Downtown Gatlinburg on a summer day

4 of the Best Fun and Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN

July 24, 2017

Are you looking for free things to do on your vacation, but also looking for something entertaining for everyone to enjoy? There are plenty of fun free things to do in Gatlinburg TN. Here’s a few of our favorites:

1. Walk the Parkway

The Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg has a lot of great things for you to see! From amazing buildings to views of the mountains, there’s a lot to do just walking up and down the parkway. Try one of our favorites – step into one of the candy shops to watch them make fresh fudge or taffy! The Parkway is fun at night, too, if you want to see all of the city lights.

2. Visit nearby Cades CoveCades Cove meadow with mountains in background

Cades Cove is one of the most beautiful areas in the national park, and there’s so much to do there! This is one of the best fun free things to do in Gatlinburg TN because Cades Cove offers hikes, scenic views, picnic areas and multiple photo opportunities. Cades Cove is also one of the best places to see the local wildlife, like the white tailed deer or black bear! You may even see a few turkey, quail or a groundhog too. You will have better chances of seeing the wildlife depending on the time of day you visit the Cove. For your best chance to see our beautiful black bears, go as soon as the Cove opens or visit in the early evening.

3. Take a picnic to Mynatt Park

Mynatt Park is one of the many parks in the county that you can visit for free. There are many picnic tables and grills along a mountain stream for you to use, and if you bring some sports equipment with you, you can use the different courts to play basketball, tennis and more. There is also a kids playground for your little ones to enjoy. It’s a great spot to spend an hour or two and have a picnic with your family or friends.

4. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National ParkRiver rushing over rocks in Smoky Mountains

The best part about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is that every part of it is free! You can plan to go hiking on one of the numerous trails that winds through the park or you can visit and play in one of the rivers that flow through the mountains. The national park is an incredible display of natural beauty that everyone should definitely see. The fact that it’s all free is just a plus!

Save Money When You Stay with Us

We make it easy for our guests to save money on their vacation to Gatlinburg. We offer seasonal and year round discounts and deals on our cabins so you can get the best price on your vacation rental! Be sure to keep checking back on our specials because we update them regularly!