free things to do in gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular vacation spot in the Smoky Mountains, offering a range of activities and attractions for all ages. Here are some free things to do in Gatlinburg:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park offers beautiful scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Admission is free, although some activities may require a small fee.
2. Gatlinburg Strip: Take a stroll along the Gatlinburg Strip, a lively road lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. You can window shop, people-watch, and enjoy the lively atmosphere without spending a dime.
3. Gatlinburg Riverwalk: The Gatlinburg Riverwalk is a scenic path that follows the Little Pigeon River. You can walk, jog, or bike along the path and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Cades Cove: Cades Cove is a historic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can drive through the cove and see historic buildings, churches, and scenic vistas without paying a fee.
5. Gatlinburg Space Needle’s Plaza: While there is a fee to go up the Space Needle, the plaza area is free and offers great views of the surrounding mountains and the city.
6. Anakeesta’s Plaza: Similar to the Space Needle, Anakeesta’s plaza area is free and offers great views of the surrounding mountains and the city.
7. Gatlinburg’s Winterfest Lights: During the winter months, Gatlinburg is decorated with millions of lights. You can drive through the city and enjoy the festive lights without spending a dime.
8. Smoky Mountain Trout House’s Fish Feeding: The Smoky Mountain Trout House offers free fish feeding demonstrations, where you can see trout being fed and learn about the fish.
9. Gatlinburg’s Public Art: Gatlinburg has a number of public art installations throughout the city, including murals and sculptures. You can take a self-guided tour of the art installations without spending a fee.
10. Gatlinburg’s Parks: Gatlinburg has several parks, including Mynatt Park and Mills Park, which offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails. Admission is free.
11. Little Pigeon River: The Little Pigeon River runs through Gatlinburg and offers great fishing and wading opportunities. You can also take a stroll along the river and enjoy the scenic views.
12. Gatlinburg’s Trolley: While there is a fee to ride the trolley, you can take a free tour of the city by walking along the trolley route and enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.
13. The Village Shops: The Village Shops is a collection of shops and restaurants in a charming, village-like setting. You can browse the shops and enjoy the atmosphere without spending a dime.
14. Gatlinburg’s Events: Gatlinburg hosts a number of events throughout the year, including festivals, parades, and concerts. Many of these events are free and open to the public.
15. Smoky Mountain Heritage Center: The Smoky Mountain Heritage Center offers free admission to its museum and grounds, which feature exhibits on the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.

Remember to always check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm that the activity is free and available during your visit.