Branson is a fantastic place to visit and vacation, but the area has gained some interesting misconceptions over the years. Contrary to what you may have heard, the town has more to offer than Country Music, motorcoaches, and the famous Highway 76—though that’s certainly part of the attraction!
Here are some widely believed Branson myths that just aren’t true.
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If you don’t like country music, don’t bother: Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, it’s only natural that Branson would crank out Country Music. However, less than half of the live shows on Highway 76—where there are more than 100 weekly performances to choose from—feature Country Music.
You’ll find a great variety of genres and performers to choose from: popular music, rock and roll, traditional Irish, patriotic, Broadway hits, ’50s and ’60s dance music, and tribute bands that cover Red Skelton, The Beatles, Elvis, and more. There are also many live dance, comedy, and magic shows to take in.
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Live shows are the only entertainment around: Sure, there are plenty of shows, so it’s natural to assume that all local activities are built around the stellar performances. However, you can keep yourself busy in Branson without ever stepping foot in a theater.
Three sparkling lakes, picturesque scenery, and a whole crop of outdoor activities and visitor destinations provide entertainment, relaxation, and much more. From swimming, fishing, boating, and scuba diving at Lake Taneycomo and Table Rock Lake, to shopping at the premium malls and outlets, to the Branson Landing scenic boardwalk, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, and Stone Hill Winery, there’s plenty to entertain visitors of all ages.
And for thrill-seekers, there’s Silver Dollar City, Branson’s award-winning amusement park.
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It’s clogged with tour buses and traffic jams: Fact: Branson is a hub for motorcoach tours and bus groups. Fiction: Traffic is jammed for hours because of all the buses. The truth is that tour buses bring in only 5 percent of Branson’s visitors. More than 80 percent arrive by car, and the rest fly into the Springfield / Branson National Airport.
As far as traffic flow, Branson has invested millions in roadway infrastructure improvements, adding new four-lane highways that run north and south, and laying out a color-coded route system that allows for easy navigation without getting caught in a jam on Highway 76.
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You’ll eat at buffets and budget restaurants the whole time: While Branson does offer several affordable dining options that are ideal for big families or travelers on a budget, you’ll find an excellent selection of upscale choices, too. There are nearly 100 restaurants in Branson and another 44 in nearby Silver Dollar City.
Try Buckingham’s Restaurant for mouthwatering prime rib, steak Diane, or seafood flambé. The Chateau Grille offers grand views of Table Rock Lake and exceptional French fare, along with a rich, varied wine menu.
You can also enjoy high dining at the Candlestick Inn, Clarion at the Palace, the Radisson Hotel, Big Cedar Lodge, Chateau on the Lake, and many more. The new Branson Landing lakefront features the Hilton Promenade, with a number of unique restaurants and shops to choose from.
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Branson is a premier destination for visitors of all ages: Okay, this one is true. Whatever your getaway interests, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Branson, Missouri. From the excitement of live shows along Highway 76 to the scenic thrills of outdoor recreation—not to mention an exceptional bounty of shops and restaurants—you’re sure to have a great time in Branson. We hope to see you soon!
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