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The Best Gatlinburg Resorts for Your Smoky Mountain Vacation
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is known for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and charming mountain town ambiance. Located in eastern Tennessee, it’s just a few short minutes to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park!
Among the many reasons to visit Gatlinburg, one of the top highlights is its impressive array of resorts. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure with friends, Gatlinburg resorts offer something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best resorts in Gatlinburg, along with their amenities and attractions.
Smoky Mountain Resort by Holiday Inn Club
Smoky Mountain Resort by Holiday Inn Club stands out among the Gatlinburg resort crowd for its blend of comfort, convenience, and views. Located just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this resort offers the perfect base for your family vacation.
Spacious Accommodations
The Smoky Mountain Resort offers spacious villas that can accommodate parties of all sizes. Our one-bedroom villas sleep four people comfortably. They include a king-size bed, separate sleeping area, in-room washer and dryer, and a cozy fireplace.
Larger groups can stretch out and relax in two-, three-, and even four-bedroom suites. Guests looking for added luxury can choose our Signature Collection villas, which feature stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, an espresso machine, gourmet coffee/tea, and premium furnishings.
No matter what you choose, you’ll get free Wi-Fi and a fully equipped kitchen. Save time and money by making meals or snacks in your room, and save the leftovers in your full size refrigerator.
Year-Round Fun and Games
This resort in Gatlinburg boasts a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Enjoy a cool, peaceful dip in the outdoor pool, or warm up after a cold winter day in our outdoor hot tub. Had enough adventure outside? The resort also has an indoor pool, hot tub, and splash pad – a kid favorite!
There’s also outdoor barbeque grills, special activities like tie dying, a gathering room, and a fitness center.
Nearby Attractions
There’s so much to do in and around Smoky Mountain Resort. Hiking is very popular, and many of the best hiking trails near Gatlinburg are close to the resort. Explore Great Smoky Mountain National Park, brave the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, see Tuckaleechee Caverns, or ride the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster.
There’s also Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, and Ripley’s Aquarium – all family-friendly options that will help you create memories to last a lifetime.
Plus, Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountain National Park are excellent places to see the fall leaves change color.
Book your Family-Friendly Resort in Gatlinburg
Learn more about resort discounts and availability here, including a 4-day/3-night getaway for only $249.
Bent Creek Golf Village
For golf enthusiasts, Bent Creek Golf Village offers the perfect blend of sport and relaxation. This resort is located a short drive from downtown Gatlinburg and provides easy access to one of the area’s premier golf courses.
In addition to its golf course, the resort offers an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a game room. There’s also a barbecue area and picnic spots for outdoor dining.
Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts
Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts is located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, just steps away from the bustling Parkway and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Choose from a variety of accommodations, including studio rooms and one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites.
Amenities include an indoor pool, outdoor pool, and outdoor hot tub, plus an activity center and a basketball court.
Gatlinburg Attractions and Events
Gatlinburg has a wealth of attractions, events, and activities. Here are a few popular destinations:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Spanning over 500,000 acres, this national park is renowned for its biodiversity, scenic drives, and extensive hiking trails, offering visitors unparalleled opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Gatlinburg SkyBridge: The longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, the SkyBridge offers stunning panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains, with a glass floor section providing an exhilarating experience.
Tuckaleechee Caverns: Known as the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” these caverns offer guided tours through majestic underground formations, including towering stalagmites and a subterranean waterfall.
Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster: An exciting, family-friendly attraction where you control the speed of your descent on a coaster that winds through the scenic Smoky Mountain landscape.
Dollywood: Located in nearby Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is a world-famous theme park offering thrilling rides, live music, and shows, as well as festivals celebrating the culture and heritage of the Smokies.
Pigeon Forge: Just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is a bustling tourist town featuring attractions like The Island, Titanic Museum, and a variety of dinner shows and shopping opportunities.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This top-rated aquarium features a wide array of marine life exhibits, including interactive experiences like the underwater tunnel and stingray touch tank.
Ober Gatlinburg: A year-round amusement park and ski resort offering winter sports, an aerial tramway, ice skating, and wildlife encounters, making it a versatile destination for all seasons.
Anakeesta: A mountaintop adventure park accessible by a scenic chairlift or gondola ride, featuring treetop canopy walks, zip lines, and stunning views from the observation tower and garden walkways.
Hollywood Star Cars Museum: See famous cars and vehicles from your favorite movies, displayed in realistic settings with light and sound! Check out classics including the Ghostbusters Ecto-1, the Batmobile from Batman Returns and “Eleanor” from Gone in 60 Seconds.
Dining Options in Gatlinburg
If you’re looking for delicious eats, Gatlinburg delivers. Here are a few local favorites:
The Pancake Pantry: A beloved local institution since 1960, The Pancake Pantry offers a wide variety of delicious pancakes and breakfast items, making it a perfect spot for a family breakfast.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp: Known for its hearty portions and rustic decor, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp serves up mountain-inspired breakfast dishes that are sure to satisfy the whole family.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que: A great choice for lunch or dinner, Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que features slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, and other barbecue favorites in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Big Daddy’s Pizzeria: Offering wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings, Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is a hit with both kids and adults. The family can also enjoy arcade games while waiting for their meal.
The Old Mill Restaurant: Located in nearby Pigeon Forge, the historic Old Mill Restaurant provides a charming dining experience with Southern comfort food, homemade breads, and picturesque views of the Little Pigeon River.
Plan Your Gatlinburg Vacation
Gatlinburg resorts offer a diverse range of accommodations and amenities to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious retreat, a family-friendly adventure, or a cozy mountain escape, Gatlinburg has the perfect resort for you. The Smoky Mountain Resort by Holiday Inn Club, with its prime location and excellent amenities, is a standout choice that promises a memorable and enjoyable stay. Plan your trip to Gatlinburg today and discover the natural beauty and warm hospitality that make this destination so special.
