By the time you pay for a place to stay, you might be worried about having enough money to experience all the fun attractions in the area. Luckily, there are many different activities that your family can enjoy that are very inexpensive. We know you want to save as much money as possible on your next trip to the Smokies. So, here are 4 free things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains:

1. Drive through Cades Cove

If you want to get away from the craziness of the city, take your family on a drive through Cades Cove. The 11-mile loop is one of the most popular activities to do in the Smokies because it offers a great opportunity to see wildlife. When you are driving through the loop, be sure to keep an eye out for some of the animals that call Cades Cove home. There are normally a large number of white-tailed deer hanging out in the grassy areas, but you may also see black bears, turkeys, raccoons, and many other animals. Driving through The Cove is completely free and is a fun way to spend the afternoon with your family!

2. Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Recently named the Top Attraction in Tennessee by popular travel site Musement, The Island in Pigeon Forge is a fun place to visit. Admission to the park and parking are both free. When you get there, everything is set up in the formation of a town square. There are multiple different shops and restaurants you can check out while you are there. Even though it costs money to buy things, The Island is a fun place to just go window shopping and see all the cool activities there are to do. One of the free things you can do is enjoy The Island Show Fountain. In the middle of the park, there is a multi-tiered fountain that dances and lights up in sync with 14 different songs. The show begins every 30 minutes at the top of each hour and on the half hour. Spending some time walking around and watching the fountain is just one of the free things to do in Pigeon Forge!

3. Spend the Day at Patriot Park

Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge is a riverside park that is dedicated to veterans, and it’s the perfect place to go when you’re looking for free things to do in Pigeon Forge. There are multiple things you can do while you are there that will not cost you anything. If you need to host an event, there is a gazebo and pavilion at the park that you can use free of charge. While there is not a fee, it is recommended you make reservations in advance to secure your spot. There is also a fabulous walking trail where your family can enjoy some exercise and take in some area history. The path takes you along the Pigeon River and it is a nice trail to enjoy the nature of the area. Also, you will see the flags of all 50 states and several memorials to the veterans of Pigeon Forge.

4. Go Hiking in the Smoky Mountains

One of the best family activities in the Smokies is hiking. No matter how experienced you are, there is a trail that will fit your skill level. If you want to start with a beginner’s hike, start with Kephart Prong Trail or Porters Creek Trail. These hikes are great for families that have young children. If you are looking for a more demanding adventure, two of the best hikes to try are Mount LeConte and Gregory’s Bald. No matter which trail you decide to take, hiking is one of the best activities in the Smoky Mountains that will not cost you anything.

Now that you know about some of the free things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains, be sure to check out our specials and discounts to help save even more money on your cabin! We can’t wait to see you!