Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona | Phoenix Travel Guide On A Shoestring

Nov 21, 2024

Last Updated on: Jul 2, 2025

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People love Arizona, and our economy is growing because of it. Tourism supports critical services for Arizonans, and our work to build an Arizona for everyone translates to more visitors and more jobs for our great state.” Katie Hobbs, Governor of Arizona.

You will find an echo of the governor’s words in the statement shared by Lisa Urias. She is the CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism. She has mentioned that Arizona’s diversity, amazing beauty, and hospitality are behind the growth of the tourism industry in the state. 

Now, there is enough market data to corroborate the claims of the governor and the CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism. In 2023, 86% of the tourists in Arizona were repeat visitors, and the $1.15 billion tourism tax collected in 2023 was 10% of the state’s operating budget. 

Phoenix, of course, plays a crucial role in the state’s tourism development. Along with unique desert beauty, Arizona has the best urban landscapes and the warmth of southwest culture. 

In addition, the cheap and free things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, make the city a popular tourist destination. 

So, do you want an overview of Phoenix, Arizona’s free and cheap tourist attractions? Let’s explore. 

You Can’t Miss These Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona

You Can’t Miss These Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona, has a pricey vibe. However, don’t be fooled by that vibe as a tourist. Participating in cultural activities is one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, for free. Also, people in Arizona are perennially in love with outdoor activities. 

You just need to set your itinerary right to enjoy a mix of outdoor pursuits, cultural tours, and more. 

Did You Know?

Phillip Duppa, an Englishman, was a friend of Jack Swilling. Now, Jack Swilling was one of the city’s founding fathers, and Phillip Duppa named the city Phoenix.

The city was named to symbolize rebirth. The idea was that  Phoenix would rise from the ashes of the natives and it would become prosperous in the land of irrigation. 

1. Explore The Heritage Square

Downtown Phoenix bustles with modern vibes. However, Heritage Square is a place that complements its modern vibes with its old-world charm from the Victorian era.

Also, the Heritage Square is known as the “National Register of Historic Places.” Many of the buildings here are restored, and exploring the interiors of these buildings is one of the cheapest but meaningful things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. 

For example, the Rosson House Museum stands here, and you just need to pay a fee of $15 for admission. 

Heritage Square, Phoenix, Buildings
The Burgess Carriage HouseThe Thomas HouseThe Stevens HouseThe Burgess Carriage HouseThe Rosson House Musuem, etc. 

2. Visit Arizona Capitol Museum

Visit Arizona Capitol Museum

Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM, Saturday, 10 AM to 2 PM

With an “Entry is Always Free” promise, the Arizona Capitol Museum is a big draw in the state. Let me put it directly. If you want to know about the history and culture of the state, you have to visit the Arizona Capitol Museum.

The museum also offers in-depth insight into the state’s political scenario. 

Further, if you plan to visit Arizona in a few days and have included a visit to the Arizona Capitol Museum as one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, you must not miss the new Merci Train Exhibition.

The museum now celebrates the 75th anniversary of the train’s arrival. Some of the most prominent exhibits at the museum are:

  1. USS Arizona: Flagship of the Fleet
  2. Arizona Takes Shape
  3. The Struggle for Universal Sufferage – Voting Rights Timeline
  4. The U.S.S Arizona Artifact Collection, etc. 

You can even be a part of the “Arizona Capitol Museum Guided Tour Survey” for educational purposes. 

3. Hike At Camelback Mountain

Hike At Camelback Mountain

Before I get into the details of hiking at Camelback Mountain, I must tell you that it’s difficult and very strenuous. So, if you are not a seasoned hiker at the peak of your fitness, this is not one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, for you.

Still, Camelback Mountain and its Cholla and Echo Canyon trailheads have millions of visitors every year. The current trailhead hours are from sunset to sunrise. 

Further, this 2704 feet mountain gets its name from its double humps. Its terrains are uneven with boulders, and the elevation gains are difficult to cope with.

However, once you reach the summit, you will get the best views of the Valley of the Sun. 

Tour And Travel Highlight

Camelback Culture Community, led by Jes Dobbs, is a local group of hikers. Under the leadership of Jes Dobbs, a graphic designer, the group is making an effort to make Camelback Mountain safer.

They have launched a timely petition to improve the safety of the mountains in time, considering the death and rescue of three hikers from the Echo Canyon Trail. All of them died due to heat exhaustion.
Phoenix experienced record heat waves this season, and the rising temperatures were additional perils for the hikers.

Nevertheless, the Camelback Culture Community has made two demands in their petitions.
Extension of Trail Hours ( With An Extended Timing Of 4 AM to 8 PM)Installation of Automated Gates At The Trailheads of Camelback and Other Mountains

The petition already has 1,900 signatures and in the words of Jes Dobbs,

“I believe having trailheads with year-round, consistent opening and closing times will enable locals and visitors to hike in the cooler hours of the day legally and when their lives allow. 
Many hard-working people don’t have the option to take a midday hike. They deserve access to exercise and nature during their limited free time – before and after work.

4. Visit Phoenix Art Museum

Visit Phoenix Art Museum

Thanks to the “Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday,” visiting the Phoenix Art Museum is one of the cheapest things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. Your entry fee is voluntary after 3 PM. 

Further, the evening sessions or AfterHours are free, and you can enjoy entertainment events and live music. You can attend these events four times a year. 

Family FunDays is another great event to visit the museum for, and it happens four times a year. These events take place on Sundays, and on these days, you can enter the museum for free and attend events for all ages. 

Tour And Travel Tip

The Western Gallery is the highlight of this museum. Here, you will find artwork from the pioneers and some exemplary works by the modernists. 

One thing is common in all these artworks. They show the prominent influence of the beautiful landscape of Arizona. 

5. Visit The Historic Heard Museum

Does the life of American Indian tribes in the Southwest part of the country intrigue you? The Historic Heard Museum is your go-to destination. Along with the life of the tribes, you will also get to know about their culture and art.

When you are at the Historic Heard Museum, the following are going to be your highlights. 

  • Films
  • Ethnographic Displays
  • Kids’ Exhibit

However, for me, the main attraction at this museum is Hopi Kachinas. It is an unbelievable collection of spirit dolls. Most of the dolls are gifts from Barry Goldwater, the  Presidential nominee. 

Visiting the Historic Heard Museum is one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. For free entry, you can plan a visit to the museum on the first Friday of every month (except March). The museum operates between 4 PM to 8 PM.

Furthermore, Indian fairs, hoop dancing, and competitions are some popular events taking place in the museum. 

6. Visit The Desert Botanical Garden

Visit The Desert Botanical Garden

Entry to Desert Botanical Garden in Arizona is free on the Community Day or every second Tuesday of the month. Spanning over 55 acres, this botanical garden has flowers, cactus, and trees from across the globe.

The best time to visit the botanical garden is between March to May. During these months, you will find Mexican gold poppies and bluebells in full glory throughout the Desert Wildflower Loop Trail. 

The garden is well-maintained. Also, as you visit the desert denizens arranged according to theme, you learn a lot about the desert plantation. 

Tour And Travel Tip 

You have to book the tickets for Desert Botanical Garden in advance if you want to pay a visit on Community Day.

7. Take A Walk In Art Walk

Phoenix has the “First Friday Art Walk” on the first Friday of the month between 6 to 10 PM. It is one of the biggest self-guided art walks in the city. Further, you can take the light rail plying through downtown Phoenix and connecting to various art districts of Phoenix. 

Also, as you explore the art spaces, galleries, and event venues of the city, you become familiar with the local vibe. 

Artlink, a nonprofit organization, started this art walk, and it is still the organizer of the event. Today, this free art event has become the uniting space for people of all age groups.
Artists, vendors, and musicians take part in this event to soak in the cultural vibe of Downtown Phoenix. 

To explore the best free and cheap things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, you need to find comfortable accommodation first. The table below has the names and details of the best hotels in Phoenix, Arizona. 

Hotels In Phoenix, ArizonaPhone Number
DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix North+1 602-997-5900
Great Wolf Lodge, Scottsdale+1 480-948-9653
Best Western North Phoenix Hotel+1 602-395-0900
Hotel Valley Ho+1 480-376-2600
The Clarendon Hotel and Spa+1 602-252-7363
The Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton+1 (480) 991-9000
Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts+1 602-955-6600
Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Scottsdale+1 602-765-5800
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess+1 480-585-4848

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Top 7 Outdoor Adventures In Pigeon Forge You Can’t-Miss

BY  Ankita Nov 29, 2023

Nestled amid stunning Appalachian Mountain landscapes, Pigeon Forge provides endless options for adrenaline-filled outdoor recreation beyond notable music venues and dinner shows. From outdoor snow tubing to towering ziplines, this destination proves ideal for thrill-seekers craving gorgeous panoramic settings across adventures. Here Are Seven Best Outdoor Adventures In Pigeon Forge You Can't Miss The area offers outdoor activities for all interests, skill levels, and ages beyond regional tourist draws. This comprehensive guide showcases seven exciting outdoor pursuits enticing any visitor to deeply experience Pigeon Forge’s admirable natural splendor legacy from new awe-inspiring angles. 1. Pigeon Forge Snow: Year-Round Indoor Snow Tubing In the heart of Pigeon Forge lies a unique attraction that promises year-round winter fun: Pigeon Forge Snow. This one-of-a-kind facility brings the excitement of snow tubing indoors, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrill of sliding down snowy slopes regardless of the season. The magic of this place is in its ability to maintain a winter wonderland atmosphere all year, offering an excellent escape from the summer heat or a winter adventure without the chill. What sets Pigeon Forge Snow apart is its climate-controlled environment and suitability for all ages, making it an ideal destination for family outings or even a snow tubing birthday party. Imagine celebrating a special day whizzing down snow-covered lanes, followed by laughter-filled snowball fights, without worrying about weather conditions. This venue merges the joy of snow sports with the convenience of an indoor setting, ensuring every visit is filled with memorable and exhilarating experiences. 2. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains The crowned jewel of Pigeon Forge’s wealth of outdoor adventure options is undoubtedly the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park, covering over 500,000 protected acres filled with rugged Appalachian Mountain landscapes and terrain. Choose from over 800 miles of diverse scenic trails spanning tranquil lush rainforests, panoramic mountain peaks, and breathtaking roaring waterfalls perfect for hikers of every age and skill level. Both casual travelers and avid peak baggers find plenty of hiking adventure in the park. Classic routes like the Laurel Falls Trail, Abrams Falls, and a walk to historic Cades Cove showcase stunning nature payoffs available after just a few miles. Meanwhile, fitness die-hards can challenge stamina by hiking 16 long miles roundtrip to summit impressive Mount LeConte's towering 6,593 feet. Wandering through this environmentally rich biodiverse wonderland area never disappoints in terms of sweeping views. From plentiful wildlife sightings across fields to stumbling upon hidden wildflower meadows, the diversity continues impressing visitors for decades and decades to come through well-maintained trails. 3. Ziplining Adventures For high-flying thrills, experience Pigeon Forge's gorgeous vistas alongside steep vertical descents across the thick verdant tree canopies with area ziplining adventures. Strap securely into climbing harnesses and helmets to safely soar down elevated steel lines, allowing you to masterfully navigate multiple adrenaline-pumping ziplines showcasing glorious Smoky Mountain forest, river, and ravine landscapes 2,000 feet up through breathtaking unobstructed panoramic angles. Between ziplines, elevated sky bridges transport you effortlessly between courses across jaw-dropping scenic platforms surrounded by mountainous valleys as expert guides share fascinating details about the ecology and terrain. The result feels daring yet comfortably smooth under the assurance of trained climbing professionals dedicated fully to maximizing your rich environmental views and exhilarating emotive sensations sliding with regulated speeds. 4. White Water Rafting on the Pigeon River For those bold, adventurous souls still seeking extra extreme outdoor thrills during their Pigeon Forge getaway, consider facing 12 miles of rowdy swelling Class III and Class IV rapids by signing up to tackle rafting daily expeditions along the winding Pigeon River! Groups of 6 to 12 participants paddle inflatable rafts as teams work together across the gorgeous river terrain, bobbing and weaving between spectacular boulder outlooks and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain backdrops. This water activity lets you dive right into the action, witnessing East Tennessee's natural majestic mountain waters from engaging new low-altitude angles. While providing a thrilling ride, reputable rafting tour companies like Raft One employ only the most experienced, fun-loving guides to man the paddling commands and expertly steer rafts straight through the most challenging rapids and tight passages along the cliffs safely with their knowledge of the river. 5. Horseback Riding For travelers desiring more gentle and intimate interaction experiencing Pigeon Forge’s exquisite wilderness independently, saddle up for a delightful afternoon escaping into the forests and countryside by horseback. Various local outfitters offer visitors guided horseback riding exploration trips winding at calming paces through sun-dappled alpine forests, verdant meadows, and the sprawling foothills of the glorious Smoky Mountains to feel completely transported, experiencing iconic Appalachian nature at smooth equestrian speeds. From beginner-friendly wilderness rides in secluded oak woodlands like those gently offered by Blanton Forest Horseback Rides to hour-long weekend Smoky Mountain guided tours better suited for intermediate-level riders and equestrians, Pigeon Forge stables like Five Oaks Ranch provide quintessential smoky mountain vacations centered on 40+ years respectfully showcasing the region's spectacular environmental legacy and local horsemanship at its finest. Related: Exploring Pigeon Forge As A Weekend Getaway 6. Mountain Coaster Rides A uniquely exhilarating alternative to traditional rollercoasters, round up your family or circle of friends visiting Pigeon Forge to experience tackling the staggering 4,000-foot precipitous near vertical elevation drop racing straight down alongside rocky scarps and beautiful streams aboard the impossibly fun mountain monster thrill coaster located directly within town limits. Riders feel intensified coaster forces directly by manually “driving” individual coaster cars completely independently, personally controlling faster acceleration speeds or braking cautiously through each sharp turn's plunging dips, numerous 360° corkscrews, and countless free-falling camelback moments all dictated by your selected adrenaline-chasing comfort across 3,500 cumulative thrilling feet of gravity-driven monorail track hovering through the dense forest. Mountain coasters like this bring many nonstop grins across most age groups and orientations. 7. Dollywood Lastly, no extensive guide of quintessential iconic attractions found within Pigeon Forge itself feels entirely complete without discussing the enormously popular thrilling theme park Dollywood located just minutes from downtown. People travel incredibly far distances just to experience their award-winning outdoor rides like Tennessee Tornado, Mystery Mine, and Dragonflies rollercoasters, deliberately designed masterfully to whip riders daringly through the authentic towering Smokies themselves! With additional shows, art demonstrations and concerts continually happening routinely across the park, even long waits next to various roller coasters continue rousing fun and local connections. Neighboring water park Dollywood’s Splash Country provides necessary summer heat relief while continuing friendly Appalachian-themed thrills through numerous towering slippery slides slicing through refreshing waterfalls. Combined, both flagship Dollywood parks offer families and outdoor thrill-seekers nearly endless amounts of entertainment possibilities fully immersed just steps away from the gorgeous natural forests and wilderness that have characterized the signature Smoky Mountain region since the frontier days. It's no wonder crowds return happy year after year! Conclusion In conclusion, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding vista-rich Appalachian Mountain landscapes deliver unlimited options supporting active thrill-seeking and challenging outdoor recreation rivaling any major global destination. From tranquil wildflower-lined hiking trails to daring whitewater rafting expeditions navigating Class 4 rapids, this eastern Tennessee vacation hub offers exhilarating excursions featuring renowned southern hospitality. Ultimately, balancing these physically demanding adventures with equal amounts of relaxing downtime, enjoying stellar comfort foods, regional arts and crafts demonstrations, plus live music performances, all reflecting local cultures and traditions. Pigeon Forge continues growing into the ideal quintessential family outdoor vacation destination that visitors return to faithfully enjoy year after year as annual traditions, always finding new hidden gems and welcoming surprises along the way. Start planning your own Smoky Mountain adventures exploring untamed wilderness now while basking in expedient modern conveniences! Read Also: Your Guide To The Perfect Pigeon Forge Vacation 6 Tips For Experiencing The Best Of Pigeon Forge 4 Tips To Enjoy A Comfortable Stay In Pigeon Forge

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Aainflight Review- Login, Services And Travel Experiences

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 17, 2023

When it comes to American Airlines, the company provides its services to more than 50 different countries, and there are more than 350 destinations. And most of it flights are non-stop. The airline is mainly based in North America, South America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Europe. But, this is not it, there is great entertainment while you travel with this airline. In this article, we are going to discuss about different entertainment and your experience with AAInFlight. Let’s start with the services that AA Inflight provides to customers where passengers who travel through this airline receive entertainment and services. You will get discounted rates when booking the flights! Through the services, the flights provide their travelers with some of the best experiences! Read the article to learn more about the services and accordingly to book the tickets. American Airlines Image Source: dnd2oi6izkvoi.cloudfront.net Before going further about this topic, let’s know about the airline. American Airlines is a United State based airline, and its headquarter is in Fort Worth, Texas within the Dallas metroplex. If we talk about fleet size, revenue passenger mile, and scheduled passenger carries, then it is the largest airline in the world. The airline provides its services to more than 50 countries, and there are more than 350 destinations. Every day the company runs more than 6,800 flights. Here is the list of the company details. Founded15 April 1926Commenced Operations25 June 1936AllianceOne world Northeast AllianceDestinations350Fleet Size935HeadquartersFort Worth, Texas, United StatesParent CompanyAmerican Airlines GroupKey PeopleCEO- Robert Isom CFO- Devon May Chairman- Doug ParkerEmployees123,400 (2021)Websiteaa.com AAInFlight WiFi Image Source: static.flight-report.com Whether you are traveling with a domestic flight or with an international flight, you can get high-speed and upgraded wifi in American Airlines. You can browse the internet, stream any video, watch a movie on HBO, Hulu, or Netflix and even check our emails for your work. But, how do you check your boarding pass and what is on your flight? WiFI Connect Image Source: image.cnbcfm.com You have to put your phone on airplane mode, but that doesn’t mean you can’t connect to a wifi network. There is wifi signal where you can connect, you just need to search for aainflight.com. Sometimes, there can be an issue of being redirected, in that case, you can open your browser and then connect to the wifi. If you are using your laptop, don’t worry, you can connect to the wifi signal with that as well. You just need to search for the aainflight.com wifi signal. The same issue can happen to your mobile phone, in that case, you need to do the same. Read More: Vrbo.Com – Best Review By Users Pricing Image Source: thepointsguy.com If you want to access aa.com during your flight, you can do that at any time you want. There are flights where you need to pay $10 for wifi connection. You can pay this amount while you are flying, and this is a one-time pay-and-use service. If you want to know more about this information and accordingly book the tickets, you can visit aainflight com login! The services from American Airlines provide you a better flying experience! There is also an option where you can pay monthly for wifi. But, this feature is for those people who fly often. There are subscription plans where you can use wifi on one device or on two devices. If you want to use it on one device, then you need to pay $49.95 and for two devices you need to pay $59.95. But for this, you must, Have to be a member of AAdvantage member. Have a saved email address in your AA account. Have a credit card that is associated with a United States billing address. Read More: Hotwire.Com – Best Review By Users How To Access American Airlines Inflight Entertainment Image Source: deadline.com How do I access inflight entertainment on American Airlines? There are a couple of ways that you can try on the American Airlines to get entertained. If you have a tablet or phone, then you can try this. First, you need to download the application of American Airlines, but you need to do that before takeoff. Now, after enabling the airplane mod, you need to connect to the AA-inflight Wifi signal. If you don’t find that, then you can go to the browser and search for aainflight.com. You can select any TV show or movie by visiting View free entertainment, or you can click on the entertainment icon or button. You can do the same through your laptop as well. First, connect to the Wifi signal named AA-Inflight. If you are not able to find it, then you can open your browser and type aainflight.com. Now, you need to click on the entertainment icon or button, and you can watch any TV show or movie. Pros And Cons Of AAInFlight The airlines provide several services that make it popular for the customers. The features of the flights such as inflight Wi-Fi, pay-as-you-go package and others will confirm that there are advantages of using the AAInFlight! However, there are also some disadvantages of the airlines hence, you need to consider both the pros and cons before you book tickets on American Airlines. So, accordingly make bookings on aainflight app! Pros The AA Inflight provides you a wi-fi connection on flight which helps you with entertainment purposes and business requirements where you could send and receive emails. The connection also helps you stay connected with your loved ones with the Wi-Fi along with sending messages if God forbid there is a crisis. The staff of airlines are quite involved and give some of the best services to the clients. Food is also available on the flight which you can order based on your convenience. Cons With Wi-Fi available, there is a high chance that AAInFlight might face issues of weather problems and switch satellite regions. It is also against government regulations so, there have been issues with slow connection and insecure payment gateway. With the ATG receivers of certain aircraft, the connection becomes duplexed. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Here are some interesting questions and answers that most people are curious to know about AAinflights. 1. Does American Airlines Have Entertainment Screens? Ans: Yes, there are entertainment screens on American Airlines, but not every flight has this. It depends on the aircraft. When it comes to American Airlines passengers, then they can get entertained by watching movies, live TV, and different TV shows. There are mainly two options to get entertained, first of all, passengers can watch on their own devices, or they can view in the seatback. 2. How Do I Use Free Entertainment On American Airlines? Ans: Watching TV shows or the latest movies is at your fingertips if you are traveling on American Airlines. You can download Gogo Entertainment App on your own device, this is it. Just connect to the airlines’ wifi and entertainment yourself with the video player. You can delete the player when you are finished. 3. Does American Airlines Have Wi-Fi International? Ans: If the aircraft doesn’t provide you with free wifi, then you can buy wifi by visiting the wifi or aa.com. If your aircraft is Boeing 777-300ER, then you will get free wifi. There are also pre-purchase options for international wifi. Also, the airline provides wifi once you are on board. Final Words If you want to use your own laptop, cell phone, or any electronic devices onboard, you need to have clearance from the flight crew for that. Because there are people who try to use their cell phones without putting them on flight mode. But, you need to accept that AAInFlight services and entertainment are way good than any other airlines in this world. Sometimes, the crew can ask you not to use electronic devices as well. If you want to know more about this topic, please let us know in the comment section below. Thank You. Read Also: Is Trip.Com Legit? Is It Reliable? Booking.Com – Best Review By Users Myenvoyair Review – Registration, Login And Benefits In 2023

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Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg

BY  Arnab Jan 20, 2023

Gatlinburg is a popular vacation destination in the state of Tennessee that offers something for every type of traveler. Situated just outside the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this charming town is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and enjoyable recreational activities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, a vacation in Gatlinburg won't disappoint you. Here Are The Eight Best Ideas For Vacationing In Gatlinburg To ensure you make the most of your vacation, we've put together a list of helpful tips to make planning easier. Here's what you need to know: 1. Plan ahead Any vacation can become a stressful experience if not planned carefully. So it's important to begin planning early to ensure you don't have trouble at the eleventh hour. And after choosing your destination, next comes selecting the accommodation. A convenient option is to stay in a condo. Condos offer an extensive array of amenities for a comfortable stay, such as a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space, and are ideal if you're planning a trip with family or want to enjoy a more upscale experience. Look up downtown Gatlinburg condos online, compare prices, read reviews, and book one that suits your travel needs. Be sure to book in advance to score a better deal. 2. Explore the great outdoors Gatlinburg is approximately 5 miles away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers many opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic drives. The park has hundreds of miles of hiking trails suitable for first-timers and avid trekkers. Some popular trails include Mt. Leconte, Mt. Cammerer, Charlies Bunion, the Chimney Tops Trail, and Thunderhead Mountain. So be sure to pack your hiking gear if you're up for one. The national park is also home to more than 1200 species of plants and animals, including big black bears. Be sure to follow directions and stay out of areas cordoned off for the public. Also, don't litter. 3. Indulge in local cuisine Who doesn't love food? If you long for unique flavors, there are plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds. Gatlinburg has diverse dining options, including traditional southern comfort food to continental and several popular fast-food brands. You can enjoy a finger-licking meal that you will remember for a long time. Some popular places to dine include Donut Frair, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and Log Cabin Pancake House. Consider eating pancakes at the pancake house is a must-do. Be sure to try some of the local moonshine and barbecue. 4. Shop around Gatlinburg has many shopping options, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques. Be sure to check out the downtown area for one-of-a-kind finds. You can shop till you drop at outlet malls and small mom-and-pop arts and crafts stores. If you visit the downtown area, you'll find a mix of unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Here, you can find exclusive dresses, artistries, and a collection of extremely rare souvenirs. Also, check out the local farmer's market for fresh produce, homemade jams, and more. 5. Relax and unwind Whether it's soaking in a hot tub or taking a leisurely walk around the town, take some time out for yourself and relax. There are several places in Gatlinburg where you can unwind and burn off stress, including hot tubs, saunas, spas, and massages. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or want to indulge in some quality self-care, Gatlinburg is worth a try. Just be sure to reserve some time for yourself during your trip. 6. Hit the slopes A vacation in Gatlinburg is a must if you are into winter sports. Gatlinburg is a great destination for winter sports, with Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort offering skiing opportunities. Even if you're not a skier, the resort has an indoor ice-skating rink designed for casuals. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort is the only ski resort in Tennessee, and it offers a wide range of winter activities. These include skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow tubing. 7. Take a tour Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of Gatlinburg and the surrounding area. From ghost tours to historical walking tours, you can explore some wonderful places that boast Appalachian culture and history. These tours are an excellent way to learn more about the antiquity and traditions of Gatlinburg. You'll also see some of the most famous and hidden sights and landmarks. Guided tours can help you discover new places in Gatlinburg that only a few know about. Whether you're interested in the town's history or the natural wonders of the area, you can't go wrong with a trip to Gatlinburg. 8. Visit the arts and crafts community Gatlinburg is home to a vibrant arts and crafts community, with many shops and studios showcasing the work of local artisans. Take a stroll through the community and bring home a unique souvenir. The Gatlinburg arts and crafts community is also one of North America's largest groups of independent artisans. The community offers a wide range of unique artwork and dexterities, from traditional to contemporary. Conclusion Overall, Gatlinburg offers a wonderful natural getaway destination that promises a memorable experience for tourists. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or simply relax and unwind, Gatlinburg has it all. Following the tips above can help you make the most of your time in this delightful town. So, don't wait any longer; plan your next vacation and experience all this beautiful place has to offer. 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