E X P LO R E B R A N S O N .CO M
2020 STUDENT GUIDE
LIVE SHOWS
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
EDUC ATION
WELCOME TO BRANSON DEAR STUDENT TRAVEL PLANNER, Student and youth groups who have never visited the Ozarks may think it’s just for their grandparents; after all, for years the Live Music Show Capital of the World was associated with silver-haired tourists taking in classic country shows and old-fashioned recreation. But there’s plenty of good reasons to take a second look at Branson for youth groups. aBranson has quickly progressed from its traditional roots in years past and today, visitors from several decades ago may not even recognize the entertainment district today. The modern-day Branson offers entertainment and theme for all ages and has evolved into the ultimate family vacation destination. Along with Silver Dollar City, voted among top 5 amusement parks in America by USA Today 2018 poll, the list of fun activities for young visitors continues to increase rapidly with so many options such as Showboat Branson Belle, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, The Track Family Fun Parks, The Branson Ferris Wheel, Fritz’s Adventure, The Branson Coasters, Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park, Titanic Museum Attraction, Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, Bigfoot Fun Park, Branson Jet Boats, White Water, Dogwood Canyon, Promised Land Zoo, Parakeet Pete’s Zip Line, and new in 2019 is Wonderworks, just to name a few. And our show offerings have really evolved into “must-see” for student groups such as Shrek The Musical, The Haygoods, Rick Thomas’s Mansion of Dreams, A Janice Martin “Cirque Show,” Acrobats of Shanghai, Legends In Concert, Reza: Edge of Illusion, The Hughes Music Show and many more. Along with shows and attractions, the landscape continues to change – just take a walk down Branson’s Hwy. 76 and you’ll find a plethora of go-karts, arcades, bumper cars, miniature golf and various museums including Ripley’s Believe it Or Not and the Hollywood Wax Museum. Plus, the Branson Landing offers a variety of upscale shopping and dining options, and entertainment choices such
as Andy B’s Bowl Social, Arcade City, 7D Dark Ride Adventure, outdoor musical concerts and new announcements coming soon. Branson is an ideal location for student visitors, not only because of the wholesome studentfriendly activities, but also the exceptional options for student performances. Many of Branson’s more-than 40 theaters are versatile enough to provide the perfect setting for your next martial arts event, dance, cheer, choirs, bands and orchestras or music competitions of any level and focus. Choose from more intimate theaters offering seats for a few hundred or a larger venue that can seat thousands of spectators. The various theaters offer different stage and seating layouts, as well as lighting and sound options, and they can often be a lower-cost option for the group trip planners. Branson has it all, and rest assured the Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to provide you, at no cost or obligation, all of the information you need to plan and organize the perfect group trip. For more information, request our Youth Group Sales Kit or give me call. I look forward to hearing from you!
Lenni Neimeyer, CTIS CSTP Director of Leisure Group Sales Branson Chamber of Commerce and CVB
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [b]
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Top 10 Reasons
Business Listings
to plan student travel to Branson!
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For more information, call 417-243-2105 or visit ExploreBranson.com To learn more about Student & Youth Group travel, please visit ExploreBranson.com/groups/students to request a sales kit or planner RFP.
#ExploreBranson
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [1]
TOP 10 REASONS
TO PLAN STUDENT TRAVEL TO BRANSON!
CLAY COOPER THEATRE
1. BEST VALUE DESTINATION
In 2019, TripAdvisor named Branson #19 of Top 25 US Destinations for eight years in a row! Each location of where to travel this year is growing in popularity for its own unique reasons. With annual events and festivals well worth the trip, Branson is experiencing a resurgence of attractions and entertainment.
2. CENTRALLY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF AMERICA
Branson is less than a day’s drive from onethird of the nation’s population. For those student and youth groups who want to fly to Branson, the Branson Airport is located just 10 miles south of downtown Branson offering convenient and affordable airfare.
3. FIRST-CLASS PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
In Branson, student groups can perform in a state-of-the-art theater for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Your student groups can be the pre-show entertainment performing on the same stages as Branson’s biggest and brightest stars! In addition, our award-winning theme park and exciting attractions afford exceptional performance settings. DESCRIPTION
4. G AIN KNOWLEDGE OF THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY
Your student groups will benefit from the enormous variety and accessibility to the Branson entertainment industry through educational workshops, master classes and behind-the-scenes programs with theater professionals. Live shows featuring world-class entertainment personalities, talented performing families, specialty acts, impersonators, illusionists, comedians and spectacular large cast production shows make Branson the most entertaining place on earth to learn.
5. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS & FESTIVALS
Interactive musical competition experiences through nationally recognized festival companies abound in Branson! For a complete list of scheduled competitions and festivals, contact Lenni Neimeyer at the Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau.
[2] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
BRANSON LANDING
TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION
6. OUTDOOR & SOFT ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
9. SHOPPER’S PARADISE
Branson offers plentiful outdoor adventures for student groups. Within minutes of the bright lights of Branson, outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy ziplining, hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, spelunking, rock climbing and more!
7. EXPLORE THE RICH HISTORY OF THE OZARKS
The rich history of the Ozarks and Branson is reflected in the diversity of its businesses, attractions, museums, historical landmarks, craftsmanship, geology, landscapes, wildlife and military contributions. All serve to move students beyond the four walls of the classroom, expanding their educational horizons.
8. WHOLESOME HOSPITALITY
Branson is America’s affordable, wholesome family entertainment mecca that emphasizes fun, comfort and the feeling of being right at home. The community embodies essential Midwestern values such as patriotism, faith, courage and generosity of spirit – together, these values exemplify our time-honored Ozarks’ hospitality.
Branson is a shopper’s paradise with many retail options for student groups. Discount shopping includes Tanger Outlet and Branson Meadows. Enjoy unique shops at the Grand Village, Branson IMAX and Grand Country Square. Plus, the Branson Landing, with over 100 specialty shops, is located on beautiful Lake Taneycomo and is right next door to the Historic Downtown Branson shopping district where free trolley services run between the two areas.
10. FUN, FUN, FUN
Branson is the live entertainment capital of America with many live shows and attractions to enjoy. Plus, our indoor/outdoor adventures include land and lake sightseeing tours, nature parks, zipline tours, museums, indoor and outdoor water parks, go-karts, miniature golf, hiking, kayaking and biking. Branson is home to the international awardwinning Silver Dollar City theme park. Situated in a natural Ozark Mountain setting, it features eight annual festivals, dozens of live shows, demonstrating craftsmen, gravity-defying thrill rides and world-record roller coasters, dining, shopping and more.
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [3]
BRANSON ON STAGE LIVE! P.O. Box 6609, Branson, MO 65615 Phone 417-334-5599 | Toll Free 877-293-1612 | Fax 417-334-2570 bransononstagelive.com | greg@bransononstagelive.com
The Branson On Stage Live Experience is the “Ultimate Musical Showcase” for student performing groups unlike anywhere else in America! Instrumental, choral and dance groups take center stage and become the opening act at a theatre in Branson! Our coordinator will guide your group through their pre-show clinic, dress rehearsal and sound check in preparation for their performance debut. We will set the stage for your students, providing selected concert band percussion, music stands and chairs, or choral risers and keyboards at each theatre showcase. In addition, student groups that qualify can perform a selected piece with a Branson entertainer during their student performance! Partner with us to design and customize your next student group performance tour to Branson! We turn the stages of Branson into the classroom where students will discover the professional world of entertainment through Branson On Stage Live!, “Where Your Students Become the Stars!” [4] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Creators of the “Branson On Stage Live” program • Celebrating over 24 years • 21 years SYTA member • Branson’s only full-service student performance management company
BRANSON TOWERS HOTEL 236 Shepherd of the Hills Expwy., Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-4500 | Fax 417-334-6838 bransontowershotel.com | groups@letsgotobranson.com
Full interior corridor property with 204 rooms, host numerous student and performance groups repeatedly.
• Free large variety breakfast buffet
Branson Towers has three floors of 56 Double Queen rooms per floor with straight hallways for easy security viewing. We include a free hot buffet style breakfast with a variety of breakfast items to choose from. Rooms have inviting pillow top mattresses, hair dryers, fridge/ microwave, 42” TV’s, Free Wi-Fi. Indoor Pool and game room for use based upon student director’s itinerary. Nightly ice cream social in our grand lobby from 10pm to 11pm. Guests love to listen to our student groups share their amazing talents while singing along to our beautiful baby grand piano.
• Ice cream social with baby grand piano • Indoor pool/hot tub • Level parking lot
Join us not only for that great night’s sleep but to build those memories that will last a lifetime.
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [5]
BRANSON’S BEST RESTAURANTS 301 N. Francis St., Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-334-0754 | Toll Free 888-363-9880 | Fax 417-334-7800 bransonsbestrestaurants.com | groupsalesbbr@gmail.com
Pasghetti’s – Branson’s premier Italian restaurant. 430 seats spread across seven themed dining rooms. Missouri’s only restaurant with an indoor Ferris Wheel! Fall Creek Steak and Catfish House – Home of the tossed rolls! Your student groups can catch freshly baked, hot rolls throughout their meal! The Great American Steak and Chicken House – You will be welcomed by Mr. Peck, Branson’s 43-foot rooster! With student favorites like bacon cheeseburgers and chicken and waffles, your students will definitely find something to eat! Cicis Pizza – The world’s largest Cicis Pizza. With 5,000 square-feet of dining space and 8,000 square-feet of state-of-the-art arcade games, there is no shortage of eating or playing!
[6] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Student-friendly menu choices • Can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions • Located near Branson’s best shows and attractions • Low, inclusive pricing that is budget friendly
BRANSON’S FAMOUS BALDKNOBBERS 645 State Hwy. 165, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-231-4999 | Toll Free 800-998-8908 | Fax 417-231-4377 baldknobbers.com | groupsales@baldknobbers.com
Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers wows audiences nightly with high-energy, family-friendly, live music entertainment. As Branson’s premiere country music and comedy variety show, Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers has something for all ages to enjoy. Not only will it rival any concert by today’s standards, but the show’s 60+ year roots shine through, allowing you to experience the true foundation of Branson family entertainment. The perfect blend of country music, gospel music and comedy will keep you at the edge of your seat and roaring with laughter! Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers strives to provide students with an impactful and memorable live-performance experience. Student performance groups are given the exciting opportunity to perform as the show’s opening act, and a spacious stage allows for groups small and large to take advantage of the spotlight! Upon request, clinics are provided to help the students build upon their entertainment experience. The experience is one for lasting memories!
• Opportunity to perform live as an opening act • Clinics are available upon request • Learn the history and evolution of Branson entertainment • Meet and greet with the Mabe family and cast
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [7]
CLAY COOPER THEATRE 3216 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-337-7123 | Toll Free 888-222-8910 | Fax 417-334-3024 claycoopertheatre.com | pat@claycooper.biz
At Clay Cooper Theatre, we believe in education through the arts! Clay and Tina Cooper hope to bring opportunities for students who dare to dream and want to make a difference by providing education through music, dance and theatrical production. Clay and his cast of 24 incredible entertainers show their versatility while performing all styles of music including country, rock’ n’ roll, gospel and patriotic. The singing, dancing and hysterical comedy will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish! Clay Cooper’s Country Express guarantees a family-friendly show for all ages! Take a stroll down memory lane with Hot Rods & High Heels to the 1950’s! Celebrating poodle skirts, sock hops, soda shops, and teenage love! Featuring a six-piece band and eight singer/dancers, this family fun show will highlight the songs and dances that will get you boppin’ in…and out of your seat!
[8] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Clinics customized to meet your needs • Free opening act performance opportunities • State-of-the-art sound, lighting and video system • Sensational costumes, innovative dances and spectacular audience interaction
DICK’S 5 & 10 103 W. Main St., Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-334-2410 | Fax 417-320-6031 dicks5and10.com | kathe@dicks5and10.com
Over 55 years of Fun since 1961… No trip to Branson is complete without the Dick’s 5 & 10 Experience. You will find an adventure around every corner as you browse through our 250,000 items! Our Candy Emporium has over 1,000 different candies and snacks. The Soda Pop Shoppe carries over 150 different kinds of wacky and nostalgic sodas.
• Don’t forget to look up at our collections!
Dick’s 5 & 10 is so much more than shopping; it’s a surprising unique adventure you won’t find anywhere else.
• Candy Emporium – over 1,000 different kinds of treats
Don’t forget to look up when you stop in. You will see unbelievable collections throughout the entire store such as the Baseball Wall of Fame, over 100 signed WW II Aviation prints, Arrowhead collection, Collector Trains, Dick’s 5 & 10 express and much more!
• The Fun Aisle – 60 feet of pure madness!
• Soda Pop Shoppe – over 150 wacky & nostalgic flavors
Great fun-stop for students that is an educational journey through history as well as the latest trends. This store is packed with hip-wacky -fun for everyone!
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [9]
THE DUTTONS 3454 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-332-2772 | Toll Free 800-400-9343 | Fax 417-334-2314 theduttons.com | marketing@theduttons.com
Here at the Duttons, we pride ourselves on a high-energy, fun filled show that delights audiences of all ages. Singing, dancing, and more instruments than you can count keep this show engaging from the moment the curtain opens till it closes. So much so that you will ask yourself long after you have left the theater, “How in the heck did they do that!” Call for tickets today!
• 50% of the cast is under 25 years old • “America’s Got Talent” Top Ten Finalists • Three generations of Duttons • Playing all styles of music
[10] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
FRITZ’S ADVENTURE 1425 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-320-6138 fritzsadventure.com | john.vaughn@fritzsadventure.com
Branson’s adventure-craving visitors will soar to new heights with one of the city’s newest attractions, Fritz’s Adventure. Bringing the outdoors inside, this dynamic, adventure-based facility boasts 80,000+ sq. ft of climbable, explorable space. Locals and visitors alike will be challenged to take risks, find their inner explorer and adventure together, all in a safe environment. With Fritz’s Adventure, you can do it all— race to the top of the three-story ropes course with 51 different challenges to master, strike a pose going across the indoor-zipline, channel your inner superhero and scale up the city wall, climb through towering tree houses, discover underground tunnels and hidden passageways with your friends, beat your team up the warped wall, test your ninja skills with laser challenges, zoom down super-fast slides, touch the sky with the Via Ferrata outdoor climbing experience and more!
• Brand new, one-of-a-kind adventure attraction • Three-story indoor ropes course, parkour, laser room • Climbing: rock walls, bouldering, utility poles, brick buildings • Restaurant, private parties and meeting spaces
Fritz’s Adventure is open year-round. Call 417-320-6138 or visit FritzsAdventure.com Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [11]
GRAND OAKS HOTEL 2315 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-6423 | Toll Free 800-553-6423 | Fax 417-334-6264 grandoakshotel.net | reta@grandoakshotel.net
Grand Oaks Hotel has been totally renovated and is located in the heart of Branson, close to many attractions, restaurants, theatres and Tanger Outlet Mall. Student friendly attractions and restaurants are within walking distance: three miniature golf courses, go-karts, mountain coaster, Dairy Queen, McDonald’s, Moe’s, Panera Bread, Subway and Taco Bell. Grand Oaks Hotel offers 201 guest rooms and suites, elevator, interior corridors, complimentary hot breakfast (two breakfast rooms), indoor pool with two hot tubs, outdoor pool with beach entry and air bubble spa (new), guest laundry (two), fitness centers and conference/ meeting rooms (three). Guest room amenities include Serta presidential plush mattresses, microwave and refrigerators, iron and ironing board, 32” flat screen televisions, free Wi-Fi, hair dryer, AM/FM alarm clock and in room coffee.
[12] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Branson’s newest, totally renovated hotel • Indoor and outdoor pools • Complimentary hot breakfast • Centrally located in the heart of Branson
THE HAYGOODS PO Box 2330, Branson, MO 65615 Phone 417-973-0684 | Fax 417-334-3414 thehaygoods.com | joe@thehaygoods.com
The Haygoods are modern entertainment at its best! This group of six siblings, (5 brothers and 1 sister), bring an all-new show to the Branson stage every year. Stunning visual effects and a state-of-the-art stage presentation are the backdrop to an amazing array of musical styles, performed on 20+ instruments, with more energy and excitement than anything you have ever experienced! The hits of today’s Country, Rock, and Pop artists along with the music of the last five decades, are showcased in an electrifying ride of song, rhythm, and sound that you will never forget! Branson’s most popular show!
• Branson’s #1 show for students! • Unique student performance opportunities are available! • Experienced by over 6,000,000 since 1993! • World-class production and special effects!
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [13]
HOLLYWOOD WAX MUSEUM ENTERTAINMENT CENTER 3030 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-337-8700 bransonwaxfun.com | branson@hollywoodwax.com
The Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center is a landmark Branson attraction at the center of the Highway 76 Entertainment District. Our All Access Pass provides entry into four great attractions for one ticket price and is the best entertainment value in Branson. Immerse your students in the interaction, imagination and creativity of all four attractions, open from 8 am until late, 365 days a year. Learn about the art of wax sculpting and explore pop culture in the Hollywood Wax Museum. Let imaginations soar with the use of props stationed within the displays. Navigate the mirrored corridors of a castle and help save the princess at Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors. Putt through Los Angeles landmarks on a journey to becoming a star at Shoot for the Stars MiniGolf. And, battle for the high score in a 5D adventure, a delightfully intense experience that’s fun for all ages.
[14] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Interact with and be amazed by wax artistry • Test navigation skills through a mirror maze • Experience a 5D adventure • Compete on a Hollywood-themed mini-golf course
HUGHES MUSIC SHOW 3425 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, MO 65615 Phone 417-334-0076 | Toll Free 800-422-0076 | Fax 417-337-8400 hughes-brothers.com
This is edutainment at its best! From the sound check to the workshop to the preshow performance, students have the opportunity to learn the secrets of the Hughes Brothers who are experts at working with youth in the performing arts – as they have trained 45 of their own children in singing, dancing, acting, instrumentals, and stagecraft. Acclaimed as “Branson’s Most Entertaining Show,” the Hughes Music Show features the “largest live on-stage performing family in the world” – a cast of 50 – ALL BORN TO ENTERTAIN! Through multiple styles of the best in live music, this fast-paced, wholehearted production combines outstanding singing, dancing, harmony, instrumentals, comedy, costumes, sets, and lighting to make a truly unforgettable experience. Especially exciting for student groups is that the Hughes Music Show also stars several awesome young talents the same age as they are. Students love getting to know and interact with the Hughes Kids.
• 25 years of hosting students performing pre-shows • Guidance from show biz professionals • Bands, orchestras, choirs, dancers (chairs/ music stands provided) • Meals, workshops, Q&A, pre-show DVDs & attractions available
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [15]
LA QUINTA INNS & SUITES BY WYNDHAM 3226 Shepherd of the Hills Expy., Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-320-5060 | Toll Free 800-753-3757 wyndhamhotels.com | tiffanie@bransonlaquinta.com
Enjoy the convenient comforts of La Quinta by Wyndham Branson. Located just minutes from everything, our completely renovated, nonsmoking hotel is an easy drive to top attractions including the Titanic Museum, White Water, Silver Dollar City, and Dolly Parton’s Stampede. We’re also located directly across the street from Pierce Arrow Theater.
• Full hot breakfast buffet included in your rate
Our everyday essentials and signature “Here for You” service shine bright. Wake up with a free Bright Side Breakfast to get energized for your day. We offer an indoor pool, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi and select pet-friendly rooms. Each room features a mini-refrigerator, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, flat-screen HDTV, desk, ironing amenities, and hair dryer. Take advantage of extras like our Bright Side Market, free parking, guest laundry, and 24-HR coffee in the lobby.
• Fitness center, game room, indoor pool, & more
La Quinta is the perfect hotel for your student group. Relax, refuel, and recharge all in one place. We look forward to seeing you!
[16] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Guest laundry
• 100% renovated, from top to bottom
MYER HOTELS 3601 A Shepherd of the Hills, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-3388 | Toll Free 888-837-2537 | Fax 417-339-2997 myerhospitality.com | kathy@myerhotels.com
Myer Hotels, Branson’s Award-Winning Hotel Company, features six hotels. Choose from the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, Best Western Music Capital Inn, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Comfort Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Express Green Mtn. Drive, and Quality Inn West. We’ve got Branson covered with great locations. We help make student experiences in Branson exceptional. Start the day with a free hot breakfast. Students can relax after a busy day in the indoor pool or hot tub, work out in the exercise room, have fun in the game room, or catch up on email with our free Wi-Fi. Most rooms feature queen beds, concrete construction for safe and quiet rooms, microwave, refrigerator, flat screen TVs and two-sink vanities which helps students get ready quicker. Security welcome.
• Free hot breakfast daily • Indoor pool & hot tub • Double sink vanities are great for students! • Inside corridors available at five hotels
Discover Branson’s #1 hotel company for student groups by calling 888-837-2537 for more information. It will be the best decision you make.
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [17]
THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS 5586 W. Hwy 76, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-334-4191 theshepherdofthehills.com | tgideon@theshepherdofthehills.com
The Shepherd of the Hills invites you to its all-new Shepherd’s Adventure Park! We offer an exciting experience for all ages. Enjoy cruising off-road on ATVs, diving into the history of the Ozarks, Zip riding off of the 230-foot tall Inspiration Tower, scaling the multi-level Ropes Course, swinging from tree to tree on our Canopy Zipline Tour and more! You can find your perfect adventure at The Shepherd of the Hills. History meets adventure at the Shepherd of the Hills. Also, come experience the story of the Ozarks, based on the famous book by Harold Bell Wright. This drama unfolds in a time when vigilante Baldknobbers roamed these hills and true love wasn’t so easy to find. Enjoy the story of revenge, unconditional love, sorrow, and repentance, while relaxing under the stars on the same land Harold Bell Wright roamed as he wrote his timeless book. Give us a call for more information and upcoming events!
[18] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Thrilling outdoor drama • High-speed zip rider • Multi-level ropes course • Canopy zipline tours
SHOWBOAT BRANSON BELLE 4800 State Hwy. 165, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-7170 | Toll Free 800-417-7770 | Fax 417-338-8069 silverdollarcity.com | groups@silverdollarcity.com
Set sail aboard America’s most entertaining lake adventure — Showboat Branson Belle! The 700-seat paddle wheeler is the largest of its kind in the United States on a landlocked lake, and features both educational and student performance opportunities! Each two-hour cruise on Table Rock Lake includes an unforgettable live music show! Join the Showboat’s master of ceremonies as he presents the newest sensation in stage performance with powerhouse vocals from a group of talented singers, alongside a featured four-piece band. Plus, take in the must-see footwork of a fantastic troupe of talented dancers, magic and more. While onboard, enjoy a delicious three-course meal and the chance to explore four grand decks including the captain’s pilothouse. And, students have access to Table Rock Lake’s Dewey Short Visitors Center, only a short hike along a paved trail, where history of the White River and information on the construction of the dam and the lake’s ecosystem is available for free. Cruise, dine and be entertained from March through December, at Noon, 4pm and 8pm!
• Exclusive student events and packages • Educational adventures aboard an authentic 1890’s paddle wheeler • Live entertainment, meal and cruise all in one • Multiple performance opportunities
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [19]
SILVER DOLLAR CITY 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-7170 | Toll Free 800-417-7770 | Fax 417-338-8069 silverdollarcity.com | groups@silverdollarcity.com
Discover America’s Best Theme Park, Silver Dollar City, where student performance opportunities are always available on stages throughout the park and educational adventures come to life! Thrill to over 40 rides and attractions, including Time Traveler® – the world’s fastest, steepest and tallest spinning coaster! Let us become your classroom with guided tours of Missouri’s deepest cave and a working 1880’s homestead, 40 live shows, over 100 demonstrating craftsmen, a state-of-the-art Culinary & Craft School and ten world-class festivals and special events Spring through Christmas! Plus, exclusive days just for students with focused curriculum from Math & Science Day, featuring the science behind our coasters, to Career Day where kids gain firsthand knowledge from theme park industry leaders in operations, marketing, interviewing skills and more. And, the Music Summit Choir Festival where student performance takes center stage!
[20] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Exclusive student events and packages • Educational adventures, authentic craftsmanship, live entertainment, award-winning coasters • World-class festivals and special events Spring thru Christmas • Multiple performance opportunities
STONE CASTLE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER 3050 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-231-4654 | Toll Free 800-677-6906 | Fax 417-335-4912 bransonstonecastle.com | sharon@bransonstonecastle.com
Come join us at the Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center where groups are warmly and professionally greeted by staff with redcarpet welcome. We’re the perfect location for your student group. Conveniently located in the heart of Branson on Green Mountain Drive, we are only minutes from many exciting attractions and entertainment. Our rooms and buildings are all non-smoking with inside corridors and elevators. Guest rooms are decorated in an old-world Renaissance theme with pillow-top comfort beds. Our standard room includes a refrigerator, two queen beds, a single bed, or a single king bed. Also, enjoy our two indoor heated pools and hot tubs.
• Full hot breakfast included in the rate • 2 guest laundry rooms • Arcade designed by the Track Family Fun Parks • Special Driver’s rate
Don’t forget to follow us on social media to learn more about the Stone Castle Hotel! We’re excited for you to come and see everything we have to offer.
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [21]
TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION 714 Hwy. 248, Suite 520, Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-334-9500 | Toll Free 800-381-7670 | Fax 417-334-5128 titanicbranson.com | ruthann.crust@titanicattraction.com
“This museum brings history to life. How do you pay respect to these passengers and crew – you simply share their stories.” Museum Owner
• Student performances welcome
New in 2020 Students will see the RMS Titanic bandmaster violin on display. It sold for $1.7 million dollars, the highest price ever paid for a Titanic artifact.
• New! Titanic flashlight tour
New in 2021 Students will learn about the Jewish passengers aboard the Titanic. Did you know there was kosher kitchen and a kosher chef?
[22] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Huge success with students! Murder Mystery Tours • Guided tours with costume crew members
THE TRACK FAMILY FUN PARKS 3 locations in Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-334-1612 x1017 | Fax 417-334-1512 bransontracks.com | julie@bransontracks.com
The Track Family Fun Parks has been providing student friendly entertainment for over 30 years! With three locations, you’ll find a story at every turn! Experience two unique high-rise go-karts, Wild Woody at Track 3, Heavy Metal High Rise at Track 4 and The LumberJack at Track 5, classic go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats/cars, batting cages, mini golf and arcades!
• 1-hour, 2-hour, and all-day unlimited-ride armbands
The Branson Ferris Wheel, formerly Chicago’s Navy Pier Ferris Wheel, stands 150 ft., with 40 gondolas & 16,000 new LED lights! Our NEW attraction is the 160 ft. Skyscraper thrill ride at Track 3.
• The Branson Ferris Wheel (formally Chicago’s Navy Pier Ferris Wheel)
The Skyscraper allows 1-2 riders per side to flip through the air at over 50 mph as they reach 4G forces! We offer great group rates for 20 or more with 1-hour, 2-hour and all-day passes available, along with great food options like Pizza World and Andy’s Frozen Custard for one stop full of unlimited rides, food, and fun. Check our website www.bransontracks.com for more information.
• Pizza World and Andy’s Frozen Custard
• Three spacious Arcade Rooms, one at each location featuring a total of 200 state-ofthe-art arcade games
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [23]
Angel Inn – by the Strip
3029 W. 76 Country Blvd. Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-5151 | Fax 417-337-7007 groups@letsgotobranson.com angelinnbythestrip.com
Angel Inn – by the Strip: Sets just off Hwy. 76 close to the Hollywood Wax Museum. Sleep like a baby on our pillow top mattresses. Enjoy a free hot buffet breakfast with a variety of items to choose from. Large outdoor pool, playground fridge/microwave, 42” TV and free Wi-Fi.
Branson Restaurants, Inc.
The perfect dining options for any student itinerary – featuring special youth menus at McFarlain’s Family Restaurant, Montana Mike’s Steakhouse and Florentina’s Ristorante Italiano. Enjoy some of the best Branson has to offer: burgers, chicken fingers, salads, pastas, pies and more! Ask about combo discounts with GiantScreen IMAX Adventures.
Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex
Experience a new, exhilarating cinematic encounter featuring the latest in new technology. IMAX, with dual 4K Laser Projection, 12.1 Channel Sound, ultimate premium seating and a silverscreen six stories tall! Immerse yourselves in an IMAX documentary or a Hollywood blockbuster, located inside an indoor mall with shopping, food and fun!
3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expwy. Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-335-3533 | Fax 417-336-5348 Toll Free 800-419-4832 groupsales@bransonimax.com bransonimax.com
3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expwy. Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-335-3533 | Fax 417-336-5348 Toll Free 800-419-4832 groupsales@bransonimax.com bransonimax.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
1970 W. Hwy. 76 Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-336-1110 | Fax 417-336-1122 lfranks.hiex76@outlook.com hibranson.com
Holiday Inn Express Central in Branson is located within walking distance of seven restaurants and seven area attractions. Hotel amenities include free Wi-Fi, coffee and local calls, plus free breakfast with over 40 items to choose from. Enjoy the all inside corridor hallways, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or relax for a while in the indoor jacuzzi.
[24] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau
Presleys’ Country Jubilee
In 1967 the Presleys built the first live music theatre in Branson and laid the foundation for Branson’s ongoing success and growth. Today, Presleys’ is a Branson Landmark, and the Presley family is still here entertaining audiences with a one-of-a-kind mix of country, gospel, bluegrass and hilarious comedy!
White Water
Dive into White Water with 13 acres of waves, rides and slides filled with over two-million gallons of fun! Enjoy the 500,000-gallon wave pool, brave Kalani Tower’s seven-story freefall drop or mat racing slides, check out KaPau Plummet where the floor gives way to a 70-degree, 40-foot drop at 26 screaming feet per second and much more.
2920 W. 76 Country Blvd. Branson, MO 65616 Phone 417-334-4874 | Fax 417-334-5779 Toll Free 800-336-4874 info@presleys.com presleys.com
3505 W. 76 Country Blvd. Branson, MO 65616 Phone (417) 336-7170 | Fax (417) 338-8069 Toll Free (800) 417-7770 groups@silverdollarcity.com silverdollarcity.com
For a complete list of lodgings, shows, attractions, restaurants and more, visit ExploreBranson.com
Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau | ExploreBranson.com [25]
OUR STAGE IS PERFECT FOR GROUPS TO PLAY See for yourself why Branson, Mo. should be your next student performance destination. Learn more about Branson’s 14th Annual Music Director FAM Tour | July 14-17, 2020 Lenni Neimeyer, CTIS, CSTP | lneimeyer@bransoncvb.com
ExploreBranson.com/groups/students 417-243-2105
[z] ExploreBranson.com | Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau