Tune in on Saturday, July 10 as Peter Greenberg broadcasts his radio show from Silver Dollar City theme park in Branson, Missouri.
He’s got some Branson legends in his lineup, including Andy Williams and America’s singing sweethearts, the Lennon Sisters.
Want to find out how entertainers spend their free time in Branson? Read on for the answers.
Kathy Lennon, The Lennon Sisters
Branson is reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting: it is a mid-America, Midwestern hometown. The population of Branson is around 6,500, but close to 9 million tourists pass through in a given year.
What is it that draws tourists to Branson? There are more than 100 shows in production, recreational attractions, and museums. Not to mention, with a historic downtown, complete with mom-and-pop shops, visiting Branson takes you back in time.
Dick’s Five and Dime in historic Branson is one of a kind. Take a walk down memory lane, looking at vintage toys and memorabilia for sale. The Five and Dime is a great American store.
Visit the Titanic Branson. The exhibits are remarkable. The artifacts were recovered from the first dive down to the legendary ship. From woodcarvings to dresses, everything is authentic. Not to mention, many of the props used in James Cameron’s Titanic are also on display. It is a treasure to have such a museum in Branson.
Another interesting Branson museum is the American Presidential Museum. Learn more in Let’s Get Political: Presidential Libraries & Museums.
For a taste of Branson, grab a burger at Billy Bob’s Dairyland. Eating a juicy burger at this hamburger joint is like having a casual burger in your backyard. The homemade flavor and fresh ingredients makes for a delicious meal.
Danna’s Bar-B-Que and Burger Shop gives your tastebuds a sample of the Midwest flavors. The pulled pork sandwiches are the greatest!
The Moon River Grill, owned by singer Andy Williams, is another noteworthy restaurant. Attached to Andy William’s $14 million theater, this restaurant serves up many of Andy’s mother’s home recipes. The Moon River Grill showcases live music during dining hours. If you are in the mood for your mom’s chicken pot pie and some entertainment, this is where you want to eat.
For dessert, check out Andy’s frozen custard. This is a treat the whole family will enjoy.
Learn more about Travel in the Midwestern USA.
Bucky Heard, Branson musician
Branson, Missouri should be the model for what the rest of the world should strive to be like. Branson is a community based on family and respect for our country. All shows and services that swing through Branson bring the community together, building on the pride for this great city.
There is no denying the presence of entertainment in Branson. There are a variety of shows to see that are good and wholesome for the entire family to enjoy. New to the Branson Variety Theater is “Don’t Stop Believin’,” a tribute to the Fox television series Glee. It’s a wonderful musical revue of the show.
Learn more about Branson’s unusual privately-run airport with The Future of Travel: Solutions to America’s Transportation Problems.
Check out “Legends in Concert” at the Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. This impersonator show brings different acts, from Michael Jackson to The Blues Brothers, all on one stage. With the show switching up the acts four times a year, there is reason to see it more than once. Compared to Las Vegas, Branson has just as many amazing shows to see, but the tickets here are more affordable.
When I am not in the theater, I love to be outside. Branson is surrounded by lakes. Lake Taneycomo is a great place to hike, boat, fish and even scuba dive. Pack a picnic and enjoy Ozark country.
Table Rock Lake is another beautiful spot to spend an afternoon.
For more outdoor activities, visit our Adventure & Sports Travel section.
Branson Landing is an upscale shopping pavilion. This 450-square-foot area is filled with posh shops and restaurants. What sets this shopping center apart is its array of fountains. Don’t be fooled: These are not your typical water fountains.
Designed by WET (who also designed the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas), these fountains not only shoot geysers of water, but fire as well. These displays are choreographed to music and can be see on the hour from noon to 10 p.m. It’s a must-see when touring through Branson.
Want to do some shopping? Check out our Shopping & Travel section.
For a bite to eat, head to Billy Gail’s Cafe. This establishment used to be gas station, but is now a log cabin that cooks up a fantastic breakfast. The blueberry pancakes are unreal. Remember your wallet because it’s cash only.
If you are in the mood for pizza and an ice cold beer, try Mr. G’s Chicago Pizza. This is one of the best pizzas you will ever have. The thin crust is extra crispy and brings you back for more.
If you want a place to party at night, head to Club 57 at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. With live music on the weekends, bands play all types of music from Stevie Wonder to Chicago to swing. This club draws in large crowds and the cover charge is only $3.
By Grace Leigh Kelly for PeterGreenberg.com.
Related links on PeterGreenberg.com:
