12 Fun, Free (or Almost Free) Activities in Branson, Missouri
Looking for free things to do in Branson? This town isn’t just about world-class entertainment and live shows—it’s also packed with free and budget-friendly activities for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Whether you love outdoor adventures, scenic drives, history, or live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here are 12 amazing free (or almost free) activities you won’t want to miss in Branson.
1. Hit the Hiking Trails
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts
Branson is home to beautiful hiking trails with stunning Ozark scenery. Some of the best free hiking trails include:
- Lakeside Wilderness – Features 315 stone steps leading to Lake Taneycomo.
- Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area – Scenic views and the Dewey Bald Lookout Tower.
- Table Rock State Park – A favorite for lakefront hikes.
See our full guide to hiking in Branson for more trails.
2. Go Biking Along the Lake
Best for: Cyclists, families, and outdoor adventurers
Bring your bikes and explore these scenic biking trails:
- Table Rock Lakeshore Trail – Ride along the water with stunning lake views. In the spring you will view dogwood and redbud trees in bloom as well as many wildflower species. During the fall you are treated to nature's colorful fall foliage.
- North Beach Path – This relaxing paved trail near the Branson Landing lines Lake Taneycomo and has multiple rest areas along its path. This trail connects with the Roark Creek Trail for about 3.2 miles, with all but the last half-mile paved.
Don’t have a bike? These trails are great for walking, too.
3. Visit Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
Best for: Families, kids, and wildlife lovers
The Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery raises over a million trout yearly for Lake Taneycomo. Visit the brand-new free visitor center, explore the fish aquariums, and the fish are fun to feed (that'll cost you a quarter though 😉). The hatchery also has beautiful aquariums displaying Missouri's game fish and information about the history and running of the dam and the hatchery. It's educational and fun for all ages!
4. Explore the Dewey Short Visitor Center
Best for: History buffs, families, and sightseers
Located near Table Rock Dam, the Dewey Short Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits, history on the White River Valley, and stunning views of Table Rock Lake.
5. Visit the Branson Centennial Museum
Best for: History lovers, curious travelers, and families
For a fascinating look into Branson’s past, visit the Branson Centennial Museum in historic downtown. This free museum is packed with exhibits on Branson’s early settlers, the rise of tourism, and famous local legends.
You’ll find historic photos, memorabilia, and artifacts from Branson’s famous theaters and attractions. Exhibits rotate regularly, so there’s always something new to discover.
6. Ride the Free Downtown Branson Trolley
Best for: Sightseeing, shopping, and first-time visitors
The Discovery Trolley offers a free 15-minute loop through historic downtown Branson. See Main Street’s preserved buildings, Victorian lampposts, and Branson Landing. This popular area is also full of restaurants, quaint shops, and historic sites.
The Trolley makes several stops, including at Branson Landing, which includes a 1.5-mile boardwalk, internationally renowned fountain spectaculars, and more than 100 specialty shops and restaurants. Speaking of which...
7. Stroll Branson Landing & Watch the Fountain Show
Best for: Families, couples, and photographers
Walk, explore and window shop at Branson Landing (window-shopping is free, right? 😊 ) Be sure to stick around and enjoy the Fountain Show—a synchronized display of fire, water, and lights happening every hour until 10 PM! The best time to see it is after dark.
8. Visit College of the Ozarks ("Hard Work U")
Best for: History lovers, families, and students considering college
College of the Ozarks is a tuition-free college where students work for their education. That's right- you can even go to college for FREE!
Here’s what else you can do for free at College of the Ozarks:
- Tour the Dairy – Watch cows being milked.
- Explore the Tractor Museum – Perfect for history buffs.
- See basket weaving & loom work at Edwards Mill.
- Visit the Ralph Foster Museum – Kids are free; adults pay a small fee.
While there, stop by the Keeter Center for farm-fresh ice cream.
9. Relax at Moonshine Beach (Almost Free!)
Best for: Families, beach lovers, and summer fun
Moonshine Beach is a state-operated sandy beach on Table Rock Lake.
Ok, I'm cheating. The beach isn't free - but it’s just $4 per vehicle, making it one of the best budget-friendly summer activities. Close enough?
10. Enjoy a Free Family Game Night (Guests Only!)
Best for: Families staying at our inn
Staying with us? Pop some free popcorn and borrow a board game from our collection for a fun family night in.
Just remember to play fair, and dad always wins 😉
11. See a Free Gospel Show
Best for: Families, music lovers, and those looking for inspiration
Several Branson theaters offer free gospel shows on Sundays, featuring live music from the same performers you’d see at night.
Some of the best options include:
Some of these include full worship services.
12. Take a Scenic Drive
Best for: Sightseers, road-trippers, and fall visitors
Branson is one of the top 5 places in the U.S. to see fall colors (but it's beautiful any time of year!). Here are some of the best scenic routes:
- Highway 165 Scenic Overlook – Breathtaking views of Table Rock Dam, the lake, and Branson.
- Highway 13 through Kimberling City – Cross the beautiful bridge over Table Rock Lake.
- Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway – A 45-minute drive through Mark Twain National Forest.
For more scenic spots, check out Branson’s most Instagrammable places.
Start Exploring Branson for Free!
Branson is packed with fun, free activities for every interest. Which one are you most excited to try? Share your favorite Branson experiences in the comments.
Need a place to stay? Book your trip at Autumn Creek Inn and make the most of your Branson adventure.
