The Great Smoky Mountains are all about fresh air and adventure on your terms. But when it’s time to wind down, why not treat yourself to a comfy hotel stay? There’s no shortage of amazing places where you can kick back and relax in style. Think plush beds, crackling fireplaces, and miles and miles of mountain views. Sound like just what you need? Let’s explore 11 incredible hotels you definitely have to experience at least once.
The Park Vista
Talk about hitting the “prime location” jackpot! The Park Vista practically plops you right in the middle of all the Gatlinburg fun. We’re talking minutes from top spots like Ripley’s Aquarium, Anakeesta, and so much more.
At this hotel, the standard king rooms sleep four. Or you can grab a family room with bunk beds for the ultimate in amazing summer camp vibes. No matter what you book, though, mountain views come standard.
Even better, an indoor pool with a waterslide promises to bring out your inner kid, plus there’s a hot tub for soaking your sore muscles. And when hunger strikes, you’re covered, because there are two restaurants and a bar right onsite.
The Wayback
Just steps from The Island in Pigeon Forge, The Wayback is a mid-century escape, with its styling paying homage to classic roadside motels of yesteryear. The lobby’s beautiful fireplace and retro décor get you in the mood for vacation fun, while spacious rooms (some with fireplaces of their own) offer sweet retreats after all your Dollywood adventures.
Go outside, and you’ll find an inviting pool, hot tub, and cabanas ready for lounging. Craving a bite? Paloma Scratch Kitchen awaits, ready to serve up everything from Churro Pancakes to Braised Oxtail deliciousness. And there’s a poolside bar, too, for lazy afternoons when a drink by the pool feels just right.
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
Historic but freshly renovated, The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa is your ticket to complete relaxation. With 513 rooms, they’ve got options for romantic getaways, family adventures, and even chill solo trips. The best part? Every guest is treated like absolute royalty, with plush pillowtop beds, peaceful views, and exceptional service at every single turn.
The amenities read like a dream vacation checklist. World-class spa? Check. Championship golf course? Check. Tennis courts and multiple indoor and outdoor pools? Check, check, and triple check. Add in four upscale restaurants, five bars, two cafes, and room service, and you have more than you could ever need for a perfect stay.
Historic Rocky Waters Inn
Looking for a truly romantic escape in Gatlinburg? The Historic Rocky Waters Inn is you and your beloved’s new favorite spot. This 36-room treasure offers plenty of standard rooms, plus the fancy Majestic Glen suite for when you’re ready to splurge. Every last room features a private balcony, perfect for sipping your morning coffee while watching the Strip wake up.
Hungry? No problem. The Heirloom Room serves up some seriously good eats (Scotch Quail Eggs, anyone?), and the bar is perfect for date night drinks. Adults only means zero kid chaos. Best of all, since you’re right on the Strip, you can spend the day exploring, then slip back to your quiet little love nest at night.
Holiday Inn & Suites Pigeon Forge Convention Center
Staying at the Holiday Inn & Suites Pigeon Forge Convention Center puts you mere steps from all the fun—mini golf, go-karts, you name it. After a full day of play, you’ll love crash landing in a pillowtop bed wrapped in Egyptian cotton sheets (Oh so fancy, right?). The free Wi-Fi and designer toiletries don’t hurt, either.
But honestly, you don’t even have to leave to have a good time. Pool and hot tub? Basically a must. The 24-hour gym is there if you’re feeling ambitious. If you work up an appetite, The Casual Pint is right downstairs. You can trust that they take bratwurst seriously and pair it with a rotating lineup of draft beers, offering just what you need after a busy day exploring Pigeon Forge.
Blind Tiger Asheville
If you love hidden gems, Blind Tiger Asheville is calling your name. Each of its 14 rooms oozes personality, with eclectic décor that makes it feel more like staying at your coolest friend’s house than a typical hotel. Every corner feels thoughtfully designed, striking a perfect balance between ultra homey and boutique.
While you’re the guest of honor, feel free to start your day slowly with a self-serve breakfast (no rushed mornings here). Then, wander into the peaceful garden with a cup of coffee in hand. Plush bathrobes, free Wi-Fi, and cozy common spaces invite you to linger, nap, or chat the day away. But don’t miss the chance to shop downtown Asheville when you can break yourself away.
Biltmore Village Inn B&B
When nothing else will do but charm with a capital C, set your sights on the Biltmore Village Inn B&B. With only seven rooms available, this spot feels worlds away from the hustle of big hotels. All the rooms are thoughtfully equipped, featuring fireplaces, pillowtop beds, flat-screen TVs, and even iPod docking stations because sometimes you need your own soundtrack.
Mornings always start with a complimentary breakfast, fueling you up for a day exploring the Biltmore Estate (just a half mile away). While you’re out, the staff handles housekeeping and turndown service to ensure you feel extra spoiled. And when you return? Do yourself a big favor, and book a relaxing massage right onsite so you can recharge and be ready to do it all again tomorrow.
Grand Bohemian Lodge Asheville
Get ready for a seriously stylish mountain escape at the Grand Bohemian Lodge Asheville. This place is rustic chic perfection, located right in Biltmore Village and just a stone’s throw away from the famous Biltmore Estate. Even though it’s close to all the action, you probably won’t want to leave. The rooms are a dream, letting you enjoy plush pillowtop beds, down comforters, and spa-like bathrooms.
It’s not just the rooms, either. The full-service spa awaits to help you relax even more, and the Red Stag Grill always serves meals worth lingering over. You’re welcome to stop by for a little something, like the Elk Carpaccio and a Kessler Margarita, or go all in with the Butcher’s Reserve Tomahawk for two.
Margaritaville Island Hotel
At the Margaritaville Island Hotel, you can switch to vacation mode the second you arrive. You’re literally staying at The Island in Pigeon Forge, so tons of shops, food, and fun are right at your doorstep. On top of that, your room is a private paradise with its own fireplace and balcony, giving you a place to escape the everyday.
But the real highlight? The rooftop pool deck, where you can catch the Island Show Fountains from above. With your own private cabana, you get a front row seat without the crowds. When it’s time to fully relax, the St. Somewhere Spa offers massages, facials, and treatments designed to keep those vacation vibes going strong.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort
The DreamMore Resort is basically Dollywood’s front yard. You’re minutes from the theme park and Splash Country, with a free shuttle—so no fighting over parking or walking miles with cranky kids. All 299 rooms are made for families, with plenty of space and everything you need to crash after a day of fun.
Need to cool off or unwind? There’s an indoor pool for splashing and a hot tub nearby for relaxing in between park days. Parents can sneak away for some much-needed me-time at the full-service spa, while kids can head to the arcade when they somehow still have energy after their Dollywood adventures.
Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge
Black Fox Lodge has family vacations figured out. Tucked right in downtown Pigeon Forge, it’s an easy walk to The Island (ferris wheel! fudge shops!) and just minutes from the Ripken Experience and LeConte Center. Say goodbye to “Are we there yet?” complaints.
The 178 rooms come with mini fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers to keep you ready for anything. But the real genius is the seasonal pool’s waterslide, where kids easily stay busy for hours, so you can finally relax. The Fox Den restaurant takes care of dinner, and the cozy bar is just right for a relaxing drink after.
Plan, Book, and Start Counting Down to Your Trip
From rustic inns to full-on resorts, these incredible hotels prove you can stay close to the Smokies and still enjoy all the comforts of home, and then some! So, skip the tent, sink into a comfy bed, and let the Smoky Mountains work their magic. The hardest part? Choosing which hotel to book first.
