This October, Vacations Made Easy and its sister site Branson Shows are unveiling a variety of promotions and discounts on some of the hottest activities, shows and lodging in Branson, MO!

With $5 off admission to shows such as Yakov Smirnoff and Jim Stafford you are sure to find double the laughs with money left over. Buy one get one half off on activity options including Branson Landing Cruises on Lake Queen and Landing Princess ensure you are able to enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks. And the phenomenal offer from Ricky Boen and Texas Mud of buy one get one free will literally cut your entertainment expenses in half!

View dozens of money saving options on some of Branson’s hottest activities and shows and save big online!

Additionally, you will find a variety of ways to save on your hotel as well. Branson visitors will find a number of popular lodging options including the Gazebo Inn, Barrington Hotel & Suites and more offering the unprecedented deal of one night free with a two night stay, allowing any weekend visit to be an extended one!

Those interested in saving money during their next stay in Branson, MO can view all of our special lodging promotions and discounts online.

“Where kids feel like grown-ups…and grown-ups act like kids.” That’s one of the taglines for The Track Family Fun Parks in Branson, MO, a series of five tracks located along Highway 76. This July provides the perfect opportunity to travel to Branson and enjoy the fun and excitement of the parks, as each of the five locations will be open every day of the week for the entire month. So before the opportunity passes you by, round up the family, make the trip to Branson, and enjoy the outdoor thrills and adventures of The Track Family Fun Parks.

Take part in the go-karts the parks are known for. The parks provide options for guests anywhere from four years old and up, from the Kiddie Go-Carts all the way up to the Wild Woody and the LumberJack, the two most popular tracks around. The Skycoaster is a thrill rider’s dream, as the swinging ride is the closest to skydiving you will get without doing the actual act itself. The slow, steady 100-foot rise to the top is enough to make any ardent thrill-seeker tremble.

Additional fun at the sites includes bumper rides, where you can choose from the standard cars or the bumper boats; arcades, where a total of 200 games await you at three different locations; mini-golf, where guests of any age can enjoy a course at three different locations; and laser tag, where your family can enjoy the black-lit maze as you test your aim.

Purchase The Track Go Card for unlimited half prices for the entire family throughout the year at rides, mini-golf, laser tag, and games. During the entire month of July, however, you can enjoy the benefit of a full day with the card (9 a.m. to midnight), longer than you would any other month for the rest of the year.

For tickets and additional information for The Track Family Fun Parks, visit BransonTracks.com. If you’re looking for lodging and other information about shows and attractions to enjoy during your stay, visit BransonShows.com.

A recent survey conducted by the American Society of Travel Agents rated Branson the third most budget-friendly travel destination in the United States for 2009. With a shaky economy tightening the pocketbooks of American families, Branson stands out as a place where you can still afford a family vacation even if you are traveling on a shoestring budget. Don’t cancel your spring or summer vacation this year – beat the recession with a vacation that won’t empty your bank account by coming to Branson, Missouri and taking advantage of our Family Pass and Play & Splash vacation discounts. 

With the Family Pass to the Titanic Museum the entire family will be able to share in the experience for one low price. The Titanic Museum allows you to learn of the ship’s fateful voyage from on-board a half size model of the ocean liner. Upon entry to the museum, you will receive a ticket with the name of one of the Titanic passengers. After viewing many of the interesting exhibits and artifacts, you can make your way to the Memorial Room and learn if your passenger survived or perished. The museum features many priceless artifacts that reveal the tragedy and heroism in the personal stories of the Titanic’s passengers. One of the highlights of the museum is the majestic Edwardian era Grand Staircase, which guests can walk up. The museum also features a Titanic Movie Exhibit that showcases memorabilia from the James Cameron movie, including a 155-carat sapphire necklace valued at a quarter million dollars! 

For a more sanguine walk back in time, the 50’s at the Hop will carry you back to the carefree days of poodle skirts, bobby socks and greased hair. And just as with the Titanic Museum, you’ll find a special Family Pass offered to help include the entire family in the fun without breaking the bank. See dance troupes and singers bring back the 1950’s with oldies such as La Bamba, He’s a Rebel, Hand Jive, and numerous other hits from the age of malt shops and drive-in theaters.  The two hour show will make you want to sing and dance and twist and shout.  

For more budget-friendly fun you will want to take advantage of the Silver Dollar City Play & Splash Pass, letting you enjoy both Silver Dollar City and White Water. From rushing roller coasters to raging water slides, you can have it all! In addition to phenomenal rides, Silver Dollar City offers over forty live shows to keep you entertained throughout the day. From country to gospel, dance to comedy, you can enjoy all sorts of fun, family-friendly shows. In addition, you can enjoy the many fine shops and restaurants in Silver Dollar City including an Apple Butter Shop and the colorfully named Buckshot Annie’s Chicken Shack. 

With great family discounts like the Family Passes and the Play & Splash Pass reducing already great prices, Branson is one of the most budget-friendly travel destinations in the country. Come to Branson for endless hours of wholesome fun and entertainment without spending your life savings. To make reservations online go to http://www.bransonshows.com/ or call us at 1-800-987-6298.

Branson, Missouri has a high reputation for bringing top-notch entertainment worthy of runs on Broadway to thousands of visitors each year. Now the Branson Variety Theater is taking that reputation to another level with it’s invigorating seasonal line-up! Spirit of the Dance, the Twelve Irish Tenors, Spirit of Christmas, and Broadway! The Star-spangled Celebration are all shows boasting superb performers, high-energy dance numbers, and music that will get you tapping along to the beat and moving in your seat! Formally known as the Bobby Vinton Theatre, current owner and choreographer David King is spending another season bringing patrons the highest quality in performances and shows.

Broadway! The Star-spangled Celebration

For a genuine experience of what it’s like to witness a Broadway performance, look no further than this show! Broadway! The Star-spangled Celebration combines all the best of popular Broadway musicals such as Cabaret, Chicago, Grease, Phantom of the Opera, and Oklahoma into a fast-paced and brilliant production. The choreography, lighting effects, and costumes in this award-winning production will definitely provide you with a stunning experience of New York-style entertainment.

Spirit of the Dance

This international and world-renowned hit is amongst some of the most successful productions to come from the Emerald Isle! Winner of numerous Global Awards and now starting it’s tenth season in Branson, you won’t want to miss Spirit of the Dance! Watch as the amazing dancers blend Irish Dance with the Latin rhythms of the flamenco, the salsa, and the tango. Precision and skill are demonstrated with each act as the troupe dances in absolute unison. This thunderous performance is sure to fascinate you and leave you wanting more!

The Twelve Irish Tenors

Another highly successful act from Ireland, the Twelve Irish Tenors are a cast of the country’s finest singers and they’re taking the concert world by storm with tours all around the planet! Watch as these twelve very talented men and their two female counterparts perform smash hit songs from genres such as opera, jazz, pop, and classical. Songs you’ll hear include everything from Irish classics such as “Danny Boy” to timeless pop singles like “Hey Jude”. Prepare for a completely melodic experience that’s definitely worthy of a standing ovation!

Spirit of Christmas

The talk of Branson for the 2008 holiday season, the Branson Variety Theater is proud to bring the Spirit of Christmas back for a run in 2009! One of the most enchanting and delightful Christmas productions in the region, the show will feature a new segment full of classic Christmas songs, stunning scenery, and ornate costumes along with everything that captivated fans last year. Full of seasonal cheer, a visit to Branson to see the Spirit of Christmas is sure to become a holiday tradition!

The cast behind #1 Hits of the 60′s returns to Branson for the 2009 season with an all-new show! At the request of the fans, you can now enjoy more music, more comedy,  and more skits. That means more fun! This high-energy  production will take you back to an amazing era full of unique music and dances. For those who were around to remember, you’ll revisit the dance crazes such as the  the Twist, the Mash Potato, and the Watusi. The show manages to feature almost 100 songs from artists such as  the Supremes, the Monkees, and the Beatles interspersed with comedy skits that capture the spirit of the 60′s. Unique historical video clip and a special tribute to Vietnam veterans are also featured in the show and will be highlights of the performance as well as a giant Jukebox and cars that actually drive along the stage! Stop by the Caravelle Theater in Branson for an unforgettable experience this season!

Other Branson Performers Representing the 60′s

The Osmonds

For the last 50 years, the Osmond Brothers have been doing what they do best: entertaining the masses with their special brand of showmanship! Now for the 2009 season, they’ll be coming back to Branson to take the stage at the Osmonds Theatre, presenting a medley of musical numbers in styles such as barbershop, jazz, pop, and country. Watch the brothers perform their classic act with an assortment of other performers boasting hilarity and timeless songs.

Liverpool Legends-  The Ultimate Beatles Experience

This tribute group has the smooth harmonies, spot-on mannerisms, and instrumental skill that mirrors the talent of one of the most influential bands in musical history! Watch as the Liverpool Legends cover the music from the golden years of the Beatles with hit songs such as “Sgt. Peppers” to the solo days of Paul, John, Ringo, and George.

Andy Williams Show

The timeless acts of Andy Williams has been enchanting audiences for over 60 years. From under the bright lights of his hit 60′s variety show on NBC to the stage of the Moon River Theatre, Andy Williams hasn’t lost his touch! Watch later on in the 2009 season as he performs his classic numbers along with 6 other entertainers that will wow you with their musical styling.

The Haygoods have been the only show in Branson to consistently bring along a new act with them each season. Their 2009 season, the first at the New Americana Theatre, is no different. Adding to the theater’s line-up featuring their own show (The Haygoods) plus Tony Roi’s Elvis Experience and Red, Hot…& Blue, comes Cassandre’ Faimon-Haygood in The Voice of an Angel!

Cassandre’ Faimon-Haygood has been a Branson favorite for 9 years with notable performances in Silver Dollar City productions such as Dicken’s Christmas Carol, Headin’ West, and For the Glory. Now with Cassandre’ Voice of and Angel, you can enjoy her talent as a top-notch vocalist on Branson’s newest stage. Backed by an 8-piece orchestra, you and the entire family will be wowed by her spirit and energy as a performer as she entertains you with flawless renditions of Broadway hits, new pop favorites, and time-honored classics. This show is sure to be a success so make sure you don’t miss out!

Don’t forget to check out the other fantastic performers gracing the stage of the New Americana Theatre as well as other shows in Branson during your visit. For more information, follow the link below.

http://www.bransonshows.com/bransonShows.cfm

Following a long day of shopping, attractions, and shows, there’s only one thing on the minds of the average visitor to Branson, Missouri: food. Sure, you can swing by any old fast-food joint and satisfy your need for nourishment, but why not top off your memorable visit to Branson by stopping at a restaurant that boasts fine dining at affordable prices? Branson offers a wide variety of dining facilities serving everything from classic comfort foods such as meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy to gourmet delicacies such as trout amandine with a healthy helping of expertly sauteed vegetables. For a fantastic dinner (or lunch!) experience, try these restaurants the next time you’re in town.

Andy Williams Moon River Grill

Located near the famed Moon River Theatre, Andy Williams Moon River Grill is a favorite of the legendary performer himself. It is said that he dines here nightly! Even if you don’t get a chance to see the singer at his most casual, you can enjoy all of his favorite homemade- inspired dishes offered on the menu. Savor a meal that will fill you up and leave your wallet feeling the same!

Candlestick Inn Restaurant & Lounge

This lounge offers a classy though laid-back dining experience with live music and delicious entrées  that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy the option of being able to dine on everything from classic club sandwiches to gourmet fillets of lobster and tilapia. A diverse selection of wines are also available for enjoyment with your meal.

Rocky’s Italian Restaurant

Delight in great food and great service at a great price when you dine here! The Italian dishes served here range from simple favorites such as spaghetti and meatballs to gourmet masterpieces such as veal scaloppini. A downtown favorite for more than 20 years, you’ll be glad you chose this restaurant as your last stop for the day as the food offered will tantalize your palette and satisfy even the most discriminatory of tastes.

Branson, Missouri has become one of the premier destinations in North America for both young and old alike and has managed not to compromise it’s family-friendly atmosphere in the process. With many theme parks and events catering to family members as young as two years old, Branson is quickly becoming a popular place for families to spend a weekend. Affordable, hospitable, and overall fun, here are some parks and attractions to keep in mind for your next visit to Branson with your loved ones!

Branson Family Fun Factory

• The name says it all! This family-oriented facility offers 18-holes of “glow in the dark” miniature golf with 4 different themes, a game room full of arcade classics, and a 3,000 foot laser tag course! Think about booking your next party here or just stop in for an afternoon of food and fun.

The Hamner and Barber Variety Show

• This incredible performance features the talents of renowned ventriloquist Jim Barber and the illusions of magical duo The Hamners. Comical puppets, exotic birds, special effects, and talented singers and dancers are a part of this fascinating production that will make your visit an exciting experience.

Silver Dollar City

• Easily one of the most popular attractions in Branson, this amusement park allows you to visit the 1800s with period-themed rides and shows such as the PowderKeg, McHaffie’s Homestead, and the GIANT Swing! This theme park is sure to become a family favorite and with so much to see and do, repeat visits will be necessary!

For more information about these attractions and others, visit www.explorebranson.com, www.vacationsmadeeasy.com, or call 417-823-0981.

The new year has brought some scheduling alterations to the Moon River Theatre performance line up. Most notably, Andy Williams, one of Branson, Missouri’s most popular entertainers and founder of the theater, will be taking a brief hiatus from performing to write his biography. The 81-year-old singer will be returning to his spot as the evening headliner in September 2009. For the time being, he has given the evening show spot to Rightous’ Brothers Bill Medley and Paul Revere & The Raiders. Also joining these classic performers are Bill Haley’s Original Comets for their first year at the theater. The Andy Williams All Star Variety Show at Moon River Theatre features 6 acts in all, not including the legend himself.

Formerly one of NBCs top rated programs, the Andy Williams Show has found a new life and home in Branson and is easily one of it’s highest ranking attractions! The Moon River Theatre has been providing family-friendly entertainment for over 16 years. The theater seats over 2,000 individuals and is classically decorated throughout with hand detailed woodwork, antiques, luxurious fabrics, and art. Performers who have graced the stage at Moon River to collaborate with Andy Williams in the past include Charo, Glen Cambell, and Ann-Margret. Shows run April through December. For more information and specific dates/times, visit www.AndyWilliams.com

The nation’s first Beatles museum is scheduled to open in March of 2009 in Branson’s Starlite Theater. Louise Harrison, sister of the late George Harrison, who founded and manages the Liverpool Legends Beatles tribute band, is opening the museum. She will supply the museum with memorabilia from her personal collection that has never been publicly displayed before, including postcards and letters written by George Harrison, and early rejection letters from some less than prescient radio stations that professed no interest in the Beatles music. The only other public Beatles museum in the world is called the Beatles Story and it is located in Liverpool, England. The new Branson museum, however, is expected to surpass the Beatles Story museum in size.

After enjoying the museum, Beatles fans can stay and listen to classic Beatles songs performed by Beatles imitators, the Liverpool Legends, in the lovely Starlite Theatre, which includes a five story glass atrium decorated with strawberry fields, yellow submarines, London red phone booths, and the familiar Abbey Road Crosswalk. The Liverpool Legends perform hits from the band’s early days on through to songs from the later solo careers of John Lennon, Paul McCartney and George Harrison.

To order tickets to enjoy the museum and see the Liverpool legends perform contact the Starlite box office at (417) 337-9333 or you can also visit the Starlite Theater website at http://www.starlitetheatre.com

To learn more about the Beatles tribute band the Liverpool Legends check out their website at http://www.liverpoollegends.com/