Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

Going to Branson, MO the 16th-20th May to meet family from the other side of the Mississippi -

Does anyone live in/near there that could recommend places to go and things to see in and around the area.

I know the web provides info, but personal recommendations helps us avoid the "tourist traps", the seedier sides, and points us to the areas the locals go to where the prices are reasonable and there are no crowds.

Interested in:
Photo ops - points of interests - landmarks, unique buildings, memorials, etc... that are not necessarily known as such...
Restaurants - about the only cuisine we're not fond of is Indian and Thai -
Shopping for the kids/grandkids (always have to get them souvenirs to stay on the good side)
Night activity such as shows, plays, bars, night clubs (we are all over 50 so not interested in the younger crowd spots)...

Thanks,
Dave

Frapha Loc: Tulsa, Oklahoma

First, there aren't many "younger crowd spots" -- most all Branson's entertainment is good, family-oriented and heavily slanted to the above-50 crowd. Oh, yes ... and there's no such thing in Branson as "no crowds". Traffic down the main drag (Rte 76) usually runs at about 3-4mph day & night during "the season" -- need to allow plenty of time to get anywhere.

If you want to eat a really good breakfast or lunch with local faire -- excellent food, great service & low prices you need to find Billy Gail's Cafe at 5291 Missouri 265, Branson, MO 65616. don't leave Branson without having breakfast there at least once. They don't take plastic -- greenbacks only.

As for photo targets, visit Branson Landing during the Blue Hour -- lots of great shots there especially with the flaming fountains -- " At the heart of the Landing is a vibrant town square terracing down to the $7.5 million spectacular water attraction that features the first-ever merging of water, fire, light and music. You will be amazed by the dazzling interplay of water Fountains shooting 120-foot geysers and fire cannons blasting, all choreographed to light and music."

Also a visit to Silver Dollar City will be a big hit with young & old alike as they have tons of rides and free shows for all ages and lots of rich targets for photogs. http://www.silverdollarcity.com/theme-park/attractions/rides.aspx

There's also a train ride that leaves from the station beside the downtown Hilton that would be worth the time. http://www.bransontrain.com/schedule/schedule.htm

And, there's also the Branson Belle showboat, that has dinner & family entertainment -- also will give lots of photo ops from out in the lake -- http://www.silverdollarcity.com/showboat-branson/calendar.aspx

If you have a family that would be interested in a great musical play based on bible story -- be sure to visit http://www.sight-sound.com/WebSite/shows.do?showCD=JNH

IMHO, these are two of the best shows are SIX and Texas Tenors -- http://www.thesixshow.com/ and http://thetexastenors.com/ .

If you have pre-teen kids, they would enjoy the dinner & show at Dixie Stampede -- http://www.dixiestampede.com/

Enjoy the trip.

COI Jack Loc: Missouri

For sure, Silver Dollar City and the cave.

Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

Thank you Frank - am checking these sites out now :)

Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

Thanks - will investigate the cave and see if it interests the rest of the clan :)

wilpharm Loc: Oklahoma

take your GPS and use the side-streets…will save you a bunch of time..

Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

Excellent idea - will do - and thanks ;)