hike the trails that surround the Bull Shoals Lake. If natural beauty and fresh air is what makes you happiest, this Ozarks town and its picturesque lakes are where you need to be!
Ride the Ducks
Touring Branson is even more fun when done by Duck: amphibious vehicles designed after the military World War II DUKW (D-designed in 1942, U-utility, K-all wheel drive & W-dual rear axles). Our Ducks will take you on a 70-minute tour of Branson from the top of the mountain to the waters of Table Lake; if you’re lucky, maybe the Captain will let you have a turn at the wheel!
The Shows
Branson earned its honorary title of World’s Live Music Capital honestly, having over 40 theatres featuring musicians of all types. Country, rock, show tunes, even our tribute shows are beyond amazing and all are responsible for having put Branson on the map. Neon lights make the downtown area glow as it thrives and bustles, while the outskirts are pure Ozarks: lakes, mountains, and wooded areas to help you find a little peace and quiet amongst the hustle of downtown Branson. Nowhere else on earth has quite the same mixture of big city excitement and small town beauty.
Sunset Nightly Rentals
We helped make dad a hero again and we can do the same with you. Check out our website and discover the joys of Branson in your very own rustic, yet luxurious cabin rental located in the heart of the Ozarks.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Branson, MO for the first time or going back for your annual family getaway, there’s a good chance you already know that the city is teeming with life and activity at just about any time of year. There is a limitless number of things to see and do in the popular Ozark Mountain town. You could easily fill your entire itinerary with all the live entertainment, amusement parks, museums, and outdoor attractions that are offered, but it’s also nice to know which special events will be going on during your stay. If you want to ensure that you don’t miss a thing during your vacation, mark your calendar with the following events for May.
Ozark Mountain Shindig Festival – This year’s 3rd annual Shindig Festival continues throughout the month of May, giving Branson visitors and residents the opportunity to participate in more than 100 live shows and events. It all comes to fruition on May 28 when everyone in town comes together for the Shindig Shuffle and tries to set the record for the world’s longest Shindig line dance.
Wallace Hartley Violin Display – From May 7-29 Titanic enthusiasts will get the chance to see a piece of history. The Titanic Museum has gained exclusive rights to display the recovered violin of Wallace Hartley, which was sold at auction for an impressive bid.
Silver Dollar City Bluegrass & BBQ Festival – This international event features some of the most notable names in bluegrass music, including Rhonda Vincent & the Rage, The Grascals, and the Kruger Brothers. Come for the live performances running until May 30, and stay for the succulent barbeque offered throughout the park.
Divas Half Marathon & 5K Series – This is not your normal marathon event. On May 15 the streets of Branson will be filled with runners donning pink tutus, boas, and tiaras. Once participants have completed the 3.5-hour course, they will be rewarded with champagne and a post-race party.
Flotilla Adventure on Lake Taneycomo – Those who love a good water adventure won’t want to miss this one on Sat, May 21. The afternoon will be spent with guides on the gorgeous waters of Lake Taneycomo in a canoe or single, double, or triple kayak learning much of the area’s interesting topographical and historical details.
Makenna & Brock + Leather & Lace Concert – The Branson Landing stage is pleased to welcome back X-Factor contestants Makenna & Brock on May 27 who will also be joined by Leather & Lace in an opening performance. The country duo promises a night for all attendees to remember.