Branson does have its own airport, and probably some sort of train connection from St. Louis or another neighboring state. The park itself is a bit far, so a rental car or a taxi is your best bet.
Pigeon Forge is more remote, but Dollywood is closer to the 'city center'. They probably have a bus or taxi system.
I actually had a somewhat positive visit at SFA. Yeah, it's the worst SF park, but I don't think it's that bad as people say it is. The front half of the park does actually look fairly decent, and has some nice theming. Though I haven't been on all the coasters(rode the SLC, Roar, Apocalypse, and SROS at the park, and rode Cajun at SFGAm), I somewhat agree. Superman was great fun, Roar was a massive let down, the SLC is in my bottom 5, and Apocalypse is the worst B&M I've been on. Didn't have too many problems there, aside from my short schedule.
Great report btw. Loved your bit on the National Art Museum. Also agree on Natural History, huge let down. Can't wait to see another TR!
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