Here are 12 fun facts about Branson, Missouri:
- Live Entertainment Capital: Branson is nicknamed the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World,” with over 50 theaters offering live music, comedy, variety, and magic shows.
- More Theater Seats Than Broadway: Branson has more theater seats than Broadway, making it a hub for live performances.
- Table Rock Lake’s Massive Shoreline: Table Rock Lake offers nearly as much shoreline as the coast of California, making it a popular spot for fishing and water activities.
- World’s Largest Rooster: Branson is home to a 43-foot-tall fiberglass rooster, the largest in the world
- Largest Toy Museum: The city boasts the world’s largest toy museum, featuring over a million nostalgic toys
- Butterfly Palace: The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure offers a tropical experience with thousands of butterflies and educational exhibits
- Golf Paradise: Branson features ten championship golf courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer
- Historic Name Change: The town was almost renamed “Lucia” in 1901 but reverted to “Branson” in 1904, named after postmaster Reuben S. Branson
- The Shepherd of the Hills Connection: Harold Bell Wright’s 1907 novel The Shepherd of the Hills was inspired by Branson and is still performed as an outdoor theater production
- Inspiration Tower: The 230-foot Inspiration Tower at Shepherd of the Hills is Missouri’s second tallest free-standing structure after the Gateway Arch
- Population vs. Visitors: Despite having just over 12,000 residents, Branson welcomes more than 9 million visitors annually
- Central Location: Branson is within a day’s drive of one-third of America’s population, making it easily accessible for many travelers
