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4 Things to Do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for Less Than $20

the island show fountain
September 10, 2025

When you come to visit the Smoky Mountains, you will have so many choices available to you for what to do during your stay. However, it can sometimes feel challenging to plan a fun and full itinerary without dropping tons of cash. That is why we have gone ahead and put together a handful of our top suggestions for the best things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for less than $20! If you are ready to plan a fantastic and budget-friendly getaway, simply read on to learn more:

1. Check Out The Island in Pigeon Forge

First up among the top things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for less than $20 is heading over to check out The Island in Pigeon Forge! While there are plenty of paid activities you can choose to participate in while visiting The Island in Pigeon Forge, there is no admission cost. Families tend to enjoy strolling around and soaking in the atmosphere, while admiring displays like The Island Show Fountain, complete with music and lights!

2. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A bridge over a stream in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Next up among the best things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for less than $20 is to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park! The park is home to over 850 miles of hiking trails, with so many incredible places to discover, such as waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and more. There is no entrance fee to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and a parking pass for a single day is just $5. If you are planning to visit the park several times during your vacation, you may also want to consider a weekly parking pass for $15.

3. Take a Stroll at Patriot Park

If you are looking for a place to enjoy the fresh mountain air, but prefer a shorter stroll than many of the hikes at Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer, we would definitely suggest checking out Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge! This public park is home to a half-mile walking trail, memorials to the veterans of Pigeon Forge, and holds certain special events throughout the year, such as a 4th of July Celebration. Plus, visiting Patriot Park is completely free!

4. Go Moonshine Tasting

Three moonshine jars

Yet another of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for less than $20 is moonshine tasting at the area’s collection of distilleries! While some distilleries offer free tastings, and others charge $5 per guest, this is certainly an affordable activity overall and presents a great way to get familiar with some of the best flavors that the Smokies have to offer.

Now that you know a bit more about some of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for less than $20, you are one step closer to enjoying an amazing vacation to the area without having to spend tons of money. Plus, you can also save on your lodging in the Smoky Mountains when you choose to book with us here at Amazing Views Cabin Rentals! You can go ahead and check out our full selection of special deals and discounts on our cabins in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg today to reserve quality lodging at an incredible price. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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