1. The Island
The Island is an entertainment destination that is completely free to get into. It has a whole host of shops, restaurants and amusements. These cost money – although you can often find coupons for them in the coupon books (check out my post on saving money in Pigeon Forge for further info. I’ll link it below.) but you can also find things to do there that are completely free.
We love watching the fountain shows. In the middle of The Island, you can sit on rocking chairs and watch the beautiful fountain display that goes in time to the music. It’s captivating to watch and definitely something we like to do each time we go. We tend to go as it’s beginning to get dark, so we can walk around The Island a little and then sit as the sun sets to watch the fountain.
You can also go see the parrots from Parrot Mountain for free. They often bring the birds out so that you can see and stroke them. Cheaper than Parrot Mountain and more to do for the adults!
2. Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a beautiful loop not very far from Pigeon Forge at all. Most people already know about this one, but I thought I would still mention it. You can take a picnic down there and make a whole afternoon of it. We particularly enjoy going down to the streams and rivers to dip our feet in. You can get some beautiful photos in Cades Cove too. It’s a perfect backdrop.
The nature is (naturally!) incredible. It is packed full of huge trees, gorgeous flowers and of course, the animals. We loved seeing deer and bears, not to mention turkeys. Another thing to keep in mind are the fireflies. If you go late May to early June, you’ll get to see the synchronous fireflies. I haven’t had the chance yet but I hear they are a wonder to see! Maybe one day I will.
3. Flea Markets
We love visiting flea markets on our visits to Tennessee. Of course all shopping is free if you don’t buy anything, but flea markets are different. There are so many things to see whilst you’re there – wooden carvings, the local people, and lots of times, animals. Just spending an hour walking through the market can be a fun activity to do, and you never know – you might find a bargain along the way.
- A beautiful blanket for sale in a flea market. We love finds like this!
4. Check out what events are going on when you’re there.
Depending on when you go, you might be surrounded by free entertainment! We tend to go when the Rod Run is on, and seeing as we like looking at the classic cars, we’re never short of entertainment when out and about. If that’s not your thing, be sure to check the events calendar to see what’s going on. If you go in the wintertime, be sure to check out Winterfest. The beautiful lights will provide hours of entertainment if you’re willing to drive around!
5. Check out the facilities that your hotel or condo complex offers.
A simple but often overlooked free thing to do. Where we stayed, there were handfuls of things to do each and everyday. There was build a bear activities for the kids (for a nominal fee), plus use of the pools, gym, and pool/ping pong tables. There was also bingo to do each day with prizes that was also free of charge. On days with especially bad weather, it can be sensible to have an indoorsy day. You could be missing out on what you’ve already paid for with your room or suite!
- What do you like to do for free in Pigeon Forge? Let me know!
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