free “family friendly” things to do in Branson

The rolling Ozark Mountains and our three incredible lakes, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Taneycomo, make Branson, Missouri a beautiful, scenic outdoor wonderland that provides great opportunities for exciting and leisurely vacations. There are plenty of things to see and do. Even better, there are plenty of FREE things to do that are fun and interesting for everyone. Branson’s great variety of outdoor fun, unique attractions and interesting history make it the perfect place to live or discover a great vacation!

1. Table Rock Lake: The waters of this outdoor wonderland have become a haven for visitors nationwide. Take advantage of water activities such as boating, fishing, water-skiing, swimming, scuba diving, hiking and camping. Table Rock Dam is a massive engineering structure that was completed in 1958 and created Table Rock Lake. Crowds gather to watch the powerful structure hold back the waters of the White River.
2. Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery: One of Branson’s most popular tourist sites, the fish hatchery is located below Table Rock Dam. The center has several beautiful aquariums showcasing Missouri’s native fish including both Rainbow and Brown Trout for not only Lake Taneycomo but other state trout fishing facilities. Self-guided and conducted tours are available. The hatchery is operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation.
3. Moonshine Beach: Moonshine Beach is a great place to relax with the family. The sandy beach located on Table Rock Lake next to the dam allows families to swim, sun and enjoy beautiful views. ($4.00 per vehicle)
4. Bull Shoals Lake: Bull Shoals is a water sports paradise. Almost 1,000 miles of pristine shoreline is open to visitors from all over the nation who come to fish, scuba dive, houseboat, water ski, wake board, camp, and relax. Bull Shoals Lake water is very clean and clear. Swimming is enjoyable from mid May until late September. Fishing on Bull Shoals Lake is excellent all year with peak action in March, April, and May.
5. Lake Taneycomo: Lake Taneycomo’s clear cold waters provide some of the finest trout fishing available anywhere in the world. The Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout that ply the waters of Lake Taneycomo provide an exciting, year-round fishing experience. Full-service marinas and outfitters in the area offer canoeing, kayaking, fishing boats, motors, guides, tackle, and pontoons for relaxing and fun-filled lake activities. Other activities in and around this lake include hiking, scuba diving, and picnicking.
6. Shopping in Branson: Branson is a great place to shop and it doesn’t cost a thing to look! Explore the many outlet malls and the new addition to the Branson scene, Branson Landing.
7. Historic Downtown Branson: A small-town, charming glimpse into historic Branson. This popular area is filled with shops, restaurants and quaint stores filled with treasures.
8. Historic Downtown Branson’s Discovery Trolley: The green trolleys run a 15 minute loop through Historic Downtown Branson and the length and breadth of Branson Landing.
9. Branson Landing: The Landing has a beautiful level 1 ½ mile family friendly boardwalk. Visitors can stroll while enjoying scenic views, Lake Taneycomo, 100+ shops, 20+ restaurants and free entertainment.
10. Branson Landing Fountain Show: Fountains are located at the heart of Branson Landing at the foot of the “Town Square” on the Lake Taneycomo lakefront. The fountains are a part of the spectacular $7.5 million water, fire, and light and music show that shows every hour…most spectacular at night! Free concerts on some weekends.
11. Henning State Forest: This 1,534 acre-park, located on W. Highway 76 just one mile west of Branson, offers spectacular views, nature trails and nature studies. There is a naturalist on hand to answer questions and a beautiful scenic lookout area that provides an incredible view of the countryside.
12. Stockstill Park: This park offers Branson visitors 62 acres of outdoor enjoyment that includes calm streams, athletic opportunities and rolling, grassy meadows and is located just a few minutes from Lake Taneycomo. This very popular park is a hub of activities for adults and children alike. The park, which sets along Roark Creek, hosts softball and tennis leagues for all ages on its two softball fields and six tennis courts. Throughout the park are two large children’s playgrounds and four separate covered pavilions that are a popular for family picnics. A ½ mile paved walking trail surrounds the park. Public restrooms are available. A lighted soccer field and the newest feature, a skate park can also be found at the park. You may take either W Hwy 76, north on Walnut St., then west on Stockstill Lane into the park; or take Hwy 248 west, south on Epps Road, then east on Melody Penner Lane.
13. Stone Hill Winery: Experience a sparkling tour of wine making on this free tour, which ends with some fine wine tasting. Kids receive grape juice.
14. College of the Ozarks: This picturesque campus is complete with gorgeous landscaping, fountains and walking paths. Visitors will also want to experience the Keeter Center Restaurant and the free tours at Edwards Mill which is an actual working grist mill and is powered by a twelve foot water wheel driven by water flowing from Lake Honor in the center of the campus. Also check out the Ralph Foster Museum, which houses the area’s best collection of Ozark’s history. (Slight fee for museum admission.)
15. Free Sunday Shows in Branson: Several Branson theaters open their doors Sunday morning for gospel singing and praising.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.