Hollywood Entertainment Center
In the heart of Branson's iconic "strip" you'll find a unique adrenaline-pumping haunted house, the Castle of Chaos. Your family can explore the 5D interactive horror film that puts this attraction on the map. What is 5D, you might ask? It's a three-dimensional movie with added motion and effects, and guests can participate in the battle against evil by taking aim at zombies. Parental discretion is advised, as the "horror" may be too much for young visitors. Castle of Chaos is located in Branson's Hollywood Entertainment Center at 3030 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, Mo., 65616, or call 417-337-8700.

In the same complex as the Castle of Chaos, you'll find Hannah's Maze of Mirrors (417-337-8700). The maze features 288 potential turns through mirrored walls and archways (pictured at right). This maze is sure to leave you and your kids very, well, reflective. Also in the Hollywood Entertainment Center is the Hollywood Wax Museum. Devoted to celebrity figures, this wax museum offers plenty of fun photo opportunities.

Ripley's Believe It or Not
You won't believe your eyes when you enter the "Odditorium" at Ripley's Believe It Or Not. From double-headed farm animals to an aircraft carrier made out of matchsticks, if it's odd, it's on display at Ripley's. Don't miss the optical illusions, including the rotating barrel room. Ripley's Believe It or Not is located at 3326 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, Mo., 65616, 417-337-5300.

Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
The birthplace of more than a million trout each year, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery offers guided tours, hiking and, of course, access to great fishing spots. The hatchery (pictured at right) is operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation and is located at 483 Hatchery Road, Branson, Mo., 65616, 417-334-4865.

Adventure Ziplines of Branson
See the Ozark forests from an entirely different perspective as you zip along the forest canopy with Adventure Ziplines of Branson. You'll zoom -- up to 50 mph! -- from tower to tower attached to a stainless steel cable. The guides are friendly, helpful and encouraging to those with pre-zip nerves. A typical orientation and excursion takes about 2 hours. Kids 3 and up can zip, but those under 70 lbs. will ride tandem with a guide. Adventure Ziplines of Branson is located at 501 N. Wildwood Drive, Branson, Mo., 65616, or call 417-239-3030.

Tanger Outlet Center
With more than 65 brand name outlet stores, the Tanger Outlets are a bargain shopper's paradise. You'll find opportunities to splurge on both yourself and your kids. Stores not to miss: Coach Factory, The Children's Place, American Eagle Outfitters. Tanger Outlet Center is located at 300 Tanger Blvd., Branson, Mo., 65616.

Buckets N Boards
A highly animated duo will entertain your family with their antics involving percussion, tap dance, music and comedy. It's a fast-paced, funny show that will keep the interest of kids of all ages. Look for family pass discounts. Buckets N Boards (pictured at right) performs at the Clay Cooper Theater, 3216 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, Mo., 65616.

Mel's Hard Luck Diner
Need a bit of inspiration with your spaghetti and meatballs? Mel's Hard Luck Diner serves it right up in the form of musically-inclined wait staff. They may be pretty good at remembering your order, but servers are even better at singing. The wait staff at the '50s-inspired diner are aspiring performers and they alternate service with song. Mel's Hard Luck Diner serves lunch and dinner and is located at 2800 E. Highway 76, Branson, Mo., 65616, 417-336-7217.

Westgate Branson Woods Resort
This family-friendly resort boasts daily children's activities, two pools, basketball and volleyball courts, playground and a private hiking trail. Every Tuesday evening guests can attend a dinner buffet and preview the shows and entertainment around Branson. Accommodations include cabins, condos and hotel rooms. The resort is located at 2201 Roark Valley Drive, Branson, Mo., 65616, 877-253-8572.

Related Article: Branching Out to Branson

Jessica Pupillo contributed to this article. Hannah's Maze of Mirrors and Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery photos are courtesy of Branson/Lakes Area CVB.

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