30 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, nestled at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a popular destination known for its mountain charm, family attractions, and outdoor adventures. While many activities come with admission fees, finding enjoyable free things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is surprisingly simple, allowing visitors to experience the region’s stunning natural beauty and unique Appalachian culture without straining their wallets. From scenic drives to downtown strolls, the area offers plenty for budget-conscious travelers.
This guide points you towards 30 specific ways you can enjoy Gatlinburg and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park completely free of charge. Discover breathtaking viewpoints, historic spots, beautiful trails, and lively street scenes, proving that an unforgettable mountain getaway can be achieved affordably. Get ready to explore the best of Gatlinburg without the expense.
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Drive Cades Cove Loop Road: Take the scenic 11-mile, one-way loop road through a beautiful valley known for historic buildings and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Allow several hours to drive slowly and stop often; vehicle-free Wednesdays (seasonal) offer bike/walk access.
Spot Wildlife in Cades Cove: Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and other animals frequently seen along the Cades Cove loop. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances for sightings.
Visit Cades Cove Historic Buildings: Stop along the loop road to explore the exteriors of preserved homesteads, churches, and a working grist mill (seasonal operation). Reading the informational signs provides insight into past mountain life.
Drive Newfound Gap Road: Travel this scenic road connecting Gatlinburg, TN, to Cherokee, NC, climbing over 5,000 feet. Stop at numerous overlooks for stunning mountain vistas along the way.
Stand at Newfound Gap Overlook: Visit the overlook at the Tennessee-North Carolina state line on Newfound Gap Road. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views and see the Rockefeller Memorial marking the park’s dedication site.
Hike a Portion of the Appalachian Trail: Access the famous AT directly from the Newfound Gap parking area. Hike a short distance in either direction to experience a small piece of this legendary trail.
View Waterfalls from the Road: See waterfalls like The Sinks or Meigs Falls directly from pull-offs along Little River Road (connecting Gatlinburg to Cades Cove). These require minimal or no walking to enjoy.
Hike the Gatlinburg Trail: Walk this relatively flat, paved trail following the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River from Gatlinburg into the national park. It’s one of only two park trails allowing dogs and bikes.
Explore Sugarlands Visitor Center: Stop by the main park visitor center near Gatlinburg. Browse the informative exhibits on park nature and history, watch the free park film, and ask rangers questions.
Walk Sugarlands Nature Trails: Take an easy walk on the short, paved nature trails behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Discover the Quiet Walkways located along Newfound Gap Road for short, peaceful strolls.
Drive Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: Take this narrow, winding one-way loop road accessible from downtown Gatlinburg (seasonal access for motor vehicles). See historic buildings, rushing streams, and lush forests; note that RVs/large vehicles are prohibited.
Visit Roaring Fork Historic Structures: Stop along the Motor Nature Trail to see preserved log cabins, barns, and the Alfred Reagan Tub Mill. Imagine the lives of the families who settled this mountainous area.
Picnic in the Park: Pack your own food and enjoy a meal at designated picnic areas like Chimneys, Metcalf Bottoms, or Cades Cove. Enjoying lunch surrounded by nature is a classic park experience.
Explore Greenbrier Cove: Drive into the less-crowded Greenbrier section of the park, known for its beautiful river scenery and spring wildflowers. Enjoy walking along the river or finding a quiet spot to relax.
Downtown Gatlinburg Strolls & Sights
Walk the Gatlinburg Parkway: Stroll the main street running through downtown Gatlinburg. Enjoy people-watching, window shopping at the unique stores, and soaking up the lively mountain town atmosphere.
Window Shop The Village Shops: Wander through the charming European-style collection of unique boutiques and eateries tucked just off the Parkway. Admire the quaint architecture and browse the shop windows.
Walk the Riverwalk: Enjoy peaceful pathways running alongside the Little Pigeon River behind the Parkway. It offers a quieter alternative for a downtown stroll away from the main street bustle.
Visit Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen: Watch candy makers stretch taffy and create other sweet treats through the large storefront windows. Enjoy the delicious smells and observe the traditional candy-making process.
See Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook: Drive or walk up the Gatlinburg Bypass road (accessible from the south end of town near the park entrance). Pull over at the overlook for iconic panoramic views of downtown Gatlinburg nestled in the mountains.
Enjoy Seasonal Decorations & Lights: Visit during holidays like Winterfest (roughly Nov-Feb) to see downtown Gatlinburg adorned with millions of twinkling lights and festive displays. Strolling the Parkway becomes a magical free experience after dark.
Listen to Street Performers: Occasionally, musicians or street performers entertain crowds along the Parkway. Enjoy the spontaneous live entertainment adding to the town’s atmosphere.
Arts Crafts & Culture
Drive the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Trail: Explore the historic 8-mile loop road off Highway 321, home to numerous independent artisans and craftspeople. Browsing the studios and shops (many have free viewing areas) showcases local talent.
Admire Outdoor Art & Sculptures: Look for public art pieces scattered throughout downtown Gatlinburg and within the Arts & Crafts Community. Discovering these creative works adds interest to your explorations.
Visit Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts Campus: Walk the grounds of this renowned arts education center near downtown. Admire the architecture and check for free exhibitions in their galleries (confirm gallery access/hours).
Scenic Drives & Overlooks
Drive Foothills Parkway West: Experience sections of this scenic parkway offering stunning, less-crowded mountain views west of the main park. Pull over at overlooks like Look Rock for impressive vistas.
Visit Emerts Cove Covered Bridge: Take a short drive outside Gatlinburg towards Pittman Center to see this picturesque historic covered bridge. It’s a lovely spot for photos and enjoying a piece of local history.
Find Pull-Offs on Little River Road: As you drive between Gatlinburg and Townsend or Cades Cove, utilize the numerous pull-offs along the Little River. Enjoy views of the cascading water and lush forest scenery.
Explore Wears Valley: Take a scenic drive through this beautiful valley located between Pigeon Forge and Townsend. Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and rolling farmland.
Photograph Mountain Scenery: Capture the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains from various overlooks and trails. Documenting the stunning landscapes provides lasting memories of your trip.
