Dozens of shops, restaurants stay open during January, February, March

Branson is a shopper’s paradise and during the winter months, prices at outlet shops, gift boutiques, antique stores, arts and crafts studios, and name brand chains are the lowest of the year. During Hot Winter Fun, January through March, shoppers in Branson will find dozens of stores open seven days a week offering great deals on name brand clothing, house wares, electronics, home décor, gourmet food, jewelry, furniture, novelty gift items and hand-crafted art.

Merchants in the Branson area want shoppers and diners to know they’re open this time of year, so many of them have joined forces with the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Convention and Convention & Visitors Bureau to get the word out by participating in special events, advertising and other promotional activities.

Branson’s three outlet malls offer guests name brand merchandise at discounts of 25-65% off regular retail prices. All three malls are open seven days a week. Tanger Outlet Center features stores such as Bombay Gift Outlet, Mikasa, Old Navy, Dress Barn and many more. In 2005, shoppers have the added advantage of convenient Monday through Saturday hours of 9a.m. to 9p.m. and Sunday hours of 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Tanger.

Engler Block is an ideal destination for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind hand-made items. Visitors can even watch craftsmen blow glass, paint or carve wood right on site. Engler Block features several shops all under one roof, including a restaurant.

No trip to Branson is complete without a visit to the historic downtown area. Be sure to visit Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10. It’s a trip back in time at this popular shopping destination filled with a variety of items you haven’t seen since you were a kid.

At Alaska Down South, shoppers will find Alaskan and African art, décor, jewelry, furniture and textiles. Many of the items are hand-made, one-of-a-kind heirloom-quality.

Artists and woodworking hobbyists can find a wide-range of raw materials at Art & Woodcrafters Supply. Shop for numerous wood patterns, paints, tools and more. The knowledgeable staff is there to help bring your ideas to life.

Whether you’re a novice photographer eager to see those vacation photos, or an experienced professional, Flash Photo, located on Highway 76 has the supplies, equipment and staff to help with your one hour processing, framing and equipment needs.

The Branson Wal-Mart is conveniently located on the Hwy. 76 Strip adjacent to the Branson Mall and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

While you’re shopping, enjoy a meal at one of Branson’s great restaurants or eateries to relax and refuel for the next round. From fine dining to fast food, Branson boasts a wide variety of choices, even during the winter months.

Start off your day with a mouth-watering Krispy Kreme donut. Located on the Strip, near Tanger Outlet Center, Krispy Kreme opened in 2004 and has quickly become a local hot spot.

Enjoy a great breakfast, lunch or dinner buffet at Branson’s Golden Corral, the largest one in the world!

For family fun, don’t miss the new Playtime Pizza, which opened in 2004, and features great games and activities for kids of all ages. Located on Gretna Road, between Branson’s three outlet malls, Playtime Pizza is an excellent choice for birthday parties, and other special events.

Branson has a great mix of cuisine styles to choose from at places like Pasta House, Lone Star Steak House, California Bar & Grill, Bob Evans, Luigi’s Pizza Kitchen, McFarlain’s Family Restaurant, Candlestick Inn, B.T. Bones and Rib Crib. The atmosphere and service are fantastic and with all the calories you burn shopping, you’ll definitely want to order dessert!

LANCASTER COUNTY, PA - Sight & Sound Theatres® is planning to establish an additional theatre location, to be built in Branson, Missouri. The project would include constructing a duplicate of the company’s Millennium Theatre® in Branson, where Sight & Sound is in the process of acquiring 50 acres of land. The company’s current corporate offices in Strasburg would remain the corporate headquarters, and all Sight & Sound operations in Lancaster County would continue as usual. Contingent on final approval of the project, the targeted opening date for the Branson theatre is June 2008.

Sight & Sound Theatres has been described in many ways: “the largest faith-based live theatre in America,” “the Christian Broadway,” “one of the top three theatre destinations on the East Coast” . . . and the list goes on. Each year, about 800,000 people come from across the country and around the world to experience a production at one of Sight & Sound’s two theatres in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

The company’s purpose is to visualize and dramatize the Bible through live stage productions, illustrating truth in the same way that Jesus did, by storytelling. Sight & Sound’s original musical theatre productions are characterized by the spectacular. Most shows feature a professional cast of more than 50, elaborate sets towering up to 40 feet high, hundreds of costumes, and trained animals ranging from camels and horses to dogs and flight-trained birds. Spectacular special effects permeate the shows and include set pieces that rise up through the stage floor, 3D video imaging, pyrotechnics, and artistic lighting effects including lasers. The company’s two theatres are the 2,000-seat Millennium Theatre and the 650-seat Living Waters Theatre, the company’s original location.

Prominent shows at the Theatres have included Noah-The Musical, Abraham & Sarah-A Journey of Love, and Daniel-A Dream, A Den, A Deliverer. Two new shows premiering in 2005 are Ruth, which opens May 21, 2005 at Millennium Theatre, and Psalms of David, opening June 18, 2005 at Living Waters Theatre. Leading off the 2005 season is the Easter spectacular, Behold the Lamb (March 5 - April 9, 2005), a perennial favorite to which new songs and additional special effects were recently added. The 2005 season concludes with Miracle of Christmas (November 12, 2005 - January 7, 2006), which recreates the world into which Jesus was born and concludes in a stunning Nativity scene featuring flying angels, three camels, majestically-costumed wise men and elaborate special effects.

Variety and diversity provide ideal entertainment experience

Branson is a truly exhilarating family entertainment experience all year long. The Hot Winter Fun months of January, February, and March offer guests more than 20 shows to choose from with more than 50 show times each week. From 50’s music to swing, comedy to country, magic to musical icons, guests can have it all during Hot Winter Fun. Branson is home to nationally-known entertainers, production shows, museums, dozens of shops, fine dining, and world-class attractions. Plus, in Branson, guests can take advantage of 10 championship golf courses, three pristine lakes and over 100,000-acres of private and government parks and recreation areas all within minutes of the bright-lights of town. So, no matter what your definition of family fun and entertainment, the Branson/Lakes Area delivers it all in great style, all year long.

There’s more to do and see in the Branson area this winter than ever before. Many area shows and attractions have teamed up with the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Convention and Convention & Visitors Bureau to get the word out that they are open during January, February and March. The following is a list of shows and attractions participating in the Hot Winter Fun marketing cooperative in 2005:

LIVE SHOWS

The 11th Annual Hot Winter Fun Big Show will be held at 7 p.m., Monday, February 14 at the Jim Stafford Theatre and will showcase performances from dozens of Branson’s 2005 shows.

Baldknobbers Jamboree Show (Baldknobbers Theatre) It’s the show that started it all! As the Baldknobbers Jamboree celebrates 44 years of delightful family entertainment, audiences can enjoy Branson’s first country music and comedy show during Hot Winter Fun. This show is filled with country music (both top country hits and favorite country classics) and comedy, complemented with a touch of patriotic and gospel tunes. From the vibrant costuming to the sensational singing, to the lively comedy, this show is filled with fun for the entire family.

Brett Daniels - Magic & Beyond (Grand Palace) The Grand Palace presents Brett Daniels, “Magic & Beyond”. This extravagant, high-energy production show feature two hours of innovative large-scale illusions, dynamic theatrics, world-class sleight-of-hand and precision dance. Brett has starred in several network television specials such as “The World’s Greatest Magic” I, II, III & V and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”.

Celebrate America (Mansion America Theatre) A tribute to the land of the free and the home of the brave, “Celebrate America” is an originally written, fully staged theatrical spectacular. Showcasing stunning costumes, a beautifully orchestrated musical score, and brilliant theatrical sets, lighting and special effects, “Celebrate America” is a portrayal of the courage, creativity, tenacity and the heart of what it means to be an American. It will uplift and inspire all who share in this entertainment experience.

Circle B Chuckwagon & Cowboy Music Show (Dinner Bell Restaurant Theatre) Step back in time to the days of tumbling tumbleweeds, cowboy harmonies, and belly-filling, finger-licking foods of the Old West. The all-you-can-eat cowboy feast, served tableside is followed by the music of the old west performed by a talented cast of musicians and singers.

Comedy Jamboree (Grand Country Music Hall) - The Comedy Jamboree matinee is grand entertainment at its best starring Jim Dandy, Splinter, Tracy Heaston and an incredible cast of singers and dancers. This show will wow you with comedy and musical fun!

Doug Gabriel Show (Jim Stafford Theatre) Doug Gabriel has been entertaining Branson audiences for the past 18 years, and for the past 10 years, Doug has headlined his own show. In 2005, Doug welcomes legendary performer Roy Clark back to the stage for a dynamic duo performance. Come see the legend and another legend in the making.

The Duttons (Dutton Family Theater) This family of entertainers presents a show filled with a wide variety of musical styles, stunning harmonies and hot dance numbers. The fast-paced variety and quick action of The Duttons’ show displays an amazing amount of talent all from one family. As The Duttons mix old and new country favorites, they also add some great surprises including Mendelssohn Concerto in E Minor and other classical sounds. Audiences also enjoy a jazz fiddle, dynamic clogging, yodeling, and the musical might of the entire group on stage together.

Elvis Experience Starring Tony Roi (Music City Centre) Re-live the excitement and energy that millions of people enjoyed when Elvis himself took to the stage in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. All of the music, the vocals, and even the hip movements are brought to life by Tony Roi in this dynamic show, giving audiences the same kind of experience Elvis concertgoers once had. The show features a talented band and back-up singers.

From Patsy To Present (Branson Mall Music Theatre) The “From Patsy To Present…” show, starring Tracy Lynn, is one of Branson’s most unique stage performances ever! In addition to witnessing a phenomenal tribute to Patsy Cline, audiences enjoy a variety of classic country, bluegrass, rockabilly, and blues.

Grand Country Saturday Night (Grand Country Music Hall) Be a part of the audience for this LIVE radio show every Saturday night at 11 p.m. on KRZK-FM, 106.3 in Branson. Veteran radio host Don Paul features special guest stars each week from the Branson’s entertainment community as well as regular performances by New South and the Grand Band.

Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall) Audiences fall in love with the afternoon and evening Grand Jubilee, starring New South, Diana Ponder, Todd Bradshaw and Terry Sanders as Homer Lee. With its great quartet favorites and grand comedy, this show will leave you wanting more!

Grand Old Gospel Hour (Grand Palace) The Grand Old Gospel Hour is 88 minutes of “Heaven on Earth.” Sam Stauffer leads the Grand Old Gospel Hour featuring a fast-paced, contemporary praise experience complete with a band, gospel vocalists and choir. Motivational, humorous, entertaining and inspirational best describe this most unique worship service. A new program is presented every Sunday and admission is free.

The Haygoods (Music City Centre) After spending a decade entertaining audiences at Silver Dollar City, the Haygoods are headlining at the Music City Centre Theatre on Highway 76. The Haygoods feature six talented brothers and one sister who perform a dynamic combination of dance, acrobatics, a variety of instruments and contemporary choreography. From Zoot Suit fun to energetic dancing, the Haygoods deliver a show for all ages.

Hank Williams Revisited (IMAX Little Opry Theatre) Hear the songs that made Hank (played by Tim Hadler) a legend in country music: “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “Hey Good Lookin’” and more! Find variety from Patsy Cline to George Jones, great comedy, and songs from the movie “Oh Brother, Where Art Thou”.

Keepin’ It Country (IMAX Little Opry Theatre) Rick Langston and the gang are “Keepin’ It Country” at the Little Opry Theatre. This show is a must see for country music fans!

Jim Stafford (Jim Stafford Theatre) Get the giggles with Branson’s master of sensational happenings and hilarious moments, Jim Stafford. Whether he’s strumming the senses or playing the guitar, Jim delivers fun for everyone. Surprises abound at Jim’s show as tornadoes whirl, guitars drop, cows stampede and Chihuahuas are saved. Audiences experience Jim’s 3-D virtual thrill ride, a real flying saucer, laser lights, incredible guitar playin’ and the littlest musician in Branson—Jim’s son Sheaffer, along with five-year-old daughter G.G.

Joey Riley Comedy & Music Revue (Branson Mall Music Theatre) This show combines comedy, music, and more from one of Branson’s favorite comedians, Joey Riley. Along with Joey, the show features Kaci Bays and her dynamic voice, and the “Get ‘R’ Done” Band. With lots of gut bustin’ comedy, and loads of down home country music, including a Grand Ole Opry Medley, the Joey Riley Comedy & Music Revue has it all!

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Mansion America) This internationally acclaimed and award-winning creation of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice retells the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. From the opening chords to the last note sung, you will be enthralled, inspired and entertained as you journey back to ancient Egypt to experience the timeless tale. Incorporating musical genres from country to rock ‘n’ roll, and calypso to go-go, this story is narrated in a contemporary style that embraces humor, drama, and song.

Late Late Night with Joey Riley (Branson Mall Music Theatre) Be a part of a live studio audience at this free television show every Sunday night. Joey Riley brings down the house with his comedy and insightful interviews with celebrity guests. Entertainment surprises abound and there’s great music from a magnificent 10-piece band.

Legends in Concert (Legends Family Theatre) A phenomenal live tribute show, Legends in Concert provides the opportunity to see your favorite star “LIVE!” Guests will be awed by such legendary greats as “Neil Diamond,” “Marilyn Monroe,” “Garth Brooks,” “Reba McEntire,” “The Blues Brothers,” “Elvis Presley” and many more. The “star” line-up changes every season, making Legends in Concert a memorable and new experience each time guests visit Branson.

Magnificent 7 Show (White House Theatre) A fast-paced, fun-filled musical variety show, Magnificent 7 performs everything from country, pop, light rock to 50s - plus classic movie and Broadway show tunes. Magnificent 7 fills the evening time slot at the newly renovated White House Theatre.

Magnificent 7 presents Showcase Jubilee (White House Theatre) On Saturday nights, guests can sample all three shows at the White House Theatre during one performance. The White House Jubilee features all of the 20-plus performers from the other White House shows, plus special guest stars. Each White House Jubilee show has completely different music and costuming, making every Saturday night an original experience.

Neil Goldberg’s Cirque (Remington Theatre) Step into our dream! Join the cast of “Neil Goldberg’s Cirque” on an amazing flight into fantasy! Experience larger-than-life ultraviolet puppets, 4-legged stilt creations and over 100 amazing original costume designs. The international cast of Cirque includes professional artists who perform awesome acts ranging from a high-flying trapeze segment to inventive acrobatics both on stage and over the audience.

Red Skelton: A Tribute by Tom Mullica (Music City Centre) You’ll swear you’re watching Red Skelton LIVE on stage throughout this hilarious 90-minute show! Join old friends like Clem Kadiddlehopper, Freddy the Freeloader, The Mean Widdle Kid, Gertrude & Heathcliff and a legion of other great Skelton characters for a nostalgic step back in time. Tom Mullica, a close friend of the late Red Skelton, expertly re-creates the comedy genius of America’s most beloved clown and funnyman live on stage at the Music City Centre theater. From the hysterical classic Skelton pantomime skits to the silly rubber-faced expressions to the obscenity-free jokes, this show is 100% Red Skelton.

Sunday Gospel Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall) Old time gospel comes straight from the heart when the Bacon Family takes the stage. You’ll make a joyful noise each Sunday during the Sunday Gospel Jubilee. This musical family will lift your spirits with an old fashioned southern Gospel quartet, rousing vocals and just the right touch of comedy.

ATTRACTIONS

Visit the award-winning Stone Hill Winery and enjoy a free tour to experience yesteryear’s winemaking heritage. During the free winery tour visitors receive a fascinating and historical view of how wine and sparkling wines are made. View authentic equipment and memorabilia while sampling the wide array of wines. Each sample is presented with enlightening background information and serving hints. Grape juice is served to the kids. Shop for the perfect wine to take back home.

Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex lets the imagination run wild as guests become part of the action. Visitors are immersed in a six-story tall screen and 22,000 watt sound system as the films unfold in magnificent wonder. Ongoing films include the saga of the McFarlain family in “Ozarks Legacy & Legend.” Throughout the year, the IMAX features first-run films like “Oceans 12″ and specially produced IMAX films such as “Lewis & Clark – The Great Journey West” and “NASCAR”, providing visitors with an awesome experience. IMAX films run every hour on the hour. The Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex is also home to unique shops, the Elite Cinema Three featuring first run Hollywood films and McFarlain’s Family Restaurant, featuring home cookin’ the way it’s supposed to be!

The Veterans Memorial Museum is a national tribute to all brave men and women who have defended this country’s liberties during the 20th Century. The museum is packed with memories and showcases the world’s largest collection of wartime exhibits covering the highs and lows of human experience. Sculptures, murals, historical artifacts, objects d’art and authentic memorabilia honor all branches of the service, major battlefronts, campaigns, industrial defense and more.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is where you can explore the unique and unusual! Do you know why The Ripley’s building looks the way it does? Most people think California has had the worst earthquake, when actually Missouri holds the record. In 1812, an earthquake measuring more than 8.0 on the Richter scale occurred at New Madrid, Missouri. This earthquake made the Mississippi River run backwards for three days. Stop by and see why Ripley’s is ‘The Most Photographed Building In Branson’! Don’t miss all the unique displays at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

The American Presidential Museum showcases the history of our nation and it’s leaders over the past 200 years. Several displays in the museum were featured at Democracy Plaza in New York City where they were highlighted on the “Today Show” during NBC’s 2004 election coverage. See a replica of Air Force One under Richard Nixon, the Oval office, and an infamous Florida voting booth from 2000.

Ralph Foster Museum is fondly called “The Smithsonian of the Ozarks” and is located on the campus of College of the Ozarks. Visit all three floors to fully discover the history and culture of the Ozarks. The museum features the original truck used by the Beverly Hillbillies during their popular 1960s TV show, Kewpie dolls designed by Rose O’Neill (a native of the Ozarks), a restored one-room schoolhouse, and the Discovery Room, a special room for children.

The Branson/Lakes Area offers a multitude of wintertime experiences for anglers, golfers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With three pristine lakes: Table Rock, Taneycomo and Bull Shoals; 100,000-acres of parks, forests and conservation areas; 10 championship golf courses; mild winter climate and a variety of lodging, dining and live entertainment options, the Branson/Lakes Area offers a diverse vacation experience in January, February and March.

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau has organized the 11th annual Hot Winter Fun marketing cooperative to help visitors learn about activities available during the winter.

GOLF

Golfers can play 363 days a year in Branson and choose from among 10 championship courses. These courses offer both scenic and challenging design with sweeping mountain vistas and scenic hillside terrain. Some of the holes have actually been chiseled right out of the rocks. Pointe Royale Golf Resort and Thousand Hills Golf Resort are two of the courses open during Hot Winter Fun. Golf pros are standing by to offer private instructions during Hot Winter Fun.

FISHING

The winter months offer some of the best trout fishing of the year on Lake Taneycomo. Several area outfitters, marinas and fishing guides provide the supplies, equipment and know-how to make a wintertime fishing trip one to remember. Anglers can enjoy many peaceful 55-degree days of catfish, bass and crappie fishing on Table Rock Lake between January and March.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE & GEOCACHING

Outdoor adventurers can enjoy the GPS sport of geocaching in the Branson/Lakes Area. Log on to www.geocaching.com for the coordinates to dozens of cache locations in the area. In addition to all the terrain and wildlife you’ll see while geocaching, you can take advantage of more than 220-acres of Branson city parks, 2,000 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails and 3,000 miles of canoe/kayak accessible rivers, streams and creeks.

From November through March, bald eagles nest on the soaring bluffs overlooking Table Rock Lake. Turkey vultures, unique to the Table Rock Lake area, are often photographed by visitors as well.

Experience the best of Branson’s world-famous Ozarks hospitality during Hot Winter Fun in January, February and March. You can shop, enjoy a variety of dining options, tour a museum, play golf, reel in a record-sized trout on Lake Taneycomo, and choose from among more than 50 show times each week, all during Hot Winter Fun!

Visit one of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Centers located just off Highway 65 at the intersection of Highway 160 and at the intersection of Hwy. 65 and Highway 248 to pick up a free guide to all the exciting things going on in the Branson area during Hot Winter Fun.

Here are some of the special events and activities happening in the Branson/Lakes area during Hot Winter Fun:

Hot Winter Fun Museum Crawl – Win a vacation for four to Washington DC! Catch up on the history of the past or discover the hidden wonders of the present and register for a chance to win a 3-day, 2-night trip including airfare and lodging for a family of four. The winner will be drawn during BransonFest April 5-9, 2005 and need not be present to win. Going on now through March 31.

On Friday evenings in February, some museums will feature special surprises as guests visit the museums. Visitors can enjoy refreshments, special pricing and visit with special celebrity guests as they tour museums like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! or the American Presidential Museum.

Shopping Extravaganza – From the outlet malls to individual specialty stores, Branson is a perfect shopping destination, especially during this relaxed time of year. You can shop till you drop at places like Tanger Outlet Center. They’re open in January, February and March from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.

Golfing in Branson – Branson boasts 10 championship golf courses and 363 days a year in which to improve your game. You can play golf in Branson every day of the year except Christmas and New Year’s Day. Hot Winter Fun is a great time to get some one-on-one instruction from one of the area’s pros. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum – On Friday evenings in February guests can enjoy refreshments and visit with special celebrity guests as they tour the museum.

Tri-Lakes Community Theatre – What do Branson area residents do in their spare time? Some of them perform in the Tri-Lakes Community Theatre. Productions star both professional Branson music industry folks and traditional community theater enthusiasts alike.

Three plays are presented each year during January and February. This year, come see: “Big River,” Feb. 4th-6th; “Bus Stop,” Feb. 18th-20th and Feb. 25th-27th.

9th Annual Tri-Lakes Building & Home Show – Visit with area building and remodeling experts. Hosted by the Vacation Channel at Chateau on the Lake. Friday, February 11, 2 p.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday, February 12, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday, February 13, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Hot Winter Fun Big Show – See many of the entertainers of Hot Winter Fun on one stage, for one night only, on Monday, Feb. 14th at 7 p.m. at the Jim Stafford Theatre.

NAIA Hoops Fest 2005 – Don’t miss the excitement of the NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball Tournament, as College of the Ozarks and Branson welcome 32 teams from across the country, March 9th-15th, 2005. For details and ticket information, call (417) 334-6411.

IMAX Film Festival – Don’t miss the 12th Annual Film Festival in March and April. Complete dates and movies will be announced in early 2005.

Branson Business Expo – Sponsored by the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB. March 24th at Lodge of the Ozarks. Luncheon and keynote Speaker at 12 noon. Expo begins at 2 p.m. Special Business After Hours begins at 5:30 p.m.

BransonFest – Held April 5th - 9th at the Welk Resort Theatre, BransonFest has been named a “Top-100” event in North America for the second year in a row by the American Bus Association! Don’t miss the fun and excitement of Branson’s premiere festival for food, fun and entertainment.

One of the newest trends in travel is “edu-tainment”, a blend of educational and entertainment activities that appeal to curiosity-seekers of all ages. In Branson, you’ll find just the right mix of museums, attractions, historical sites, live shows, lake and outdoor recreation, golf, and shopping to satisfy your desire to be entertained and informed. Plus, you can even sign up to win a free trip for a family of four to Washington D.C., during Branson’s Hot Winter Fun Museum Crawl.

All you have to do to enter is visit any one of Branson’s participating area museums now through March 31. The trip includes airfare for four and three night’s accommodations in Washington D.C. All names will be entered into a random drawing held during BransonFest April 5-9, 2005. You don’t have to be present to win. The winner will be notified by phone.

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau has organized the 11th annual Hot Winter Fun marketing cooperative to help visitors learn about activities available during January, February and March.

The following is a list of area museums and attractions participating in the Hot Winter Fun Museum Crawl. Each paid admission qualifies you to sign up for the Washington D.C. trip give-away.

Veteran’s Memorial Museum – A powerful and emotional experience for everyone, Veteran’s Memorial Museum features 10 great halls that tell the stories of the great conflicts of the 20th century. The centerpiece is the world’s largest war memorial bronze sculpture with 50 life-sized soldiers storming a beach. Don’t miss this powerful experience during your visit.

American Presidential Museum – Explore the history of our nation’s leaders. Several displays recently returned from Democracy Plaza in New York City during NBC’s election coverage, and were featured on the Today Show in the two weeks prior to the 2004 election. Democracy Plaza was on display from Oct. 20 – Nov. 5th, 2004. See a replica of Air Force One under President Richard Nixon, the Oval office and an infamous Florida voting booth from 2000. The museum opens in late January.

Ralph Foster Museum – Fondly called “The Smithsonian of the Ozarks” by Ozark residents, the Ralph Foster Museum is located on the campus of College of the Ozarks. Visit all three floors to fully discover the history and culture of the Ozarks. The museum features the original truck used by the Beverly Hillbillies during their popular 1960s television show.

Kewpie dolls designed by Rose O’Neill (a native of the Ozarks), a restored one-room schoolhouse, and the Discovery Room, a special room for children are highlights of the museum. The museum opens in late January.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum – Explore the unique and unusual! Do you know why The Ripley’s building looks the way it does? Most people think California has had the worst earthquake in history, when actually Missouri holds the record. In 1812 an earthquake measuring more than 8.0 on the Richter scale occurred at New Madrid, Missouri. This earthquake made the Mississippi River run backwards for three days. Stop by and see why Ripley’s is “The Most Photographed Building In Branson”!

Stone Hill Winery – During the free tours, you can get an entertaining look at the history of wine making and the sherry-making process. Watch as cream sherry is produced. Experience yesteryear’s winemaking heritage at Missouri’s #1 winery.

IMAX – Explore the history of the Ozarks with a movie! Exclusively at the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex visitors can take a powerful journey through the rich history and heritage of the region with the giant-screen IMAX adventure, “Legacy and Legend”. Experience life through the eyes of the McFarlain family in this beautifully told story.

Branson’s grandest lake attraction, the 700-seat Showboat Branson Belle, celebrates its 10th anniversary with a new show Showstoppers! featuring the most memorable musical performances in entertainment history. A new stage and lights have been added to showcase the show, a new comedy act joins the cast for noon cruises, and nationally acclaimed comedian Todd Oliver introduces a new talking dog “Elvis” to his cast of colorful canines.

Showstoppers!, which debuts March 12, presents a talented cast of singers and dancers, with award-winning musical hits from Broadway to the big screen, from the “Lion King” to “Old Time Rock ‘N’ Roll.” The cast performs the top show-stopping hits of all time on the new stage with moving screens, projections and special effects. All Showstoppers! shows present the Showboat Branson Belle Quartet and emcee, and an adagio dance team presenting a unique blend of acrobatics and dance, all accompanied by a live band.

Featured comedian and ventriloquist Todd Oliver, named Branson’s best variety act three years in a row, presents Elvis, the talking basset hound, who “ain’t nothing’ but a hound dog who talks,” Oliver says. Elvis joins Oliver’s famous talking dog Irving, who has been showcased with Oliver on national television shows and specials including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Irving’s pal Lucy, the first female talking dog.

Also new on noon and Sunday cruises is comedic magician Chris Linn, who blends off-beat visual magical effects with comedy and audience participation to create a unique and hilarious performance. Linn has performed in a dozen countries around the world and on numerous television shows and specials.

Popular with groups or for special occasions, the Showboat Branson Belle presents a premium dining experience in the Paddle Wheel Club Room, where guests who select this option dine in secluded elegance with spectacular views of the lake and shoreline above the gently turning paddle wheels. Paddle Wheel guests may select from an array of entrées including a Captain’s special-cut rib-eye steak, pan-seared salmon, Chicken Wellington with a mushroom duxelle sauce, and a choice of desserts. After the meal, diners are escorted to viewing boxes in the main theater area for the show.

Each cruise on scenic Table Rock Lake features outstanding views from the decks, a three-course gourmet meal prepared onboard in the Showboat’s galley, and a spectacular show in the dining theater. The noon menu features a full-course meal with beef with espagnole sauce and grilled chicken, and the dinner menu features beef medallions and Chicken Wellington. Both menus feature a grand finale of Flaming Peach Melba Baked Alaska.

The cruises include time for guests to tour the Showboat’s four decks as it cruises scenic Table Rock Lake, noted for its 800 miles of pristine shoreline surrounded by wooded hills.

The Showboat Branson Belle, Silver Dollar City and White Water, all Authentic Silver Dollar City Attractions, were the first properties in Missouri to achieve the prestigious honor of being designated as Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries by Audubon International, for preserving wildlife habitats and conserving natural resources.