Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a popular vacation destination known for its stunning views on the Smoky Mountains. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this charming town offers visitors a plethora of activities ranging from hiking and skiing to shopping and fine dining. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect hotel that will make your stay truly unforgettable.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best hotels (in our opinion) in Gatlinburg that are sure to meet all your needs and exceed all your expectations. But before we dive into our top picks, let’s first take a brief look at what makes Gatlinburg such a special place and why it’s important to choose the right hotel for your stay.
Gatlinburg has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing retreat. With over 800 miles of hiking trails within its boundaries, it’s no wonder that it’s considered one of America’s most popular hiking destinations.
Additionally, Gatlinburg boasts numerous attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park & Ski Area as well as being home to countless restaurants offering delectable cuisine ranging from southern comfort food to international cuisine. However, no matter how amazing your itinerary may be, if you don’t have comfortable accommodations that suit your specific needs then your trip may not be as enjoyable as you anticipated.
That’s why choosing the best hotel or resort is essential when planning your trip to this magical city situated at the foot of stunning mountain ranges.
The Top 5 Best Hotels in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The Hampton Inn
A personal favorite is the Hampton. When traveling we always look for The Hampton Inn. This hotel has a pool, hot tub, gym and free HOT breakfast and the menu changes day to day. The rooms and building is always super clean and really comfortable beds. We always try to stay at this hotel after hiking all day in the smokies.
The Hampton is located on the Historic Nature Trail with just a 10-15 minute walk to the main road where all the shops and restaurants are located.
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Breakfast included
- Pet friendly
- Parking included
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Gym
- Laundry
- 24/7 front desk
The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
If you’re traveling with your family, The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is an excellent choice. This hotel offers comfortable accommodations coupled with exciting activities perfect for families with children of all ages. Located on top of a mountain ridge, guests can enjoy breathtaking views from every room and even the parking lot.
Amenities include an indoor pool and kids’ play area that will keep your little ones entertained while parents relax in the hot tub, sauna or get a workout in the gym that overlooks the indoor pool. Room types range from standard rooms to spacious suites – all equipped with modern furnishings and amenities like flat-screen televisions and free Wi-Fi access.
For added convenience, there’s also a 24-hour market where you can grab snacks and drinks throughout the day. The trolly service does run up to the Park Vista.
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Hot Tub
- Pet friendly
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant
- Air conditioning
- Gym
- Breakfast available
- Parking available
- Bar
- Laundry
- Room service
- 24/7 front desk
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
Escape from reality without ever leaving Tennessee at Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg. This hotel transports guests to a tropical paradise with its laid-back ambiance, colorful decor, and Jimmy Buffet-inspired music playing in the background.
With 163 rooms available – ranging from standard rooms to multi-room suites – there is something for everyone here. Amenities include an outdoor pool with a lazy river and swim-up bar where you can relax while sipping on your favorite cocktail.
There’s also an indoor water park complete with slides and other fun water features perfect for kids of all ages.
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Hot Tub
- Spa
- Parking included
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant
- Air conditioning
- Gym
- Breakfast available
- Parking available
- Bar
- Laundry
- Room service
- 24/7 front desk
Holiday Inn Express
The Holiday Inn Express is another hotel we look for while traveling. Holiday Inn has free HOT breakfast every morning. Also an indoor pool with water slides, a gym and laundry area. Holiday Inn Express has saved us many times while traveling to help wash clothes, especially after hiking multiple days.
While on the same road as The Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express is located a little closer to the shops and attractions for a shorter walk.
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Breakfast included
- Parking included
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Extra Bed/Crib
- Laundry
- 24/7 front desk
Glenstone Lodge
A more budget friendly hotel is the Glenstone Lodge that’s located right next to The Hampton Inn on the Historic Nature Trail, making it a great location with a 10-15 minute walk to the main attractions. The hotel’s huge indoor pool is open all year round so you can enjoy a swim, no matter the season. Also there are ping-pong tables and other games in the arcade area for children to enjoy.
They feature private balconies that overlook Gatlinburg’s scenery. There are also exterior rooms with shared balconies that are little dated. Another option is choosing an indoor room (interior) that overlooks the indoor pool. However, you may be able to smell the chlorine from the pool depending on the room you are in.
Popular amenities
- Indoor Pool
- Parking included
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant
- Air conditioning
- Breakfast available
- 24/7 front desk
Bonus Budget Friendly Options
Brookside Lodge
A little off the beaten path of East Parkway is Brookside Lodge. Probably the best budget option that we found that has all the accommodations. Although a little dated a river view room with a balcony makes up for it.
Breakfast is optional for an additional fee which is a bummer, but the buffet is still cheaper than going to a restaurant. Even though its a little ways from the main attractions there is a trolly shuttle stop right in front of the hotel.
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Parking included
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Gym
- Breakfast available
- Laundry
- River Views
Sleep Inn
Not far from the Brookside Lodge is the Sleep Inn. Another great budget option as there is a free breakfast at this location. As well as an indoor pool. Even though there are private balconies there really isn’t much of a view. There is a bit of a walk from this location as well to the main attractions. Again, there are trolly stations close that can shuttle you around if you don’t want to walk 20-30 mins.
Popular amenities
- Indoor Pool
- Hot Tub
- Breakfast included
- Parking included
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Gym
- Laundry
- 24/7 front desk
No matter the hotel you choose Gatlinburg is a fun and although getting busier little town. While staying at various hotels in Gatlinburg these are the ones we enjoyed and would stay at again after a long day of hiking.
