Branson, Missouri, sits in the majestic Ozark Mountains and is surrounded by three beautiful lakes. It’s well-known for its rich history, live entertainment, and popular live shows. Some attractions, like the Butterfly Palace and the Titanic Museum Attraction, have charges, but you don’t need a lot of money to have a good family trip. There are many free things for families and kids to enjoy. They can be a great way to make your trip fun without spending too much.
What are the best free things to do in Branson?
There is a wide variety of free activities for all ages. Enjoy scenic views at Table Rock Lake, explore the vibrant Branson Landing, or take part in free live music performances. Additionally, visiting local parks and trails provides lots of opportunities for outdoor fun without spending a dime.
Here are some of the most popular free things to do in Branson:
The Branson Landing Fountains Show
The Branson Landing Fountain Show is in the middle of Branson Landing, right at the end of Main Street on the shore of Lake Taneycomo. This unique $7.5 million water attraction is one of the most popular of the free things to do in Branson. It’s the first to bring together water, fire, lights, and music all at once, with tall water fountains shooting up 120-foot streams and fire cannons going off, all matched with bright lights and synchronized music. It’s great to watch and full of energy.
Wet Design, a group known all over the world, created this fountain show. They have also worked on the Downtown Disney marketplace in Orlando, Universal CityWalk in California, and the Bellagio in Las Vegas. The Branson Landing Fountain Show has hourly shows each day, starting at noon. The last show is at 9:00 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, and at 10:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Ride Sparky, the Downtown Trolley
Another of the free things to do in Branson, and a fun and easy way to see its historic downtown Branson, Lake Taneycomo, and Branson Landing, is a ride on Sparky, the free downtown trolley. This cute trolley picks up and drops off people at many places in the historic downtown area. When you ride, you go by the Branson Scenic Railway and the Branson Centennial Museum, a free museum. Kids really like it, so it’s a great way for everyone to get around and see what historic downtown has to offer.
Visit the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
The Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is another of the free things to do in Branson. Located six miles southwest of Branson, right below the Table Rock Dam Scenic Overlook, the hatchery produces about 350,000 to 400,000 pounds of rainbow and brown trout annually. In addition to walking the raceways containing thousands of trout and feeding them, visitors can learn about conservation and the hatchery at the new Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Education Center. This modern facility features a 7500-gallon aquarium, new educational exhibits focusing on local wildlife and their habitats, and a video that shows how trout are raised at the hatchery. There are about three miles of hiking trails through the Ozark Hills and direct fishing access to Lake Taneycomo, and for those looking to relax, there are two picnic areas available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, a concrete boat ramp provides convenient boat access to and views of Lake Taneycomo.
Meet Dolly Parton’s Stampede Horses
While Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a well-known dinner show, requiring the purchase of a ticket. However, another free thing to do in Branson is to walk down “Branson’s Famous Horse Walk” on the west side of the “theatre” and meet the 32 horses in the show “up close and personal.” Sometimes you may also get to see the riders as they get the horses ready. It’s something unique that the whole family can enjoy together.
Hike the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail
The Table Rock Lakeshore Trail is one of the top free things you can do outdoors in Branson. This trail is flat and paved. You can walk, jog, or use a wheelchair with no problem. The trail, at the southwest corner of the Dewey Short Visitor Center parking lot by the Table Rock Dam, is easy to find. As you move down the trail, you head towards Table Rock State Park and the State Park Marina. While you are on the path, you will see much of what makes the Ozark Mountains special and get great views of Table Rock Lake along the way. The trail goes right into Table Rock Lake State Park, near the Showboat Branson Belle. This hike is a good way to enjoy the outdoors and take in the beauty by the water.
Explore the Branson Centennial Museum
The Centennial Museum, located at 120 S Commercial St in historic downtown Branson, Missouri is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Sundays, is a collaborative effort involving various private groups and organizations like the White River Valley Historical Society, the Branson Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Branson. Established in 2012 to celebrate Branson’s 100th anniversary, the museum’s primary purpose is to showcase a century of the people, culture, and entertainment that have shaped Branson. It preserves a vast collection of priceless items, artifacts, photos, interactive exhibits, and stories to educate current and future generations about the area’s rich history. While initially planned as a temporary exhibit for the centennial, its operation was extended thanks to the generosity of a local businessman.
There’s a continually rotating displays and exhibits every six to eight weeks, ensuring there’s always something new for visitors. These displays include historical photos, artifacts, and personal items, covering topics such as “School Days,” “The Roots of Tourism” (with a replica 1900s tourist cabin), “Early Branson,” “Conflicts” (honoring veterans), and “The White River”. Mini-exhibitions delve into specific subjects like floods, railroads, and the Branson Fire. The museum also highlights notable figures who influenced the area, such as Rose O’ Neill and Mary Herschend.
Veteran’s Memorial Garden
Veterans Memorial Garden is a deeply meaningful tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the military. Its purpose is to remember those who have served and honor their sacrifices and dedication to defending our freedoms. Established in 2008, the garden is a “living tribute” of trees, shrubs, and plants, brought to life by Ben Kinel, a former U.S. Marine and master gardener. It is celebrating 17 years of honoring heroes. A central feature is the large bronze sculpture, “Staying Low,” depicting twelve World War II soldiers. Visitors will also find plaques inscribed with veterans’ names and passages about their service
It’s at the top of the hill at the intersection of 76 Country Boulevard and Roark Valley Road, open every day of the year from 8 am to 8 pm with convenient parking
