When you head to Springfield to see the Bass Pro Shop, and the Wildlife museum next door, and the Taxidermy museum also next door on the other side, be sure to stop at Lampert's restaurant (the home of the throwed rolls) for dinner. The food is good, and plentiful, and the atmosphere is pure Southern hospitality. We had so much fun we went back again. Just North of Springfield, by only a few miles, is Fantastic Caverns. The cavern is explored by riding in a jeep or its attached open trailer. The tour is excellent, historical, and there is no walking required. We did the cavern, the museums and Lamperts in one day. (We visit ProBass in Las Vegas regularly so we did not make that stop). We enjoyed the Dolly Parsons Stampede (even with the Dolly look-a-like in the poorly fitting wig). But the show was fun, and the audience was great. Every place in town sells discount tickets to the shows.
Quote: We are looking to make a don't miss list can you please make suggestions of places, restaurants, and sights you would not want to miss.
Its really hard to say without knowing what interest you and how much you want to spend. It has more attractions than anyone can take in on a normal visit. There's singing and dancing, comedy, theme parks, ride parks, wildlife, and the list goes on.
As far as eating goes, every chain is represented, or at least it seems. Two locally owned that come mind is the Farm House, downtown, and Danna's BBQ on 165 and on 13 in Branson West.
Whatever you do get a good map and learn the routes that circle hi way 76, the main drag which can be agonizingly slow at times.
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The kids will love riding the Ducks! We are on our 2nd generation to do this.
One show I would recommend is Magnificent Seven at the White House. For $6/7 more you can get a wonderful dinner. Don't be afraid to order the steak it is good. We have been there 3 times & the food & service are always great, as is the show, which is variety.
I believe you will like Treasure Island. Is is in a good location. It is next door to an Imax, which we always take in when there.
Table Rock State Park has walking trails on the Lake, great for the kids & if you like hiking.
SDC is fun also, but can be tiring for the little ones, but lots of rides & shows for them. You may be able to get tickets on line cheaper. Give it a try. I think ticket prices are around $35-40 now? Worldfest is at SDC from April 3 to May 4--well worth seeing.
Also the kids may enjoy Celebration City. (I wouldn't, but I am old!)
A cheap but funny show is the Comedy Show next to the Big Buffet (which would be a good place to eat). Comedy Jamboree at Grand Country Music Hall.
You will also learn to follow the blue/red/yellow roads to avoid the 76 Strip. Just remember if you get caught on 76 in the very slow moving traffic to take a deep breath & relax---cause you aren't going anywhere fast. So allow extra time to get where ever you are going!
There are magic shows that kids always love.
We go down about three times a year. We started going to Branson around 1964 with our children. (That was when you didn't have to pay to get into SDC!) Now we are raising Grandchildren & take them with us also.
You will want to visit the the New Landing on Lake Taneycomo. Take in the fountain show after dark.
If you have any questions for me just mail me.
Have fun.
PB of Mo
Thanks for all the helpful pointers. My bride (32 years) and I are looking on going ths spring/summer. We are both retirement ages so kids themes are out. Any address for the local info by mail, maps,discount coupons ,wife loves coupons What campground is recommended and cost?
Thanks again for the help.
Horace
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What campground is recommended and cost?
