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BRANSON!

The word conjures up a world of entertainment in America's heartland, a veritable family-friendly Las Vegas located in the MO Ozarks — where visitors come by the millions each year to an American original vacation destination — to be entertained by some of the nation's most popular performers.

What to see and do in Branson

Think of Branson as one giant vacation buffet.

On the menu?

52 theaters, 12 championship golf courses, 3 scenic lakes for swimming, fishing and boating, 3 theme parks, 2 giant outlet factory malls located right in Branson, dozens of family entertainment centers, and literally hundreds of restaurants, hotels and other lodging facilities.

Branson, which bills itself as having "more theater seats than Broadway" is famous for venues built specifically by veteran entertainers as Andy Williams and Jim Stafford.

However, don't miss dozens of more theaters that offer everything from rodeo extravaganzas to Chinese acrobats.

Branson 101: must-sees

Before you set foot in Branson, plan ahead and take advantage of the hundreds of hotels and vacation condos available in and around town competing for your tourist dollar. In Branson, it truly does pay to shop around!

On arrival, head straight for the Branson Tourism Center for schedules, discount coupons, and expert tips on what to see and do. Then, hop aboard the very popular "Riding the Ducks" tour featuring an overland trip of Branson's major attractions combined with a fun splashdown into Table Rock Lake.

Later, don't miss the Branson Belle riverboat cruise around the lake, combining a 4-star dinner and service with live entertainment. If your budget allows, also don't miss one of the most popular Branson music theaters — The Grand Palace — which regularly features spectacular entertainment by such country superstars as The Oak Ridge Boys, Martina McBride, Merle Haggard, George Jones, and more.

With kids in tow, Silver Dollar City theme park remains one of Branson's top attractions with a Dollywood-style funhouse of amusement rides, live entertainment and crafts demonstrations.

Getting to Branson

While Springfield is the traditional major hub for air travelers, a more convenient way to fly into Branson is the recently opened Branson Airport. The airport is conveniently located only eight miles from all major attractions. AirTran Airways currently provides nonstop service from its main hub in Atlanta.

By car, head for Springfield then south on US 65 to exit 82A.

More about Branson travel & tourism around the Web:

Branson Missouri Chamber of Commerce - Information on live shows, festivals & events, hotel & restaurant guides, camping & RV parks, shopping outlets, & kid friendly attractions.

Explore Branson - The official travel & tourism site offering a complete guide to entertainment schedules and venues, online booking for hotel and lodging, restaurant guide, shopping, nearby attractions.

Branson, Missouri - Wikipedia guide with historical background, a guide to all major theaters, museums and other attractions with photos, related references and resources.

also see -> Kansas City Air Show | Christmas in Missouri

Missouri Lakes & Beaches | Missouri Fall Foliage

Missouri Wineries | Moving to Missouri