Branson is Rare

• by Ray Rapalo • Published: August 8, 2007

Branson is a rare place, a place you have to search for far and wide to find, a place where you can feel totally at home in an unrecognizable setting, where you can feel as if you were sitting on your couch on a cold night snuggled up with a good book when in fact you are seated in Caravelle Theater or roaming the streets of Celebration City, surrounded by people you’ve never met before.

Branson is a small city but nevertheless packed with things to do and see. Just 40 minutes south of Springfield Missouri, hidden away by the beautiful Ozark Mountains, Branson is rife with treasures to be cherished by the young, and the young at heart.

I consider the following to be the three most distinguishing characteristics of Branson:

1. Tourism The shows are incredible to watch, the food is fantastic and affordable, the accommodations are in abundance in any standard you prefer, and the attractions are diverse, capable of able to thrill, relax, intrigue, or renew sense of unity amongst you, your friends and your family. The predominance of tourism in Branson results in an atmosphere conducive to bringing people together. Bransonites themselves are so accustomed to new people that establishing a personal bond between strangers is routine for them. Branson is a talkative, curious, friendly city that caters to people who like people.

2. Wildlife The wildlife and natural beauty, as well as the history that comes with them, are un-ignorable no matter where you are in Branson, no matter what you’re doing. The Ozark Mountains are the oldest mountain range in the US! If you are a history buff then you will definitely appreciate what Branson, Missouri was years ago, and how far it has come. I will not give this away as it will be much more fun for you and your family to learn about it for yourselves in your travels.

3. The People I would say that, above and beyond everything this place has to offer, the people are my favorite. I have spent much of my life traveling the globe and, in that time, I’ve mingled with more people and cultures than I can count. Bransonites are some of the most welcoming, hospitable and fun people I’ve ever known.

I’ve chosen the following two images to describe feelings that are, for me, typical of a Branson experience. The first picture is of the famous 76 Strip. This is just one small section of the highway so make sure you drive a length of it when you come to Branson. The second is of two children enjoying a ride at [name the the place]. If you are a kid right now or if you are just a kid at heart imagine the feeling of letting go and enjoying the sensation of the wind in your face.

During your time in Branson, you can do one of two things; you can pause and reflect on the sheer enjoyment of the moment, or you can pause and watch the life around you buzz by.