Christmas is sneaking up on us and most people are consumed by the spirit of the season. That is how it should be. However, you may want to start thinking ahead to the new year, which is quickly sneaking up on us! If January includes a visit to Branson, you may be surprised to know that most of the shows will be closed for the month of January to disassemble the fabulous Christmas sets and prepare for the 2010 season.

Just because the shows will be closed doesn’t mean that there isn’t anything to do in Branson. There are still a multitude of things to do that will welcome January visitors. Everything from shopping to dining to an entertaining night out will be waiting for you.

Shopping

Shopping in the month preceding Christmas can be a nightmare. The stores are jam-packed from wall to wall and everyone is trying to get their hands on the same thing. In the weeks post holiday chaos, the stores are quieter and the shopping experience is often more enjoyable.

If that is your idea of a nice weekend, Branson is the place. There are many places to shop in the Branson area, including outlet malls and boutique shops. If you’re seeking a stress-free weekend after the hustle and bustle of the holidays, the Branson Landing Weekend Escape vacation package places  you in the heart of one of the best shopping districts in Branson!

Dining

Spending a quiet afternoon at home once everyone leaves can be very relaxing. Why not include a nice dinner to top off your day? There are lots of wonderful dining options in Branson that are open year-round so you don’t have to worry about them being closed. For a list of dining options all over the Branson area and restaurant information, check out the Dining & Nightlife portion of our Points of Interest Page. While you’re there you can browse plenty of other activities in Branson.

Activities

While most of the shows in Branson will be closed, there are still many attractions that will happily welcome January visitors. The museums in Branson are some of those attractions. Museums like Titanic-The Legend Continues and World’s Largest Toy Museum will be business as usual. Also, many of the tours will also be available early in the new year. Browse the activities and see what all is available for your Branson trip!

Whether you’re shopping at Branson Landing or just enjoying the sights, at some point you’re going to get hungry. In this case, you’re lucky you got hungry at Branson Landing! There are so many wonderful places to eat that choosing a restaurant may be your toughest decision all day.

Cantina Laredo

The Cantina Laredo serves up all kinds of traditional Mexican grub in suite 1001. You will be able to enjoy everything from grilled chicken to steaks to daily fish specials. The incredible sauces, such as chipotle-wine with portobello mushrooms, compliment the dishes splendidly. The amazing food is served up in a sophisticated atmosphere to create a place that can only be found at Branson Landing.

Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar and Grille

If you happen to be near suite 505 any night of the week,  you’re likely to hear some great piano and some off-key singing. Don’t worry, it’s only Ernie Biggs. At this unique restaurant you’ll find dueling pianos, audience-sung favorites, and a full menu of awesome food. The pianists manning the stage claim to be able to play everything from classic oldies to today’s number one hits. If you happen to be in the area you may want to stop by and test their skills!

Waxy O’Shea’s Irish Pub

If you’re seeking a decidedly unique dining option while visiting Branson Landing, you should definitely hit suite 235, home of Waxy O’Shea’s Irish Pub. A stop at Waxy O’Shea’s guarantees to be a memorable experience as you are greeted at the door with everything Irish. You’ll enjoy Irish music, Irish décor, and true Irish pub food. “May you come back more than you leave and may the luck of the Irish be with you!”

These three restaurants are just a taste of the many options located in the Branson Landing. You can find a listing at any of the guide-signs posted around the Landing. Be sure to leave time and room for dinner when you visit the Branson Landing!

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.