One of the awesome things about a Smoky Mountain vacation is that it can be incredibly affordable! In fact, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that are completely free! It is no wonder why so many families love returning to our cabins year after year to explore everything that the Smokies have to offer! Here are 5 free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg:
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that there is no entrance fee to Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This means that you can enjoy your choice of 150 official hiking trails, as well as scenic drives, exciting visitor centers, and more! The only thing you do need to purchase is a parking tag when you plan to park anywhere for more than 15 minutes at a time. This is available for just a nominal fee, making a visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park incredibly affordable! If you are just driving through, there is no need for a parking tag at all!
2. The Island Show Fountain
Another one of the free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is The Island Show Fountain! This spectacular fountain show is a highlight at The Island in Pigeon Forge, a huge shopping, dining, and entertainment complex! The state-of-the-art multi-tiered show features a stunning presentation of water and light, all perfectly choreographed to 14 pieces of music! There are over 89 nozzles that help to create the performance, including a center nozzle that projects water 60 feet into the air!
3. Gatlinburg City Parks
There are several wonderful Gatlinburg City Parks for visitors to enjoy, each of which offers plenty of fun recreational opportunities, picnic facilities, and more! Mynatt Park features hiking options, tennis courts, basketball courts, and easy access to LeConte Creek, which runs along the park. Mills Park is home to walking tracks, outdoor exercise equipment, an 18-hole disc golf course, and the Gatlinburg Dog Park. Finally, Herbert Holt Park features the Gatlinburg Trout Facility and a greenhouse with a gorgeous variety of flowers, plants, and shrubs!
4. Old Mill Square
When it comes to the free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, don’t miss a visit to the Old Mill Square! While the main attraction of this iconic destination is a historic grist mill that has been in operation since the 1800s, you’ll also find several unique shops and restaurants surrounding the mill! While you could easily find some fantastic gifts for your family and friends while browsing through the shops, you can still have a blast without spending a dime!
5. Patriot Park
If you need a break while driving among all the go-kart tracks, miniature golf courses, and other attractions along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, you’ll find an oasis at Patriot Park! This lovely park features a half-mile walking trail that is perfect for stretching your legs for a bit! Along the path, you’ll discover the flags of all 50 states and several memorials to the veterans of Pigeon Forge! Patriot Park is also the site of many special events throughout the year, including the Winterfest of Lights, Patriot Festival, and Independence Day Fireworks!
Check out all of our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals today to stay close to these free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smokies!
