Best Hotels in Gatlinburg for Every Traveler

If you’re looking for something with personality, a boutique hotel might be the way to go. These smaller, locally owned properties often feature thoughtful design, quirky decor, and personalized attention you might not find at larger chains. Landmark hotels like Historic Rocky Waters Inn offer a curated experience with private balconies overlooking the Little Pigeon River. If serenity is what you’re after, check out the Lodge at Buckberry Creek, which feels tucked away in the mountains despite only being a few minutes from downtown! Or, consider booking a room at The Timber at Holly Branch, just steps away Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Families visiting Gatlinburg need space, convenience, and sometimes a pool to keep the kiddos entertained! At Embassy Suites by Hilton you can enjoy a resort style pool, slide and lazy river with an on-site restaurant & bar, coffee shop and outdoor services. Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg checks all the boxes with spacious suites, a large pool deck, and walkable access to Anakeesta and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Another solid pick is the Greystone Lodge on the River. Kids will love the pool (waterslide and all), and parents will appreciate free parking and free breakfast, among all the classic amenities of a family-friendly lodge.

Other excellent picks for families visiting Gatlinburg include The Park Vista: DoubleTree by Hilton, with its large rooms and sweeping mountain views; Crossroads Inn & Suites, featuring a kids’ splash zone and convenient access to local attractions; and Bearskin Lodge on the River, where all the rooms come equipped with cozy fireplaces or The Appy Lodge, boasts luxury-forward comforts while staying true to classic mountain design. It’s just off the main Downtown Parkway, which makes it walkable to many of Gatlinburg’s shops and dining spots.

If you’re looking for pet friendly lodging in Gatlinburg, check out these great options.

Location matters, especially if you’re hoping to explore all of Gatlinburg’s attractions. If proximity is your priority, consider hotels close to downtown Gatlinburg, like Mountain Heritage Inn or Old Creek Lodge. Both are a short walk to the Gatlinburg Trail, the SkyPark, and dozens of Gatlinburg restaurants. For travelers hoping to wake up to something scenic, several hotels with mountain views in Gatlinburg are just outside the downtown corridor, and feature front-row seats to the Smokies. The Park Vista is one of the hotels with the best views in Gatlinburg and includes an indoor pool with a waterslide and onsite dining.

Or, if you’d rather stay surrounded by nature, Gatlinburg has no shortage of cabins and private vacation rentals tucked into the hills. Explore our full guide to cabins here to find the perfect scenic stay in the mountains.

Peak seasons (especially fall foliage and holidays) can book up quickly. If your dates are flexible, midweek stays often mean lower rates and easier parking. Also, many unique hotels in Gatlinburg offer special packages if you book directly through their website, so it’s always worth comparing rates.

If you’re still deciding where to stay, check out our full list of Gatlinburg lodging for all types of travelers to help narrow down your options. Once you’ve booked a place, consider using our planning resources to make the most of your Gatlinburg getaway.