How to Find Parking in Gatlinburg: Tips and Strategies for Visitors

Gatlinburg, TN is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. However, with the influx of visitors, parking can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are both paid and free parking options available in Gatlinburg. In this article, we will explore the options and help you decide which one is right for you.

Paid Parking in Gatlinburg, TN

If you are willing to pay for convenience, then paid parking is the way to go. There are several options available for paid parking in Gatlinburg, including parking lots, garages, and metered street parking. The cost of parking varies depending on the location and time of day.

Parking Lots and Garages: There are numerous parking lots and garages located throughout Gatlinburg. The cost of parking in these facilities ranges from $5 to $20 per day, depending on the location and proximity to popular attractions.
Metered Street Parking: There are also metered parking spaces available on the streets of Gatlinburg. The cost of parking at these meters is $2 per hour with a maximum limit of two hours.

While paid parking offers convenience, it can also be costly, especially if you plan to park for an extended period of time. Additionally, during peak seasons, parking lots and garages may fill up quickly, leaving you with limited options.

Free Parking in Gatlinburg, TN

If you are on a budget, free parking is the way to go. There are several free parking options available in Gatlinburg, including:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The park offers numerous parking areas throughout Gatlinburg and the surrounding area. Parking is free, but the lots can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Gatlinburg Trolley: The trolley system in Gatlinburg offers free parking at several locations throughout the city. Visitors can park their car and take the trolley to their desired destination.
Street Parking on River Street: There are also several areas in Gatlinburg where street parking is free. However, these areas are limited and fill up quickly during peak seasons.

While free parking may require more effort, it can save you money and provide a unique experience. For example, parking at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers beautiful views of the mountains and opportunities to explore the park’s hiking trails.

Limited Time Restrictions

Some free parking spots in Gatlinburg have time restrictions. For instance, some street parking spots offer free parking for a limited number of hours or only during certain hours of the day. Be sure to read the signs carefully to avoid getting ticketed.

Alternative Free Parking Options

Apart from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg Trolley, there are other free parking options available in the city. Some hotels and businesses offer free parking to their customers. However, it’s important to confirm with the establishment whether the parking is indeed free and available to visitors.

Consider Walking

If you are staying near Gatlinburg’s main strip, consider walking to your destination rather than driving. Walking is not only free, but it’s also a great way to take in the scenery and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Tips for Finding Free Parking in Gatlinburg

If you decide to go with free parking, here are a few tips to help you find a spot:

Arrive Early: Free parking spots fill up quickly, so arrive early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Avoid Peak Seasons: During peak seasons, parking can be a nightmare. If possible, plan your visit during the off-season.
Use the Trolley: The Gatlinburg Trolley system offers free parking at several locations throughout the city. Take advantage of this service and avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot.

Tips for Finding Paid Parking in Gatlinburg, TN

Regardless of whether you choose paid or free parking, here are a few tips to help you find parking in Gatlinburg:

Plan Ahead: Before your visit, research parking options in Gatlinburg and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
Consider Alternative Transportation: If possible, consider taking public transportation or carpooling to Gatlinburg to avoid the hassle of parking.
Read Signs Carefully: When parking on the street, make sure to read the signs carefully to avoid getting a ticket. Some areas may have time restrictions or permit requirements.
Use Parking Apps: There are several parking apps available that can help you find parking in Gatlinburg. These apps can provide real-time information on available parking spots and can help you save time and money.

Comparison of Paid vs. Free Parking in Gatlinburg, TN

When it comes to parking in Gatlinburg, visitors have the option to choose between paid and free parking. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each option:

Free Parking

Advantages:

No cost involved
Can save money for other expenses
Some free parking lots are located close to popular attractions

Disadvantages:

Limited availability, especially during peak tourist season
May require a longer walk to reach your destination
No guarantee of safety and security for your vehicle

Paid Parking

Advantages:

More convenient and accessible than free parking
Guarantees a spot close to your destination
Provides a sense of security for your vehicle

Disadvantages:

Cost involved, which can add up quickly
Limited availability in some areas
May require extra time for finding a spot and paying for parking

Factors to consider when deciding between paid and free parking:

Your budget
The proximity of the parking spot to your destination
The length of time you plan to park
The availability of free parking in the area

Advice for Visitors

Plan ahead and research parking options before your visit: Before you head to Gatlinburg, take some time to research parking options in the area. Look for parking garages, lots, and street parking areas near your destination. Check for parking fees, hours, and any other restrictions that may apply. This can help you avoid the hassle of searching for parking spots and ensure that you have a smooth parking experience.

Consider alternative modes of transportation: If you are staying near Gatlinburg’s main strip, consider walking or biking to your destination rather than driving. This can not only save you money on parking fees but also help you avoid traffic congestion and the hassle of finding a parking spot. Alternatively, you can use the Gatlinburg Trolley system, which offers affordable and convenient transportation around the city.

Arrive early to increase your chances of finding a spot: If you plan to drive to your destination, arrive early to increase your chances of finding a parking spot. This is especially important during peak seasons when parking can be limited. By arriving early, you can avoid the frustration of driving around in circles looking for a spot and ensure that you have plenty of time to enjoy your visit.

Check for available parking spaces using parking apps: There are several parking apps available that can help you find available parking spots in Gatlinburg. Apps like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, and ParkMobile allow you to reserve and pay for parking spots in advance, saving you time and hassle.

Strategies for minimizing parking costs

Look for free parking options in the area: As we mentioned earlier, there are several free parking options available in Gatlinburg, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg Trolley, and street parking areas. By taking advantage of these options, you can save money on parking fees and spend more on other activities.

Park in remote areas and use public transportation or walk to your destination: If you don’t mind walking or taking public transportation, consider parking in remote areas and using the Gatlinburg Trolley or walking to your destination. This can save you money on parking fees and help you avoid traffic congestion.

Consider parking at a hotel or restaurant that offers free parking for customers: Some hotels and restaurants in Gatlinburg offer free parking for their customers. If you plan to stay or dine in these establishments, consider using their parking facilities to save money on parking fees.

Purchase a parking pass for multiple days to save money: If you plan to stay in Gatlinburg for multiple days, consider purchasing a parking pass that allows you to park in multiple garages or lots for a discounted rate. This can save you money on parking fees and provide you with more flexibility when it comes to parking.

Navigating Parking in Gatlinburg: Tips and Takeaways

Parking in Gatlinburg can be a challenge, but by following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, visitors can find a parking option that meets their needs and budget. Whether you choose paid or free parking, it’s important to plan ahead and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and stress-free parking experience. By taking a few extra steps to find the right parking option, you can enjoy all that Gatlinburg has to offer without worrying about parking.