Family-Friendly Resort Near Branson's Famed Theater District

In 1907, Harold Bell Wright put Branson, Missouri, on the map with his novel, The Shepherd of The Hills, which depicted a family's rustic homestead life in the Ozark Mountains. More than a century later, the show-business mecca of Branson still honors its small-town roots with elaborate outdoor performances of Wright's story, complete with herds of horses and sheep. Less than a five-minute drive from the site of this annual tradition, French Quarter Resort occupies a piece of prime real estate within walking distance of the Branson theater district's bustling Highway 76 strip.

Each of the one-bedroom deluxe suites is set up to make you feel at home: there's a washer and dryer, kitchenette, and portrait of your great aunt above the mantle. Wrought-iron furnishings and framed floral prints add a romantic touch, and the private balcony overlooks the resort's manicured grounds.

Outside, kids can zoom down slides at the playground or splash in a fountain near the seasonal outdoor pool. The resort puts on all sorts of family-friendly activities, such as T-shirt tie-dyeing, pancake Bingo, and barbecue on the pavilion. Before checking out Branson's live music shows, visit French Quarter Resort's ticket desk for insider tips on the best revues and restaurants.

Branson, Missouri: Nonstop Entertainment in the Ozark Mountains

Considering its pastoral Ozarks setting, Branson seems an unlikely entertainment capital. But on any given day in the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World,” you can catch performances by comedians, country-music legends, and renowned acrobats. If you're traveling with kids, Silver Dollar City is a safe bet. The popular theme park is modeled after a historical mining town: mining cars rattle through dark tunnels; lantern tours explore Marvel Cave; and blacksmiths hand-forge metal.

Beyond the strip's glittering lights, Branson offers an abundance of outdoor activities. Within about 20 miles of the resort, there are three large lakes—Table Rock, Taneycomo, and Bull Shoals—which are stocked with trout and dotted with rental boats. Just a few miles west of French Quarter Resort, at Henning Conservation Area, you can bike or horseback-ride along Roark Creek and through dense oak forests. The 1,534-acre reserve was donated by Paul Henning, who was inspired to create the Beverly Hillbillies after a Boy Scout trip to Branson.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.