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5 Fantastic Off-Sites: Branson

Dick’s 5 & 10
Opened by Dick Hartley in 1961 and still run by his family, this downtown Branson landmark, housed in a nearly century-old building, is a singular retail experience. Along with rare baseball cards and other unique collections, the store features more than 50,000 pieces, from gift items to of vintage and quirky merchandise. Small groups can arrange early openings or late closings for shopping expeditions.

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede
Stomp your feet and clap your hands at this dinner show spectacle that begins with seeing the show’s horses in their stables and comedy and refreshments in the Carriage Room. The main event is a four-course dinner and extravaganza of stunt riders, live animals and dramatic effects in the 35,000-square-foot arena. Buyouts are available for groups of 500 or more, with discount pricing for 15-plus people.

Jonah at Sight & Sound Theatre
Founded in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1976 and also in Branson, Sight & Sound is the largest faith-based theater in the nation. Exemplifying the Branson focus on putting visitors in the spotlight, Jonah is a moving, uplifting production that “breaks through the fourth wall” to immerse audience members in the action. Groups can take behind-the-scenes tours; packages and discounts are also available.

Silver Dollar City
Opened in 1960 on land above Branson’s original tourist draw (Marvel Cave, 1894), Branson’s leading attraction offers diversions for every group taste. Among the highlights at this 1880s-style theme park: 40 live shows daily, a dozen restaurants and six festivals, including the nationally acclaimed An Old Time Christmas. Plus, thrilling rides such as Outlaw Run, the first wooden roller coaster to twist upside down—three times!

Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve
Last summer, Bass Pro Shops’ founder Johnny Morris opened this visionary multi-venue development next to his Big Cedar Lodge wilderness resort. Combining breathtaking Ozark views with upscale group draws, assets include three restaurants, a wine cave, a golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson, the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail, and for weddings, the Chapel of the Ozarks and a reconstructed Civil War-era honeymoon cabin.