Branson Missouri for Family Vacation Fun

Every year millions of visitors come to Branson for their vacations. Each of them have an idea of what they want to do and some of them even know how to go about it. For the others, they must count on one of the many information centers. Most of these may have an agenda of their own such as signing you up for a sales tour at a timeshare or something similar. They are not bad as timeshare is great for those that understand what they are buying and those that have to have a reason to vacation.

However, a lot of people would prefer to see the sights and sample the offerings to be found in Branson before they decide that they would like to return for their vacation annually. For those people it may be advantageous to take a ride on the land-water tour bus, Ride the Ducks . Your tour will take you around the area with a humorous dialog by the driver. You will go past, and be able to return to, the location of the different shows, restaurants, the different museums and the lakes. You will even take a 'dip' in Table Rock Lake. You can make reservations and get the location of the loading dock prior to your arrival in the Ozarks.

Built on the site of Marvel Cave, Silver Dollar City offers a walk through history. You will be treated to the sights and smells from the past. There are various crafters and artisans that are entertaining and educational at the same time. It is a bit much to try to take it in with just one short vacation so you may want to plan on a return trip in the future.

Upon entering the part site, you may want to take a trip through Marvel Cave. While it may not be the largest cave you will ever see, it is a very nice beginning to the day. As you wind your way through the 'City', you will see many different crafters and shops. There are many opportunities to stop and sample some of the local fare, much of it you can enjoy as you walk around the park.

As you continue your trek there are shows, water rides, roller coasters and a train ride through area. For the youngest of the group there is a petting zoo, Not to forget the various groups that are brought in just to entertain the youngsters.

Since the park first opened, Silver Dollar City had been a vacation destination for many. Families have made it a tradition as they return year after year.

As you begin your vacation plans, it may be worth while to look over the special activities that will take place this season at SDC. Here is a sampling of what you could see during the annual Spring World Fest:

NEW Mayorov Russian State Circus
NEW Canadian Powerhouse world-championship fiddlers and step-dancers
NEW Rhythms of Rajasthan from India
NEW Irish Eyes Are Smiling starring Dearbhail Finnegan and Michael Londra
NEW Slovenian Polka Party - 3 Days Only (May6-8)
Russian Academic Band
Trinidad's Footprints Diego Martin
Ecuador Manta

Food tasting of fabulous cuisine can be had during the Tastes of the World. You may to even sign up for the Culinary and Craft School . The whole family will enjoy the taste of the Ozarks that you take home with you long after the vacation is over.

New this year is Half Dollar Holler. It's a network of treetop fun houses, climbing nets, sand play, and much more. (This area is designed for children through the age of 7.) Each year sees a new addition to the area and new and old favorites to delight the young. Among these are:

Dora & Diego, June 9-11
Ben 10, June 16-18
Chowder, June 23-25
Scooby Doo & Shaggy, July 1-4
Fred Flintstone, Barney & Dino, July 7-9
Mac & Bloo, July 14-16
SpongeBob & Patrick, July 21-23
Tom & Jerry, July 28-30
Backyardigans, August 4-6

Mark your calendar and let the fun begin!

Winding through the streets of the City, you will pass food vendors as well as crafters on display. Watch them perform the skills from days gone by. Keep going and you will discover the thrills. What vacation would be complete without getting all wet? Enjoy the splashing water on the Lost River and the American Plunge then try your nerve on one of the roller coasters to be found as you trek through the mountain paths. The adventures are sure to be remembered for years.

FIRE-IN-THE-HOLE Lively indoor coaster features high-speed drops, thrills and surprises

The GIANT SWING, for adults and almost adults, features a 360* thrilling view of the surrounding area.

Inter-active arcade style shoot out with the prisoners that have taken over the prison. Kids of all ages enjoy this ride through the flooded mine.

Armed with super soaker water guns, passengers and spectators take aim at over 150 aqua-armed targets surrounding your raft from water and shore. You could wet though, as they may shoot back. A 'waterful good time'.

Climb more than five stories into the Ozark sky and splash down at speeds reaching 35 miles per hour. This traditional log flume ride offers a thrilling way to get a refreshing all-American soaking!

The fastest whitewater in the Ozarks propels your raft down a mighty raging lost river with numerous turns, twists and drops. Prepare to get soaked!

Here are just a few of the thrilling rides and attractions that you will find at Silver Dollar City. You may find it difficult to see everything in only one vacation. You and your family may want to return again and again like so many others have