FREE ACTIVITIES IN BRANSON

Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area A 1,500+ acre expanse in the Branson area Ozarks, this breathtakingly beautiful conservation area was preserved largely through the generosity of Ruth and Paul Henning. Missouri native, Paul Henning, is best known as the creator of popular 60s-era television programs like “,” “,” and “.” (Fun side note: One of the original “Hillbillies” cars is on display at Branson’s Ralph Foster Museum, and three episodes of the show were shot at Silver Dollar City!) The trails here are ideal for hiking, and include a waterfall, striking outcroppings, crystal clear streams, and benches along the way for sitting. Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery Branson is home to an honest-to-goodness fish hatchery, and it’s great free entertainment for the family! Sitting just below majestic Table Rock Dam, the hatchery produces nearly 400,000 pounds of brown and rainbow trout each year, with 80 percent of the fish released into Lake Taneycomo below the dam. Kids love to watch the fish in the “runs” outside, and inside, you’ll discover a free-admission museum/conservation center. The Hatchery also has nearby trails, great for hiking and seeing area wildlife, and allows access to Lake Taneycomo for fishing. (Interesting side note: When the dam was constructed to control flooding of the White River, it created beautiful Table Rock Lake above, ideal for warm water sports, recreation, and bass fishing, and Lake Taneycomo below, a cold water lake with a river-like appearance, perfect for trout to thrive.) The Shrine of the Holy Spirit You’ll find this tranquil spot on the same property occupied by The Mansion Entertainment Center, located at 189 Expressway Lane near Branson’s Shepherd of the Hills District. The Mansion’s owner had the Shrine constructed to fulfill a spiritual vision, and guests are welcome to enjoy the peaceful landscape for meditation, prayer, or simply to relax and reflect. There are lovely gardens and a fountain, and ample seating that allows for enjoying the beautiful Ozarks’ scenery. (Note: The primary structure on the property can be rented for weddings and other small events - it accommodates approximately 80 people.) Sparky the Trolley One of the best things about the Historic Downtown District of Branson is that you can leave the driving and navigation to Sparky! Made to resemble vintage cable cars (think San Francisco,) there are several trolleys in Branson’s fleet, all making a nice circuit through Downtown, along Branson Landing Boulevard, and up Hamburger Hill (a.k.a. Highway 76/Main Street - it got the meaty moniker from locals due to the three fast-food burger establishments that call it home!) There are several stops to board and deboard, including one at either end of Branson Landing. There’s no charge to ride Sparky, but feel free to tip your helpful driver. Table Rock State Park

Located on the shores of Table Rock Lake, this state park is ideal for water activities and other outdoor adventures. In addition, the park is outfitted with a marina so you can easily rent a boat or jet skis. It’s also a great location for camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking and more. If you choose to go camping, remember to place your reservation in advance. Spots fill up during the peak lake season! Curling Vine Winery

Experience a sparkling tour of winemaking on this free tour, which ends with some fine wine tasting at Curling Vine Winery. The whole family can tour too, as a special grape juice is made just for the kids. Tours depart every 15 minutes and are available year round. While at the winery, visit the gift shop or watch a bottling demonstration.

Branson Landing

The Branson Landing has a beautiful boardwalk visitors can stroll along while enjoying scenic views and Lake Taneycomo. Plus, there is a $7.5 million light, water, and sound show at the top of each hour. At night, the show adds fire to the mix, for a sizzling display. For those looking for free things to do in Branson, this show is a hit. It’s a world-class production and is completely free!

Lindwedel Winery

This winery is located in the Ozark Mountains, high on a hill overlooking beautiful Branson. Guests are invited to tour the winery, sample the wines, and relax on the veranda while absorbing the terrific scenic views. Did we mention wine tasting is absolutely free?! If you wish, you can also purchase a bottle of wine, kick back, and enjoy Lindwedel Winery’s gorgeous property.

Branson Farmers Market 100 Branson Landing Branson, MO 65616 Local: 417-619-8120

Located at the North Branson Landing Parking Lot.

Conveniently located in the Branson Landing's north parking lot near Belk's, the farmers market at the Branson Landing will be open on Tuesday evenings from 3 to 7 p.m. Visitors can choose from a variety of locally-grown and handmade products. Homegrown produce includes strawberries, peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, peaches, green beans, apples, lettuces and a host of other various fruits and vegetables. But the fun doesn't end there. Market visitors can enjoy a balloon artist, henna tattoo artist and music while they browse a selection of fall decorations such as pumpkins and mums, farm- fresh eggs and seafood, as well as handmade soaps, candles, jellies, candies and baked goods.

Rock the Dock with Open Mic Night The Paddlewheel 9 South Boardwalk Branson, MO 65616 https://mainstreetmarina.com/ Local: 417-239-3980

Open Mic Night!! • 7 to 11 p.m. • Bring an instrument • Bring a smile • P.A. provided ABOUT: This night is meant to be an outlet of creativity for area singers, songwriters, musicians and performers. People of all ages and talent levels are welcome to participate! HOST BIOS: Sam Clanton and Todd Plympton are long-time collaborators in numerous musical projects, bands and open mics in the Branson area, including most recently hosting the open mic at the Black Horse Pub in Hollister. Sam Clanton is a singer- songwriter who plays guitar, mandolin and harmonica in several bands in the Ozarks, including Whiskey Brothers, Jam McClanton, Salmon Alley and The Scapegoats. He is passionate about music and loves bluegrass, jazz and indie rock in particular. Sam is also a radio announcer and news writer for MY100.1, 106.3 KRZK and 102.9 The Z. Todd Plympton plays upright and electric bass, and is known to pick a banjo on occasion. With a background steeped in the blues, Todd has performed with many notable artists over the years, including touring and recording with Jimmy Thackery & The Drivers, and even backing up blues legend Buddy Guy. He plays in several area bands, including Ripple Effect, Eire & Brimstone, Ambrielle Trio and Blowcephus. Clanton & Plympton are a TON of fun… Please join us! For more information, contact Sam at 417.239.6128 or [email protected]. Contact Todd at 417.593.9180.

Table Rock Dam This massive engineering structure was completed in 1958 and created Table Rock Lake. You can at the park just below the dam to watch the powerful structure hold back the waters of the White River. It is the perfect spot to view the workings of the dam and the power generating plant. There are also walking trails and good spots for a picnic. Designed, built and operated by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Table Rock Dam and Lake has become a paradise for boaters, scuba divers, campers and fishermen alike.

God and Country Inspirational Gardens

Come and reflect on God, family and our Country. Enjoy 6 ponds with fountains and waterfalls, a small cedar chapel, covered area for performances, many flower beds, a winding path along the landscape and a display of the Ten Commandments.

Stone Hill Winery The Stone Hill Winery entertains thousands of guests each year with a fascinating, historical and often humorous look at winemaking. Enjoy a sparkling hour of wine making on this free tour, which ends with some fine wine tasting. (Grape juice for the kids).

Free Sunday Shows Several of the Branson theaters open their doors Sunday mornings for some good old gospel get- togethers, Ozark style. Hear some of your favorite Branson entertainers and musicians doing traditional gospel music. You'll mix informally with other tourists, Branson locals, and you'll spot Branson celebrities both on stage and in the audience, although they are often unannounced. Several enjoy taking to the stage and sharing a word about their faith. Some theaters host worship services complete with preaching and testimonies.