2023 Missouri Group Tour Guide

M I S S O UTourRGuideI 2023

Group Tour Guide

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Missouri National Parks That are Itinerary Ready

Groups can experience history and natural beauty at these attractions

New Holocaust Museum to Open in St. Louis The 36,000-square-foot facility will be four times the size of the previous museum

Branson’s Shopping Options are Endless Big-name stores, outlet malls and charming boutiques await you

Stephen Foutes Director, Missouri Division of Tourism

Whether repeat guests or first-time visitors, your group will be amazed by the variety of the Missouri travel experience.

Within an hour’s drive, you can go from the urban excitement of downtown St. Louis, home of the Gateway Arch, to the quiet streets of Ste. Genevieve, where Missouri’s oldest settlement features the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park and homes dating to the late 1700s. Both destinations are located along the banks of the Mississippi River in eastern Missouri.

On the western side of the state, Kansas City is a museum-goer’s paradise, thanks to attractions like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National World War I Museum and Memorial and American Jazz Museum. Within a half-hour of those experiences, small Missouri River towns like Parkville and Weston offer a relaxed atmosphere, along with ample shops, restaurants and wineries.

Missouri gives you plenty of outdoor fun, too. Whether you’re exploring one of the state’s show caves, kayaking on a crystal-clear stream, boating on our expansive lakes, or hiking and biking along treelined trails, you’re sure to find adventure in the Show-Me State.

There’s clearly a lot to do in Missouri. You won’t want to miss Branson, known for its live entertainment and beautiful outdoor attractions, or Springfield, Missouri’s third-largest city and home to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium.

And don’t forget our connections to Mark Twain, Walt Disney, George Washington Carver and Laura Ingalls Wilder. Oh, we could tell you some stories … but we’d rather show you.

Welcome to Missouri. Thanks for coming, and travel safely.

Stephen Foutes Director www.VisitMO.com

Learn more about Missouri group travel opportunities!

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Group Tour Guide

FEATURES

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New Holocaust Museum Set to Open in St. Louis New 36,000-square-foot facility will be four times the size of previous museum • By Randy Mink

6 6 National Parks That are Itinerary Ready Groups can experience history and natural beauty at these attractions • By Isabella Wilkes

10 9 Small Towns Embodying Steamboat and Pioneering History Thriving downtowns with a storied past • By Heather Dale

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The Show-Me State is Filled with Historic Theaters These four vintage venues are excellent spots for theater-lovers to visit • By Quinn Valdivia

16 4 Spots to Shop You’ll Only Find in Branson Find all you need at these wonderfully unique novelty stores • By Heather Dale ON THE COVER: Museum at the Gateway Arch Manifest Destiny Gallery Photo courtesy of Gateway Arch

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NEW HOLOCAUST MUSEUM SET TO OPEN IN

ST. LOUIS

New 36,000-square-foot facility will be four times the size of previous museum

By Randy Mink

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he St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum will reopen to the public on November 2, 2022, after closing for renovation and expansion in early 2020.

Equipped with the latest technology, the new 36,000-squarefoot facility will be four times the size of the previous museum, which served the community for over 25 years.

Located in Creve Coeur on the Millstone Campus of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, the expanded museum will include an all-new permanent Holocaust exhibition that chronicles the systematic, state-sponsored murder of six million Jews and the persecution of millions more by the Nazi regime and its collaborators from 1933-1945. Exhibits will focus on Jewish life in Europe before the Holocaust, the rise of

The Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum in St. Louis

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Nazism in Germany, the establishment of Jewish ghettos at the beginning of the Holocaust and atrocities perpetrated at the notorious death camps that served as Adolf Hitler’s “Final Solution.” Visitors will also learn about the liberation of prisoners from the camps, the Nuremberg Trials and Jewish life after World War II. Many Jews emigrated to the United States and Israel to rebuild their lives; some 300 Holocaust survivors made the St. Louis area their home.

Gallery-goers will see artifacts from Holocaust victims and videos will provide accounts from survivors, liberators, witnesses and others. The survivor interviews are all from individuals from St. Louis. Items on display will include a child’s shoe from a concentration camp, a

A St. Louis Jewel Shines with New Luster

L The Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is filled with informative exhibits.

All photos courtesy of the Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum

bracelet created in Buchenwald by a survivor and suitcases that survivors used to come to the United States.

The Impact Lab, a highly interactive space, will challenge visitors to reject hatred, promote understanding and inspire change, focusing on contemporary issues of injustice, bigotry and genocide through the lens of the Holocaust.

The museum is named for the family of local Holocaust survivor Gloria Kaplan Feldman. It is one of 22 Holocaust museums in the United States.

Guided tours will be available. The museum also will offer public programs and film screenings, a space for special exhibits and an educational curriculum for student groups. For details, visit www.stlholocaustmuseum.org.•

The Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum has both indoor and outdoor exhibits.

ong known as one of St. Louis’ great treasures, the Missouri Botanical Garden has just unveiled a sparkling new visitor center that serves as a bold entryway to the horticultural wonderland.

The transformational Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center, the biggest project in the garden’s history, is the centerpiece of the $100 million Gateway to the Garden campaign. Multi-tiered entry gardens lead to a soaring lobby filled with dappled natural light – a welcoming portal that offers views of gardens and conservatories beyond. The south side is composed entirely of glass. Other design elements include zinc wall panels and terrazzo floors with inlaid brass leaves. An immersive video wall showcases Missouri Botanical Garden’s conservation work in the St. Louis community and around the globe.

The newly expanded Garden Gate Shop, more than double the size of the previous gift shop, houses souvenirs, designs from local artists, books on gardening and a vast patio with outdoor, seasonal plants.

The addition of 46,000 plants to the entry landscape emphasizes areas of the world where the Missouri Botanical Garden maintains an active research presence. The new plants feature species of conservation concern, including some that are rare and endangered. Steps away from the lobby is the new Emerson Conservatory, the first dedicated floral conservatory constructed on the grounds since 1915. It displays Mediterranean plants and will host the annual Orchid Show and Gardenland Express Holiday Flower and Train Show.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is the country’s oldest botanical garden in continuous operation and attracts more than one million visitors annually. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org•

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6 NATIONAL PARKS THAT ARE ITINERARY READY Groups can experience history and natural beauty at these attractions

By Isabella Wilkes

Gateway Arch National Park Photo courtesy of McElroy Commercial Photography

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he heartland of America holds an abundance of history, carefully preserved throughout time by our nation’s National Park Service. For your next group trip in Missouri, these six national parks offer fully immersive experiences into the rich history of our nation, from the wellloved tales to the lives of unsung heroes.

Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis)

One of the most memorable landmarks in the Midwest, the Gateway Arch reflects St. Louis’ role in Westward Expansion during the 19th century. The experience includes an immersive museum and documentary on the construction of the Arch. For a view stretching far and wide, take a tram to the top of the tallest monument in America. You’ll be transported 630 feet for a bird’s-eye view overlooking downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

There is plenty to do on the grounds of the park, with over five miles of paved trails to explore. Follow the trails on your own with the help of markers, or schedule a park ranger-led tour. To the north and south of the Arch are serene reflection ponds surrounded by beautiful native plants. You can also visit Explorers’ Garden – a tribute to Lewis and Clark. (nps. gov/jeff/index.htm)

Harry S Truman National Historic Site Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

Harry S Truman National Historic Site (Independence)

The Harry S Truman National Historic Site seeks to preserve and commemorate the impact the 33rd president of the United States had on the city of Independence, Missouri, and the entire country.

In Independence, you can visit the family home that Truman and his wife Bess lived in before and after his two-term presidency. Take a 30-minute guided tour of the Truman family home, dubbed the “Summer White House.” The house is frozen in time, from the electricity powering the lighting to the historically accurate table settings.

For insight into Truman’s young adulthood, make your way to the Truman Farm Home in Grandview, Missouri, where he lived with his grandmother – working the family farm – from age 22 until he was 33. (nps.gov/hstr/index.htm)

Ozark National Scenic Riverways Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

George Washington Carver National Monument (Diamond)

George Washington Carver was an African American agricultural scientist and inventor whose name is synonymous with a food he actually didn’t create: peanut butter.

However, he still dons the nickname “The Plant Doctor” due to his discovery of more than 100 commercial uses of the peanut plant. Carver’s journey from an orphaned child born into slavery to one of the most prolific scientists of all time makes him a source of inspiration to all.

At George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, Missouri, you can learn more about Carver’s life and accomplishments at the park’s museum, which

Ozark National Scenic Riverways’ Round Spring Cave Photo courtesy of the National Park Service

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includes a film screening and an abundance of interactive exhibits perfect for kids.

The national park preserves Carver’s childhood home, surrounded by miles of walking trails and beautiful prairie landscape. Along these trails, you can view the George Washington Carver bust, a marker of his birthplace site and a statue depicting Carver in his boyhood. Guided tours take place daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and are designed to interpret his childhood and adult life. (nps.gov/gwca/index.htm)

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect a river system. These calm, meandering rivers and the gorgeous landscape surrounding them are a delight to visit during spring through fall.

Groups who enjoy outdoor exploration will find no shortage of activities in this area. With multiple outfitters nearby to help you prepare for any excursion, your group can easily plan an outing for canoeing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and more. The kids in your group can participate in the Junior Ranger Program, a selection of self-paced activities within the park, and earn an Official Junior Ranger Badge.

There are a multitude of historic buildings located throughout the park. Many of these structures – including Alley Mill, one of the most photographed sites in Missouri – played an integral role in early settlers’ lives. You can learn more about the history of the region and the importance of these buildings through interpretive signs located within the park. (nps.gov/ozar/index.htm)

Alley Spring & Mill Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (St. Louis)

If your group finds itself near Grantwood Village, a mustsee historic site is the residence of the 18th president of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. It consists of five buildings open to the public: the White Haven home, horse stable, ice house, chicken house and summer kitchen.

The property also has an assortment of trees that are thought to be more than 200 years old, including the near-extinct Dawn Redwood tree and one of the oldest known tree species in the world, the Gingko tree. The national park offers a self-guided tree tour to see every genus of tree located on the grounds.

The old horse stable, designed by Ulysses S. Grant, is now a museum dedicated to the life and accomplishments of the past president. To take a look inside White Haven, groups must book a free, guided tour. (nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm)

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield (Republic)

Wilson’s Creek was the second major battle of the Civil War, taking place near modern-day Republic, Missouri.

Through the park’s living history program, which takes place throughout the spring and fall, period interpreters transport you back to the 19th century.

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Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

These volunteers demonstrate the lives of Civil War soldiers, perform musket and artillery firing demonstrations, discuss Civil War medicine and more.

Nearly five miles of paved road around the battlefield can be explored with an audio tour including eight interpretative stops at significant locations.

Visit the Ray House, which is a preserved field hospital originally used by Southern soldiers following the battle, or the Civil War Research Library that catalogs the history of the war. (nps.gov/wicr/index.htm) •

Photo courtesy of Collin Elliott Photo courtesy of Touhey Photography

ITINERARY

St. Louis, MO

Enjoy 36 Hours in Stunning St. Louis SCAN FOR INFO

Take your group to some of the most iconic places in St. Louis, from checking the Gateway Arch off of the bucket list to visiting Ballpark Village and the World Chess Hall of Fame

EXPLORE ST.LOUIS

Renee Eichelberger, CTP, CTIS, CSTP Director of Leisure Travel Sales 314-992-0643 reichelberger@explorestlouis.com explorestlouis.com/groups-reunions

Day 1:

Day 2:

Standing 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch, our nation’s tallest man-made monument, anchors Gateway Arch National Park and stands as the iconic monument symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States. The arch experience includes the tram ride to the top of the arch, the Museum at the Gateway Arch, Monument to the Dream documentary movie, shopping at The Arch Store and cruises aboard the Gateway Arch Riverboats.

The Old Cathedral is one of the most historic buildings in St. Louis with roots dating back to 1764 when St. Louis was founded. The present building is the fourth church to be erected on the site.

Lunch: Ballpark Village is the premiere dining and entertainment district downtown. Located in the heart of St. Louis’ central business district adjacent to Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village is the first sports-anchored, multi-phased/mixeduse development.

First stop this afternoon is the City Museum, an eclectic mixture of children’s playground, fun house, surrealistic pavilion and architectural marvel made out of unique, found objects.

Explore and early dinner: The Hill is famous for its Italian markets and restaurants. Visitors and locals flock to this historic part of the city to explore the family-friendly, tight-knit neighborhood and feast on the flavors of Italy right here at home.

Citygarden is a great stop after dinner. It features a vibrant and serene blending of lush plantings and internationally renowned sculptures with delights of water, stone, architecture and design.

Arrive at Forest Park, one of the most beautiful urban parks in the world and its amazing institutions.

Opening at 9 a.m., it’s the perfect time to visit the Saint Louis Zoo and its 14,000 animals. It’s one of the few free world-class zoos. The St. Louis Art Museum collection includes more than 34,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history and culture. Self-guided or docent-led tours are available. The Missouri History Museum offers both amazing long-term continuing and short-term special exhibits.

The St. Louis Science Center encourages you to connect through curiosity. Sixteen exhibits and attractions are the perfect compliments to OMNIMAX® Theater and McDonnell Planetarium.

Lunch: Each Forest Park Attraction offers a lunch menu, or enjoy scenic waterway dining at Boathouse at Forest Park. One of the must-see stops in St. Louis, The Cathedral is one of the largest mosaic collections in the Western hemisphere.

The World Chess Hall of Fame celebrates one of the world’s oldest and best-loved games through vibrant, engaging exhibitions and creative programming. Tonight, Grand Center Arts District invites you to immerse yourself in St. Louis’ epicenter for the arts. Here, world-class talent performs, and aspiring artists hone their craft.

Eclectic venues line the streets offering everything from Broadway to Black Box Theater, Bebop to Beethoven, street art to galleries and pub-fare to fine dining. Plan an evening to remember at The Fabulous Fox Theater, Jazz St. Louis, Kranzberg Arts Foundation – Grandel, Circus Flora or the St. Louis Symphony.

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9 SMALL TOWNS EMBODYING STEAMBOAT AND PIONEERING HISTORY Thriving downtowns with a storied past

By Heather Dale Hannibal Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

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aking nothing away from Kansas City and St. Louis with their spectacular downtowns, there’s nothing like a small town. With their local flair, these nine are always in the conversation.

Think 18th-century simplicity with narrow streets, French Colonial architecture and picket fence-lined yards. These attributes, along with its deeply rooted history, create the quaint downtown of Ste. Geneviève. Boasting prominent French influence – evident in the Louis Bolduc House and the Beauvais-Amoureux House – uniquely mixed with 19th-century evolution and pastoral charm, this town is a perfect group destination. A charming steepled church and brick and stone buildings flanking the streets are ripe for exploring.

In St. Charles, brick-paved roads and sidewalks allow visitors to explore the same paths pioneers took in the early days when this 200-year-old town was the state’s first capitol. The Missouri River twinkles in the moonlight as Main Street slips back in time under the glow of gas lamps. The appeal of St. Charles’ downtown is the walkability to pleasant accommodations decorated with old-world signage, more than 25 eateries and 125 eclectic shops to discover with your group.

Brick sidewalks, tree-lined walkways, charming boutique shops, local restaurants and riverfront history abound in historic downtown Parkville, situated near the Missouri River. A vibrant Main Street welcomes groups to explore the area where English settlers traded among Native Americans, farmers and trappers.

Today, peruse one-of-a-kind antique shops and specialty stores – some of which are housed in historic structures from the 1800s.

Boonville was first home to Native Americans who prospered on the banks of the Missouri River. During the Civil War, it was highly sought after by both the Confederate and Union armies due to its vital riverfront location. It’s also rich with railroad history and Lewis and Clark adventure lore. Absorb the region’s heritage in the welcoming downtown. Explore wonderful antique and furniture stores, quilt shops, local eateries, and art galleries.

Exploring Independence on an old-fashioned wagon ride.

Photo courtesy of City of Independence

ASL Pewter in Ste. Genevieve features the finest pewterware created with the tools of a bygone era.

Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

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Or catch a live performance at the historic Thespian Hall located right in the downtown area.

Colloquially known as the Brick District, downtown Fulton boasts locally owned shops and restaurants brimming with history. Discover the creative atmosphere along vintage cobblestone roads laid in 1910 decorated with artsy displays, American flags and friendly locals. Named for the legendary steamboat inventor Robert Fulton, this small town’s historic downtown is filled with almost 70 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

Head back to pre-Civil War times in Weston, affectionately known as the “Town that Time Forgot.” Downtown Weston greets visitors with colorful Federal brick architecture adorned with storefront awnings and long, stately windows. Welcoming banners and unique novelties displayed by open front doors beckon folks inside where the history is palpable.

Calling all bibliophiles and literature lovers! Immerse yourself in the Mississippi River town where Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, was raised. Travelers from across the globe journey to historic downtown Hannibal to catch a glimpse of a simpler time where a young, adventurous author drew inspiration from his surroundings along the Mighty Mississippi and the town’s residents. A vibrant downtown is replete with striped awnings and colorful buildings decorated with ornate

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO CONNECT VIA EMAIL FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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moldings. Edifices are painted with whimsical designs that give this downtown a playful ambiance along with creative literary vibes fitting for a famous author’s hometown.

Visit a frontier town once bustling with fur traders, merchants, steamboats carrying goods and sojourners traveling west.

Historic Independence Square is the lively downtown of Independence, Missouri. It’s the hometown of President Harry S Truman, an important area to the Mormon culture and the head of the Oregon Trail. Take a mule-drawn wagon ride on a pioneer tour, or taste the local cuisine at numerous eateries.

A small town nestled between Lake of the Ozarks and Truman Lake, Warsaw delivers a spectacular downtown with plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining. Stroll along the waterfront at Drake Harbor, journey across the Joe Dice Swinging Bridge and set out on countless trails. The Truman Dam and Visitor Center offers captivating views overlooking Truman Lake and the nearby Kaysinger Bluff Pioneer Village and General Store transports you into Benton County’s pioneer past.

These nine small-town downtowns invite groups to travel back to a time of honest-to-goodness values and the true American way. The bygone days of our ancestors are preserved through architecture, traditions and local culture. Get into the pioneer spirit and start planning your group visit today.•

Come meet us in

Springfield

It’s just a short drive away.

Whether you fly in through our beautiful airport, or drive in on historic Route 66, Springfield is at the center of it all. With great places to eat, play and stay, it’ll make your next trip a memorable one!

Point your smartphone camera at this QR code to find out more about planning group events in Springfield.

Missouri Theatre in Columbia Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

THE SHOW-ME STATE IS FILLED WITH

HISTORIC THEATERS

These four vintage venues are excellent spots for theater-lovers to visit

By Quinn Valdivia

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issouri is renowned for the number of historic theaters that dot its landscape. From intimate performances in small towns to award-winning productions in big cities, Missouri’s performance venues are a theater-seeker’s delight.

Chapelle. Though the theatre is relatively narrow, it does seat more than 1,000 guests. When there aren’t concerts being hosted, the theatre shows an array of movies. The Gillioz Theatre is a never-ending source of entertainment for all ages. (gillioztheatre.com)

Lyceum Theatre

Missouri Theatre (Columbia)

Arrow Rock, Missouri, is home to less than 50 people, yet it houses a beautiful historic landmark. The Lyceum Theatre was founded in 1960 when the town came up with the idea to repurpose an old Baptist church scheduled to be demolished.

The theatre began entertaining guests in 1961 and now hosts tens of thousands of guests per year. With the success of the Lyceum over the years, the town of Arrow Rock itself has risen to glory. Buildings have been restored and guests can enjoy luxuries, like air conditioning, that weren’t accessible when the theatre was founded. The intimate 416-seat auditorium makes for a unique experience where no audience member is left out of the full production experience. The theatre puts on around eight shows per year in various genres, so there are shows for all kinds of viewers. High-caliber productions like “Into the Woods,” “My Fair Lady,” and “The 39 Steps” are only a few of the shows featured at this amazing venue. (lyceumtheatre.org)

Opened in 1928, this theatre is central Missouri’s only remaining vaudeville stage. The venue is immersed in opulence, with interior design styles inspired by the Baroque and Rococo periods of art and architecture. Designed with the Paris Opera House in mind, guests are surrounded by splendor as they enjoy the show. The shining star may just be the 1,800-pound chandelier in the center of the ceiling. Despite the extravagant environment, the theatre hopes to promote accessibility to the general public by making shows as affordable as possible. This is another quaint venue, seating 1,200 guests for various types of events. From orchestral performances to film festivals, this theatre does it all. (https://concertseries.missouri.edu/)

Missouri Theater (St. Joseph)

Located in Springfield, Missouri, this historic theatre is both unique and beautiful. M. E. Gillioz opened the theatre in October of 1926, securing a 100-year lease on a building that was 16 feet wide. The goal was to garner patrons that were travelling along Route 66. The theatre featured many types of shows and acts up until its final show, an opera, in 1980.

Currently, it acts as a concert venue, hosting musicians and stand-up comedians among other performers. Past performers have included Kacey Musgraves, Billy Ray Cyrus and Dave

The Missouri Theater in St. Joseph is home to many creative groups that are passionate about sharing their art with the world. It was designed with dynamic performances in mind, featuring an orchestra pit, fly loft and even a Wurlitzer theater organ. Musicians, performers and events have been hosted at this St. Joseph landmark. Some of these groups include a theatre troupe and the American Girl Doll Club. This beautiful theater was designed to be intricate and enchanting with its lush decorative elements. The exterior of the building itself is enticing, with its art deco details. It opened in June of 1927 as a picture house, charging 25 cents for admission. Recent renovations have restored its glory. (stjosephmo.gov/247/ Missouri-Theater) •

The historic Gillioz Theatre in Springfield opened in 1926.

Photo courtesy of Springfield Missouri Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Missouri Theater in St. Joseph was designed for dynamic shows.

Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau

Gillioz Theatre

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Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

Kringles Christmas Shop in Branson is a beloved destination.

Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism

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4 SPOTS TO SHOP YOU’LL ONLY FIND IN BRANSON Find all you need at these wonderfully unique novelty stores

By Heather Dale

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estled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains lies the charming town of Branson, Missouri, where unspoiled nature and idyllic scenery surround four one-of-a-kind shops you’ll only find here.

An Extraordinary Emporium

In 1961, Dick and June Hartley’s dream of owning and operating a five-and-dime shop became a reality when they opened their doors in Branson, Missouri. Dick’s 5 & 10 holds onto the nostalgia of yesteryear, offering a cornucopia of new and old sights, sounds, souvenirs and collections. Vintage trains chug overhead as the expansive inventory becomes fully apparent when you walk through the doors.

The charm of five-and-dime stores helped them grow in popularity in the mid-20th century mainly due to their low prices and vast varieties of household merchandise and fun gifts. This Branson emporium is chock full of toys, games, collectibles, household goods, home décor, quirky souvenirs, candy, soda and so much more.

Spruce up the man cave with sports memorabilia or hunting and fishing gear and peruse the country corner for rustic signage and farmhouse fashions. Calling all chefs!

June’s Kitchen has an array of items for everyday cooking like unique cookie cutters, aprons, baking and glassware, recipe cards and more. Wander down the Nostalgia Aisle loaded with memory-jogging games, antique Raggedy Ann dolls, Matchbox cars, the always popular View-Master and many other modern toys and vintage playthings. Inspire the little ones in your group and browse Melissa’s Book Nook for classic book collections, including The Jungle Book, The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew.

Donna Knulty, a dedicated employee, reminds folks that “we are one of the last 5 and 10’s in America. No trip to Branson is complete without the Dick’s 5 & 10 experience.”

Curiosities, Cuisine and Artisanal Crafts All Under One Roof

Spend an entire day at The Branson Craft Mall, a 16,000-square-foot wonderland featuring more than 200 vendor booths, delicious cuisine and live music. Discover thousands of items both handcrafted locally and sourced from all across America. One-of-a-kind apparel and jewelry, homemade jams, jellies, and organic honey, along with Ozark Mountain treasures and souvenirs from all over, fill the shelves and racks. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Branson Fudge Company’s creamy chocolates filled with pecans and walnuts. Stock up on trail mix and dried fruits at Hillbilly Nut & Fruit with an array of distinct sweet and salty flavor combinations. Grab a bite at Pickin Porch Grill, located inside the craft mall, serving fan favorites with a flair. Sink your teeth into a Bluegrass Burger with their signature BBQ sauce or a fried green tomato BLT. Taste the local fare with fresh catfish tacos or a popular Po’ Boy. Don’t be surprised if a jam session is in progress on the Porch with fiddle bows flying.

Gifts of Distinction More than 200 vendor booths can be found at the Branson Craft Mall.

Photo courtesy of the Branson Craft Mall

For 36 years, The Crystal Fish gift shop has been featuring unique artisanal merchandise from local crafters and world markets to offer one-of-a-kind items. With top brands like 2023 MI S S OURI G ROUP TOUR G UIDE

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Pandora, Swarovski, and Spartina 449, jewelry-lovers are sure to find an item for their collection.

According to owner Tim Cherry, “Most goodies are likely designed and made by local talents; you’ll find pottery, blown glass, casual apparel, vintage lake vibe decor, a little bit of bling and more.”

Shop freshly-scented goat milk soaps from Winwood Farm. View the handmade pottery collection made by Angel Brame and impressive blown glass art and glass oil lamps from Wren Helwig. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive lake map collection and lake house signage, beautiful bird feeders and melodious wind chimes. Steps from where Roark Creek converges with Lake Taneycomo, enjoy the serene location and visit with the local ducks after shopping for charms and trinkets. Linda Cherry, owner and operator adds, “What matters most is the time spent with our patrons, quality products they can count on [and] great gifts that are unique and fresh.”

Christmastime All the Time!

Most quaint American towns have a year-round Christmas shop and Branson is no exception. Kringles Christmas Store and Village Treasures was repurchased in 2005 by Mel Bilbo

and has become a beloved stop in Branson for everything Christmas. The white, red and green building is decorated with festive bows, wreaths and giant candy canes, inviting visitors into a magical Christmas universe.

Mel emphasizes, “I often tell folks if they have a Scrooge in the family, just walk them through the double doors entrance of Kringles Christmas Shop, room one, and watch the ice [melt] from their heart as they gaze or gawk from left to right from floor to ceiling. From the near life-sized nativity to dozens more in manageable sizes, to the huge assortment of angels and birds and red balls and glass, acrylic, and cloisonne Christmas THINGS, there is something to make almost anyone laugh or cry or smile about the new and old Christmas memories.”

As joyful melodies play, shop well-known and beloved Christmas collections from favorites like Snowbabies and Department 56 Villages. Reminisce over blown glass ornaments from Christopher Radko that are sure to generate sentimental emotions. Personalize ornaments for a special gift, browse beautiful Fontanini nativity scenes or relax by the crackling fire and admire the warm glowing décor as holiday classics permeate the room. Don’t forget to glimpse the many unique artisanal crafts for sale from talented locals, which make a wonderful Branson-made souvenir or gift. •

“Your group looks good with me in the background.”

- Vacation From family reunions to group trips, any outing is better with a dash of a Branson vacation. Plan your next group trip at ExploreBranson.com.

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JUST AROUND THE CORNER Located at the crossroads of Interstate 29 and MO Highway 36, and only 30 minutes from North Kansas City puts St. Joseph within easy driving distance of over 17 metropolitan areas.

Missouri Theater

Located on the scenic river bluffs of the vast “Mighty MO”, St. Joseph, Missouri is a notable American city with a fascinating heritage, born of the fur trade, nurtured by the “Westward Expansion”, and brimming with a spirit of adventure as the starting place of the Pony Express.

St. Jo is a city you and your group will never forget. St. Joseph is home to 13 distinctive museums, 12 annual festivals, amazing architecture listed on the National Register of Historic Places and personalized itineraries custom made with hometown hospitality. Also enjoy goodie bags for groups and a personal welcome from a St. Joseph representative.

Find your Mo’Jo at stjomo.com/grouptour. | Gracia Pinzino • gpinzino@stjomo.com • 800-785-0360