Echoes of the past meet modern-day wonders in this endearing town. The best part? You can experience this top-notch family vacation destination without breaking the bank!
Visitors to Branson, Missouri, encounter a swirl of exciting sights, shows, and scenery. Known for its live entertainment, you'll come across plenty of toe-tapping, knee-slapping shows near the hub of the town on Country 76 Boulevard, sometimes called the main strip. Aside from stunning shows, the list of free things to do in Branson, MO, is brimming with activities to suit every type of tourist.
Once you've had your fill of the city, it's easy to escape into the wilderness marvel of the surrounding Ozark Mountains. But, if the pace set by nature is too slow for you, there's an adrenaline rush waiting at the Silver Dollar City theme park!
Penny pinchers looking to take in the town's charms on a budget will be happy to know there are plenty of free Branson attractions, too. These free things to do in Branson, Missouri, will give you a memorable experience of family fun without coughing up the dough.
College of the Ozarks
College campuses like College of the Ozarks are often their own little worlds, with rich greenery kept up by careful landscapers and an aura of bright, limitless potential. At this campus, you can see that potential in the form of amenities staffed by students who are working to pay for their debt-free education.
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Soak in the atmosphere created by the architecture and fountains as you stroll along the walking paths. Stop by Edwards Mill for a free tour, where students will be grinding whole-grain flour and hand-weaving baskets. Don't miss the neo-Gothic Williams Memorial Chapel or Missouri's official Vietnam memorial at Patriots Park, where you'll have to get some pictures.
If you have a little spending cash, grab a bite at the Keeter Center Restaurant and check out the Beverly Hillbillies truck at the Ralph Foster Museum.
photo credit: College of the Ozarks via Facebook
Table Rock Lake
Sparkling blue water surrounded by lush green trees makes this lake an all-around favorite for boaters, fishers, and swimmers alike. This popular local haunt makes it on the list of non-touristy things to do in Branson.
There are limitless ways to dive in and take advantage of the H2O, from water-skiing to scuba diving. It's also the perfect spot for hiking and camping if you prefer to keep your feet on dry ground. Don't forget to explore some of the other ways to mingle among the fish at Table Rock Lake!
photo credit: Pixabay
Table Rock Lake Dam
The massive structure that is the Table Rock Lake Dam was completed in 1958 and is responsible for holding back the White River to create the Table Rock Lake we know and love today.
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The dam is large enough to view from several spots throughout Branson, ranging from hiking trails to the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery.
Photo Alert: Take Highway 165 to drive right over the dam, then stop to snap a picture of this classic Branson landmark.
photo credit: Ozarks Water Watch - Beaver, Table Rock, Taneycomo & Bull Shoals Lakes via Facebook
Table Rock State Park
Located on the shore of Table Rock Lake, this state park is the perfect setting for outdoor activities, whether you prefer to get wet or stay dry. The park includes a marina, so you can easily rent a boat or jet skis.
Come for the day to picnic, hike, and bike. Then, stay for the night to camp and truly experience the wilderness life. Remember to reserve your campground in advance. Spots fill up quickly during the peak of the lake season!
Pro Tip: The ever-popular Moonshine Beach is the Ozarks' idea of a beach day. Bring a picnic lunch, then claim a spot in the sand! Although there is a small fee per car to get in, this bustling spot still makes the list of the top cheap things to do in Branson.
The Horse Walk at Dolly Parton's Stampede
Did you know you can check out the horses that star in Dolly Parton's Stampede for free? Of course, when in Branson, MO, free things to do must include some horsing around! So grab your cowgirl or cowboy hat and stroll by the stable for a walk to remember.
photo credit: Dolly Parton's Stampede via Facebook
Branson Centennial Museum
History buffs can get an inside look at the history of Branson at the Branson Centennial Museum, located in historic downtown Branson. This museum is free to visit and explores the timeline of Branson from its simple roots to the popular vacation destination it is today.
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Rotating exhibits focus on everything from what makes Branson unique to the stories behind some of its biggest musical entertainers.
photo credit: Branson Centennial Museum via Facebook
Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area
This 1,534-acre area offers 5.6 miles of hiking trails and a jaw-dropping scenic overlook. Get a glimpse of the sweeping forests that characterize the Ozark Mountains while getting some steps in. Keep an eye -- and your camera -- out for native wildlife sightings.
Fun Fact: Paul Henning was the creator of The Beverly Hillbillies TV show.
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
There may be plenty of fish in the sea, but a hatchery is the only place you can find a bunch in one spot. Of all the things to do for free in Branson, MO, this one is superb for the kiddos.
One of Branson's most popular tourist sites, the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, is located below Table Rock Dam. Kids will ooh and ah at the rainbow and brown trout splashing around at the hatchery. Wander through the free conservation center to learn more about the local aquatic life.
photo credit: Aaron Hatcher via Facebook
Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area
The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area is a 140-acre nature paradise located in the middle of Branson. Finding these beautiful trails and glades in the heart of the city is like stumbling upon a secret garden, complete with a nature playground and covered porch swing for the littles.
Get outside and get moving with these pristine views of Ozark Mountain glory.
Table Rock Lakeshore Trail
If you're looking for other nature excursions, there's even more free stuff to do in Branson. Table Rock Lakeshore Trail is a beautiful 2.2-mile asphalt trail perfect for those who want to get into nature without the difficulty of maneuvering through brush or uneven terrain.
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Hikers and bikers of all ages will be right at home on this trail. It runs from the Dewey Short Visitor Center to the Table Rock State Park Marina.
Take in the view of Table Rock Lake and keep your eyes peeled for native tree species, like Dogwood trees blooming in the spring and Maple trees bursting into color in the fall. Be sure to grab a map before you go to ensure you don't get lost!
photo credit: Table Rock Lake via Facebook
Branson Landing
Branson Landing offers some of the best shopping and dining in the area, but you don't need to spend a dime to enjoy strolling through the bustling atmosphere.
Promenade down the lakeside boardwalk before you catch the fountain show. It's a $7.5 million attraction that merges water, music, light, and fire in the evenings for a sizzling explosion of wonder. Stop by the town square to enjoy the spectacle for free at the top of every hour.
Pro tip: The Branson Landing is one of the best free things to do in Branson, MO, for couples. Stroll through the dreamy atmosphere hand in hand with your honey!
photo credit: Branson Landing via Facebook
Lake Taneycomo
A lake that truly has it all, whether you're looking for an outdoor excursion or a lakeside city jaunt, is Lake Taneycomo. The body of water, stocked with over 750,000 trout every year, is a premier fishing spot. Make sure you find a spot on a dock or grab a boat, as most of the lake isn't shallow enough to wade in.
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If fishing sounds slimier than fun to you, stick to the boardwalk along the lake, where you can take in the lively view of the Branson Landing.
photo credit: Explore Branson via Facebook
Window Shopping
Window shopping is not for the faint of heart… or faint of wallet. Between Tanger Outlets, Branson malls, the Branson Landing, and an array of charming local shops, the town is a treasure trove of native goodies, and brand-name finds.
In lieu of a shopping spree, make it a game to see who can find the most unusual product.
photo credit: Branson Landing via Facebook
Historic Downtown Branson
To get the full experience of the city, head downtown. While downtown is the modern hub of most cities, it's a quaint walk down memory lane in Branson, as one would expect.
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Browse the old-time variety store Dick's 5 & 10 to reminisce on times past. Have some spare change? Grab an old-fashioned malt at Mr. B's Ice Cream Parlor.
photo credit: Downtown Branson via Facebook
Sparky the Trolley
Get around town in a totally free, totally unique way when you take Sparky the trolley. The trolley runs year-round, and aside from Branson's off-season in January and February, it keeps going seven days a week.
Find a map of all 12 trolley stops to plan your trip. This out-of-the-ordinary mode of transportation is one of the most unique things to do in Branson, MO!
As for the name? Sparky was inspired by a lady named Pearl "Sparky" Spurlock, who ran a tour and taxi business in Branson in the 1920s.
Christmas Lights at Big Cedar Lodge
There's nothing like a whopping one-million lights at Big Cedar Lodge to brighten up your Christmas season! The best part is there's no cost to drive through the stunning display.
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It's typically open from the beginning of November until a few days after Christmas, but check their website or call ahead to make sure. Grab hot cocoa beforehand, and you'll be all set to take in the magic of the holidays. During chilly winter visits, this is one of our favorite free things to do in Branson at night!
photo credit: Big Cedar Lodge via Facebook
Take a Scenic Drive
No matter the season, coasting along Highway 160 or 165 is a breathtaking experience filled with tree-lined skylines left and right.
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Shuffle your favorite playlist and jam out as you cruise past a fiery autumn landscape, snow-capped hills, fresh spring greenery, or sun-drenched treetops. Enjoy rugged nature views from the comfort of your car!
Photo Alert: Get out and stretch your legs at the Branson Scenic Overlook on Highway 165. You'll want this stunning view on your Instagram story! As a bonus, there's an ice cream shop called Scoops right across the street. So add grabbing a cone to your list of cheap family things to do in Branson, MO!
photo credit: Mehnaz Sharna Nitu via Facebook
Shrine of the Holy Spirit
This peaceful respite is a nondenominational chapel. It was constructed following a vision received by Gene Bicknell, then dedicated in 2010. Wander the grounds to admire this architectural wonder! Then, spend a quiet moment to take a breather from your sightseeing bustle.
Golf Courses
Branson is home to several beautiful golf courses. While golf isn't an activity easy on the budget, you can catch sight of the grounds for free! Some of the top courses in the city include Thousand Hills Resort & Golf Club, Johnny Morris' Top of the Rock Golf Course, and Branson Hills Golf Club.
Top of the Rock / Facebook
Which Free Things to Do in Branson, Missouri, are You Most Excited About?
Why break the budget when there are plenty of ways to take in the charming city of Branson sans moolah? This tried-and-true favorite vacation spot is yours for exploring. A myriad of family-friendly attractions means there's something for everyone. Plan your own Branson adventure today!
Have You Been to Branson, Missouri?
What was your favorite budget-friendly activity?
Leave us a comment below!
Diane Schultz says:
Wine tasting at Lindwedel Winery is no longer free, as I discovered when I went to their website. See here: https://www.lindwedelwinery.com/page?pageid=258317BB-118C-4CDA-A33D-FCD70C891540
Teresa says:
Thanks for letting us know, Diane! We have updated this article and would love to know if you have any other suggestions!
John says:
I am really not sure you found any free things to do in Branson with the price of gas just to get there . Just sayin
Teresa says:
We wish we could control the cost of fuel prices to travel.😕 All we can do is help you save money once you get there!
Skippy mcgee says:
This comment aged well
Kerri says:
The Dewey Short Visitors Center is a nice place to visit also. Right between the dam and Tablerock Lakeshore Trail. We like to take a picnic there for before or after we walk the trail.
Teresa says:
Hello Kerri! Yes, we love the Dewey Short Visitors Center too! Unfortunately, it is temporarily closed. We have tried calling to find out a reopening date, but we have not received a response. Therefore, we left it off of our list for now. But we will be sure to add it back on as soon as they reopen! Thanks for the suggestion!