Dreaming of a mountain getaway but worried about budget? In this Smoky Mountains vacation guide, we list down cheap things to do in Smoky Mountains that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or a family on vacation, you are sure to find something fun to do in our list of recommendations!
When you think of the Smoky Mountains, what comes to mind? Hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking are all great activities to do.
However, these activities can also be done on a budget. Here are some cheap things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
Does it cost money to go to the Great Smoky Mountains?
Entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is completely free, making it a perfect destination for those seeking affordable adventure. Unlike many national parks in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains does not charge an admission fee for visitors.
However, while visiting the park itself is free, certain activities within the park like camping and special tours may have associated costs.
How Much Would A Trip To The Smoky Mountains Cost?
A trip to the Smoky Mountains can cost as little as $200 for two people, or as much as $2,000 for a family of four.
The cost will vary depending on how many people are in your party, how long you plan to stay, and what activities you want to do while you’re there.
For example, if you want to stay in a hotel near the park and do some hiking and sightseeing, your trip will cost less than if you plan to stay in a luxury cabin and go whitewater rafting and horseback riding.
There are many ways to save money on a trip to the Smoky Mountains. One way is to look for discount tickets and coupons for attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Another way to save money is to stay in an affordable hotel or campground.
If you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, be sure to check out our list of amazing cheap things to do in the Smoky Mountains below.
Cheap Things To Do In Smoky Mountains
Plan the ultimate mountain getaway on a budget with these cheap things to do in Smoky Mountains!
Entrance to the park is FREE, making it a great option for those on a budget. Take in the natural beauty of the mountains, hike one of the many trails, or go fishing in one of the many rivers and streams.
There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!
The Smoky Mountains offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. There are several scenic drives you can take, and many of them are free.
Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and save money on lodging. There are many campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains, and some of them offer discounts for longer stays.
This 11-mile loop is one of the most popular destinations in the park, and for good reason. Cades Cove offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and is rich in history. Best of all, it's free to enter!
There's nothing quite like a picnic in the great outdoors. And, with picnic areas located throughout the park, it's easy to find a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
The National Park Service offers a variety of ranger-led programs, many of which are free to attend. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park and its history.
Mountain coasters are becoming a popular activity in the Smokies. A mountain coaster is like a roller coaster but instead of being on a track, you ride in a cart down a hill or mountain. The carts have brakes so you can control your speed.
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons. With its many shops, restaurants, and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. However, one of the best things about the Island is that there are plenty of cheap and free things to do as well!
Browse through specialty shops, enjoy a performance of the Island show fountain and more!
Old Mill Square is located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The square is home to the historic Old Mill, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. The Old Mill is a working gristmill that has been in operation since the early 1800s.
Visitors can take a tour of the mill museum, or watch as the millers grind grain into flour. The Old Mill Heritage Cabin Museum is also located on-site and features a variety of exhibits about the history of the area.
If you're looking for things to do in the Smoky Mountains on a budget, be sure to check out the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community. This 8-mile loop features more than 100 artists and craftspeople, making it the largest group of independent artisans in North America.
Most of the galleries and studios are open year-round, and you can find everything from hand-blown glass and pottery to wood carvings and jewelry.
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
Related Smoky Mountain Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Looking for more ways to save some money while visiting the Smokies? Check out our post on top Fantastic Things To Do In Pigeon Forge For Free and Best Things To Do In Sevierville TN For Free.
One of the best things about the Smoky Mountains is that they are incredibly scenic. Whether you’re hiking through the woods or simply taking a drive through the park, there are plenty of photo opportunities. Don’t forget to pack your compact travel camera!