Branson is famous for its shopping. Many claim that if it can not be found in Branson, it can't be found at all. To help fulfill that claim, the Branson Landing mall features more than 100 specialty stores and upscale boutiques. Restaurants and a light-and-sound coordinated water show also bring thousands of visitors each year.
The Branson Landing mall is located on Lake Taneycomo in historic downtown Branson. Construction of the facility cost more than $420 million. Developers made a special effort to take advantage of the location as much as possible, incorporating a 1.5 mile boardwalk along the lakeshore into the final design.
Developers also paid $7.5 million to install the fountains and water jets. These provide a nightly show incorporating fire and light. Synchronized to sound, the free show draws nightly crowds of up to 5,000 people. It is possible to beat the parking rush by coming early for dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants and simply staying for the show.
All the glitz is not without its rewards. Visitors are not just trooping through another run of the mill shopping mall. In December of 2008, Branson Landing was awarded a design and development award from the International Council of Shopping Centers. The award specifically called out the entertainment and dining aspects of the facility as well as the integration with the local landscape when delivering this award.
The Branson Landing mall also features one of the largest Belk department stores in the state, at 68,000 square feet. The Bass Pro shop on the lake allows patrons to live-test boats and fishing equipment on the water. These two major anchor stores serve to guarantee a constant flow of traffic to the site so that whatever brings a guest to the mall they are sure to find a store catering to that need. Nearby hotels and a convention center also allow visitors to maximize their shopping experiences.
