With all of the great attractions available, it can be easy to overlook all the free things to do in Gatlinburg on your vacation. It’s simple to show your kids a good time in this wonderful vacation destination without emptying your wallet. We recommend these 5 free activities that create just as many great memories as the ones that cost money.

1. Sample Some Sweets

Kids love their candy. Fortunately, sampling some candy and other sweet treats is one of the great free things to do in Gatlinburg to satisfy the kids’ sweet tooth. There are many places where you’ll be offered some tasty treats that’ll excite the young ones. Try Kilwin’s​ and ​Chocolate Monkey​ for a double dose of fudge and ice cream for a sugar rush that will get them prepared for the next free things.

2. Take a Hike to Cataract Falls

Now that your kids got their samples, it’s time to work off a little of that energy surge. If you’re looking to do some kid-friendly hikes, a walk to ​Cataract Falls​ is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with the kids. After driving into the park to Sugarlands Visitors Center, this is a short, paved walk behind the building to a lovely 25-foot-tall waterfall that the kids will enjoy just as much as the journey to get there.

3. Pose in Front of the National Park Sign

Once you’re done with your waterfall hike, one of the most touristy, fun things to do in Gatlinburg is to stop at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sign. This makes for a wonderful family picture that you’ll want to frame once you return home. If you need assistance getting the whole family in with the sign, a fellow tourist will gladly accept the offer to take your memorable family photo.

4. Walk Along River Road

A much quieter option is exploring River Road, which runs behind the busy Parkway. It’s one of the great things to do in Gatlinburg with the kids, because it’s a chance to see the gently flowing Little Pigeon River and enjoy a little quiet time. There are also places where you can dip your toes into the cool water for a nice moment with nature.

5. Catch a Bluegrass Performance

After a peaceful walk along River Road, you should be ready for entertainment. ​Ole Smoky Moonshine​ isn’t just for sampling the strong stuff, it’s also a place that’s extremely kid friendly and is one of the top free things to do in Gatlinburg for all ages. Outside in the Hollar, many bluegrass bands perform toe-tapping bluegrass classics daily that all ages can appreciate — even the young kids!

We think your kids will love all of these free things to do in Gatlinburg as part of your fun-filled vacation. We also think they’ll love it at Reagan Inn too! If you want to be close to all of these activities in downtown Gatlinburg and have a nice comfortable vacation, book your room​ and get a nice stay without a lot to pay!