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Where to Stay in Great Smoky Mountains

Where to Stay in Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains Tennessee, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging

  • Hotels & Motels:

    Abundant in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, these range from budget-friendly chains to upscale options.

  • Luxury Hotels & Resorts:

    Found mainly in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, these properties offer spas, water parks, and various dining choices.

  • Hostels:

    Directly in the immediate park area, dedicated backpacker hostels are rare. Budget lodging options are very limited.

  • Homestay:

    Community-based tourism choices are less common or formally structured here.

Unique & Outdoor Options

  • Cabins & Chalets:

    The most popular lodging, ranging from cozy to multi-family, often with hot tubs and mountain views.

  • Treehouses:

    A growing trend, treehouses offer unique glamping, blending rustic charm with modern comforts.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are popular, alongside local property management companies.

  • Camping:

    In-park campgrounds (reservations recommended via Recreation.gov), private RV parks, and backcountry camping options are available.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area has a distinct character and closeness to area attractions.

Gatlinburg, TN

Character & Pros
  • Most developed and walkable gateway town.
  • Direct park entrance via Sugarlands Visitor Center.
  • Wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment.
  • Generally safe.
Cons & Noise
  • Heavy traffic and crowds, especially peak season.
  • Higher lodging and parking prices.
  • Can be noisy along the Parkway.
  • Proximity to attractions: excellent for park access, Ober Gatlinburg, Ripley's, Arts & Crafts Community.

Pigeon Forge, TN

Character & Pros
  • Family-focused entertainment hub, home to Dollywood.
  • Broad selection of hotels and large cabin communities.
  • Wide variety of dining and shopping options.
  • Generally safe.
Cons & Noise
  • Very heavy traffic on its Parkway.
  • Less direct park access.
  • Can be noisy near Parkway and major attractions.
  • Proximity to attractions: ideal for Dollywood, dinner shows, Tanger Outlets, amusements.

Townsend, TN

Character & Pros
  • "The Peaceful Side of the Smokies."
  • Quieter, more relaxed gateway near Cades Cove entrance.
  • Focus on outdoor activities (cycling, tubing).
  • Very safe, very low noise levels.
Cons & Proximity
  • Fewer dining and entertainment options.
  • Further drive to Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge attractions.
  • Proximity to attractions: excellent for Cades Cove, Tuckaleechee Caverns, Little River tubing.

Cherokee, NC

Pros & Proximity:

Located on the NC side, offering unique cultural attractions like the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and direct access to Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort for entertainment. Generally safe, noise varies.

Cons:

Further from Tennessee attractions; some park roads can be a longer drive from this side.

Booking Strategies

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • Peak Season (Oct, Jul-Aug): Book 6-12 months ahead for cabins and popular hotels.
  • Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sep, early Nov): Book 3-6 months ahead, especially for weekends.
  • Low Season (Dec-Mar, excluding holidays): Book 1-3 months ahead for more flexibility and lower prices.
  • Seasonal price fluctuations: Prices are significantly higher during peak seasons and holidays.

Trusted Platforms & Policies

  • Hotels: Use Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, or direct via IHG Hotels.
  • Cabins/Rentals: Vrbo, Airbnb, and local property management companies (e.g., Aunt Bug's, Elk Springs).
  • Campgrounds (in-park): Utilize Recreation.gov.
  • Negotiation is not common for walk-in rates; pre-booking online is generally better.

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

Hotels:
  • Many offer flexible cancellation (24-48 hrs before check-in).
  • Some provide non-refundable rates at a lower price.
Cabins/Vacation Rentals:
  • Often require a larger deposit (e.g., 50% upfront).
  • Stricter cancellation policies (e.g., full refund 30-60 days out).

Important Booking Tip

Review Policies:

Always review the specific deposit and cancellation policy carefully before confirming your booking.

Cabins:

Read reviews regarding location, road accessibility (some roads can be steep and winding), and specific amenities.

Verify:

Photos can sometimes be misleading. Verify the exact distance to the park or towns.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some lodging recommendations by budget and traveler type to begin your search.

Hotels / Motels

Budget under $150/night

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gatlinburg.

  • Basic and clean.
  • Good for value.
Mid-Range $150-$400/night

The Park Vista, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel (Gatlinburg).

  • Mountain views.
  • Swimming pool.

Cabins / Chalets

Mid-Range $150-$400/night

2-3 bedroom cabins with hot tubs and mountain views.

Luxury over $400/night

Large, multi-bedroom luxury cabins with private pools, theaters, expansive views.

Camping

  • Budget (under $150/night):

    In-Park Developed Campgrounds (e.g., Cades Cove Campground via Recreation.gov).

  • Mid-Range ($150-$400/night):

    Private RV Parks with amenities (e.g., Pigeon Forge KOA Holiday).

  • Luxury (over $400/night):

    Glamping sites (e.g., some luxury RV resorts or specialty glamping tents).

  • Other Budget Options:

    Consider options listed on Hostelworld for very basic or private campgrounds.

Traveler Type

  • Family-Friendly:

    Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown, Wilderness at the Smokies (indoor water park), Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa.

  • Solo Traveler:

    Budget motels in Townsend, smaller cabins, mid-range hotels in Gatlinburg for convenience, or smaller luxury cabins.

  • Long-Stay:

    Extended stay hotels in Sevierville, monthly cabin rentals, larger cabins with full kitchens, or resort residences.

  • Cultural/Historic:

    LeConte Lodge (limited access, rustic, requires hike), Historic cabin rentals, some heritage-themed luxury resorts.

Trusted Housesitters

For Unique Stays

Explore options for house and pet sitting through TrustedHousesitters.

  • Exchange accommodation for pet care.
  • Good for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Unique local immersion.
Considerations

Availability for house sitting in a specific tourist area like the Smokies may vary.

  • Requires flexibility.
  • Involves responsibility for pets/home.
  • Check listings well in advance.

General Recommendations

Read Reviews

Thoroughly read reviews for any property to verify quality and guest experiences.

Location

Consider your travel itinerary when choosing between bustling towns or quieter locales.

Amenities

Prioritize amenities that suit your travel style, like kitchens, hot tubs, or pools.