Budget-Friendly Activities in Tennessee

Featured in this Article:

Budget-friendly Places in Cleveland, Tennessee - Close to Chattanooga
Affordable Things to Do in Kingsport
Affordable Places near Nashville
Budget-friendly Destinations near Memphis
 

• Museum Center at 5ive Points delves into the region's rich cultural tapestry, with free admission, although donations are appreciated if that’s within your budget.

• Red Clay State Historic Park, the site of significant Cherokee history, offers free entry and a chance to explore peaceful walking trails.

• For outdoor adventurers, the adjacent Cherokee National Forest provides endless hiking and camping opportunities amidst stunning mountain vistas with day parking passes $3 and under.

• The Hiwassee River Heritage Center in nearby Charleston offers insights into local history free of charge.

• For a tasty yet budget-friendly meal, visit Café Roma, a local favorite offering delicious Italian cuisine with most dishes priced under $15, providing a delightful dining experience that won’t break the bank.

• Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium has a wildlife habitat, nature trails, and a state-of-the-art planetarium with shows costing around $6.

• Warriors' Path State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, golfing, and boating, with free park entry and minimal fees for certain activities.

• The Holston River provides excellent opportunities for fishing and tranquil river walks.

• Step back in time at Exchange Place, a living history farm that demonstrates life in the 19th century, with free admission during public events. Tours can be arranged by appointment.

• Downtown Kingsport itself is a focal point for free cultural exploration, with its historical buildings and vibrant local arts scene.

• Downtown Murfreesboro is conveniently located about 34 miles from downtown Nashville.

• Stones River National Battlefield, a major Civil War site, offers free guided tours and educational programs that dive deep into America’s history.

• Cannonsburgh Village, which is open for self-guided tours at no charge, represents Tennessee's rural past from the 1830s to the 1930s, providing a glimpse into historical lifestyles.

• The Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History features intriguing geological and fossil exhibits for a modest fee, making it a perfect educational outing for families.

• Looking for a budget family-friendly restaurant? The Alley on Main is known for its homestyle meals served in a cozy setting. Most dishes are priced under $15, making it a popular choice for high-quality affordable Southern cooking.

Columbia

• A great, affordable small town outside of Nashville, Columbia offers many fun things to do on a budget.

• James K. Polk Home and Museum, where you can explore the home of America's 11th president for about $14.

• Stillhouse Hollow Falls offers a stunning natural retreat with no entry fee.

• Rippavilla Plantation in nearby Spring Hill provides a historical tour for approximately $22, set against the backdrop of Tennessee's pastoral beauty.

• For a vibrant taste of local culture, the Columbia Arts District has art galleries, studios, and murals that creatively celebrate the spirit and talent of the region.

• Get a budget-friendly meal at Square Market Cafe that provides Southern and modern American cuisine.

• Rusty’s TV and Movie Car Museum features a unique collection of iconic cars for just $10 per visit.

• Casey Jones Village combines history with entertainment, and while the museum is $12, the village itself offers free exploration.

• Cypress Grove Nature Park is a free-entry park that includes a boardwalk through ancient cypress forests.

• Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park, one of the largest Native American mound sites in the United States, is free to explore and offers educational programs about the ancient civilizations in Tennessee.

• The Jackson Symphony provides several free concerts throughout the year, adding to the city's vibrant music scene.

Bartlett

• A small town outside of Memphis, Bartlett has lots of free and budget things to do.

• Explore Davies Manor Plantation for $10. It's one of the oldest existing log homes in Tennessee.

• Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, close to Bartlett, offers extensive trails and lakeside views with no entry fee.

• Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center and Bartlett Historical Society Museum frequently host free events and exhibitions.

• For bird watching and nature drives, the Mississippi River Corridor provides a free scenic route with numerous lookout points, perfect for an afternoon escape.