Free Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge’s Parkway strip is built around paid attractions — but step off the strip into the Great Smoky Mountains and the best experiences are free.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Free)

No entrance fee — ever. The most visited national park in America is completely free.

Cades Cove — 11-mile loop road through a mountain valley with wildlife, historic buildings, and mountain views.

Newfound Gap — Drive to the Tennessee/North Carolina state line at 5,048 feet for panoramic mountain views. The road is free (and one of the most scenic drives in the eastern US).

Laurel Falls — Easy 2.6-mile round trip hike to an 80-foot waterfall. Paved trail. Free.

Elkmont Firefly Viewing (late May-June) — Synchronous fireflies flash in unison. Lottery entry system for vehicle access during peak weeks.

The Island at Pigeon Forge (Free to Walk)

The Island entertainment complex is free to enter and walk around. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel (paid), restaurants, and shops surround a central fountain that runs a choreographed show with music and lights. The nightly fountain show is free.

Parkway Strip (Free to Browse)

The Pigeon Forge Parkway is 5 miles of attractions, many with free viewing of their exterior spectacles — the Hollywood Wax Museum’s King Kong, the Titanic Museum’s exterior, and the various themed mini-golf course entrances.

Free Live Entertainment

Local churches and community groups — Free gospel and bluegrass concerts at various venues. Check local event calendars.

Patriot Park — A memorial park with walking paths and a Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica. Free. Peaceful.

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