Majestic Resort on Mountain Lake

The deep-blue expanse of Table Rock Lake spreads across two states and more than 50,000 acres in the heart of the gently rolling Ozark Mountains. On the Missouri side, a resort dubbed “the castle of the Ozarks” sits on the shores of the lake, set amid a lush, tree-covered landscape. The Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa imparts a sense of luxury and serenity immediately upon entering its vast, sky-lit atrium, shot through with wandering indoor streams flanked by exotic flowers and trees.

Upstairs in either a lake-view room or a lakefront ambassador suite, sliding doors lead to a private balcony that looks out on glittering Table Rock Lake. Inside, a king-size Serta Perfect sleeper mattress sports a richly hued down comforter and fluffy down pillows. Warm earth tones complement french country furnishings such as leather chairs, cherry headboards, and a credenza. Up to two HD flat-screen TVs and included in-room wireless Internet allow the outside world in.

The resort complex encompasses four eateries, ranging from the upscale Chateau Grille, which offers elegant American fare and a six-page wine list, to the Sweet Shoppe, an old-fashioned soda fountain scooping out hand-dipped ice cream. The spa access included with this deal lets visitors melt stresses away in the steam room, sauna, and indoor and outdoor hot tubs.

Branson, Missouri: Mountain Scenery and Family Entertainment

In addition to its abundant natural scenery, Branson is one of America's top destinations for family entertainment. Glitzy, wholesome extravaganzas light up the city's main drag, otherwise known as the Strip. A museum dedicated to the Titanic houses a gigantic replica of the doomed ocean liner as well as more than 400 artifacts from the ship.