10 Greatest Resorts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Whether you’re traveling to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, for outdoor adventures, a romantic getaway, family-friendly entertainment, or relaxation and scenic vistas (or simply because you love Dolly Parton – it’s okay, we all love her), you’ll find resorts for all interests. There are even resorts with spas and indoor water park access if you need to accommodate skiers and heat-seekers in your group.

The best resorts in Gatlinburg include luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly vacation options for families, couples, groups, and business travelers. Cabins, cottages, and chalets cling to the mountainside and feature amenities like outdoor pools, hot tubs, and stunning Smoky Mountain views of maple, pine, and oak tree forests.

While fall is a prime time for checking out the orange, red, and yellow hues of the Smokies, it really is a four-season resort destination. Spring offers wildflower valleys and cool breezes. Summer vacations are for mountain springs, hiking, and bicycling along wooded trails.

Winter brings in Christmas vacation vibes with seasonal lights, downhill skiing, and powder-soft snow. Having been to this beautiful area in spring, summer, and fall, I can personally attest to those three seasons.

From snowy sports and white-water rafting to shopping, dining, and distillery tours, you can’t go wrong with a vacation to this section of the Smokies. Toss in horseback riding, fishing, and activities like mini golf, go-karts, and entertaining shows, and you’ve got yourself a full itinerary of things to do in Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge. So, if you’re wondering if it’s better to stay in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, you’ll be happy to know that they’re close enough together to enjoy activities in either location.

As with any trip, it’s always a good idea to invest in reliable insurance, so shop around at places like TravelInsurance.com to find the right policy for you.

TL;DR

Best Resorts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

1. Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Address: 539 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

Part of the flip-flop-wearing and laid-back empire of Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is a unique addition to the mountain backdrop of Gatlinburg. The tropical-inspired brand fits in amazingly well. Hey, it’s always five o’clock somewhere, right?

Opened in 2018, there are 163 rooms located over seven floors. Choose from family suites and one- and two-bedroom suites with pool or mountain views. Spacious guest rooms have microwaves, mini-fridges, Keurig machines, wet bars, and other handy amenities like benches and wall hooks for towels, bags, and other hangable things.

The resort has fire pits, on-site restaurants, comfortable lobby seating and conversation areas, meeting and event space, a fitness room, the St. Somewhere Spa, and an indoor pool (this isn’t Florida, folks – it gets cold in them thar mountains!). There are several outdoor pool areas, including play areas for the kids.

This fun resort is within walking distance of a variety of attractions and activities, including the Anakeesta mountaintop adventure park, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and shops and restaurants at The Village. It’s also on the trolley line.

If you prefer to have a vehicle to explore other areas, such as Pigeon Forge, or make a day trip to Knoxville, resources like RentalCars.com are a terrific way to find some wheels.

Things to do near the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

• Anakeesta Adventure Park
• Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort 
• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
• Gatlinburg Space Needle

Pros

• On-Site Restaurant
• Indoor and Outdoor pools
• Walking distance to downtown Gatlinburg

Cons

See Related: Best Things to Do in Tennessee & Places to Visit

2. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

With 250 rooms over five floors, the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort features lodge-style architecture and rustic décor throughout its many buildings. Dogs up to 60 pounds are allowed at this resort.

Choose from studios and one, three, four, and five-bedroom villas with full kitchens. This is an excellent vacation option for larger groups, family reunions, and those just looking for space to spread out. Rooms have stone-front fireplaces, leather furnishings, and plank wood floors.  

The property has a mini golf course, three restaurants, a bar, barbecue grills, and a gift shop. For the kids, there’s a children’s activities room, a playground, and a fun outdoor-themed water park. Participate in activities like fitness classes and ziplining, get a deep-tissue massage, or go off-site for a moonshine-tasting tour!

Things to do near the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort

• Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park
• Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery
• Gatlinburg Convention Center
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Pros

• Pet-Friendly
• Restaurants and activities like mini golf, a playground, and a water park

Cons

• Westgate Resorts is a timeshare property (iykyk)

See Related: Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

3. Zoder’s Inn & Suites

Address: 402 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

Opened in 1941, the family-owned and operated Zoder’s Inn & Suites sits on six wooded acres along the scenic Roaring Fork Creek. There are 90 guest rooms and suites, an indoor and an outdoor pool, and a conference room.

Zoder’s is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and attractions in downtown Gatlinburg. The property is on the downtown trolley route, which is free.

Enjoy complimentary pastries in the morning and hot coffee all day. Guests receive 20% off breakfast at the Atrium, which is about a two-minute walk away, and 20% off dinner at the equally close Smoky Mountain Trout House.

Choose from traditional guest rooms and courtyard suites with separate living areas, private bedrooms, and a gas-burning fireplace. There are also guest cottages, executive suites, townhouse suites, and a two-bedroom cabin with a full kitchen that can accommodate six guests.

On-site activities include racquetball courts, basketball, a fitness room, and a hydra spa for those post-hike relaxation sessions. There is a picnic area with grills, benches, and a fire pit if you prefer to relax on vacation.

Things to do near Zoder’s Inn & Suites

Pros

• Balconies with river views
• On-site racquetball and basketball courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa

Cons

See Related: Best Hotels in Nashville, Tennessee

4. Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts

Address: 515 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts is within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and activities in downtown Gatlinburg. The property is divided into three sections: Gatlinburg Town Square Resort, Gatlinburg Town Village, and Gatlinburg Town Village Hotel. Guests of all properties can enjoy amenities at each of the other properties, making this a terrific choice for those who enjoy variety.

This charming resort is less than a mile from the National Park. It has an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a basketball court, a fitness center, a hot tub, a business center, and free Wi-Fi.

Some rooms have a seating area, a private balcony, and a sofa bed. Choose from standard queens, studios, family rooms, or one-bedroom condos with a kitchenette. For more room, consider a two-bedroom condo with a full kitchen.

Things to do near Gatlinburg Town Square Resort

Pros

• Indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, and a hot tub
• Condos with full kitchens are available
• Enjoy amenities at all three sections

Cons

• Might be too large if you’re in search of a secluded experience

See Related: Where to Stay in Nashville, Tennessee: Best Neighborhoods

5. Bearskin Lodge on the River

Address: 840 River Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

Opened in 2000, Bearskin Lodge on the River is situated between downtown Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located on the trolley route, it’s convenient to get around town.

It’s also about 1.5 miles from the Sugarlands Visitors Center at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it one of the best Gatlinburg family resorts for outdoor adventure.

Decorated in soothing neutrals and colorful accents, accommodations offer balconies with river or city views and the rustic décor of hickory furniture, hardwood floors, and gas fireplaces. Enjoy the conveniences of a mini fridge, a microwave, and a Keurig coffee maker.

Book a junior king suite for extra sleeping and seating space. The lodge has an outdoor heated pool with a lazy river, a fire pit, a continental breakfast, a fitness room, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. True to its name, there’s a bearskin rug in the lobby.

The hotel offers discounts for seniors, military members, and first responders.

Things to do near Bearskin Lodge on the River

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead (a dog-friendly park with a 3.8-mile loop path)
• Sugarlands Riding Stable
• Cataract Falls

Pros

• Close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Outdoor heated pool
• Balconies with river views

Cons

• No on-site restaurant (but there is a convenience shop and daily continental breakfast)

See Related: Best Restaurants in Downtown Nashville (+ Bonuses!)

6. Elk Springs Resort

Address: 125 Silverbell Lane, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

Looking for a secluded Smoky Mountain vacation cabin for the whole fam? Elk Springs Resort is a terrific option for a mountainside vacation. The 68-acre resort is within an arts-and-crafts community bordering the Smokies.

The are 121 private cabins within this area of ridges, valleys, and hemlock, oak, and pine forests. If your vacation dreams run to knotty pine walls, stone-surround fireplaces, rustic decor, and front porch rocking chairs, this is the place for you.

Fully furnished cabins offer anywhere from one to five+ bedrooms, full kitchens, and lots of indoor and outdoor living space. Enjoy jetted spa tubs, theater rooms, game rooms, indoor pools, outdoor fire pits, covered balconies, and stunning views from wraparound porches.

If you’re interested in a romantic retreat that’s secluded and off-the-beaten-path, but still convenient to downtown, a mountainside luxury cabin is one of the best choices in town.

Things to do near Elk Springs Resort

• Gatlinburg Space Needle
• Gatlinburg Convention Center
• Speedwerkz Exotic Car Experience
• Great Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community

Pros

• Cabins are spread out for privacy and a secluded experience
• Fully furnished homes with full kitchens, living and dining spaces, and luxury amenities

Cons

• Not a traditional “resort” in that you’re in your own private home
• No community pools or on-site restaurants

See Related: Best Things to Do in Memphis, Tennessee

7. Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg on the River

Address: 293 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

The Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg on the River is one of the best resorts for families, couples, or solo travelers. It’s a short walk to restaurants, outdoor activities, and thrilling attractions like the Moonshine Mountain Coaster and Ripley’s Mountain Coaster. For less of an adrenaline rush, play a round or two of Hillbilly Golf.

Featuring bright décor, spacious guest rooms have hardwood floors, nature-themed art, a mini fridge, a microwave, and balconies with river views. Enjoy amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, free parking, a game room, a fitness room, a restaurant, and laundry facilities.

Start the day with a complimentary continental breakfast buffet. After a day of hiking, biking, or exploring the national park, relax on the patio around the fire pits. 

Things to do near Baymont

• Cooter’s Place (a Duke’s of Hazzard-themed museum with indoor go-karts and mini golf)
• Earthquake the Ride
• Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame & Museum
• Gatlinburg Convention Center

Pros

• Indoor swimming pool, game room, and fitness room
• Complimentary continental breakfast
• Balconies with river views

Cons

• Not within walking distance of downtown Gatlinburg

See Related: Best Bars in Nashville, Tennessee

8. The Park Vista – A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Gatlinburg

Address: 705 Cherokee Orchard Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

The Park Vista – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel overlooks Downtown Gatlinburg and offers easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains, making it an excellent option for families, couples, or business travelers seeking scenery, outdoor recreation, and meeting facilities. Newly renovated, the hotel has 300 guest rooms and suites. The Park Vista is on the downtown Gatlinburg trolley route, which makes it convenient for shopping, dining, and exploring downtown.

This pet-friendly resort has a multi-level indoor pool complex with waterslides and a hot tub, a fitness room, two on-site restaurants, a meeting space, and a full-service convention center. All guest rooms have a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a balcony to enjoy mountain or garden views.

Things to Do near The Park Vista

• Earthquake the Ride
• Hollywood Star Cars Museum
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Anakeesta

Pros

• Indoor pools with waterslides and a hot tub
• Two on-site restaurants
• Stunning mountain setting

Cons

• Not within walking distance to downtown (but it’s on the trolley route)

See Related: Best Things to Do in Johnson City, Tennessee

9. RiverStone Resort & Spa

Address: 212 Dollywood Lane, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37868

Not sure if it’s better to stay in a cabin or hotel in Gatlinburg? That depends on your preferences, but take a look at RiverStone Resort & Spa. Situated on 15 acres along the scenic Little Pigeon River, the property is a great location for access to both Gatlinburg and the museums, attractions, and entertainment of Pigeon Forge. You’ll find it near the Old Mill Restaurant, the Lil Black Bear Café, and the Tennessee Shine Co. distillery.

The resort, which opened in 2006, offers 185 luxury condos with full kitchens, dining space, living areas, and private balconies, and there are also cozy cabins with lofts, so you get the best of both worlds.

Enjoy the convenience of full-size washers and dryers and the comfort factor of a fireplace. Take advantage of an indoor/outdoor pool with a lazy river, a fitness center, and a spa with massages, facials, nail services, and a salon.

Things to do near RiverStone Resort & Spa

Pros

• Easy access to Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge attractions
• Luxury condos with full kitchens, dining space, and private balconies

Cons

• No on-site restaurant
• Not in Gatlinburg proper

See Related: Best Cheap Places to Travel in the U.S.

10. Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Address: 3171 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37863

The Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton delivers rustic Southern charm combined with a modern aesthetic. Located across from the Le-Conte Center in downtown Pigeon Forge, it’s easily accessible to downtown Gatlinburg.

One of the best Gatlinburg resorts for travelers of all types, it opened in 2017 and has 178 rooms. Choose from spacious guest rooms and lodge-style suites with extra seating and dining space.

Connecting rooms are available, which makes a wonderful option for larger families with older kids. Amenities include an on-site restaurant, a bar, a fitness room, free Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms for special events.

Outdoor amenities include an outdoor swimming pool with a water fountain and a slide and a patio with a fire pit. Little Pigeon River and the Smokies views come standard.

Things to do near Black Fox Lodge

• The Old Mill Gristmill
• Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
• Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show
• The Ripken Experience baseball facility

Pros

• Outdoor swimming pool with a slide
• On-site restaurant, a fitness room, and meeting rooms

Cons

• Not in Gatlinburg proper (but offers easy access, and proximity to Pigeon Forge activities and attractions)

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