So you're in the Midwest saying, "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-from fishing, camping, swimming, and boating to shopping and even visiting theme parks. Eat your heart out, Disney!
"All right," you say (being from Missouri). "Show me the goods." Right this way:
Fishing: Because of the increased rains, the water level in Table Rock Lake has risen to new heights, creating new feeding and spawning grounds (hubba hubba). Fishing has never been better at Table Rock Lake.
Silver Dollar City: See? I promised you a theme park, and here it is. The 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.
The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead: You say, "I want to see what it was like back in the old days." Well, look no further. The Homestead features a dramatic play based on a true story of the Ozarks, as well as horseback riding and shopping.
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.
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.
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.
Showboat Branson Belle: Cruise on an authentic 1880s-style paddle-wheeler, just like in the Kenny Rogers video. The Branson Belle experience features dining, a show, and shopping at the White River Landing. Tell Kenny I said hey!
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!
Grand Country Waterpark Resort: Fun for the whole family! Eureka Mine and the Froggie Bog for the kids, and the Lazy River and Melting Pot Spa for the adults. Everyone's happy!
Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum: Full of freaks and oddities! You know you LOVE freaks and oddities! Still more education for the kids!
So there you have it. Ten fun things to do at Table Rock Lake-and there's plenty more. But I'll let you discover those on your own. Happy Trails!
This guide to the activities of Table Rock Lake was brought to you by K. Ceres Wright