You probably have heard of Bass Pro Shops, but do you know about the history of the company that started right here in the Ozarks? Before your getaway with We Love Branson Log Cabin Rentals, take a moment to delve into the fascinating history of Bass Pro Shops. Learn all about North America’s premier outdoor company, from their inspiring retail experience to their conservation efforts. Then head to Springfield and explore the Granddaddy of All Outdoor Stores, boasting 500,000 square feet of immersive shopping, aquariums, and museums.
Book one of our Branson cabin rentals and read on to learn more about Johnny Morris, the founder of Bass Pro Shops:
A Brief History of Bass Pro Shops
Johnny Morris has always loved hunting and fishing. In 1972, he started selling fish tackle from the back of his father’s liquor store. This was the company’s sole location until 1981, when Morris opened the first brick-and-mortar store in Springfield. Today, Bass Pro Shops has nearly 200 retail stores that welcome more than 200 million visitors annually. This success is largely due to the five pillars of the company that focus on:
- Conservation
- Omnichannel Retail
- Resorts and Outdoor Destinations
- Outdoor Equipment Manufacturing
- Sportsman’s Club
Bass Pro Shops Experiences
Before making your way to the original Bass Pro Shop in Springfield, check out the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum in Branson:
Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum
Start your journey at the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum at Big Cedar Lodge. Walk through 35,000 square feet of Ozarks history, starting with the ancient animals that once roamed the land. Then, continue your journey through history while learning about Native American culture, the American West, and the Civil War era.
The Original Bass Pro Shop
Make the hour’s drive from Branson to the Original Bass Pro Shop in Springfield and experience the Granddaddy of All Outdoor Stores:
- Visit one of the store’s seven Bass Pro Shop aquariums and attend an educational session to learn about Missouri’s native fish.
- Spend a day exploring the largest immersive wildlife attraction in the world, the Wonders of Wildlife Museum! Take a trip around the world and marvel at over 800 species in the wildlife galleries, see 35,000 live fish in the aquariums, and learn about conservation.
- Visit the free National Archery Hall of Fame and National Rifle Association Sporting Arms Museum to learn about the history and tradition of these sports.
Experience the Great Outdoors in Branson, MO
Beyond the Bass Pro Shops aquariums, museums, and stores, the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation offers even more experiences. Visit Top of the Rock at Big Cedar Lodge or drive to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park and explore 10,000 acres of natural beauty. However you want to spend your time, We Love Branson Log Cabin Rentals offers the perfect lodging for your Ozark getaway. Browse our cabin rentals within Westgate Branson Woods Resort and book with us today!
