With a population of slightly more than 6,000 and a quaint, historic downtown, Branson attracts more than seven million visitors a year, primarily retirees, families, and RVers drawn by the irresistible lure -- and improbable pairing -- of outdoor recreation and big-time entertainment. Surrounded by three pristine lakes in the scenic, wooded, mountainous region of the Ozarks in southern Missouri, Branson offers fishing, swimming, golfing, and boating, and is also home to big-name entertainers who present everything from country music to comedy and magic acts in more than 100 live shows daily. If that's not enough, Branson also boasts theme parks such as Silver Dollar City, some unique museums, and a new shopping and dining complex called Branson Landing.
