Are you planning a trip to Gatlinburg but want to make the most of your budget? This charming town nestled in the Smoky Mountains offers stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and a variety of attractions year-round. However, timing your visit can significantly impact your expenses.
From off-season deals to special events, understanding the best times to experience Gatlinburg affordably can help you save on accommodation, dining, and activities. In this guide, we’ll explore the most cost-effective periods to visit, ensuring you enjoy everything this picturesque destination has to offer without breaking the bank.
Cheapest Time to Go to Gatlinburg in 2024
The cheapest time to visit Gatlinburg is during the off-season, which typically runs from January to March. You can find accommodations, attractions, and dining deals during this time. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the cheapest times to visit Gatlinburg:
- January and February: These are the absolute cheapest months to visit Gatlinburg. The weather can be cold, but there are fewer crowds and plenty of deals to be found.
- March: The weather starts to warm up in March, but the crowds haven’t arrived yet. This is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the outdoors without the summer heat.
- November and December (excluding holidays): The crowds start to thin out again after Thanksgiving, and you can find some good deals on hotels and cabins. However, some attractions may be closed or have limited hours during this time.
Pros & Cons of Visiting Gatlinburg During the Cheapest Time
Pros of Visiting Gatlinburg During the Cheapest Time
- Budget-Friendly: This is the biggest advantage. You’ll find significant savings on lodging, attractions, and even dining compared to peak seasons.
- Fewer Crowds: Enjoy the sights and attractions without feeling overwhelmed by people. This can be especially beneficial for hiking and exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Unique Scenery: Winter offers a snowy wonderland scene (Jan-Feb), while November boasts vibrant fall foliage.
- Peace and Quiet: Escape the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.
Cons of Visiting Gatlinburg During the Cheapest Time
- Limited Activities: Some attractions may have shorter hours or be closed entirely during the off-season. Outdoor activities might be limited due to colder weather (Jan-Feb).
- Weather: Winter can bring freezing temperatures, snow, and potentially icy roads. November can be unpredictable with rain and colder nights. Plan your clothing accordingly.
- Limited Events: Fewer festivals and special events are happening than peak tourist seasons.
- Shorter Days: Sunlight hours are shorter, especially in winter, which may affect your sightseeing plans.
Average Prices of A Vacation to Gatlinburg During the Cheapest Time
Here’s a breakdown of the average prices you can expect for a vacation to Gatlinburg during the cheapest times (January-March and November-December, excluding holidays):
- Accommodation: A major perk is finding the cheapest lodging options during the off-season. Expect to pay anywhere from $64 per night for a standard hotel room to $100 and up for a cabin rental, depending on size and amenities.
- Food: Eating out can be affordable, too. Budget around $27 per person for a casual meal, with breakfast being generally cheaper. Groceries for cooking in your cabin are another cost-saving option.
- Activities: Many attractions may offer discounted rates during the off-season, while some might have limited hours or be closed entirely. Entrance fees to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are very reasonable, at $30 per car for a private non-commercial vehicle. There are also plenty of free outdoor activities you can enjoy, like hiking, picnicking, and scenic drives.
Here’s a rough estimate for an average cost per person per day on a budget-friendly Gatlinburg trip during the off-season:
- Accommodation: $64
- Food: $54 (includes groceries for some meals)
- Activities: $20 (assuming some paid attractions and some free activities)
Total: $138 per person per day
Cheap Things to Do in Gatlinburg in 2024
Gatlinburg offers a ton of fun activities for visitors on a budget. Here are 7 ideas to keep your wallet happy while you explore this charming town:
- Hike the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: You can’t visit Gatlinburg without experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entrance to the park is just $30 per car, and there are trails to suit all ability levels, from short, family-friendly walks to challenging multi-day hikes.
- Explore the Arts & Crafts Community: The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a great place to browse unique, handmade souvenirs. You’ll find everything from pottery and paintings to woodworking and jewelry, all created by local artisans. Many artisans demonstrate their craft on-site, so you can watch them work and learn about their techniques.
- Take a Scenic Drive on Newfound Gap Road: Newfound Gap Road is a beautiful 30-mile drive that winds its way through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the mountains, forests, and valleys. There are several overlooks where you can pull over and take in the scenery, and there’s even a visitor center where you can learn more about the park’s history and ecology.
- Visit Cades Cove: Cades Cove is a historic valley within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s history and see some of the old Appalachian mountain homes and barns that have been preserved. You can also go for a hike, bike ride, or horseback ride through the valley.
- Browse the Shops at The Village: The Village is a large shopping complex located in Gatlinburg. It has a variety of stores, from national chains to local boutiques. You can also find restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options at The Village.
- Go Window Shopping on the Parkway: The Parkway is Gatlinburg’s main street, and it’s lined with shops, restaurants, and arcades. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, it’s still fun to window shop and take in the sights and sounds of the town.
- Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a great option if you want something different. This oddity museum is packed with unusual exhibits that amaze and amuse you. There’s an admission fee, but it’s a fun way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re looking for an activity to do out of the weather.
Additional Tips to Save Your Money During Touring the Gatlinburg
Here are 6 additional tips to save money during your Gatlinburg tour:
- Travel During Less Busy Weekdays: Gatlinburg explodes with tourists on weekends and during peak seasons. Consider traveling during weekdays whenever possible. You’ll find better deals on accommodation, shorter lines at attractions, and even potentially lower gas prices on your journey.
- Embrace Free Entertainment: Gatlinburg offers a surprising amount of free entertainment. Attend seasonal events like harvest festivals or holiday celebrations. Check out local art galleries during their “open studio” nights for free art viewings and sometimes even refreshments.
- Utilize Free Wi-Fi: Skip expensive data roaming charges by using free Wi-Fi at your accommodation or public hotspots throughout Gatlinburg. You can use it for navigation, research attractions, and restaurants, or even make free calls with apps like WhatsApp.
- Pack Light and Avoid Baggage Fees: If you’re flying into Gatlinburg, pack strategically to avoid baggage fees. Wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane and pack versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched. Consider doing laundry at your cabin or rental if you’re staying for an extended period.
- Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The National Park offers a treasure trove of free activities! Hike scenic trails, have a picnic lunch by a cascading waterfall, or go wildlife watching. There’s a reason it’s one of the most visited National Parks in the U.S.
- Consider Alternative Cabin Rentals: Look beyond the standard cabin rentals and explore unique options like staying in a yurt or a cottage. These can be more budget-friendly alternatives while still providing a comfortable and cozy Gatlinburg experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, weekdays (Monday through Thursday) are usually cheaper than weekends, as fewer tourists are visiting during these days.
Booking in advance, checking for off-season discounts, and using travel deal websites can help you find the best accommodation deals.
Visiting during the winter (excluding holidays) and early spring before the peak tourist season begins is generally cheaper.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, walk along the Parkway, and visit free attractions like the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community.
