One of the things we love most about visiting Gatlinburg, TN is its affordability. Unlike some vacation destinations, it’s easy to have a great time in Gatlinburg without spending much money. In fact, there are a number of awesome attractions and activities in town that don’t cost a cent to enjoy! To help you make the most of your next getaway, we have put together a guide to some of the best things to do in Gatlinburg for free.

1. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg is located at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. Over 11 million people frequent the Smokies each year, in large part because the national park does not charge an admission fee. That’s right; all of the hiking trails, scenic roads, picnic areas, waterfalls, and historic buildings are completely free to enjoy! With endless outdoor adventures in the mountains, you could easily spend your whole vacation exploring the national park.

2. Enjoy Free Concerts at Downtown Distilleries

Listening to live music is another one of our favorite things to do in Gatlinburg for free. The moonshine distilleries on The Strip frequently host wonderful concerts from local and touring musicians. Most of the talented bands perform bluegrass, country, and/or Americana music. All of the concerts are free and open to the public; you don’t have to buy anything to attend the show. Follow the links to see the concert schedules for the Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler and Sugarlands Distilling Co.

3. Visit Shops with Free Samples

There are a number of shops in Gatlinburg that offer free samples for visitors to try! Here are a few of our favorites:

• All Sauced Up
• Pepper Palace
• Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House
• Yukon Heath’s Popcorn Emporium
• Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

The Smoky Mountain area is also home to the Rocky Top Wine Trail, a collection of five wineries that offer free tastings and tours. The tastings at Gatlinburg’s moonshine distilleries used to be free, but they now cost $5 per person. However, guests receive a $5 coupon when they participate in a tasting, so it essentially becomes “free” if you make a purchase at the distillery.

4. Take in the Views from the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is the perfect spot to take a family photo or a selfie with your sweetheart! Located along the Gatlinburg Bypass, this popular pull-off offers breathtaking views of the Gatlinburg skyline and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What makes the vista so striking is the dramatic contrast in elevation between the city and the mountains. It doesn’t cost a thing to take a photo at the overlook, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

5. See the Historic Ogle Cabin

The Historic Ogle Cabin is the first cabin ever constructed in Gatlinburg! This one-room log home was built by Martha Jane Huskey Ogle and her children in 1807 after her husband William passed away. Visitors can tour this important piece of Smoky Mountain history at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. The cabin is completely free to visit, although there is a donation box if you’re inclined to give a few dollars.

Final Thoughts

What are your favorite things to do in Gatlinburg for free? Let us know in the comments below!