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6 of the Best Cheap and Free Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

Welcome to Pigeon Forge TN
June 3, 2026

Vacationing on a budget is easy when you visit Pigeon Forge! There is a variety of affordable fun for the whole family just minutes from our Pigeon Forge hotel. To help you save money on your vacation, we’ve come up with some of the best cheap and free things to do in Pigeon Forge:

1. Go for a Picnic

picnic table in smoky mountains

Going for a picnic is not only free, but it’s a great way to spend quality time with your family in the great outdoors! Pack a picnic basket and head to one of the many picnic areas nearby. You can enjoy your meal riverside at our hotel, at Patriot Park, or at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We even have gas grills for you to use at our hotel! If you choose to picnic in the national park, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a parking tag, which are available for $5 per day.

2. Splash Around in Our Pools

At The Inn on the River, we have both an indoor and outdoor pool for you to use! Soak up the sun as you splash around in our outdoor pool, or head inside on a rainy or cold day to swim in our indoor pool. There is even a large hot tub indoors where you can relax after a busy day exploring the sights! You can have hours of fun in our pools without spending a dime when you come to stay with us here at our Pigeon Forge hotel.

3. Feed the Ducks at Patriot Park

Patriot Park Sign

At Patriot Park, there is a walking trail along which you’ll be able to see flags from all 50 states, a historic missile and a veterans’ memorial. One of the best activities to do at Patriot Park, however, is feeding the ducks! On most days, the ducks can be seen wandering around and floating on the river. The kids will love making friends with the ducks as they toss them food!

4. Take the Kids to Wear Farm City Park

Wear Farm City Park is a great place to bring the kids for a fun afternoon. It’s completely free, and they’ll be able to enjoy the great outdoors! There are lighted football and baseball fields, walking trails, a basketball court and more! Kids will love running around and playing on the two playgrounds, and the trails are a perfect way for families to explore together!

5. Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge

Just minutes from our hotel, you'll find The Island in Pigeon Forge. This entertainment complex is completely free to enter, and parking is free too! You can enjoy free entertainment while you're here, like the Island Show Fountain, which puts on an incredible performance of water dance and light! You can also participate in affordable activities, like riding the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, doing a moonshine tasting at Ole Smoky, or playing in the arcade. The Island is also home to SkyFly, shopping, an escape room, and more. Learn more about some of the unique things to do at The Island in Pigeon Forge right here!

6. Go Window Shopping

Pigeon Forge is full of incredible stores, from outlet malls, to boutiques, to gift shops, which is why we definitely recommend going window shopping when you visit! Not only will you have a fun time exploring the area, but something in your price range might catch your eye. There are a number of stores that offer great deals and low prices for you to take advantage of, but you can always browse without buying anything!

Bonus: Save on Your Pigeon Forge Lodging

Here at The Inn on the River, we want everyone to be able to experience the fun of Pigeon Forge, which is why we offer affordable rates on the rooms here at our hotel. However, if you are looking to save even more on your stay, then you are in luck! You can check out our selection of special deals at our Pigeon Forge hotel right here for the most up-to-date information on the best ways to save. We hope to welcome you soon!