This Gatlinburg vacation guide with a list of cheap things to do in Gatlinburg will please all those who want to explore the town without spending a fortune.
With so many things to do in Gatlinburg, it is impossible to get bored. But if you will ask, is it possible to bust your budget doing them all, the answer is Yes. But no worries, because have the solution for you!


Looking for something to do in Gatlinburg but don’t want to spend a lot of money? No problem!
There are plenty of cheap things to do in Gatlinburg that will keep you entertained without emptying your wallets. Here are some excellent ideas to get you started.

How Can I Go To Gatlinburg On A Budget?
There are a few ways that you can go to Gatlinburg on a budget. Here are some money-saving ideas:
- Look for Gatlinburg discount tickets and coupons available for attractions, hotels, and restaurants.
- Visit during the off-season(January, February, and March). It is often cheaper to visit during these times because accommodations usually offer lower rates compared during the peak season.
- Save money on food by eating at less expensive restaurants or packing your own meals.
- You can also look for package deals that include lodging, meals, and activities all for one price.
- You can save money by doing things like hiking and picnicking instead of taking part in more costly activities.
Enjoying a trip to Gatlinburg doesn’t have to be expensive. By following these tips, you can save money and still have a great time.

Whether you are visiting Gatlinburg for the first time or a resident of the area, the list of wonderful and affordable things to do in Gatlinburg keeps growing. Keep scrolling to find out more!
Cheap Things To Do in Gatlinburg
Have a great time without breaking the bank with these cheap things to do in Gatlinburg!
The Great Smoky Mountains National park is one of the most affordable national parks to visit because its is FREE! It is also one of the most popular, with over 11 million visitors each year.
There are many free things to do in the park, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
The Gatlinburg Trolley is a great way to see the sights of Gatlinburg without having to worry about parking. The trolley is free to ride, and you can hop on and off at any of the stops along the route. This is a great way to save money on transportation while you are visiting Gatlinburg.
Strolling downtown is one of the most fun, and cheapest things to do in Gatlinburg! You can window shop, people watch, and find some great deals on souvenirs.
There are also a ton of attractions and free shows and performances that happen downtown, so you can enjoy some entertainment without spending a dime.
Gatlinburg is a great place to have a picnic. There are many picnic spots in the Great Smoky Mountains national park that are cheap or even free.
There are also plenty of activities to do while you're picnicking, such as hiking, fishing, and swimming. So pack a lunch and head to Gatlinburg for a great day outdoors!
Gatlinburg is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right next door, and the views from the scenic drives in the area are simply breathtaking.
If you're looking for a cheap way to take in the sights, consider taking a drive through the park or on one of the many scenic routes in the area. You'll be able to enjoy the scenery without spending a lot of money, and you might even find some hidden gems along the way.
When you visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, you'll find that there are plenty of cheap things to do. This is because the community offers a variety of free events and attractions. For example, you can take part in art classes, listen to live music, or explore the many shops and galleries.
Renting a cabin in Gatlinburg can be an affordable option, especially if you split the cost with friends or family. You can find great deals on cabins that are just as nice as hotels, but offer more space and amenities such as fully equipped kitchens and hot tubs. Plus, staying in a cabin allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to leave.
Why sample some moonshine in Gatlinburg? Because it's cheap, and you can find it just about anywhere. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a tour of one of the many distilleries and sample some of their delicious moonshine.
Head on over to Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, for just $5, you can take a tour of the facility and see how Ole Smoky moonshine is made. And of course, you'll get to sample some of their delicious moonshine at the end of the tour.
Gatlin's Fun Center is one of the most popular and affordable things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Gatlin's Fun Center has many arcade games, laser tag, mini golf, and bumper cars. They offer bundle passes and group discounts so you can play and save more!
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Get Your FREE Smoky Mountains Checklist Now!
Recommended Gatlinburg Vacation Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg in March
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
You don’t have to spend a lot to have a good time in Gatlinburg, in fact you can enjoy some of the best attractions without spending a dime. Read our post about Free Things To Do In Gatlinburg for more ideas.
And while exploring the town, make sure you have a compact travel camera with you to capture all the fun!