The Best Inexpensive Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN

If you’re looking for a vacation getaway that is both fun and budget-friendly, we have good news for you. There are plenty of inexpensive things to do in Gatlinburg, TN! This historical tourist town, nestled near the Great Smoky Mountains, is one of America’s favorite vacation spots.

Gatlinburg Trolley

Get around town in style on the Gatlinburg Trolley. It’s free and can be accessed by leaving your car at the Park-n-Ride lot near the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. This is especially great for pictures and if you’re going to do some wine tastings (or visit the Ole Smoky Distillery).

Gatlinburg Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Tour 

Looking for a fun, spooky night out in Gatlinburg? Try the Gatlinburg Ghost Tour! This affordable and entertaining walking tour takes you through the eerie backstreets of Gatlinburg, sharing chilling tales and local legends along the way. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers, history buffs, and anyone curious about the haunted side of this mountain town. 

Book your spine-tingling tour now! 

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Surely one of the more cost-efficient places near Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains Park is a great spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy nature at its finest – hiking trails, fish, and see historical landmarks and more. You will also see a lot of interesting foliage and wildlife during your trek. The park has plenty of places to rest including some scenic picnic areas. 

Want to make sure you see the best views in the park? Book a guided tour to catch the best cascades and find all the picture-perfect streams. Or if you’ve got your kids with you, try out a nature walk made to awaken their inner nature lover in them. 

Or if you prefer to go it solo, you can always do a self-guided tour.  

Cades Cove

Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, this 11-mile loop allows drivers, hikers, or bicyclists the opportunity to explore this vast valley. Enjoy a wide range of plant life, streams, and structures that have been standing since the 1800s. You can even spot wildlife in the area like whitetail deer, black bears, raccoons, rabbits, and more. The great thing about the park is you can do it on foot, car, or by bicycle.

Want the full scoop while you enjoy Cades Cove? Get a self-guided driving tour!

Roaring Fork

Another loop, this one measures 5.5 miles and is one-way. The scenic drive takes you through the Smokies, with historic buildings and cabins along the way. It’s just one mile from Gatlinburg and 35 miles from Cherokee, North Carolina.

Clingman’s Dome

If you want to capture a magnificent view of the Gatlinburg area, this is where you want to be – 6,643 feet up in the air. The observation tower gives you a 360-degree view that can reach distances of up to 100 miles on a clear day! Once you reach the area, be ready for a half-mile trek to the tower (keep in mind that it’s too steep for wheelchairs or individuals who have difficulty walking). Also, it’s a good idea to bring a jacket, because the area can be up to 20 degrees cooler due to higher elevation. 

Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Peek into downtown Gatlinburg whether it’s day or night with a truly unique experience at the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook. When it comes to free things, sleepy, snowy mountains during the winter and vibrant leaves in the fall are some of the best views you can witness. There are even designated parking areas so you can get the most out of the visual experience.

Take in A Magic Show 

Looking for an affordable night of fun and laughs in Gatlinburg? Check out the Impossibilities! 

This entertaining show, just a few blocks from the visitor center downtown, combines jaw-dropping magic with hilarious comedy and mind-blowing mentalism that’ll have you guessing all night. 

Perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves a good mystery, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a memorable evening without breaking the bank. Grab your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Mini-Golf Courses

On a trip with the whole family trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee? One of the cheap things you can do is check out the miniature golf scene! Here are some of the mini-golf courses to try:

Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf

Located at 188 Parkway in Gatlinburg, this spot has two 18-hole golf courses with animated animals and interactive displays. You can even hitch a ride on the trolley to get there.

Gatlin’s Mini Golf

Learn some local history while playing the 45 holes of fun at Gatlin’s Mini Golf, which is an award-winning mini golf and activity destination. There’s fun for everyone at Gatlin’s Fun Center: escape rooms, laser tag, bumper cars and MUCH more.

Black Light Golf

This indoor golf course truly glows… in the dark! Spend time playing the 9 holes no matter what the weather looks like outside. Then, when you’re done, take time to enjoy everything else Gatlin has to offer.

Baskin Creek Falls

Let an easy, 3-mile, round-trip hike on a nature trail lead you to Baskin Creek Falls. The waterfalls include a two-tiered, 40-foot fall along the Baskin Creek Trail. Once you get there, plan on also exploring the nearby Grotto Falls, Spruce Flats Falls, and Fern Branch Falls.

Get Your Escape Room On!

Looking for an exciting activity that’s perfect for a family vacation and affordable?

Try The Escape Game! This immersive, 60-minute adventure lets you step into a whole new world, where you and your group will solve puzzles, crack codes, and work together to complete a thrilling mission before time runs out.

With different themed rooms to choose from, there’s something for everyone, making it a perfect experience for families, friends, or couples looking for a unique way to spend an hour. Ready to put your teamwork to the test? Book your escape room now. 

Gatlinburg Space Needle

View the Appalachian mountains and Gatlinburg from the 407-foot Gatlinburg Space Needle. Not only do you get a 360-degree view, but you can also adjust the view for an even better visual. The ride up to the needle isn’t too shabby – it’s in a glass elevator which really enhances the experience. At the base of the space needle is an arcade and eatery. There’s truly something for people of all ages at this spot!

Scavenger Hunts 

Scavenger hunts turn any location into a playful adventure, letting you explore new sights, solve clues, and enjoy friendly competition—all without spending much. And you have a couple of options in Gatlinburg! 

Operation City Quest 

The scavenger hunt by Operation City Quest takes you straight into the heart of Gatlinburg. The city becomes your playground as the self-guided adventure takes you through iconic spots, challenging you to complete quirky tasks, solve riddles, and take creative photos along the way. Sound like a blast? Find out by joining the hunt! 

Zombie Scavengers

Want to get really quirky? Zombie Scavengers’ hunt pushes your brains to the limit by pitting you against not just the clock, but a horde of hungry zombies, too!

Perfect for friends, families, or anyone looking for a fun way to explore Gatlinburg, this game combines the excitement of a scavenger hunt with a zombie apocalypse theme! It’s a budget-friendly and action-packed way to discover the city while having a blast.

Find out how you’d fare in the apocalypse!

Sugarlands Distilling Company

Since 2014, Sugarlands Distilling Co. in downtown Gatlinburg has hosted people for moonshine tasting, production touring and more at its barnyard distillery. This tour is for individuals over the age of 21. A fun fact: in 2022, racecar driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. and wife Amy announced a partnership with Sugarlands, unveiling High Rock vodka.

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

Yes, you read that right – Gatlinburg is home to the world’s only Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum! Check out more than 20,000 sets of shakers from around the globe. While this isn’t among the list of free activities in Gatlinburg, there is a $3 admission for each adult. Children 12 and under are free. 

Ober Mountain

There are endless fun things to do at Ober Mountain. Ride a tram that takes you to the mountain top and ski area. In the winter, take advantage of Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort, which has a school run by professionals. Go snow tubing and snowboarding at Terrain Park, and if you don’t have your own stuff, rentals are available.

Visiting in the summer? There’s also a mountain coaster, rock wall, alpine slide and an indoor ice skating rink, just a few of the activities. You have the opportunity to use the tram only or you can include the wristband. It is still one of the most budget-friendly activities you can participate in during your stay.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Discover the creative soul of Gatlinburg at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community! 

This 8-mile loop is home to over 100 local artists and craftspeople showcasing their one-of-a-kind creations, from hand-carved woodworks and pottery to stunning paintings and unique jewelry. 

Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir or simply love supporting local talent, this charming arts community offers an authentic Gatlinburg experience.

Anakeesta

This mountain-top theme park in Gatlinburg offers ziplining, a Treetop Skywalk bridge and even the Rail Runner mountain coaster. 

Dollywood

Located in neighboring Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dollywood is set in the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains metroplex and offers a theme park, water park, cabins and gift shops. 

Plan Your Visit to Gatlinburg!

If you’re planning a Gatlinburg trip, don’t forget there’s also nearby Sevierville, which has tons of shopping options.

No matter your budget, there are plenty of inexpensive things to do in Gatlinburg, TN (whether you’re perusing the unique finds from Gatlinburg’s arts and crafts community or looking for something to do in the great outdoors). If you need more information about visiting the Gatlinburg area, check out our extensive resources, ranging from blogs to various services. We’ll see you soon!