1. Visit the Old Mill
If you enjoy history, you should stop by the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge. This famous landmark is over 200 years old, and the grist mill still works to grind flour and corn meal that are used in the Old Mill Restaurant and the Pottery House Cafe and Grill. Seeing the water wheel is a must when you visit Old Mill Square. You can see it really well when you’re on the sidewalk of the bridge. Walking through the shops is also fun. See how the candies are made at the Candy Kitchen, and watch artists make pottery at Pigeon River Pottery.
2. Walk Around The Island
The Island is a great place to go for free things to do in Pigeon Forge! You can walk around and browse through over 40 specialty shops. They have toy stores kids will want to go in, and there are plenty of boutiques with cute clothes and home decor. The Island has plenty of fun rides you can pay for, like The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or the ropes course. You don’t have to pay anything to sit and watch the colors change on the wheel. You can also watch the Fountain Show at The Island. Water jets are set to music and dance while lights are used at night to add to the show. Outside of Ole Smoky Moonshine, you may be able to catch a concert for free when you check the event calendar.
3. See the Arts and Crafts Community
Another free thing to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains is to go through the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community. There’s an 8-mile loop full of artisans and craftsmen that have shops you can look through. They carve wood, do metal work, make pottery, and so much more. Watching all of these people at their craft is entertaining and amazing since many of these arts aren’t something many people know how to do. While you don’t have to purchase anything, these items make great gifts for people back home or for yourself!
4. Take a Scenic Drive
Going on a scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains is a popular past time. One of the most popular destinations is the Cades Cove Loop. It’s an 11-mile loop that goes through a valley surrounded by the mountains where you can see wildlife and historic buildings. If you’d rather go on an off-the-beaten-path drive where you won’t find as many people, you should drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. It’s a one-way road full of streams, old forest growth, and historic buildings.
5. Hike in the Mountains
One of the most popular things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains is to go hiking in the national park. With over 850 miles of hiking trails, you’ll have plenty to choose from! It doesn’t matter if you’ve never hiked before or you’re an avid hiker; the trails range from easy to difficult. You can even choose trails based on features, such as waterfalls, panoramic views, or wildflowers. There is no entrance fee to the park, although a 1-day parking pass costs $5.
Save yourself some money by trying one of these free things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. Wondering what else you can do when you stay with us? Check out these other area attractions!
