Vacation costs can add up fast. The good news is there are a number of fun free things to do in the Smokies to help keep your vacation affordable! From exploring the beauty of the vast wilderness from your vehicle to getting an up close look at Smoky Mountain history and culture, some of the most fun in the area doesn’t cost a dime. Are you ready to save money on your next trip to the Smoky Mountains? Here are 5 free things to do in the Smokies:
1. Drive Through Cades Cove
Many guests point to Cades Cove as their favorite place to visit in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Why? It offers visitors a little bit of everything, starting with unmatched natural beauty! There’s often wildlife roaming the area and there’s a long list of historical sites and structures you can visit. The best way to take it all in is to drive the Cades Cove Loop Road! This 11-mile, one-way scenic loop gives you a chance to see it all and it’s absolutely free to drive. If you park your vehicle for more than 15 minutes in the national park, you’ll need a daily parking tag which is just $5, otherwise the experience is free.
2. Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
One of the most underrated free things to do in the Smokies is to visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community! It’s the largest collection of individual artisans in the United States, giving you a chance to see handmade pieces of art, from pottery to wood sculpting, basket weaving, and more. This 8-mile loop features a number of galleries, studios, and shops that carry on Appalachian tradition to this day.
3. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape in nature, drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail! It’s another unforgettable scenic drive that’s among the top free things to do in the Smokies. Along this 5.5-mile one-way scenic loop, you’ll pass through dense forests, serene streams, historic buildings, and more. It’s the perfect place to capture some stunning photos of nature!
4. Explore Old Mill Square
The Old Mill Square is a crown jewel of Pigeon Forge, featuring historic buildings and a working grist mill. You’ll find a number of local artisans, from candy makers using age-old traditions to craft sweets and potters handworking with clay. Take a scenic walk along the river and make sure to take some photos of the historic mill. There’s shops you can stop at or enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants.
5. Walk Around The Island in Pigeon Forge
Visiting The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the top free things to do in the Smokies! This entertainment and shopping complex is a bustling hub full of fun things to do. Some of the free things you can enjoy at The Island include watching the fountain show, browsing through the many shops, and enjoying live music and entertainment. If you want to spend some money there are plenty of restaurants and rides like The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
More Free Things to Do in the Smokies
Keep your vacation affordable by taking advantage of these free things to do in the Smokies! When you stay with us at Luxury Cabin Rentals, you’ll also receive free tickets to some of the top attractions in the area, giving you even more free things to do in the Smokies! Learn more about our free attraction tickets and find out which attractions are included here!
