Photo Provided What was once the main road through the city of Branson, Mo., is now known as “The Strip.” This area is home to theaters, other entertainment venues and restaurants. While Branson had early theater development in the 1970s, “The Boom” era took place in the 1990s, with growth continuing in this city.

 It was what you might refer to as a whirlwind visit to Branson, Mo., as during 2 1/2 days in this small southwest Missouri city our travel group attended six shows, five of which were of the musical variety.


You might ask how could you see that many shows in such a short period of time, but the answer is simple: the shows run morning, afternoon and evening.


While a number of “stars” — mainly country music performers — began arriving in Branson in the 1980s, the still-growing little city (population less than 8,000) has since attracted performers with other forms of music.


The natives are quick to tell you that the entertainment is more than country, although they certainly like the country music venue.


Having never visited what is described as the “live music capital of the universe,” before arriving I wondered how a city that small could have sufficient space to have more than 50 theaters and numerous restaurants and lodging to handle the nearly 8 million visitors a year.


As it turned out the attractions stretch several miles with some even located outside the city limits.