Read the reviews:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55270-d105791-Reviews-Dixie_Stampede_Dinner_Show-Pigeon_Forge_Tennessee.html

I thought the show was fun but the food average. You don't go to this for the food, though.

We did the scenic railroad, but it was years ago, when DS, now 19, was a young train enthusiast. It was one of the better tourist railways I've been on...very well-maintained and you do see some pretty scenery.

Also did Dixie Stampede once, but again, it's been awhile...the kids, especially DS LOVED it and still talks about it.

I am not a big Dixie Stampede fan and the food is just mediocre. That said everyone that I know loves it.

I think the very best show in Branson is The Haygoods. Don't be fooled into thinking that it is just a bunch of young kids, they do a little bit of everything.

Order your tickets ASAP to any of the Branson shows and ask for front row seats. We always manage to sit on the front or very near. I usually book 6 months in advance though.

we stayed at Branson before at the Falls Village http://bluegreenrentals.com/landing/hotel-deals-in-missouri-falls-village.aspx We're Bluegreen Owners so they have a few places up in the Ozarks. Beautiful place! We're looking to go to Bluegreen Wilderness Club sometime in the future, hopefully! That's near Big Cedar, no?

Have done the scenic rail journey. The rolling stock is in fairly decent shape given its age and there are two dome cars which give a better view. The route is along a Union Pacific coal hauling line and IMO you are going to see lots of greenery and overall, that's about it. It is not a "spectacular" rail trip by any means but is nicely done and a way to spend some time relaxing.

Have you considered also visiting Eureka Springs?

sid_vic: yes, Wilderness Club is at Big Cedar. I highly recommend it. Not inexpensive, but a unique experience.

Dukey1: I enjoy Eureka Springs, but my husband's uncle is a big fan of Branson. At 88yrs, he doesn't travel alone & when we asked if he'd like to go on a trip with us he quickly suggested Branson. He's a very dear man, who is widowed,has no children & has been very kind to us, so we're letting him call the shots!

I'm also looking into a cruise on the Branson Belle...if anyone has any recent experience to speak of, I'd appreciate hearing about it!
Thanks to all.

we rode the scenic railway last summer and enjoyed it. we really didn't see any spectacular views from the train but it was interesting nonetheless.

College of the Ozarks is a great choice for lunch, the food is excellent. You can also walk around and see a historic mill, and there is a museum with all kinds of odd things (the car from the tv show Beverly Hillbillies for example), and a pretty chapel.

we went to the Veterans Museum several years ago and it is definitely worth seeing if you are interested in the subject.

When you go to the Scenic railway, Dick's 5 & 10 is just a few blocks away (steep uphill walk) and is worth a stop if you want to go to a real old-fashioned dimestore.

see what Dick's is like here http://www.dicksoldtime5and10.com/about-us.html