Vacations: Saving Money In The Smoky Mountains

You may discover how easy it can be to save money when you spend time at one popular vacation destination.

Here are eight ways to save in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., gateway to America's most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

1. Ride a trolley or walk in town.

Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolleys cost only 50 cents; walking is free. Take the trolley to Dollywood to bypass the theme park's parking fee. The many attractions along the city's main street, the Parkway, make walking fun.

2. Get a Value Card.

Discounts on lodging, entertainment, restaurants, shopping and attractions (even indoor skydiving) are on the Pigeon Forge Value Card (free at the Welcome Center). Shopaholics can get a real buzz by using the Value Card for discounts at Belz Factory Outlet World, one of six malls in town.

3. Find new discounts on the Web.

Check the city's Web site, www.MyPigeonForge.com, for new discounts and coupons.

4. Get a free day at Dollywood.

Tennessee's most visited attraction has a deal with its "Arrive After 3, Get the Next Day Free" program. For a sense of extra value, visit on Wednesdays and Thursdays, generally the lowest-attendance days.

5. Buy a Dollywood season pass.

If you're returning to Pigeon Forge later in the year, a Dollywood season pass pays for itself on the second visit. Many visitors come in the summer, again in the fall and then at Christmas. If Dollywood is on their agenda, a season pass is a true bargain.

6. Get a theater combo.

Pigeon Forge has more than a dozen musical theaters and more than 20 different shows. Look for discounted combo tickets if you want to see more than one show.

7. Buy a vacation package.

Packages that combine lodging, shows and attractions into one purchase save you money. Numerous packages are on www.My PigeonForge.com.

8. Enjoy the outdoors.

Pigeon Forge is located at the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its hiking trails, picnic grounds and magnificent scenery. Admission to the park is free.