Smoky Mountain Lodging Recommendations
By Leif Palmer
Posted on May 5, 2021
So you're thinking about spending some time in the Great Smoky Mountains this year. That's a great idea, especially now that folks are looking to get out of the house and do more traveling. One of the first decisions you'll have to make is where you're going to stay. We've devoted this week's blog post to sharing some ideas and suggestions for places you might want to call your vacation home base the next time you come to the Smokies.
You can first narrow down your choice of lodging destination in the Smokies by deciding which city you want to stay in-Sevierville, Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. Each offers its own advantages, depending on your vacation priorities. If you plan to spend a lot of time in the national park, Gatlinburg might be your best choice. If you're planning a trip to Dollywood, consider staying in Pigeon Forge. If outlet mall shopping is a priority for you, Sevierville might be the way to go.
Depending on which city you choose, here are some of our top lodging recommendations:
Sevierville
The Lodge at Five Oaks
This property has a storied history, and its lodge motif is designed to commemorate life on the farm. Hardwood floors and luxurious bedding are among the many room highlights, and the location is ideal for guests planning to visit Tanger Outlets in Sevierville. You can practically walk there from the lodge.
Pigeon Forge
Cherokee Lodge
Some folks prefer staying in condominiums to hotels, and if that includes you, consider this condo property in Pigeon Forge. It's located in the heart of town, but it's also located next to a trolley station, so you can easily access anywhere else in town or even hop to Gatlinburg. The condos are convenient to Dollywood, music theaters, shops and all the other things that make Pigeon Forge a top travel destination.
Gatlinburg
Old Creek Lodge
Located in downtown, this hotel has a little bit of everything-beautiful rooms, great amenities and a handy location within walking or trolley distance of tons of shops, restaurants, attractions and Gatlinburg parking.
The Appalachian Lodge
Get ready for rustic luxury when you stay at this hotel property at the north entrance to Gatlinburg. The “Appy” has only been open a few years, so it combines all the advantages of state-of-the-art accommodations with the rustic charm of an old-school mountain property.
Greenbrier Campground
Looking for a lodging provider that's a little more on the primitive side? Consider doing some camping. This property, located on the Pigeon River, has multiple overnight options, including tent camping and RV camping. And if you want something a little more traditional, they have cabin rentals too. They're also pet-friendly…
About Leif Palmer
Leif Palmer loves residing in Gatlinburg. He is an avid outdoorsman: rowing for exercise on the lake, trail hiking, and free climbing rocks in the mountains. He indulges his arty side by periodically beating up pieces of marble by sculpting. He is always frustrated by his inability to sink long putts, and hates his curly hair (but his wife loves it). Leif has been known to muster enough courage to change a diaper, and hopes his son will become a chip off the old block.