Free things to do in Pigeon Forge are great activities for the family. Smoky Mountain memories that last a lifetime don’t have to come with a steep price tag. In fact, you’ll find dozens of free things to do and enjoy all along the Parkway. Here are some of our favorite totally free things to do with the family in and around Pigeon Forge.
Bigfoot’s Country Barn Photo Park
Taking fun family photos at Bigfoot’s Country Barn Photo Park is a 100% free activity. Pose as Bob Ross painting the Smokies, as Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, or in front of a band of musical black bears. This is a wonderful activity for any group to enjoy and savor memories from their trip.
Bigfoot’s Country Barn Photo Park
Lawn Activities at The Mountain Mile
Stop by this awesome collection of spots on Teaster Lane for an afternoon or evening of family fun. While The Mountain Mile has plenty of shops and dining where you can spend some money, you can play cornhole on the lawn or sit by a fire pit on a cool autumn evening for free. It’s a great spot to work into your schedule on a nice day to be outside.
The Mountain Mile
The Island
There are plenty of things to do at The Island in Pigeon Forge, from shopping and dining to riding attractions and watching the dancing fountain show any time of year. Don’t miss the free Jurassic Adventure, where life-sized dinosaurs, interactive exhibits, and a reimagined fountain experience bring prehistoric fun to the Parkway.
The Island
Bush’s Vistor Center
Bush’s Visitor Center is a fun and free stop near the Smokies where you can learn the story behind the famous beans. Explore interactive exhibits, watch how Bush’s Beans are made, and even find out your “weight in beans.” Admission is free year-round, making it a great budget-friendly addition to your Smoky Mountain trip.
Bush’s Visitor Center
GSM Heritage Center
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend offers a look at the region’s history and culture. Explore authentic historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, interactive exhibits on Native American and early frontier life, and indoor galleries highlighting the Smokies’ rich heritage. It’s an educational stop for anyone wanting to learn more about the people who shaped the mountains.
GSM Heritage Center
Free Tastings at King’s Family Distillery
In the tasting room at King’s Family Distillery, you’ll find everything from award-winning bourbon and rye to flavored whiskeys like apple, peach, blackberry, chocolate, and cinnamon, plus moonshine, vodka, gin, and specialty finished selections. With a rotating lineup and something for every taste, it’s a fun and easy stop for sampling some of the Smokies’ most celebrated spirits.
King’s Family Distillery Tasting
Smith Creek Moonshine
Located at Tanger Outlets, Smith Creek Moonshine offers free tastings of their bold, flavorful shines – from classic white lightnin’ to sugar whiskey, Hillbilly Pop, and more. Stop by the tasting bar to sample your favorites, then browse their retail shop stocked with bottled moonshine, apparel, jams, sauces, dry rubs, and other fun Smoky Mountain finds. It’s a convenient and spirited stop while you’re out shopping.
Smith Creek Moonshine
Explore The National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park doesn’t charge an entry fee, which means you and your family can take in all of nature’s splendor at no charge. Hike more than 800 miles of trails, explore historical areas like Cades Cove, splash in waterfalls and interact with exhibits in the Sugarlands Visitor Center all without dropping a single dime.
GSMNPAccessible Views in the National Park: If getting around easily is a concern for you, check out these Great Smoky Mountains views you can drive to. These are great options for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of the Smokies. If you’re up for an accessible stroll through the park, check out the Gatlinburg Trail over by Sugarlands Visitor Center.
Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts
The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a unique district of art studios, galleries and venues. Many of the artists at work here practice centuries-old folk arts and crafts, creating original pieces including candles, baskets, quilts, brooms, pottery, jewelry, ceramics, scrimshaw, silversmithing, leather, stained glass, fine photography, watercolors and more.
Arts & Crafts Community
Visit The Old Mill District
Take a stroll back in time by exploring the Old Mill District in Pigeon Forge. Without spending a dime, you and your family can see a working flour mill nearly two centuries old, sample old-fashioned sweets and even feed the ducks. If you’re feeling spendy, consider splurging just $3 per person to see the mill up-close with a guided tour.
The Old Mill
Bike The Greenway
There is no better way to see the beautiful sights Pigeon Forge has to offer. The greenway runs along the Little Pigeon River and stretches across four miles. The main entrances can be found in Patriot Park, Jake Thomas Road, and Butler Street at Ashley Avenue. Check out our map for more information on where to begin.
Greenway
Visit the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company
The Smoky Mountains have a rich history. Head back in time and learn about the region’s logging heritage at the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company in nearby Townsend. This free museum is open year-round and lets history buffs of all ages learn about a turn-of-the-century sawmill and the folks who worker there more than 100 years ago.
