The best thing in Gatlinburg costs $5. The most-visited national park in the country starts at the edge of town, and the rest of this list costs nothing.
Up next11 free ideas, plus a stay that pays for itself.The $5 national park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park has no entrance fee. Parking longer than 15 minutes requires a tag:
Start at Sugarlands Visitor Center, which U.S. News flags as a first stop for trail maps and ranger advice.
The free list
- Hike park trails (parking tag only)
- Ride the Gatlinburg Trolley, free 365 days a year
- Stop at Sugarlands Visitor Center
- Walk the Parkway and catch street performers
- Browse the Arts & Crafts Community loop by trolley
- Picnic along the Little Pigeon River
- Drive the Winterfest Tour of Lights, Nov. 6 to Jan. 31
- Window-shop the downtown attractions
- Catch sunset from a park overlook
- Spot wildlife at dawn or dusk from your car
- Swim at your resort's pool
The Gatlinburg Trolley has no fares and stops at the Mass Transit Center, which saves on downtown parking. Gatlinburg's tourism office lists more free ideas by season.
Get a Visa card back on the stay
- Westgate Gatlinburg stay, 3 nights
- $149
- $150 Visa gift card back
- −$150
- 3 nights in a Smokies villa
- about $0
Per couple, before taxes. Requires a 90-minute preview.
The stay is at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, with villas, kitchens and access to Wild Bear Falls. Paid picks for the rest of the trip are in things to do in Gatlinburg with family.
- $150 Visa gift card
- Villa with kitchen, fireplace, balcony
- Access to Wild Bear Falls