Prepare to be charmed and totally at peace when you explore the Gatlinburg Strip! Downtown Gatlinburg is buzzing with energy and adventure around every corner. The best part? You can enjoy it without spending a single penny! It’s a great way to experience some of the best things about Gatlinburg without blowing through your vacation budget. The sights and sounds you enjoy along the way turn into memories you’ll cherish. Here are 5 fun things to do on the Gatlinburg strip for free:
1. Stroll Through The Village Shops
The Gatlinburg Strip is known for its variety of one-of-a-kind shops, with The Village Shops being a highlight among all the options. This unique collection of boutiques and specialty stores sparks curiosity in a themed shopping center that mimics a vintage mountain village. Of course you don’t even have to purchase anything; window shopping is always acceptable! Beyond the shops, there’s an iconic fountain you can relax by or snap photos of. The atmosphere of The Village Shops make it perfect for a day of exploring.
2. Watch Candy Makers at Work
Not only will you find some delicious homemade candy to enjoy on the Gatlinburg Strip, you can also watch it be made! Many of the candy shops in downtown Gatlinburg have large windows or open kitchens, making it easy to watch masters of the craft in action. Families in particular find this to be an enjoyable experience as kids are fascinated by the process, plus the reward is a tasty sugar rush! It’s an awesome way to experience some of the sweet history and culture of the Smokies.
3. Capture Fun Photos & People Watch
As you walk the Gatlinburg Strip, you’ll find endless photo opportunities! Downtown Gatlinburg is home to some of the most interesting sights in all of the Smoky Mountains. From getting a selfie in front of the Gatlinburg Space Needle to snapping photos of the stunning mountains, the perfect shot always awaits. The Gatlinburg Strip is also a prime location for people watching as you sit back and enjoy perfect weather. You’ll feel connected to Gatlinburg more than ever without spending a dime.
4. Enjoy the Peacefulness of the River
Right in the heart of all the action of the Gatlinburg Strip, you’ll find a peaceful hideaway by the Little Pigeon River! Take a stroll along the Gatlinburg River Walk and savor the relaxing sounds of the river. This walking path is serene and picturesque, giving you a chance to take a break from your adventures in the beauty of nature. There are gazebos and benches to give you a chance to take a seat and soak it all up.
5. Explore Gatlinburg Via Trolley
Did you know that it’s absolutely free to ride the Gatlinburg Trolley? There’s no more convenient way to explore all of Gatlinburg! There’s a stop at the Mass Transit Center located at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, right off the Gatlinburg Strip. Riding the trolley is a great way to see all the sights of Gatlinburg without having to worry about parking. The trolley makes stops at many different key landmarks and attractions throughout town so you can get out and explore wherever you’d like.
Attractions on the Gatlinburg Strip
Keep your vacation budget friendly by enjoying some of these fun things to do on the Gatlinburg Strip without spending a penny! Are you hoping to visit some of Gatlinburg’s most beloved attractions on your trip? Check out some of the top downtown Gatlinburg attractions to visit when you explore the Gatlinburg Strip!
