By Bridget Everett
Pigeon Forge, located in the Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee, is bordered by Gatlinburg and Sevierville, two other mountainside cities. The city has a population of less than 6,000 and a total land area of 11.6 square miles, yet it still manages to draw in approximately 11 million visitors each year. And there's good news for travelers on a budget: In Pigeon Forge, there are dozens of free activities to keep any visitor happily occupied.
Outdoor Adventures
Pigeon Forge is located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, providing endless outdoor adventures. The National Park offers an auto tour path, where visitors can follow the designated scenic path through the mountains and forests. Inexpensive booklets are offered as "tour guides" if you'd like to learn more. If you bring your own bikes, there are bike paths that go through the National Park. Walking or hiking paths are also designated. Nearly 80 buildings throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have been preserved and can be visited at no cost. In addition to the National Park, there are also several lakes, parks and scenic drives available throughout the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area.
Festivals and Fairs
Throughout the year, the Pigeon Forge area holds several festivals that are open to the public. These festivals offer hours of free entertainment, such as live music, street performers and vendors. The Bloomin' Barbeque and Bluegrass Festival is one of the most exciting festivals that comes to town, usually scheduled sometime in mid- to late May. The Patriot Festival, held over the Fourth of July weekend, and Harvestfest, scheduled for mid- to late September, are other exciting festivals that offer free admission and an abundance of activities.
Deals and Promotions
Check with your hotel or visitor center for coupons or discounted tickets. Many attractions, such as Dollywood Amusement Park, allow you to buy admission for one day and get the second day free---ideal for visitors staying for more than a few days. Dollywood also holds several festivals throughout the year, including the National Gospel and Harvest Festival, the Festival of Nations, and KidsFest, all of which are included with a regular admission ticket to Dollywood. The Miracle Theater, a Christian-inspired musical production offers buy-two-get-one-free tickets through its box office. If you travel during off-peak times, many attractions will be eager to bring in guests and will provide different incentives on admission, meals and other costs. Tourists centers often have information on time-share companies in the area; many time-share companies will give vouchers for free meals, free park admissions or other perks for going to a time-share orientation or tour.
Resources
About the Author:
Bridget Everett is a professional Web copywriter. She specializes in several niches including travel, education, parenting, business, marketing, health, crafts, fashion and home decorating. Everett has studied marketing, elementary education and journalism at Northeastern University, Fordham University and Middle Tennessee State University.
