The Great Smoky Mountains, a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains, is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Every year, millions of visitors come to explore the national park’s hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic structures. When planning a trip to this breathtaking location, choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your experience. This article will provide an overview of the best places to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains, highlighting various options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Importance of Choosing the Right Accommodation
Selecting suitable accommodation is crucial for any trip, as it serves as your home base during your stay. A comfortable and convenient place to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains ensures that you have easy access to the park’s attractions, can relax and recharge after a day of exploration, and have the opportunity to enjoy additional amenities that cater to your interests and needs.
Accommodation Options Near the Great Smoky Mountains
Hotels and Resorts
Hotels and resorts near the Great Smoky Mountains offer a range of services and amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants. These establishments often provide shuttle services to and from the park, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free visit. Some popular hotel and resort options include Gatlinburg’s Park Vista DoubleTree by Hilton and Pigeon Forge’s Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort.
Cabins and Vacation Rentals
Cabins and vacation rentals are an excellent choice for those seeking a more intimate and secluded experience. These accommodations often come equipped with full kitchens, fireplaces, and hot tubs, providing a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. Numerous cabin rental companies operate in the area, such as Aunt Bug’s Cabin Rentals and Smoky Mountain Vacations.
Campgrounds and RV Parks
For nature enthusiasts and budget-conscious travelers, campgrounds and RV parks near the Great Smoky Mountains offer a unique and affordable alternative. These sites provide access to the park’s hiking trails and other outdoor activities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Notable campgrounds and RV parks include the Smoky Mountain Campground and the Elkmont Campground within the national park itself.
Bed and Breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts near the Great Smoky Mountains offer a charming and personalized experience. These establishments often feature historic architecture, home-cooked meals, and friendly hosts who can provide local insights and recommendations. Some standout options include the Christopher Place Inn and the Buckhorn Inn, both located near Gatlinburg. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Canmore)
Considerations for Choosing Accommodation
When selecting the best place to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains, consider the following factors: proximity to the park, available amenities, price range, and the size and layout of the accommodations. Additionally, research the property’s reputation and customer reviews to ensure a positive and memorable experience.
Best Places to Stay Near Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains, located in Tennessee and North Carolina, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails, it’s no wonder why millions of people visit the park each year. When planning your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Here are some of the best places to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains, along with their unique features and amenities.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is one of the most popular gateway cities to the Great Smoky Mountains. Located just a few miles from the park’s entrance, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy cabins. Here are some of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg:
- The Park Vista – This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. It’s also located near many of Gatlinburg’s popular attractions, such as the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park.
- Greystone Lodge on the River – This cozy lodge is located on the Little Pigeon River and offers a variety of room options, from standard rooms to suites with river views. The lodge also has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a fire pit for guests to enjoy.
- Zoder’s Inn and Suites – This family-owned inn offers a variety of amenities, including an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a game room. It’s also located near the Gatlinburg downtown area, where you can find many shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is another popular gateway city to the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its entertainment options, Pigeon Forge offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels to cabins. Here are some of the best places to stay in Pigeon Forge:
- Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort – This luxury resort is located near Dollywood theme park and offers a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The resort also has a shuttle service to Dollywood and other popular attractions in Pigeon Forge.
- Music Road Inn – This family-friendly inn offers a variety of amenities, including an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a game room. It’s also located near many of Pigeon Forge’s popular attractions, such as the Dolly Parton’s Stampede and the Island at Pigeon Forge.
- RiverStone Resort and Spa – This upscale resort offers a variety of amenities, including an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a spa. It’s also located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Gatlinburg downtown area.
Townsend
Townsend is a quiet gateway city to the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Townsend offers a variety of accommodations, from bed and breakfasts to cabins. Here are some of the best places to stay in Townsend: (See Also: Best Places To Stay New River Gorge)
- Dancing Bear Lodge – This upscale lodge offers a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a game room. It’s also located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Townsend downtown area.
- Twin Rivers Condo Resort – This condo resort offers a variety of amenities, including an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. It’s also located near the Little River and the Townsend downtown area.
- Laurel Valley Condominiums – This condominium complex offers a variety of amenities, including an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a game room. It’s also located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Townsend downtown area.
Cosby
Cosby is a small gateway community to the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its seclusion and natural beauty, Cosby offers a variety of accommodations, from cabins to campgrounds. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cosby:
- Cosby Campground – This campground offers a variety of campsites, from tent sites to RV sites. It’s also located near the Cosby entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cosby downtown area.
- Cosby Creek Cabins – This cabin rental company offers a variety of cabins, from cozy one-bedroom cabins to spacious five-bedroom cabins. It’s also located near the Cosby entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cosby downtown area.
- Smoky Mountain Haven – This cabin rental company offers a variety of cabins, from cozy one-bedroom cabins to spacious five-bedroom cabins. It’s also located near the Cosby entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cosby downtown area.
Recap
When planning your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Townsend, and Cosby are some of the best places to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains. Each of these gateway cities and communities offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy cabins. Whether you’re looking for entertainment options, peaceful atmosphere, or seclusion, there’s a place for you near the Great Smoky Mountains. Make sure to consider your preferences and budget when choosing your accommodations, and enjoy your trip to one of the most beautiful national parks in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Places to Stay Near Great Smoky Mountains
1. What are some of the best places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Some of the best places to stay near the national park include Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Townsend, and Bryson City. These locations offer a variety of accommodations, such as hotels, cabins, vacation rentals, and campgrounds, with easy access to park attractions and activities.
2. What types of accommodations are available near Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
There is a wide range of accommodations near the national park, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, cabins, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and RV parks. Visitors can choose from luxury resorts, budget-friendly options, and everything in between, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers.
3. Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes, there are many pet-friendly accommodations near the national park, such as hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals. However, it is essential to check with the specific accommodation before booking, as some may have restrictions or additional fees for pets. Additionally, pets are not allowed on most park trails, so it is necessary to plan accordingly. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Nashville Tn Downtown)
4. What are the benefits of staying in a cabin near Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Staying in a cabin near the national park offers many benefits, such as privacy, scenic views, and a cozy atmosphere. Cabins often come with amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, and full kitchens, providing a comfortable and convenient home base for exploring the park. Additionally, cabins can accommodate groups of various sizes, making them an excellent option for families and friends traveling together.
5. How far are the popular towns near Great Smoky Mountains National Park from the park entrance?
The popular towns near the national park are located relatively close to the park entrance. Gatlinburg is only a few minutes’ drive from the park’s Sugarlands Visitor Center, while Pigeon Forge is about a 15-minute drive away. Sevierville is approximately a 20-minute drive from the park, and Townsend is about a 30-minute drive. Bryson City, located in North Carolina, is about an hour’s drive from the park’s Oconaluftee Visitor Center.