If you’re interested in Branson’s history and want to learn more about its points of interest and natural environment, start the day with a city sightseeing tour. By exploring with a guide, you can gain more insight into the Ozarks while enjoying views of Table Rock Lake and listening to anecdotes about Branson’s booming show business industry. Alternatively, if you’re planning to spend the day at Branson’s top park, the 1800s-themed Silver Dollar City, go early to get the best parking and make the most of your time at this very popular destination.

With just one day in town, you’ll need to choose one or two of Branson’s myriad museums and entertainment-focused attractions to explore this afternoon. Many visiting families start at the Hollywood Wax Museum, World’s Largest Toy Museum, or Butterfly Palace. History buffs won’t want to miss the Titanic Museum—where you can find out what it was like to be a passenger on the ill-fated cruise ship, touch an iceberg, sit in a lifeboat, and hear rescue stories—or the Veterans Memorial Museum, which features exhibits dedicated to those who fought for the United States in the military conflicts of the 20th century.

Once home to mostly country music shows, Branson now features a wide variety of live entertainment, from the traditional country to acrobatics, magic, comedy, Irish tenors, and tributes to pop legends. Family is a big theme in Branson, where shows like SIX and the Haygoods feature the vocal talents of brothers and other family groups. Alternatively, check out the illusions of Rick Thomas, who has performed in Las Vegas and on television specials.