When it comes to planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, the Smoky Mountains are a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. However, with so many options available, choosing the right accommodation can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in the Smoky Mountains, to help you make an informed decision and ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains, located along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, are a majestic range of the Appalachian Mountains. Renowned for their stunning natural beauty, the Smoky Mountains offer a unique blend of rolling hills, sparkling streams, and towering peaks. The region is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which attracts over 11 million visitors each year, making it one of the most visited national parks in the United States.
Why Choose the Smoky Mountains?
The Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of activities and attractions, from hiking and camping to fishing and skiing. The region is also steeped in history and culture, with numerous museums, historic sites, and traditional music venues. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the Smoky Mountains have something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in the Smoky Mountains, including cozy cabins, luxurious resorts, and budget-friendly hotels, to help you find the perfect accommodation for your next trip.
Smoky Mountains Best Places to Stay
The Great Smoky Mountains are a popular vacation destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. With its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why people flock to this beautiful region. When planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect accommodation. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in the Smoky Mountains, including Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Townsend.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is one of the most popular destinations in the Smoky Mountains, and for good reason. This bustling town offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg:
- The Lodge at Buckberry Creek: This luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails.
- The Inn at Christmas Place: This festive inn is a holiday lover’s dream, with decorations and activities available year-round.
- Creekstone Inn: This cozy inn offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Gatlinburg Falls Resort: This resort offers a range of accommodations, including cabins, chalets, and condos, as well as an outdoor pool and water park.
In addition to these great accommodations, Gatlinburg also offers a range of amenities and activities, including:
- The Strip: A lively stretch of road lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Ober Gatlinburg: A popular ski resort and amusement park.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: A world-class aquarium featuring a variety of marine life.
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A beautiful national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is another popular destination in the Smoky Mountains, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of activities. Here are some of the best places to stay in Pigeon Forge: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Hershey Pa)
- The Inn at Pigeon Forge: This cozy inn offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- : This resort offers a range of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and condos, as well as an outdoor pool and water park.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an indoor pool and fitness center.
- Holiday Inn Express Pigeon Forge: This hotel offers modern rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and fitness center.
In addition to these great accommodations, Pigeon Forge also offers a range of amenities and activities, including:
- The Island at Pigeon Forge: A entertainment complex featuring a giant Ferris wheel, haunted house, and other attractions.
- Dollywood: A popular theme park owned by Dolly Parton, featuring roller coasters, live music, and craft demonstrations.
- Dixie Stampede: A fun dinner show featuring horse riding, music, and comedy.
- The Comedy Barn: A family-friendly comedy club featuring magicians, jugglers, and other performers.
Sevierville
Sevierville is a charming town located just north of Pigeon Forge, offering a more laid-back atmosphere and a range of outdoor activities. Here are some of the best places to stay in Sevierville:
- Foxfire Mountain Inn: This cozy inn offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Riverview Inn & Suites: This hotel offers modern rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and fitness center.
- Hampton Inn Sevierville: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and fitness center.
- Sevierville River Plantation: This resort offers a range of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and condos, as well as an outdoor pool and water park.
In addition to these great accommodations, Sevierville also offers a range of amenities and activities, including:
- Sevierville Riverwalk: A scenic walking trail along the Little Pigeon River.
- Sevierville Golf Club: A challenging 18-hole golf course with scenic views.
- Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park: An outdoor adventure park featuring zip lines, ropes courses, and other activities.
- Sevierville Historic Walking Trail: A self-guided tour of the town’s historic sites and landmarks.
Townsend
Townsend is a peaceful town located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Here are some of the best places to stay in Townsend:
- Tremont Lodge & Resort: This resort offers a range of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and cabins, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Highland Manor Inn: This cozy inn offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Townsend River Breeze Inn: This hotel offers modern rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool and fitness center.
- Cades Cove Campground: This campground offers a range of campsites, including RV sites and tent sites, as well as amenities like a swimming pool and playground.
In addition to these great accommodations, Townsend also offers a range of amenities and activities, including: (See Also: Best Places To Stay San Luis Obispo)
- Cades Cove: A historic valley with preserved log cabins, churches, and other buildings.
- Townsend Riverwalk: A scenic walking trail along the Little River.
- Tubing in the Smokies: A fun outdoor activity where you can float down the river on an inner tube.
- The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center: A museum featuring exhibits on the region’s history and culture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, there’s something for everyone in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Townsend. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, family-friendly activities, or simply a relaxing getaway, the Smoky Mountains have it all. By considering the best places to stay in each town, you can plan the perfect vacation and make the most of your time in this beautiful region.
Remember to consider factors like location, amenities, and activities when choosing your accommodation. And don’t forget to book early, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
We hope this article has been helpful in planning your trip to the Smoky Mountains. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Smoky Mountains Best Places to Stay
What is the best area to stay in the Smoky Mountains for families?
Pigeon Forge is an excellent area for families, offering a wide range of accommodations, dining options, and attractions suitable for all ages. It’s close to Dollywood, a popular theme park owned by Dolly Parton, and has plenty of mini-golf courses, arcades, and other kid-friendly activities.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations in the Smoky Mountains?
Yes, many resorts, cabins, and hotels in the Smoky Mountains allow pets. Gatlinburg, in particular, has a high number of pet-friendly options. Be sure to check the pet policy and fees before booking your stay. Some popular pet-friendly accommodations include the Park Vista Hotel, Country Inn & Suites, and Smoky Mountain Cabins.
What is the best time to visit the Smoky Mountains to avoid crowds?
The best time to visit the Smoky Mountains to avoid crowds is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). These periods offer mild weather, beautiful scenery, and smaller crowds compared to the peak summer months. If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the week instead of weekends. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Catania)
Are there any luxury accommodations in the Smoky Mountains?
Yes, the Smoky Mountains offer a range of luxury accommodations, including high-end resorts, boutique hotels, and upscale cabins. The Lodge at Buckberry Creek in Gatlinburg is a popular luxury option, offering private balconies, fireplaces, and gourmet dining. Another option is the Westglow Resort and Spa in Blount County, which features luxurious rooms, a full-service spa, and fine dining.
Can I find budget-friendly accommodations in the Smoky Mountains?
Absolutely! The Smoky Mountains offer a range of budget-friendly options, including camping sites, hostels, and budget-friendly hotels. Consider staying in nearby towns like Sevierville or Townsend, which often have more affordable options compared to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. You can also look for cabins or vacation rentals, which can be more cost-effective for larger groups or families.
