Enjoy the vacation of your dreams, we have a budget!
Located in the heart of the picturesque Ozark Mountains, the city of Branson offers a wide range of free activities that are perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for an unforgettable vacation on a tight budget. In fact, Branson has been listed as the third cheapest destination in the United States.
What can you do in Branson without spending a dime? Here’s a look at the most popular free offers at this premier vacation spot.
1. Mesa Rock Lake and Dam
Table Rock Lake, one of three major pristine lakes in Branson, offers many opportunities for water activities including swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing and scuba diving. There are also extensive hiking and camping facilities.
Table Rock State Park has campsites and picnic areas, a marina, and boat rentals, and there is no admission charge. You can take a dip at Moonshine Beach along Table Rock Lake, which has a sandy beach, shaded picnic areas, and hiking trails.
The Table Rock Dam is a great engineering triumph. Completed in 1958, this dam contains the waters of the Blanco River. You can simply view the dam or take a guided tour for a nominal fee.
2. Dewey Short Visitor Center
Located at the southern end of Table Rock Dam, the US Army Corps of Engineers Dewey Short Visitor Center has a lot of name and a lot of fun. Discover exhibits revolving around the construction of the dam, natural wildlife exhibits, interactive exhibits, and more.
The center offers swimming, fishing, and picnic areas, an outdoor nature trail, and a year-round indoor nature walk. You can also watch featured movies on demand, including “The Lewis and Clark Expedition, 1804 – 1806,” “Taming the Riviera Blanche,” and “Where Eagles Fly.”
3. Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
Located below Table Rock Dam, this tourist site is one of the most popular in Branson. Choose from free or self-guided tours and see the large, impressive aquariums that showcase many of Missouri’s native game fish, including rainbow and brown trout.
The Visitor Center at the hatchery also features displays of native plants and wildflowers, and a short video about the hatchery and trout production – this successful hatchery raised over a million trout each year.
4. Stone Hill Winery
Take a free tour of this large, atmospheric winery, distinguished by its lush farmland and winemaking facilities. A complimentary wine tasting concludes the tour, with free grape juice for the kids.
5. College of the Ozarks
Enjoy a scenic stroll along this popular campus’ walking trail, complete with fountains and attractive landscaping. Don’t forget to stop by Edward Mills for a free tour of the facility, which includes a twelve-foot waterwheel powered by nearby Lake Honor and a weaving studio featuring traditional looms.
6. Lake Taneycomo and Branson Landing
As with Table Rock Lake, there are many water activities available at Lake Taneycomo in downtown Branson, including hiking, boating, snorkeling, and picnic areas. The newest addition to this picturesque boardwalk is Branson Landing, a 1.5-mile boardwalk along the lakefront with fountains, amphitheater, shops, outdoor music, pier art galleries, hayrides and much more.
You can also take the free Discovery Trolley that runs every 15 minutes between Branson Landing and historic downtown Branson, where you’ll find charming small-town architecture and plenty of quaint shops.
7. Sunday shows
In keeping with Branson’s tradition as one of the nation’s top music destinations, many local theaters offer free Ozark-style gospel music performances on Sundays. Various Branson celebrities often attend these shows, either in the audience or taking the stage.
With all the exciting free activities available in Branson, you can have a fantastic vacation on a shoestring budget.
