- Discover free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, like scenic walks and national park drives.
- Score affordable Smoky Mountain cabins with exclusive specials and discounts.
- Use cabin amenities to save on meals and entertainment with kitchens, theaters, and more.
- Ride the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg trolley for affordable, convenient transportation to top attractions.
If the price tag is the only thing stopping you from traveling to the Smokies, you will be glad to know that there are plenty of ways to make your trip more affordable. From finding free and cheap things to do in the area to saving big on lodging, you can enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Here are 4 ways to save on your Smoky Mountain vacation:
1. Enjoy the Best Free Things to Do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

One of the best ways to save money is by avoiding expensive attraction ticket prices. Looking for free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg? Start with a stroll through Patriot Park, where a half-mile walking trail winds along the Little Pigeon River and passes by memorials to Smoky Mountain veterans. It’s a peaceful spot for families to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the scenery.
For even more adventure, head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While you’ll have to purchase a daily parking tag for $5 if you plan on parking for longer than 15 minutes, you can enjoy scenic drives throughout the area for free!
Mini-Summary: Free activities like scenic walks at Patriot Park and driving through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park let you experience the beauty of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge without spending extra.
2. Find Cheap Smoky Mountain Cabins and Pigeon Forge Cabin Specials
Lodging is often the biggest vacation expense, but you can find cheap Smoky Mountain cabins by taking advantage of special offers! At Summit Cabin Rentals, we offer various specials throughout the year that get you discounted rates on the best cabins in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Take advantage of deals like free nights or a percentage off your stay. All you have to do is check out our cabin specials before booking your stay to guarantee you get the best deal!
These cabins aren’t just affordable. They’re packed with perks. Enjoy spacious living areas, full kitchens, and decks with stunning mountain views. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, there’s a cabin that fits your group and your budget!
3. Save on Dining and Entertainment with Smoky Mountain Cabin Amenities

One of the best ways to stretch your Smoky Mountain vacation budget is by making the most of your cabin’s amenities. Many of our Smoky Mountain cabins include features like billiards tables, hot tubs, and home theaters, perfect for family fun without extra costs. Spend a cozy night in, watch a movie, or challenge your crew to a game of pool, all from the comfort of your cabin.
Plus, with a fully equipped kitchen, you can cook your own meals and skip pricey restaurants. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save by dining in for one or two meals a day! We also offer free attraction tickets, so you can explore more of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for less.
Mini-Summary: Cabin amenities like kitchens, theaters, and game rooms help you save on dining and entertainment, making your Smoky Mountain vacation both fun and affordable.
4. Use the Trolley to Save on Transportation
Why drive everywhere and pay for gas and parking when you can ride the trolley? Many cabins are just minutes from main trolley stops, making it easy to get around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. The Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge trolleys can take you anywhere you need to go! The Gatlinburg trolley is free, saving you the cost and the hassle of downtown parking garages. The Pigeon Forge trolley varies depending on which route you take, or you can get an All-Day Pass for only $3!
One popular stop is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where you can see over 10,000 sea creatures and even pet a stingray. The trolley is a budget-friendly way to explore, and it’s a fun experience for the whole family.
FAQs About Saving on Your Smoky Mountain Vacation
What are the best free things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?
The best free things to do in Pigeon Forge include walking the half-mile trail at Patriot Park along the Little Pigeon River and exploring the veteran memorials. You can also go for a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for free fun in the mountains.
How can I save money on a Smoky Mountain cabin?
You can save money on a Smoky Mountain cabin by checking for specials that offer free nights or percentage discounts. Booking during off-peak times or midweek can also help you find the best deals.
How does my cabin help me save?

Your cabin’s amenities can help you save on your Smoky Mountain vacation. Prepare meals in the kitchen instead of dining out, spend time in the game room or home theater instead of buying attraction tickets, or take advantage of the free attraction tickets provided by your cabin!
How do I use the trolley?
To use the Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg trolley, simply find the nearest trolley stop! The trolleys take you to all the popular destinations in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Find the Perfect Cabin for Your Smoky Mountain Vacation
Now that you know about some ways to save on your Smoky Mountain vacation, you are one step closer to planning the trip of a lifetime. Check out all our cabins in the Smokies to find the one that is just right for your family. We look forward to seeing you soon!












