5 Completely Free Things to Do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains

It’s easy to have fun in Pigeon Forge, TN without breaking the bank. In fact, the Smoky Mountain area offers a number of attractions and activities that don’t cost a cent! To help you make the most of your vacation, Acorn Cabin Rentals has put together a guide to five of the best free things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smokies.

1. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the few national parks in the U.S. that does not charge an admission fee. With over 800 miles of trails and some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world, there are endless adventures to be had in the Smokies. Here are just a few of the most popular spots to visit in the national park:

  • Cades Cove
  • Clingmans Dome
  • Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
  • Newfound Gap Road
  • Sugarlands Visitor Center
  • Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area
  • Greenbrier Picnic Area
  • Elkmont Ghost Town
  • Grotto Falls Trail
  • Abrams Falls Trail
  • Laurel Falls Trail

2. Head to The Island in Pigeon ForgeThe Ole Smoky Moonshine Barn at The Island in Pigeon Forge.

Visiting The Island is another one of the best free things to do in Pigeon Forge. While there are many opportunities to spend money at this shopping and entertainment complex, there are also a number of fun activities that are free to enjoy.

In the center of The Island, visitors will find a beautiful show fountain that syncs up with popular songs. Guests can kick back in a complimentary rocking chair and watch the geysers “dance” to the music. The fountain is especially mesmerizing at night, when the water is illuminated with lights of all different colors.

If you’re looking for some live music at The Island, head over to the Ole Smoky Moonshine Barn. This popular shop frequently hosts some of the area’s most talented bluegrass bands. The concerts are completely free, and sometimes big name artists swing by for special events.

3. Take a Picture with the Dolly Parton Statue

Dolly Parton is the Smoky Mountains’ favorite daughter! Anyone who is a fan of the country legend will definitely want to stop by the Sevier County Courthouse to take a photo with the iconic Dolly Parton statue out front. Cast in bronze, the statue depicts Dolly when she was 40-years old, sitting on a rock while holding a guitar. The statue is located at 125 Court Avenue in Sevierville, TN.

4. Enjoy Free Samples at These Shops

Many shops in the Pigeon Forge area offer free samples of their food items, so you can try before you buy. Here are some of the most popular places that typically have free samples:

  • Pepper Palace
  • All Sauced Up
  • Ultimate Beef Jerky Outlet
  • Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House
  • Moonshine Ridge
  • Old Mill Candy Kitchen

As part of the Rocky Top Wine Trail, you can also get free samples at these wineries:

  • Mountain Valley Vineyards
  • Apple Barn Winery
  • Hillside Winery
  • Sugarland Cellars Winery
  • Mill Bridge Winery

Knives with wood handles.5. Visit Smoky Mountain Knife Works

A trip to Smoky Mountain Knife Works is not your typical shopping experience! This massive store has a large indoor waterfall, a stream, water wheel, and cartoon animal characters that sing and play music. Smoky Mountain Knife Works is also home to the National Knife Museum, which is free to visit. Whether you’re browsing for kitchen supplies or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s easy to spend a good chunk of the afternoon at this unique shop.

When you stay with Acorn Cabin Rentals, you will be near all of these wonderful free things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. Our cabins come with everything you need for an unforgettable vacation, including mountain views, hot tubs, theater rooms, game rooms, swimming pool access, and even more great amenities. To start planning your getaway, browse our selection of cabins in Pigeon Forge!