23 Free or Cheap Things To Do in Pigeon Forge TN

Published April 15, 2025

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Pigeon Forge always attracts nature enthusiasts who are keen to discover truly breathtaking scenery when they visit.

Regardless of whether you're financially constrained or simply looking to set aside some additional funds when you're on a budget, you'll be pleased to know that you don't need to spend much to enjoy yourself in Pigeon.

Discover 23 cheap or free things to explore inside Pigeon Forge TN!

1. Hiking

Pick up your hiking shoes and backpack because it's time to go hiking.

Above 800m of pathways in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains signifies that the Pigeon Forge region is an ideal spot for hikers.

However, conduct some research first to figure out which path suits you best.

2. NewfoundGap Road

For those who are less daring, the mountains are ideal from the coziness of the vehicle.

As part of Pigeon Forge's no-cost options to explore, this road stands as a scenic drive that will guide you throughout the whole national park.

The journey spans 33 miles and culminates in North Carolina's Cherokee.

It usually requires around an hour, although this may change based on traffic.

For instance, the high season months, October, August, July, and June indicate increased driving hours.

Nevertheless, you will have the opportunity to experience the views extended if that is the situation.

Then, if you find yourself witnessing the gorgeous Smoky Mountains during autumn, consider yourself incredibly lucky.

3. Roaring Fork Nature Trail

This trail will guide you through a magical woodland setting that features beautiful waterfalls.

Two popular and favorite ones here are Grotto Falls and Rainbow Falls.

As soon as you discover one, exit your vehicle and soak in the aquatic marvel.

4. Great Smoky Mountains's Arts & Crafts Community

Individuals who possess a talent for discovering the finest handmade items will appreciate Pigeon Forge's free events and a trip to Great Smoky Mountains's Arts and Crafts Community.

This community is made up of autonomous artists and is the biggest of its type in the USA.

Trolleys are the favored method of transportation here to navigate the 8-mile circuit of charming galleries, stores, and workshops.

Whether you’re in search of mosaics, macramé, ceramics, glass sculpting, textile arts, drawing, chiseling, or another craft, there is definitely a store that will interest you.

Note that browsing through the shop is free though you'll need to spend some money if you discover something you wish to buy, so remember this before you admire a candle, painting, or another craft.

You can also talk to the store owners regarding how they became engaged in their craft, and witness some of them being created live.

So, if you wish to enhance your craftsmanship knowledge and your admiration for craftsmen, visiting this place is essential.

5. Old Mill Square

The delightful spot for dining and shopping also features complimentary festivals during the year and The OldMill Candy Kitchen is a cherished spot here.

Sampling their desserts is a great free Pigeon Forge activity and it's said that they frequently distribute sugary free samples.

Moreover, you can gain an insider perspective on the way the mill operates when you tour just for a minimal charge, ranking it among the best affordable activities in Pigeon.

6. Wear Farm City

Enjoying time with young family members doesn't need to be expensive.

Go to this Pigeon Forge park which offers a chance to relish the beautiful nature and enjoy quality moments with loved ones.

Families can stroll along the pathway to gain some physical activity and kids can enjoy themselves at the playgrounds here.

Also, their Story Walk stands as an excellent method to engage children enthusiastic about physical activity as they must continue walking to locate the tale's next page.

Then, Wear Farm also is an excellent spot for outdoor activities and picnics.

It is even a perfect spot to meet new individuals and engage with other community members.

7. Gatlinburg Overlook

Regardless of the season you choose to visit, this place always impresses.

Here, you can select from 4 parking areas.

Then, after selecting your location, get ready to indulge your vision of the Smoky Mountains's grandeur.

This is a photo opportunity you cannot afford to miss. Even, it’s likewise among the top activities to enjoy inside Pigeon Forge.

Extra points when you explore during their golden hour.

8. Pigeon Forge's Festivals

This is among the free or cheap things to do in Pigeon Forge TN.

Pigeon Forge stands as a paradise for festivals and you can frequently relish the activity and excitement of these thrilling festivals at no cost.

You can also enjoy additional Pigeon Forge activities and potential free concerts at no cost.

So, allow the alluring aroma of festival cuisine to entice you into an enjoyable experience at these festivals held all year long.

9. Famous Bridges

If you're seeking a simple outdoor escapade in Pigeon Forge with excellent photographic opportunities, be sure to locate some of its historic bridges nearby.

The bridges are enjoyable to stroll across, all around, and below, and they provide excellent settings for family pictures, fun, and many more.

Among the best choices is the Town Send Swinging Bridge.

Situated in Townsend, the bridge provides an excellent Little River view and is enjoyable for walkers to cross.

A slight shake provides the ideal surge of excitement.

You can also greet other guests as they float beneath on tubes drifting along the river.

Then, another wonderful bridge to explore is the spectacular Harrisburg Bridge located in Sevierville.

10. Dolly Parton Stampede

This cherished dinner show event showcases a selection of skilled horses and one has the opportunity to meet the actors prior to the commencement of the show at no cost.

So, wander through the renowned Horse Walk in order to get an opportunity to greet and meet the show stars.

You wouldn't want to leave without watching the performance after you meet the actors.

11. Clingmans Dome

There's nothing that compares to the Smoky Mountains's sight from an elevation of 6643 feet high.

One of Pigeon Forge's most exciting activities to engage in is journeying to the Clingmans Dome summit to fully enjoy this incredible viewpoint.

On a bright day, anticipate approximately a 100-mile viewing distance.

Clingmans Dome is the tallest point in Smoky Mountain National Park located in Tennessee state.

When going there, at the peak, get ready for a shift of 10 - 20 degrees decrease in temperature.

So, I suggest bringing a jacket along.

Also, note that the path to the summit is quite steep, thus you must leave pets, wheelchairs, and bicycles behind, as they’re not allowed.

12. Mountain Mile

Are you looking for a laid-back, easygoing environment featuring outdoor games and fire pits?

Take a look at this Mountain Mile located on Teaster Road.

It is an excellent location to enjoy moments with dear ones, create recollections, observe others, and browse if you like.

It also features numerous firepits arranged with seating around them for your family and you to reminisce about amusing tales illuminated by the firelight.

For the friend circles, Connect 4 and Cornhole games are available on their turf lawn.

Provide the children with coins to throw into the fountain where they can make wishes for their hearts’ desire.

Then, this place additionally features stunning sculptures and architecture to appreciate.

13. Shopping

Shopping inside Pigeon Forge remains outstanding as this town is brimming with a great combination of distinctive stores and outlet malls to explore.

Certainly, you will be able to delight in browsing stores without spending a dime if you lack extra cash.

In this area, you’ll discover hundreds of shops and nine malls.

Numerous shelves in the shops are filled with one-of-a-kind treasures that you won't discover anywhere else.

14. Patriot Park

One of Pigeon Forge's top outdoor activities is to enjoy a complete day with the natural world.

So, stop by the beautiful Patriot Park in order to view the Patriot Missile, Liberty Bell, and state flags.

Also, you might encounter July 4th fireworks or a festival if you schedule your time appropriately.

15. Pigeon Forge's Greenway

Cyclists, joggers, and leisurely strollers will appreciate the beautiful sights that accompany this place.

Also called Riverwalk Trail, it is a 6-mile trail that offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate nature without going too far removed from the path.

Ensure you chop up fruits and feed the ducks by the riverbank, or sit on a bench to read.

For households that enjoy spending time outside, this is definitely an excellent choice.

16. Wildlife Spotting

Take a binoculars set and watch for our beloved Smoky Mountain wildlife inhabitants.

Also, remember to show respect towards these beings that inhabit the mountain house and make sure to maintain a very safe distance.

17. Great Smoky Mountains’s National Park

Waterfalls, historic landmarks, mountain peaks, and additional attractions are found within this national park.

Regardless of whether your team and you are beginners or experts, there’s a path suitable for every skill level here.

However, although hiking is free, parking permits are necessary if you park for longer than fifteen minutes.

Hiking remains an exceedingly favored pursuit in the park and you'll quickly understand why when you venture out to start discovering.

18. Sugarland’s Visitor Center

Familiarize yourself with Pigeon Forge's no-cost activities by stopping at this visitor center.

Here, a complimentary 20-minute film gives a summary of all you should understand regarding the stunning Great Smoky National Park prior to beginning your journey.

Also, there are chances to explore historical displays and participate in ranger discussions offered at specific times that'll also inform you about the park.

19. Foothills Drive

If you would like to view the beautiful Tennessee Valley from a car window, go for a ride on the Foothills Parkway.

Enjoy scenic views of 33 miles with your windows open and music blasting in the backdrop.

Extending from USA Highway 129 near Chilhowee Lake up to the Wears Valley, it is an ideal activity for those who enjoy leisurely drives to experience a pause from reality.

You can enjoy the breathtaking sights of Wears Valley, Townsend, Maryville, Chilhowee Lake, Walland, and the Cumberland Mountain on a bright day.

This activity incurs no charge so far as you keep driving.

However, if you intend to park your car for over 15 minutes, you'll have to buy a Parking Pass.

20. Pigeon Forge Island

A significant portion of Pigeon Forge activities occurs on this island.

The entertainment center offers activities for every family member including shopping, meals, and a variety of other attractions like a mirrored labyrinth and amusement rides.

Make sure to visit OleSmoky Moonshine during your stay.

You can find it within their Smoky Barn, a perfect place to relax and savor a jar.

Indeed, the Pigeon Forge Isle is an excellent experience for individuals seeking the sensation of discovering an urban district in a pedestrian-friendly city.

Though the Island has numerous dining and shopping options, guests are allowed to browse stores and soak in the ambiance.

Giggle while observing individuals shout, ride the carnival attractions, or relax and appreciate live music at the stage of Ole Smoky.

You can likewise sit in the fountain chairs and be transported by the noise of descending water.

At the beginning of each hour, you're free to observe the fantastic water display.

This stunning experience highlights the strength of aligning fountain technology with music and lighting to produce something unforgettable.

Indeed, going to The Island remains a popular choice for everyone.

21. Cades Cove

The valley, encircled by mountains and teeming with greenery, is filled with beauty in Cades Cove.

Therefore, if you’re searching for top activities in Pigeon Forge, enjoy a picturesque ravel along the one-direction,11-mile route, and watch for animals and heritage structures.

Depending on traffic conditions, you may require between 2 to 4 hours to complete your path through the loop.

Also, you might consider dedicating a few more hours to Cades Cove in case you choose to exit your vehicle and hike various paths.

However, if hiking isn't an option for you, you can always appreciate nature's serene, gradual charm by traveling along the scenic loop of Cades Cove.

It provides fantastic perspectives of the open meadows, Smoky Mountains, churches, and cottages from a historical agreement.

Cades Cove is enjoyable for people of every age, and exploring it is an excellent method to explore the outside world.

During a fortunate day, you may observe various types of animals like turkeys, deer, and bears.

Note that if you come across these beasts, kindly remember to refrain from feeding them and maintain your distance.

22. Old Mill

If you are an enthusiast of history, The Historic Old Mill stands as an essential stop while visiting Pigeon Forge.

It was constructed in 1830 for milling corn, with a sawmill incorporated in 1859.

It was partly constructed from the Tulip Poplar tree, currently designated as the state tree of Tennessee.

It is among the main stops on Tennessee's Civil War Path because the mill proprietor was among the Unionists.

Even, the mill's second level housed looms for producing Union Uniforms. Also, a temporary hospital was set up on the uppermost level.

In the present day, the mill continues to be utilized for grinding meals, and the restaurants use its fresh products.

When you get here, do not feel compelled to purchase anything, they enjoy just conveying the site's rich history to visitors.

So, if you haven't yet visited the historic Old Mill, consider this your invitation to go.

23. Douglas Lake

In case hiking seems too demanding for you, what about a relaxing day at Douglas Lake?

Extending over 30000 acres, this lake is also home to a coast of more than 550 miles.

This indicates that there is plenty of space for every one of your preferred lake pastimes: angling, cruising, diving — you mention it.

Also, if you enjoy water sports, be sure to check out Douglas Lake during your visit to the Smoky Mountains, so your family and you can create some incredible memories outside.

It is an excellent spot to spread out and soak up the sun on bright days before diving into the refreshing water.

Douglas Lake also is a perfect spot for fishing, since it is considered one of USA’s best lakes for largemouth bass and crappie.

Then, for paddlers and paddleboarders, it is also an enjoyable spot to visit and discover.

Even, nature enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of bird species here and the possibilities for birdwatching.

So, you are invited to organize picnics, enjoy games, and share enjoyable moments together across this coastline of 550 miles.

Conclusion

Now is the moment to begin checking off your personal list of activities for Pigeon Forge TN.

Whether you opt to indulge in window shopping or venture into nature, Pigeon Forge caters to all types of travelers.

And the greatest perk? You can experience this tourist destination without spending much.