Golf enthusiasts will find two exciting additions to Branson in 2008 in the form of Murder Rock Golf Course and the Payne Stewart Tribute Course. Though Murder Rock did open in the fall of 2007, the Payne Stewart Tribute Course is set to open in the summer of 2008, offering golf enthusiasts an unprecedented selection of quality courses when visiting the Ozarks.

Murder Rock’s attention-grabbing name comes from the lore of the area itself. Legend holds that a local gang used to ambush travelers near the area the course is set. Of course, if the unique tie to the Ozarks wasn’t enough to intrigue golfers, PGA professional John Daly’s endorsement should. John Daly’s Murder Rock Golf Course is a par 71 course, and situated within the Branson Creek Residential Community, just south of Branson.

As for the Payne Stewart Tribute Course, it will attempt to carry on the local legacy of Stewart, and features local PGA professional Bob Allen as its Head Golf Professional. In addition to paying tribute to Payne Stewart and being home to Bob Allen, the course itself was designed by PGA professional Bobby Clampett.

Aside from Murder Rock and the Payne Stewart Tribute Course, Branson is also home to numerous other great golf options that include Branson Creek, Holiday Hills, Ledgestone C.C., Pointe Royal Golf Resort, Thousand Hills Golf Resort and Top of the Rock Golf Course.

January may be considered Branson’s “down time,” though that’s certainly not to say there is nothing to do in the Ozarks once the holidays have come and gone. While many of the area shows do close down their doors during the months of January and February, travelers will still find a wide spread of activities thriving throughout winter to offer Branson visitors a magical time no matter the season. Below, we’ve highlighted a few of the more popular options that will be running throughout the entirety of winter to help spark ideas for your next Branson getaway this New Year.

Titanic – The Legend Continues

Titanic – The Legend Continues offers an authentic look into the history of the Titanic through more than 400 artifacts linked to the historic passenger cruise ship. Both the Titanic itself and the many individuals who were on-board for the ill-fated voyage are explored in depth, giving both a historical and humanitarian feel to the museum and the story it tells. If you have any interest in the Titanic you simply must visit this museum at least once, though even if you barely know the story of the Titanic you can still find an interesting experience awaiting.

 Magnificent 7

Magnificent 7 presents a varied romp through musical history as more than 30 songs are covered complete with 150 costume changes! And with such variety, you can be sure that there is no downtime throughout the performance! Running through legendary acts including Elvis Presley, Blues Brothers and other classics, this show provides a veritable who’s who of American entertainment. What’s more, with Magnificent 7 you can opt to see the show by itself, or enjoy the show with a delectable chicken or steak dinner before the performance. If you can’t decide on any one style of entertainment, then experience it all with Magnificent 7!

 Hollywood Wax Museum

Let Hollywood come alive right in the heart of the Ozarks at the Hollywood Wax Museum. You’ll encounter more than 170 extremely detailed renditions of some of the most famous faces in politics, sports, movies, music and more! From confronting Don Corleone on an apartment stoop with his fellow gangsters at your side to taking a seat alongside Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show, you’ll be able to relive your favorite moments in entertainment for good times and great photo opportunities.

A new holiday tradition has begun in the Ozarks, and that tradition is White Flight. Not the demographic trend, but a natural wonder housed at the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventures. And those that didn’t have the chance to experience this unique, new exhibit during the holidays will still have a chance as White Flight is scheduled to run until January 15.

The Butterfly Palace is always a unique interaction with nature, but during White Flight it becomes a magical romp through living snowflakes. Thousands of white butterflies and hundreds of poinsettias combine with twinkling light displays for a touching ode to the holidays that truly has to be experienced to be fully understood. Just imagine strolling through a peaceful, indoor garden accented by hues of red and warm lights as thousands of white butterflies flutter in every direction, giving the illusion of light snow skipping through the air.

Aside from the new White Flight exhibit, the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventures will still offer its many, typical attractions throughout the new year, including The Amazing Emerald Forest mirror maze, Insect Zoo and gift shop to ensure a full experience of fun.

The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventures can offer a unique look at nature year-round, but those hoping to be a part of the new tradition that is White Flight will need to hurry and visit before January 15. So whether visiting for a day or hoping to take a complete vacation, start planning today!

Just because we’re officially in the 21st century that is no reason to forget the classic sounds of yesteryear. Whether reminiscing over the psychedelic 70’s or stretching all the way back to the doo wop of the 50’s, there is still a countless collection of timeless hits to enjoy. And with a visit to Branson you’ll be able to relive these hits live in person through a variety of era specific shows dedicated to resurrecting the lost sounds of our culture. Check out some of the suggestions below to find a time of musical entertainment just right for your own musical preference.

50’s at the Hop Show

Relive poodle skirts, slicked hair and the birth of rock n roll all over again with 50’s at the Hop. A cast of 14 come together throughout the show to cover not only the sounds of the 50’s, but the entire atmosphere. From the smooth harmonies of barbershop groups to soulful beginnings of Motown, you’ll find the full spectrum featured with 50’s at the Hop.

#1 Hits of the 60’s

Featuring a colorful palette that included the golden age of Motown, bubble gum pop and psychedelic rock, the 60’s was a blossoming time of musical experimentation and refinement; and you’ll be able to relive every single step and song of this classic era with #1 Hits of the 60’s. Throughout the show you’ll take in nearly 100 songs through an energetic cast that not only does justice to this classic era, but completely brings it to life before the crowd. Whether re-sowing your wild oats or experiencing the 60’s for the first time, #1 Hits of the 60’s is a classic representation of a classic decade.

70’s Music Show

Riding the psychedelic wave of the 60’s straight into the party-hard era of disco, the 70’s offered a care-free soundscape filled with songs of peace and party anthems. And while the 70’s have definitely come and gone, its musical memories still live on to this day. From Sonny and Cher to the Bee Gees, even if the younger guests don’t know the names of the artists they’re sure to have heard at least a few of the hits heard throughout the show.

November 8, 2007

Silver Dollar City is once again celebrating the joys of the winter season with An Old Time Christmas. Running from the start of November through December 30, An Old Time Christmas coats the 18th century Ozarks surroundings of Silver Dollar City with a delightful cheer and numerous activities and exhibits pertaining to the holidays. The Gifts of Christmas Holiday Lights Parade, live presentations of A Dickens Christmas Carol and a five-story Christmas tree are just a few of the special additions in store, with millions of Christmas lights covering the park in a gentle glow. Silver Dollar City can offer an authentic view of the history and culture of the Branson area, and An Old Time Christmas is certainly no exception in terms of representing the fervor that the typical Ozarks resident approaches the winter season with.As the first theme park in Branson, Silver Dollar City is an encompassing look at all that Branson stands for. The park is set to resemble the Ozarks during the 1800’s with a variety of craft exhibits, historical reenactments and natural charm, and that’s just the setting of this exciting park. Guests can expect to find numerous rides such as the interactive Flooded Mine and thrilling coaster experiences including PowderKeg, with 40 daily live shows and countless attractions that range from train rides to child play areas helping to compliment the wide array of rides. Let entertainment and history come together at Silver Dollar City for a truly memorable day in Branson.

And if you’re hoping to catch a few of the popular Branson shows during your visit, guests will find a wide variety of special Christmas performances taking place from now through the end of the year. From traditional Branson offerings such as Shoji Tabuchi and Yakov Smirnoff to limited engagements that include The Christmas Music of Mannheim Steamroller, there are a variety of show offerings, each getting into the spirit of the holidays.