Branson Resorts | 31 Timeshare Resorts in Branson

Branson Brings Music Alive

Branson, Missouri, might seem like an unlikely place for musical history to be made, but it is here that bluegrass, country and a little bit of rock 'n roll mingle freely with the Ozark Mountains, drawing tourists from all over the world to take in the breathtaking landscapes, dinner and a show.

Made famous by Harold Bell Wright with his 1907 publication of "Shepherd of the Hills," Branson grew from a rugged, mountain town into the tourist mecca it is today in small leaps and bounds. By the 1950s, the first few country music shows lifted their curtains, with many more to follow. The Baldknobbers, Presleys' Country Jubilee and the Braschler Music Show were among the first to mark out this landscape as their own. Many more were soon to arrive on the Branson scene, along with tourists from all over the world.

Today, Branson is home to more than 50 theaters, a host of live shows, museums, festivals and a landscape that drops visitors' jaws as readily as some of the famous acts that take to the city's stages. With thousands of visitors making stops within its boundaries each year, no matter the weather, Branson has gone from a sleepy little town to a major destination.

Some of the biggest attractions in Branson include:

• Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show: This is one of Branson's most famous attraction, featuring music, pyrotechnics, lighting and live animals, the dinner theater experience include a four-course meal and dessert to boot.
• Liverpool Legends: They're not quite the Beatles, but many visitors say they are hard-pressed to tell the difference. The four singers who were chosen to head up the act were picked personally by Louise Harrison, George's sister.
• Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater: Take a stroll through rock 'n roll's past at this theater, which offers a musical tribute to some of history's greatest hits. Each show features headlining acts in addition to lesser-known professional singers.
• '57 Heaven: Featuring the world's largest collection of 1957 automobiles, this museum has its own "drive-in movie", a gas station, barbershop and more.
• Amusement parks: Branson features a number of amusement parks and other interesting draws. It is home to a Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, Silver Dollar City, which features a replica 1880s town and rides; and some serious go-cart action at The Track Family Fun Parks.
• Outdoor activities: With mountains to explore and three major lakes, Branson is home to some serious outdoor fun, as well. From golf and hiking to helicopter rides, tours and more, there is outdoor action year-round.
• Scenic Railway: This is considered a must-do by many visitors. The ride takes tourists on a trip through the Ozarks, offering up lots of interesting facts and historic tidbits along the way.
• Other attractions: Branson is home to dozens of restaurants, buffets, nightclubs and more. It also features a variety of museums and cultural stops, as well.

With a little bit of something for everyone whether they love music or the mountains, Branson is considered a top vacation destination by those who want something a little off the beaten path. Featuring more than 100 different shows during any given week, there is never a shortage of options here for visitors of all ages.