Cheap Family Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN: 9 Budget-Friendly Activities
Planning a family getaway shouldn’t involve breaking the bank. If you’re looking for cheap family things to do in Gatlinburg, TN, you’ve come to the right place.
Your Gatlinburg vacation on a budget doesn’t mean you miss out on the fun. It is quite the opposite, as Gatlinburg and its neighbor, Pigeon Forge, are bursting with a plethora of family-friendly attractions that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Keep reading to discover cheap things to do in Gatlinburg!
So if you’re searching for cheap family things to do in Gatlinburg TN, your search ends here! Follow along as we share a parade of budget friendly Gatlinburg attractions that promise a barrel of laughs and a bucket full of memories.
Cheap Family Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Topping our list of cheap family things to do in Gatlinburg TN, is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This breathtaking expanse is the jewel of Gatlinburg Tennessee, and a must-visit for people of all ages, from the young ones to Grandma and Grandpop!
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is packed with picturesque trails and historic landmarks. A trip to this vast gem doesn t cost much. In fact, entry is absolutely free! Nature lovers will enjoy this outdoor paradise packed with dozens of free things to do for families.
Trek, cycle, or horseback ride through a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, sparkling streams, and fascinating historic sites. There are also scheduled free ranger-led programs that take visitors down trails winding through wildflowers, over glistening streams, and past historic structures.
Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket! Picnic pavilions are available in several areas of the Great Smoky National Park.
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Take a stroll through the largest collection of independent artisans in North America. The rustic 8-mile loop of the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is an inviting enclave of creativity teeming with art, pottery, and traditional mountain crafts. It’s home to some of the most affordable things to do in Gatlinburg TN, especially for art enthusiasts!
Strolling through this living gallery won’t cost you a dime, but don’t be surprised if you walk away with an affordable, handmade keepsake! You will enjoy the handiwork of countless artisans and maybe pick up a couple of gifts for the peeps back home that won’t have you breaking the bank.
If you visit during the summer, you will also enjoy Smoky Mountains Tunes & Tales, an enchanting, interactive street performance festival right in the heart of charming Gatlinburg. You’ll encounter a lively troupe of local musicians, storytellers, and artists dressed in period attire. This seasonal event is sure to have your toes tapping and your hands clapping in no time!
Anakeesta
576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Take your Gatlinburg adventure to new heights at Anakeesta. This mountaintop park has a little something for everyone. Though not entirely free, this mountaintop park offers a full day of budget-friendly fun with spectacular vistas, whimsical gardens, and thrilling rides.
Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Dueling Zipline among other thrill rides. Soar above the treetops and appreciate breathtaking views of the mountains while you race your family to the finish.
Anakeesta isn’t only about thrills. Indulge your senses in the tranquil setting of the mountainside dining spots and delicious meals with a side of a stunning sunset. As night falls, gather the family around a cozy fire pit to share stories and make s’mores under the twinkling stars.
Crave Golf Club
2925 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
A list of cheap things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge wouldn’t be complete without mini golf. The Crave Golf Club is no ordinary mini golf course. It’s an immersive wonderland of sweet-themed fun that guarantees a hole-in-one for joy and entertainment.
With 19 holes in the indoor course and another 19 on the rooftop, the family will not just be playing golf – you’ll be embarking on an exciting journey filled with laughter, creativity, and candy-coated adventures.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster
2940 Veterans Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Hop aboard the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster for an exhilarating ride through the Smoky Mountains. This affordable coaster ride promises fun and excitement for all family members, making it a must-visit Gatlinburg attraction.
Prepare for over 9 minutes of pure exhilaration as you cruise through over 20 acres of beautiful Smoky Mountain terrain. The track, over a mile long, takes you through exhilarating drops, breathtaking turns, and a variety of enchanting tunnels.
The best part? You’re in control! Feel free to take it slow and soak up the stunning mountain vistas, or zip down the mountain at up to 30 miles per hour for a true taste of high-speed excitement. Whether you’re a fearless thrill-seeker or someone who prefers to take things a bit slower, you’ll find a pace that’s just right for you.
Beyond The Lens Family Fun
2115 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Step into a world of interactive entertainment at Beyond The Lens Family Fun! Packed with virtual reality games, augmented reality experiences, and fascinating exhibits, this digital playground offers fun on a budget for tech-savvy families.
As you explore, you’ll also learn! The exhibits are designed to be not just entertaining, but educational, making it a perfect fun-tastic learning experience for the young ones and the young-at-heart. Enjoy the exhibits’ fascinating insights into history, technology, and the mysterious phenomena that make our world such an interesting place.
Outdoor Gravity Park
203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Roll into excitement at the Outdoor Gravity Park! Hurtle down a hill in a giant inflatable ball for a unique, affordable thrill that will have the whole family laughing. Choose between the “Fast Tracks,” a three-lane, straight course for those who love speed, or the “Extreme Zig Zag,” a zig-zag path for those seeking a wilder ride. It’s a one-of-a-kind Gatlinburg experience!
This family-friendly Zorb park is set against the beautiful backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, and with picnic tables and places to relax, it’s the perfect place to make a day of it.
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
461 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Have you ever visited a museum dedicated to salt and pepper shakers? Spice up your Gatlinburg family vacation on a budget with a visit to the one-of-a-kind Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum.
From the moment you step in, you’ll be greeted by a panorama of over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from all corners of the globe, each one unique and with its own story to tell. Marvel at the creativity and artistry, with designs ranging from classic and traditional to whimsical and downright bizarre.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, each salt and pepper shaker is a tiny window into the culture, history, and artistry of its place of origin. This fun center offers an affordable educational experience for the whole family. Admission for kids is free!
Ole Smoky Moonshine
903 Parkway #128, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Immerse yourself in the local flavor at Ole Smoky Moonshine, one of the cheap things to do in Gatlinburg, TN for couples and families alike.
While the youngsters enjoy live music from the heart of the Smoky Mountains, adults can savor various moonshine flavors at this historic distillery. In addition, the older kids might find the distillation process intriguing.
After all the tastings a visit to the gift shop might lead you to bring a bit of Gatlinburg home!
Gatlinburg Vacation Packages
Gatlinburg Tennessee, has no shortage of attractions that make your vacation wallet-friendly. The real beauty of Gatlinburg on a budget is that it shows you don’t need to spend a fortune to create wonderful memories.
With our money-saving Gatlinburg vacation packages, you’ll find plenty of affordable entertainment options. Guaranteeing your family vacation is as rich in experiences as it is light in your pocket. You can even add in a Gatlinburg hotel of your choice for more savings!
So why wait? Start planning your Gatlinburg adventure today and create priceless memories.
Cheap Things to Do Gatlinburg FAQs
Is Gatlinburg a Good Family Vacation?
Gatlinburg is an excellent destination for a family vacation, offering a plethora of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. From exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to enjoying thrilling rides at Dollywood or Ober Gatlinburg, there's something to keep everyone entertained.
Plus, the town's friendly atmosphere and abundance of family-friendly restaurants make it a welcoming place for all.
Is Gatlinburg Affordable?
You can plan a trip to Gatlinburg on a budget, especially during the off-season. Always take advantage of discounts and deals offered by various attractions and accommodations! There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and many budget-friendly dining and shopping options are available throughout the town.
However, like any popular tourist destination, costs can add up quickly if you're not careful. So, plan, budget wisely, and take advantage of the many free and affordable activities Gatlinburg has to offer!
What Did We Miss?
Do you have any cheap activities to add to our list? Leave us a comment below!
