Branson, Missouri

Branson is a city located in Taney County, Missouri. It was named for Rueben Branson, operator of a general store in the area in the 1880s. http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/north_america/branson/history.htm As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 6,050. Originally envisioned as a center for lumber shipment, tourism began to develop in the 1930s. Today, Branson is a nationally popular tourist destination, famous for its many live music theaters, clubs and other entertainment venues, primarily involving Country Music.

Entertainment and vacation destination

Branson has numerous museums, tourist attractions, over 100 shows, over 200 lodging choices, over 400 restaurants, 49 live performance theaters, three pristine lakes, 10 championship golf courses, dozens of festivals and events thoughout the year, nearby mountains, and wilderness areas.

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Silver Dollar City, Celebration City, Dixie Stampede, White Water, Showboat Branson Belle, Branson's American Star, Stone Hill Winery, Ride The Ducks, The Tracks, and Splash Country are favorites.

Related Topics:
Silver Dollar City - Celebration City - Dixie Stampede - White Water - Showboat Branson Belle - Branson's American Star - Stone Hill Winery - Ride The Ducks - The Tracks - Splash Country

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Yakov Smirnoff and other stars can be enjoyed here.

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Part of Branson's boom in the 1980's coincided with the rapid expansion and growth in popularity of Kanakuk Camps.

Related Topics:
1980's - Kanakuk Camps

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In addition, Eureka Springs, Arkansas (another popular tourist destination featuring the Great Passion Play and the Christ of the Ozarks statue) is located nearby.

Related Topics:
Eureka Springs, Arkansas - Christ of the Ozarks

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Lampoon - Acerbic comedian Dennis Miller once described Branson as "Las Vegas for people without teeth". And also, presumably, without a gambling habit.

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In one episode of The Simpsons, Branson was described as "Las Vegas if it were run by Ned Flanders".

Related Topics:
The Simpsons - Las Vegas - Ned Flanders

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The city receives a much kinder portrayal, however, in Donald Westlake's novel Baby, Would I Lie?.

Related Topics:
Donald Westlake - Baby, Would I Lie?

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