free things to do in gatlinburg tn

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: The Smoky Mountain Trout House is a fish hatchery that offers free tours. You can learn about trout farming and see the fish up close.
9. Gatlinburg’s Public Parks: Gatlinburg has several public parks, including Mynatt Park and Mills Park, that offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails. Admission is free.
10. Gatlinburg’s Trolley: Gatlinburg offers a free trolley service that runs along the strip and to some of the outlying areas. You can hop on and off the trolley to get around the city without spending a dime.
11. The Island at Pigeon Forge’s Fountain Show: The Island at Pigeon Forge offers a free fountain show that features music, lights, and water effects.
12. Gatlinburg’s Art Galleries: Gatlinburg has several art galleries that offer free admission. You can browse the galleries and see the work of local artists without spending a dime.
13. Smoky Mountain Heritage Center: The Smoky Mountain Heritage Center offers free admission and features exhibits on the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.
14. Gatlinburg’s Historic Mill: The Gatlinburg Historic Mill is a historic gristmill that offers free tours. You can learn about the history of the mill and see the grinding process up close.
15. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic driving trail that takes you through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Admission is free, although some activities may require a small fee.

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