Branson, Missouri – A Brief History

The Chicago Tribune awarded Branson with the moniker, “The way America should be”. This was several years ago but Branson is still a place where people flock to get a glimpse of when life was quieter and more relaxing. It’s a place where people are friendly and families can come and enjoy themselves together. There is something for everyone here!The Shepherd of the Hills is a large part of Branson History

With a general store and post office established in 1882 by Reuben Branson, the fledgling community got its start. The town was incorporated in 1912 just as the Powersite Dam was being finished; creating Lake Taneycomo. From then on Branson continued to grow into something special.

Harold Bell Wright wrote the book “The Shepherd of the Hills ” which was released in 1907. This book spurred many to come see the area Bell spoke of to get a feel of that Ozark tradition. It became the focal point of a show first done by the “Old Mill Theater” which became known by the same name as the book. That show has been in production for over 50 years.

More on The History of Branson

The Many Facets of Branson

The 76 Strip is part of Branson's historyAs shows popped up on Highway 76, the “strip”, people continued to flock to Branson. However, it isn’t just shows they come for. Many people come to Branson to take in the beauty of the Ozarks and enjoy the allure of the lakes and trails and campgrounds. In addition, Branson has become one of the largest destinations for military reunions. Also, many families come from miles around to bring their kids to sporting events and camps. All of this makes Branson a go-to location for the first time and return visitors alike.

There are so many things to do in Branson, it is no wonder that we are the third-largest drive-to destination in the United States.

Main Street Marina – Part of  a Great Branson Tradition

Located on the banks of Lake Taneycomo, Main Street Marina has become one of those important locations; anchoring one end of the Branson Landing. As the Branson Landing has become one of the many popular places to be in Branson, Main Street Marina sits proudly near the Lake Taneycomo Bridge on the Landing.  It’s a great place to take in the beauty of the Ozark Mountains and enjoy that famous Branson hospitality! Take a cruise on Lake Taneycomo and listen to one of Kayak oon Lake Taneycomo with Main Street Marina Water Sport Rentalsour Captains tell you about the history of this beautiful area we live in. Main Street Lake Cruises has dinner and sightseeing cruises for you to enjoy with your whole family.

Landing Axes on Main Street MarinaEnjoy a few hours, or a whole day on the lake with people closest to you with Main Street Marina Water Sport Rentals. While you are on the Marina, check out Landing Axes. Landing Axes is a World Axe Throwing League endorsed venue where you and your friends can get together for a little friendly competition. Ax throwing has become more popular than darts and cheaper than bowling.

Dockside dining awaits you at The Paddlewheel! Amazing food and drink made from scratch from some of the best the industry has to offer. You’ll be treated like you are part of the family here by our friendly staff.

A Great Crowd at The Paddlewheel in BransonAs the sun goes down things get even more AWESOME as some of the best entertainment comes to Rock The Dock at Branson’s Largest Nightclub! The Paddlewheel brings the best musicians and artists that the area has to offer. On a clear night, you’ll find the bands, and the dancers enjoing those bands, outside. Raining? Not a problem as the fun moves inside.

Main Street Marina is proud to be part of the Branson community and all of the great things the community has to offer! We are locally owned and operated and love being in the Ozarks community.

Main Street Marina wants to be a part of  your hometown Branson experience. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Main Street Marina – Branson, Missouri

Main Street Marina - Branson, MOWelcome aboard the maiden voyage of “The Anchor” – a blog featuring what’s happening at Main Street Marina!

The Branson Landing has become one of the most popular places to visit in Branson, Missouri. Located on the banks of Lake Taneycomo people come from everywhere to shop and take in the atmosphere. For the last few years one spot has become the place to enjoy the scenery and activities. That place is Main Street Marina and it features some of the best this area has to offer.

Main Street Marina is the home of  Main Street Lake Cruises. Come on board our classic paddleboat, The Lake Queen, or our 100-foot luxury yacht, The Landing Princess, for an amazing sightseeing or dinner cruise on Lake Taneycomo. We celebrate special events like Easter or Mother’s Day with specialty dinner cruises that come along with exclusive menus prepared for each occasion.  Main Street Lake Cruises also does private charters for weddings, reunions, and other special occasions. We provide the atmosphere to make your event something to remember for years to come.

In addition, on the marina, you will find a great spot for water sports rentals. Hydrobikes, stand-up boards, kayaks, and the popular Craigcat are available for rent. Enjoy the beautiful Ozark weather and scenery by spending it right out in the middle of nature.

A beautiful night on the Paddlewheel at Main Street MarinaAlso, the marina is host to The Paddlewheel; Branson’s premier restaurant on the banks of Lake Taneycomo. The Paddlewheel just recently hired a new chef and they have a delicious new menu prepared for you as you enjoy the beauty of the Ozarks all around you. People come out on game day for their respective teams to watch each play up close on our Gigantic 200 inch Big Screen TV! There are also other TV’s around the pool room so you don’t miss anything while you are with us.

The best live entertainment in the area plays at The Paddlewheel. In the evening you can often hear great bands “Rock the Dock”. Just follow those amazing sounds and it will take you right to us. Check out our calendar when you are in the area. You’re going to be glad you did!

We also have private dining and event space available as well. We would be happy to talk with you about that. Please feel free to contact us to make your next event amazing.


There are always new things happening at Main Street Marina. Read The Anchor often as we will shine a spotlight on different aspects  the marina has to offer. Better yet, come on down and see for yourself what is happening by the lake. Bring that Lake Attitude and plan to relax and have an awesome time!

See you soon!

Meeting the Princess at Main Street Lake Cruises

The Landing Princess at Main Street Marina and Main Street Lake Cruises One of the most amazing places to be in the Ozarks is on Tablerock Lake in Branson, Missouri. Every season is full of beauty and history and there is no better place to observe this than from a luxurious dinner cruise aboard The Princess and Main Street Lake Cruises.

The Landing Princess is a 100-foot long luxury yacht located at Main Street Lake Cruises on Main Street Marina. Located a bit down from Bass Pro Shops at the Branson Landing, Main Street Marina is the best place to view the beauty of the area dockside, or on one of our amazing cruises. Our Captains will guide your way and tell you about all of the rich history that the Ozark Mountains are famous for.

Your Two Hour Dinner Cruise

As you step aboard you will be seated on one of our two climate controlled decks that allow you access to beautiful views as well as a fully stocked cash bar on each deck. Our friendly and professional staff is always ready to take care of you on your cruise. You’ll be greeted with a smile and treated to a delicious menu created especially for you and those you hold dear.

A delicious salad served aboard the Landing PrincessYou will be served a three-course meal prepared by our chef. Each meal is prepared with fresh ingredients, from scratch, that is certain to delight even the most discriminating palate. Paired with a glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail from our bar will finish out your experience nicely.

Our Professional staff aboard te PrincessWe are dedicated to giving you memories that will last a lifetime. Please ask your representative about the special options we have available to accentuate any special occasion for your party. If you would like a special bottle of wine or flowers for something special, please ask about how we can provide those items for you.

Group Events and Charters

Do you have something coming up that you want to make a lasting impression with? Main Street Lake Cruises can make your business meeting, reunion, or wedding event special.  We can accommodate large groups and have the ability to host private or semi-private events. Ask our representatives about what options are available to you.

Celebrate the Holidays With a Special Cruise

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve, Easter, or any other holiday, chances are there is a special cruise designated to celebrate the occasion. The truth is, we like to party, and we want you to join us. Check out our calendars below to see what event works for you.

 


We look forward to seeing you soon! Please contact us at 417-239-3980 if you have any questions. We look forward to meeting you!

It’s Been a Great Year – Let’s Throw a Party

The Landing Princess at Main Street Marina and Main Street Lake CruisesOh what an amazing year 2018 has been! From all of us at Main Street Marina, we would like to thank you for coming to spend some time with us on the Dock. Being locally owned and operated we take pride in seeing so many people catch a reflection of the area atmosphere and what that looks and tastes like.

Main Street Lake Cruises and Watersport Rentals

Thousands upon thousands of people have come to party on Lake Taneycomo with Main Street Lake Cruises and Main Street Marina Water Sports.  There is no better way to Dine with us in luxury on the Landing Princesswitness the beauty of the Ozarks unfolding before your eyes than along the waters of the White River Basin. Whether it be on a sightseeing excursion on the Lake Queen or an opulent dinner cruise aboard  The Landing Princess, our staff takes pride in making the experience one that you will never forget. We strive to give you experiences that you will reflect upon fondly for a lifetime. We have really enjoyed getting to know the people on the cruises and group charters that have been hosted over the last year.

Our water sports rental dock at Main Street Marina saw so many individuals and families that wanted to get out on the water on a more personal basis. With hydro bikes, stand up paddleboards, kayaks, and the speedy Craigcats available, many folks were able to use the option they wanted to get out on the water.

Rock the Dock at The PaddlewheelThe Paddlewheel

This last year has brought many people to The Paddlewheel as well.  Where scratch local cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails come to life; bringing you the best of the Ozarks all right here to you overlooking the beauty of Lake Taneycomo.

Rock The Dock at The PaddlewheelThe Paddlewheel has not only become one of the best places to sample local fare but it has also become the largest nightclub in the area. Rock The Dock has become a showcase of the best talent from the region with plenty of dance floor for you to get out on it and shake that groove thing. You can feel the excitement in the air each night while the dock moves to the beat of the music.

New Year’s Eve is Time to CelebrateNew Years Eve at Main Street Lake Cruises

We are so excited about the coming year, we have decided to throw two parties for New Year’s Eve. One on the water and another on the dock!

On The Princess, we will board at 8:30 pm and set out on a late night cruise to bring in the new year with style. DJ Valence will be there to bring the music you are going to love! There are gourmet snacks and a full-service cash bar for your pleasure. Don’t forget the champagne toast when the clock strikes 12.  These seats are limited so make sure you contact a representative today and reserve your spot today!

New year's Eve at The PaddlewheelIf you want to stay on the dock, we have your party going on at The Paddlewheel!

DJ’s Rob and Scott will be spinning the music and there will be tons of dance floor to get down! We have provided a special menu that features amazing gourmet cuisine made for you by our Chef in our specialty scratch kitchen. A special drink menu has been prepared by our mixologists that will help you bring in the new year just right. Don’t forget great local beers and a fully stocked bar to bring your favorites your way! We will also watch the Ball drop in New York as well from the Big Screen! it feels just like being there.

Let’s bring in the new year with a bang! We are looking forward to celebrating it with you! If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us today!