Where to Stay in Gatlinburg: The Best Hotels & Accommodations in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Last Updated on: 3rd February 2022, 02:05 pm

An ideal destination for family vacations as well as for a friend’s trip and a romantic getaway, Gatlinburg is a relaxing corner near the northern part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering plenty of nearby popular tourist attractions as well as a perfect hideaway to relax and take a break from the daily routine.

No matter what kind of accommodation option you prefer, in the area it is possible to find different types of lodgings, including hotels, rental homes, and small inns not far from the Ober Gatlinburg Tram but also the fantastic downtown entertainment opportunities that Gatlinburg shelters for its visitors, including the worldwide famous Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Or the one-of-a-kind Ripley’s Aquarium.

How Much Will I Pay for My Stay in Gatlinburg?

To make things easier for those looking for a place to stay in Gatlinburg, we have divided this guide not jus into the three most popular areas, but we have also divided the accommodation options into three different price categories.

Budget stays range from $80 to $150 per night, mid-range accommodation has prices ranging from $150 to $250 per night, while luxury places to stay start at $250 and up.

Always remember to book in advance to find more convenient fees and some extra perks that you will not find when booking last minute.

Best Areas to Stay in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg offers a few different areas where you can choose to book your place to stay, here are some of my favorite places.

Parkway District

Probably the best place to stay when visiting Gatlinburg is Parkway District, the most active and vibrant area around. Considered by many as “the place to be” when discovering Gatlinburg, this district is perfect for nights out, entertainment and unique cultural, historic, and even gastronomic tours.

The Parkway District is where families can discover different theme and waterparks, family friendly hotels and restaurants, and a comfortable way to reach other areas since this district is also well connected the Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Nashville. Those not planning on renting a car can never go wrong if they stay in this district.

Going out at night is fun and easy in Parkway District. Here, visitors can choose from extravagant dinner shows, to simple, low-key eateries, fine-dining restaurants, bars and cafeterias.

Parkway District welcomes you to explore the best of the local scene, from the Gatlinburg Sky Needle’s amazing observation deck to a romantic visit to the Smoky Mountain Winery for a delicious wine tasting experience.

If you’re visiting with the family, why not checking the Wild Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark? You can also make exploration easier for the whole family heading to the chairlifts at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park to soak in the most impressive viewpoints with unforgettable views.

Budget Places to Stay in Parkway District

Gatlinburg Inn

Looking for a homely feeling? Gatlinburg Inn offers a unique experience only a hundred meters from the Sugarland Distilling Company. Reviewed by guests as a fantastic place to stay, this 2-star inn includes a tennis court and an outdoor swimming pool for those who are eager to enjoy an active vacation.

Rooms are bright and spacious, featuring simple but comfortable accommodation, with very inviting beds and pillows The hotel’s trademark is the nostalgic vibe that will make you effortlessly travel back in time while enjoying a cup of tea sitting in the rocking chairs at the atmospheric porch. The friendly staff and familiar environment which makes it really easy to feel at home when staying at the Gatlinburg Inn. The hotel also serves a delicious American-style breakfast every morning.

The hotel is located very near the most popular attractions in Parkway District, including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg Space Needle, and Gatlinburg Sky Lift. The nearest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport, 44 km from Gatlinburg Inn.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

DreamCatcher Downtown Gatlinburg

Have you ever dreamed of having the best of a tucked away chalet while still remaining in the most vibrant area in town? Well, look no further, this is what this property promises to those who book a stay.

This unique apartment boasts fantastic swimming pool views, a beautiful balcony, and a truly cozy atmosphere in the center of town, about 700 meters from Gatlinburg Space Needle.

The apartment includes a convenient seating area, a kitchen fitted with a microwave, a fridge and a stovetop, as well as a coffee machine. The rental home is close to Ober. The location is perfect for walking while it is also easy to park in the area.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Mid-range Places to Stay in Parkway District

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Downtown Gatlinburg

Beautiful property featuring a garden as well as a heated outdoor swimming pool, the Howard Johnson by Wyndham features comfortable ample rooms with amazing lush bed linen and plenty of pillows as well as a private balcony for you to relax after a day exploring downtown Gatlinburg. The guest rooms also feature cable TV as well as coffee and tea making facilities. Guests can easily take advantage of the free public parking available on site.

This hotel’s best-selling point is its proximity to everything in town. Its ideal location allows you to easily reach nearby attractions such as the Anakeesta Mountain Adventure Park and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Out and about on a shopping spree? You will be just a short walking distance of literally hundreds of retail spaces downtown.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gatlinburg

Another great mid-range option, SureStay Plus Hotel is adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a sort drive from Ripley’s Aquarium and the Mountain Mall. The stay at this accommodation includes a free, rich continental breakfast, free WiFi, and access to a great outdoor swimming pool.

Once in their rooms, guests will find comfortable amenities such as a microwave, a small refrigerator, and cable TV. In the property, there are vending machines for snacks and drinks while free parking is also provided. The hotel is only 400 meters from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park while Cataract Falls is just a 5-minute drive from the area.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Luxury Places to Stay in Parkway District

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

Amazing place to stay in Gatlinburg’s best-rated area, the hotel is known for offering a stunning complimentary hot breakfast every morning, a fantastic fitness center, and a round-the-clock business center too.

Guests can enjoy the heated pool as well as free WiFi in every corner of the property, and all of this just 1.5 km from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Rooms and suites feature a coffee machine, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. Free weekday newspapers and complimentary parking are offered as well. The Gatlinburg Convention Center is just 650 m from the hotel.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Oak Square Condo

This accommodation in Parkway District is situated 1.4 km from the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and just 700 meters from Gatlinburg Space Needle, not far from Over Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area, also very close to the Amazing Mirror Maze and 600 m from Ripley’s Haunted Adventure. As you can see, the location is truly impossible to beat.

The air-conditioned apartment features a comfortable bedroom, a fantastic kitchen with a dining area, a living room with comfy sofas and a hideaway couch, and a well-appointed bathroom.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Area

If you’re more into adventure than into nightlife and entertainment, then there’s no more exciting experience than actually staying in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, so why not choosing one of the picturesque cottages, inns or holiday cabins just minutes from the park entrance?

Once you’ve settled in your lodge, hotel or cabin, head to the Sugarland Visitor Center to gather all the information you must have so as to hike and explore some of the most amazing hiking trails in the States.

And if you don’t dare taking up this experience on your own, you will also find all the details and info you need to join a guided tour or hiking tour with expert park rangers.

Budget Places to Stay very close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Historic Tapoco Lodge

(Tapoco)

Enjoying excellent reviews on different booking sites, this historic lodge in Tapoco features private units with beautiful views of the local nature. In the property, guests will be able to find a restaurant, a bar, and a shared lounge where to rest and enjoy a drink or two.

Every morning, the lodge offers a continental and buffet breakfast with a mouth-watering variety of freshly cooked dishes. In the property, guests can take advantage of the convenient laundry service to.

In the mood to explore? Check the unique natural landscapes in the nearby area, go hiking or even fishing and then get back toy the lodge to enjoy the relaxing vibe of the garden and the terrace. McGhee Tyson Airport is less than an hour from the lodge.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Motel 6-Gatlinburg, TN – Smoky Mountains

(Outskirts of Downtown Gatlinburg)

Looking for a super economic place to stay near the National Park? Then go for this simple motel just five minutes from the entrance area. The motel is comfortable, featuring small but convenient rooms with a desk, a microwave and a small refrigerator.

The property also features a seasonal outdoor pool as well as free parking for guests. The motel is pet friendly and is only a few minutes away from the famous Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Mid-range Places to Stay very close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Park Vista – A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Gatlinburg

(Gatlinburg Trolley Route)

Beautiful views and relaxed environment for this hotel right outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The property features a multi-level indoor pool, an on-site fitness center, a full-service convention center and free WiFi in public areas.

Every room at The Park Vista has an inspiring balcony, a small refrigerator, and a convenient coffee maker. The on-site restaurant, Vista Grill, offers southern-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner while drinks and appetizers are available for guests at the Firefly’s Patio Lounge.

The hotel is located on the Gatlinburg Trolley Route, offering easy access both to downtown Gatlinburg and the national park.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Cuddles, 1 Bedroom Studio

(Gatlinburg)

Featured as a perfect place both to walk to downtown Gatlinburg as well as to reach all the hiking trails, this small and cozy 1-bedroom studio is a perfect place to stay very close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The cabin provides accommodations opening to a patio, with a fully equipped kitchen, free WiFi and a TV. The property is minutes from Ripley’s Haunted Adventure and a short 10-minute walk from Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Luxury Places to Stay very close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Celebration Lodge

(Spirit Loop Way, Gatlinburg)

One of the most beautiful cabins to spend your time when visiting the National Park, Celebration Lodge is located a stone’s throw from the center of Gatlinburg, and yet in a secluded and intimate area, very near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park area.

Luxurious and very comfy at the same time, the accommodation features ample spaces enough to accommodate up to 18 guests. There are 4 comfortable bedrooms, a fantastic barbecue space, a pool table, a patio, a hot tub and a squash court.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Smoky Mountain Splash

(Gatlinburg)

Huge accommodation near the national park which can host up to 18 guests, the Smoky Mountain Splash is the perfect option for large groups of friends or families that can split costs while enjoying one of the most stunning landscapes in the States.

The property features 6 comfortable bedrooms, a beautiful patio, a fully equipped kitchen, and a fantastic swimming pool. When staying at this property, you can either choose to visit the nearby attractions in Gatlinburg, or spend the evening in having fun at the pool table in the property.

The lodge is close to the Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area and minutes from the well-known Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Ober Gatlinburg

Tranquil and laid-back, Ober Gatlinburg maybe the best area you can choose in winter to exercise your skiing skills, but it is also an exciting alternative if you’re planning to spend your time in Gatlinburg with the family, any time of the year, and mostly for families with smaller kids.

This popular winter ski resort includes attractions that kids will enjoy even more during summer, when the weather is pleasant, and activities such as a visit to the bear habitat, featuring unique trails that kids simply adore. Of course, during winter, there are tons of kid friendly sports and activities fro those wanting their children to approach snow sports and adventures.

Travelers of all ages can enjoy the fantastic gondola trip to the city center, which is not just a fun experience but also a practical one, offering easy access to Gatlinburg’s most exciting entertainment!

Budget Places to Stay in Ober Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Mountain Condo

Not far from nearby local landmarks, including the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Space Needle, Gatlinburg Mountain Condo features accommodations with a gorgeous seasonal outdoor swimming pool and barbecue facilities as well as convenient free private parking for its guests.

In the nearby area, those staying at this property can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing other than enjoying the winter sports featured in the area during the cold season.

The well-furnished apartment features 3 bedrooms, a bathroom, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views. There is also a wellness area with an indoor pool and a hot tub. A children’s playground is also available for families with kids.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Studio 3 Mi to Great Smoky Mountain National Park

This studio apartment is not far from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park area, only minutes from Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area.

The property offers free WiFi, comfortable beds, a nice seating area, a beautiful balcony with inspiring mountain views, as well as a fully equipped kitchen.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Mid-range Places to Stay in Ober Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Condo with Loft, Community Pool and Hot Tub

One more interesting property with convenient prices for a stay in Ober Gatlinburg is this unique condo with a shared pool and a hot tub. The place is just minutes from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, only a short drive from Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area.

This 2-bedroom apartment includes a TV with cable channels, a vey nice kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Above and Beyond

Looking for a place for a big family? Then this is a good option in the Ober Gatlinburg area. The accommodation can host up to 6 guests in its 2 bedrooms and  ample sitting area. The property also features a private hot tub enjoying amazing views of the surrounding landscape

Above and Beyond is an air-conditioned holiday home with direct access to a patio with mountain views, it has also a fully equipped kitchen with every comfortable feature for a family friendly stay. The apartment is close to Star Cars Museum and about 40 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Luxury Places to Stay in Ober Gatlinburg

Emerald City Lights

A beautiful rental place in Ober Gatlinburg, Emerald City Lights comes with a relaxing hot tub, complimentary wi-Fi all over the property and free private parking on-site.

This home includes 2 separate bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms. If you are planning to spend a fantastic winter holiday in the area, bear in mind that the Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area is about 5 km from the property.

>> Check prices and book a stay here

Bear Crossing Cabin

A beautiful 4-bedroom cabin with three pools, a hot tub, a pool table and amazing mountain views. It features lavish decor and comfortable spaces decorated with impeccable taste.

Perfect for a party of up to 12 travelers, the luxurious house is just steps from the Ober Gatlinburg area, only minutes from interesting sports such as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg Space Needle and Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery.

>> Check prices and book a stay here