Branson Landing eyes new tenants after first birthday

As of June 16, the Landing’s one-year anniversary, officials say an estimated 4.9 million people have passed through the development. The estimate, based on parking lot counts, is better than expected, said Todd Hiepler, Branson Landing’s general manager.

“It’s been an adventure,” Hiepler said. “It’s been well-received by the local people, and it’s been well-received by the visitors.”

Hiepler said all but one of the Landing’s 100 tenant spaces are filled, and there is a waiting list for new tenants.

Piztros Pizza Bistro Bar, which offers specialty pizzas, pastas and a daiquiri bar, and a second Gloria Jean’s Gourmet Coffee shop are expected to open the week of July 2.

Still to come is a Shorty Small’s and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop, both part of the $6 million Gage Marina and Shoppes at the Landing. Ernie Biggs Chicago Style Dueling Piano Bar is expected to open in mid-August and Wedding Italiano and Mama Milano’s Italian Restaurant, a dinner-theater house, should open by mid-September, according to Hiepler.

Bass Pro Shops’ marina recently opened with boat slips for boaters to dock before shopping and dining, and its new White River Fish Co. restaurant is under construction.

Hiepler expects the number of visitors to grow with the Aug. 17 opening of the adjacent 225,000 square-foot Branson Convention Center and Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

According to Mark Hartman, general manager of the downtown Branson Hilton hotels and convention center, his sales and marketing department already has booked 50 event days through the end of the year and 162 event days in 2008. The official grand opening celebration for the convention center and hotel will be the weekend of Sept. 7.[[In-content Ad]]