There’s fun for the whole family this summer at Table Rock Lake in Missouri. So grab your kids and head out to the Midwest, where you won’t need a passport.
“High gas prices just ruined my Disney World plans.” Well, fret not! There’s plenty for the whole family to do in Table Rock Lake, Missouri—from fishing, camping, swimming, and boating to shopping and even visiting theme parks. Eat your heart out, Disney!
Fishing
Lake water levels are stable and the waters are warm. Pete says you can catch 20–35 bass in a half day. Fishing has never been better at Table Rock Lake. So call Pete at Pete’s Professional Guide Service at 1-888-214-1767 for the inside info.
Camping
There are 19 recreation areas run by the Army Corps of Engineers. Check out their Web site to find the one most suited to your needs (and forget about those teen camping movies you saw as a child)
Silver Dollar City
You were promised a theme park, and here it is! The Silver Dollar City theme park features more than 30 rides and attractions, including roller coasters. That should be enough to keep the kids busy until they collapse in their beds. Visit the Web site at http://www.bransonsilverdollarcity.com/.
The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead
“I want to see what it was like back in the old days.” Well, look no further. The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead features a dramatic play based on a true story of the Ozarks, as well as horseback riding and shopping (http://www.oldmatt.com/flash/).
Talking Rocks Cavern
What vacation would be complete without a look-see at crystal cave formations? Put on your miner’s hat and check out the natural history of the Ozark Mountains (http://www.talkingrockscavern.com/).
The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure
Want to cram some education into your kids even during vacation? Try the Butterfly Palace! They feature a live butterfly exhibit where you can walk among 1,000 live tropical butterflies, two 3-D theatres, the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze, and an Incredible Insect Zoo (http://www.thebutterflypalace.com/).
Dickerson Park Zoo
Another educational opportunity for the kids. Come see the tamarin and maned wolf from South America, the kangaroo from Australia, the cheetah and giraffe from Africa, and more! And no, your in-laws aren’t the featured attraction (http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/).
Showboat Branson Belle
Cruise on an authentic 1880s-style paddle-wheeler. The Branson Belle experience includes dining, a show, and shopping at the White River Landing. Featured shows include comedian and ventriloquist Todd Oliver and his talking dogs (no, not your boss) (http://www.showboatbransonbelle.com/)
Branson Scenic Railway
Tired from all the fishing, swimming, and hiking? Take a rest on a 40-mile trip through the Ozark foothills and tunnels on a train. Roundtrip, of course! You’ll also learn the history of the area. Hey, more education for the kids! (http://www.bransontrain.com/).
Whatever your hobbies or interests, there’s something fun to do at Table Lake Rock.
