Enjoy a day in bustling Gatlinburg, without spending a penny! The downtown Parkway, known to locals as the Strip, is full of tempting (and costly) attractions. But you can still have fun with free activities like these.
1. Ride the Gatlinburg Trolley
This convenient trolley rolls along the Strip 365 days a year. Get on and off as often as you like. This is your easy ride to everything along the Parkway, and riding the trolley is like taking a free city tour.
2. Listen to Bluegrass and Country Music
Drop in at The Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler and tap your toes to free concerts all day long. This family-friendly spot gives kids a break indoors and gives grown-ups a chance to taste genuine Tennessee moonshines (for a small fee).
3. Visit a European Village
Drop in at The Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler and tap your toes to free concerts all day long. This family-friendly spot gives kids a break indoors and gives grown-ups a chance to taste genuine Tennessee moonshines (for a small fee).
4. Take Selfies at Iconic Signs
How about a photo with an eight-foot-high bear looming over you? The “Standing Strong” mural, depicting a sweet bear and majestic mountains, stands near traffic light No. 8. Another famed selfie spot is the Gatlinburg sign in front of the Convention Center.
5. Raise a Glass at a Free Wine Tasting
Sip the region’s famous fruit wines for free, at Tennessee Homemade Wines. If you’ve never tried sweet wines, this is your chance to discover this Southern tradition. Flavors include blueberry, peach, or blackberry, and unusual flavors like peanut butter and jelly, chocolate cream, or latte cream.
6. Celebrate at Seasonal Festivals
Visit in autumn for the Harvest Festival with eye-catching fall displays. The Winter Magic festival illuminates the city in millions of twinkling lights. The city’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas parade and its July 4 parade and fireworks show are all free, too.
7. Enjoy Works by Local Artists
The Strip is home to art galleries displaying paintings, prints, and carvings by Appalachian artists. The Smokies’ natural beauty and native animals are beloved subjects. Though these galleries all sell art, browsing is free–and welcome!
Save money on a private, luxurious Gatlinburg cabin, so you’re close to the Strip. Browse our Gatlinburg cabin listings today and ask us about special deals.
