If you're just serving static files or can put a proxy in front you could use a server like caddy server which handles all of this for you by using lets encrypt, this takes the pain out of provisioning certificates and you don't have to install any other software.

Alternatively you could use a service like cloudflare - their free plan offers free https (again using let's encrypt).

Finally, some hosts offer free https certs now, including dreamhost. So check if your current host offers this as an option.

I wouldn't recommend trying to find a workaround, there is only one way to make your site secure, and browsers will eventually be warning on every site that doesn't have https, no matter what the content. The web is moving towards https everywhere.

If you're just serving static files or can put a proxy in front you could use a server like caddy server which handles all of this for you by using lets encrypt, this takes the pain out of provisioning certificates and you don't have to install any other software.

Alternatively you could use a service like cloudflare - their free plan offers free https.

Finally, some hosts offer free https certs now, including dreamhost. So check if your current host offers this as an option.

I wouldn't recommend trying to find a workaround, there is only one way to make your site secure, and browsers will eventually be warning on every site that doesn't have https, no matter what the content. The web is moving towards https everywhere.