Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a vast expanse of rolling mountains cloaked in dense woods. It’s a stunningly beautiful place to visit any time of year, thanks to its four distinct seasons and the fact that it’s one of a handful of parks in the U.S. that are free to visit year-round. In fact, this is the most visited park in the United States. According to the National Parks Service, nearly 13 million people visited the park in 2022. There are many reasons to visit the Great Smoky Mountains, including spectacular hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and interesting historical sites. There are also tons of amazing hotels in the Great Smoky Mountains area.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans 522,427 acres, so there is a lot of ground to cover. Most people plan multi-day trips to explore destinations within the park and the surrounding areas. There is only one lodge in the park, but you’ll find plenty of hotels in towns close to the entrances. The three main entrances are in Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Townsend, Tennessee; and Cherokee, North Carolina. If you’re planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, these are some of the best hotels in the area based on traveler reviews on Google, Tripadvisor, and booking sites like Agoda and Booking.com.
LeConte Lodge, Tennessee
LeConte Lodge is the only hotel located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It sits on the tip of Mountain LeConte, giving incredible views of the surrounding mountains. There are no car paths leading to the lodge, so the only way to access it is by hiking. You can choose from six hiking trails that range from 5 to 9 miles. It’s a bit of a trek, but worth it for those who want the authentic mountain experience without having to rough it in a tent. Once at the site, you’ll find rustic log cabins in an open glade below the towering summit of Mt. LeConte.
There are several different accommodation options at LeConte Lodge. The seven one-bedroom cabins have full-size bunk beds that can sleep up to four people. Some of the cabins can also be outfitted with another single bed. Larger groups can opt for the two-bedroom lodge that can sleep up to six people or one of the three-bedroom lodges. Each cabin has heating, kerosene lanterns, blankets, and linens. Guests can also enjoy hot meals in the dining room. The lodge is open from mid-March to mid-November, and reservations are highly recommended.
Berry Springs Lodge, Tennessee
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With a 5-star rating from Tripadvisor and a 4.9 rating from Google reviews, Berry Springs Lodge is clearly a much-loved spot. Set on 30 acres in Sevierville, the lodge features 13 spacious rooms with fireplaces and balconies that offer views of the Great Smoky Mountains foothills. Some of the rooms have hot tubs on the balcony where you soak under the stars. When you’re not relaxing in your room, you can explore the trails and fishing ponds on the property, enjoy a picnic in the garden, and gather at the fire pit in the evenings to toast marshmallows.
Guests gush about the friendly service at Berry Springs. One reviewer on Tripadvisor said, “As soon as you walk in the Berry Spring Lodge, it’s a very warm, welcoming atmosphere. The real fire going in the fireplace in the living room sitting area was very nice and relaxing. Every single one of the staff were so amazing and helpful. The breakfast food was out of this world fantastic. And the free evening freshly baked snacks were an amazing touch as well.”
Historic Tapoco Lodge, North Carolina
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While most of the top-rated hotels in the Great Smoky Mountains are found on the Tennessee side of the park, the Historic Tapoco Lodge is one of a few top-rated hotels on the North Carolina side. The lodge was originally built in 1930 by the Tallassee Power Company to house employees working on hydroelectric dams. Over the years, it evolved into the beautiful mountain resort it is today. Guests will find plenty of old-school charm, as well as modern conveniences like 24-hour room service, luxury linens, and a spa.
The lodge offers elegant suites and guest rooms in the main lodge, as well as cabins that overlook the Cheoah River. The rooms are a tremendous base for exploring the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, as well as other attractions in the area. The Tail of the Dragon, for example, is a winding mountain road with 318 twists and turns, making it popular with motorcyclists and daredevil drivers. There are also several private trails on the resort property that meander along the river. However, after a full day of exploring, the Tapoco Tavern is a comfortable place to grab steaks and wood-fired pizzas.
Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
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Camping is a quintessential mountain experience. However, if you don’t want to lug a tent and camping gear around with you on your trip, you might want to consider Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains. This unique camping site lets you sleep outdoors in style with gorgeous glamping tents that feature hardwood floors, comfy beds, ensuite bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves. The site is just a little over 12 miles from the Sugarlands (Gatlinburg) entrance to the park, so you can explore trails in the Smokies by day and return to your luxe safari-style tent in the evenings.
The Under Canvas tents are designed to accommodate a wide range of travelers, from couples looking for a romantic getaway to travelers with pets or families with little ones. Amenities include an on-site dining area that serves locally sourced, seasonal produce and fire pits where you can share stories and s’mores. There are morning yoga classes on offer, as well as live music performances on special nights. The activities coordinator can point you in the direction of great hiking trails or suggest the best family-friendly activities to do near the Great Smoky Mountains. The tents are available for booking from April to December.
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
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If you’re looking to stay in luxury digs on your Great Smoky Mountains trip, Blackberry Farm gets rave reviews. In fact, the hotel consistently wins accolades for its exceptional accommodations and food and beverage program. The farm was originally built in the 1930s as a couple’s dream home and now spans 4,200 acres and features a variety of elegant rooms and cottages. There is also an award-winning restaurant, a wine cellar that houses 160,000 bottles, a spa, and a shop that sells artisan items for the home and gourmet products.
The smallest rooms at Blackberry Farm are the historic rooms, which are original to the main house and decorated with antiques that pay homage to their past. If you want something a bit more spacious, the suites have covered porches with rocking chairs and sitting areas with wood-burning fireplaces. Families and groups can book into one of the cottages or houses with multiple bedrooms and living rooms. Some houses and cottages come with kitchens and golf carts to explore the property. Be sure to swing by The Barn and The Dogwood for divine meals made with products grown on the farm.
Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn & Cottages, Tennessee
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Picture your ideal bed and breakfast in the countryside, and something like Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn & Cottages might be the image you conjure up. This charming property in Pigeon Forge sits on 60 acres of rolling green fields and features a Victorian-style farmhouse with a huge wraparound porch. Communal areas include a homey dining room and a sitting room with a fireplace, plush sofas, and armchairs. You can opt for one of the rooms in the main house that offers views of the Smoky Mountains or a standalone cottage for extra privacy. All stays include a hearty breakfast.
The family-owned property gets plenty of 5-star ratings from travelers thanks to its warm Southern hospitality and beautiful setting. Many reviewers comment about how welcoming the staff are and how at home they felt during their stay. The homemade meals are much appreciated, as are the sweet treats the staff members put out every night for guests to enjoy. The spa also gets shout-outs for its soothing massages, salt scrubs, and mud wraps.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa, Tennessee
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Dolly Parton fans won’t want to miss a stay at the Queen of Country’s stunning hotel in Pigeon Forge. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa is just as glamorous as the artist herself, with sparkling indoor and outdoor pools, six dining venues, and a full-service spa. The rooms and suites are spacious and modern, with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including bathrooms with bathtubs and working desks with multiple charging stations. For a unique experience, book the Dolly Suite 1986, which is set in Dolly’s former tour bus.
Families love the resort for its kid-friendly amenities and activities. Some of the rooms have bunk beds in addition to king or queen beds so that the whole family can sleep comfortably in one space. All guests enjoy free trolley service to and from the Dollywood theme park, where you can ride roller coasters and take in live performances. The resort also hosts concerts regularly, the majority of which are kid-friendly. If you visit during holidays like Christmas or Easter, the resort also offers themed shows and activities for kids, like arts and crafts, campfire gatherings, and special treats from the resort kitchens.
Outland Great Smoky Mountains Chalet & Suites, North Carolina
Outland Great Smoky Mountains Chalet & Suites
If you haven’t experienced the Smokies from the North Carolina side, Outland Great Smoky Mountains Chalet & Suites is a pretty sweet spot to do so. This stylish boutique hotel sits on a ridge overlooking the Clingmans Dome. It’s surrounded by 22 acres of forest and has seven trails to explore, and an observation area with sweeping views of the mountains. The property is secluded and scenic but just a 10 to 15-minute drive from restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Formerly called The Chalet Inn & Suites, the hotel was renovated in 2022 and is now a top choice for couples. The spa suites are peaceful and private, with balconies, gas fireplaces, and luxurious bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs and steam showers. There is also a two-bedroom suite that is ideal for families or couples traveling together. If you have a large crew, you can book out the chalet with seven bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and indoor and outdoor dining areas. It should be noted that Outland Great Smoky Mountains offers un-hosted stays, meaning there are no staff on site. As they describe it, “Imagine a hybrid between an Airbnb vacation rental and a hotel.”
The Inn at Christmas Place, Tennessee
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No matter the time of year, you can get into the festive spirit at The Inn at Christmas Place. This quirky Christmas-themed hotel is styled like a Bavarian lodge and decked out in Christmas trees, tinsel, and bells. Kids will love meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus and singing along to Santa’s live concerts, followed by milk and cookies. The resort also has a glockenspiel clock in the lobby that plays carols and strikes the time every hour, as well as a heated indoor pool, an outdoor pool with a waterslide, and a beautiful courtyard and garden.
All of the rooms at The Inn feature festive accents like red comforters, wreaths, and twinkling lights. Some have gas fireplaces and private balconies. If you really want to feel the Christmas magic, book the Santa Suite. It has a full-size Christmas tree, special Santa decor, a fireplace with a mantel where you can place stockings, and a whirlpool tub. All room rates include a buffet breakfast. From March to December, Christmas characters make an appearance in the breakfast room five days a week. You can catch them from 9 a.m. onwards.
The Historic Gatlinburg Inn, Tennessee
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Gatlinburg is one of the most popular places to stay in the Smoky Mountains area because it sits at one of the three entrances to the park. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly destinations in America. The Historic Gatlinburg Inn has been welcoming guests since 1937, and it’s still a top choice among visitors today. Travelers love the history of the building and the fact that the hotel is in the heart of Gatlinburg, so it’s within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Pass the fireplace and rocking chairs on the front porch and head into the lobby, where you might get a wave of nostalgia. The interior features vintage furniture and old photos on the walls that tell the story of the inn. The rooms have been updated with Serta mattresses, flatscreen TVs, and coffee machines. If you can, book a room with a balcony for views of the mountains and the SkyLift. All stays include a hot breakfast in the dining room. The inn doesn’t offer lunch or dinner, but you can grab snacks in the lobby or head to one of the many restaurants in town.
Margaritaville Island Hotel, Tennessee
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Experience a slice of South Florida in Pigeon Forge at Margaritaville Island Hotel. This tropical-themed resort has bright, modern rooms and fun social gathering spots like a rooftop pool and bar. It’s also within walking distance to some of Pigeon Forge’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. The island-style decor and atmosphere may not be what you would expect people to love in a mountain town, but the resort gets sparkling reviews for its abundance of amenities, stylish rooms, and friendly service.
There are several different room types to choose from at Margaritaville Island, including standard rooms with fireplaces, suites with living rooms and private balconies, and whirlpool suites with hydrotherapy tubs. The five-bedroom penthouse is pretty spectacular, with a leather sofa, dining table, breakfast bar, and a foosball table. However, no matter which room you choose, you’ll have access to all the resort facilities, including the pool, Fins Bar, Margaritaville Restaurant, and the St. Somewhere Spa. The resort also offers add-on packages, like cabana rentals, cocktail packages, and wine and cheese for the room.
Twin Mountain Inn & Suites, Tennessee
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If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains that’s also clean, comfortable, and has gorgeous views, Twin Mountain Inn & Suites is a good bet. Located along the Pigeon River, the hotel offers decent-sized rooms with fireplaces and balconies overlooking the river. Even the smallest rooms can sleep four people. If you want to pay a bit more, you can get a king room with a jetted bathtub or a studio suite with a kitchen and dining area. The hotel also has an accessible room with two queen beds.
One of the biggest draws for many people is Twin Mountain Inn’s convenient location. It’s not right on the strip in Pigeon Forge, but it is close enough for easy access to amusement parks, restaurants, and the Gatlinburg Golf Course. Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Theater is within walking distance. Other attractions nearby include the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and Ripley’s Super Fun Park. The Sugarlands entrance to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is about 20 minutes away by car.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, North Carolina
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Operated by the famous Caesars Entertainment group, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a favorite with travelers staying on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains. It has everything you would expect in a glitzy casino resort — think celebrity chef restaurants, a full-service spa, three swimming pools, a bowling alley, and an event center for live acts. Then, of course, there is the casino, with table games like blackjack and poker, slot machines, and roulette tables.
Many travelers comment on how clean and comfortable the rooms are at Harrah’s. The rooms are divided between four towers: Mountain, Soco, Creek, and Cherokee. The Cherokee is the newest tower, so as you would expect, the rooms are more modern than the other towers. That being said, the older rooms have their charms, and most have contemporary conveniences like Smart TVs and mini-fridges. If you want the best deal, book directly with the resort. Caesars has a best-rate guarantee, so if you find a lower published rate elsewhere, they will match it and knock an additional 10% off.
Dancing Bear Lodge, Tennessee
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Dancing Bear Lodge celebrates the spirit of the Smokies with cozy wooden cabins and cottages nestled in the trees. The hotel is located in Townsend just minutes from the Townsend Entrance Road leading to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dancing Bear also has a bar that serves craft cocktails and beers and an inviting bistro serving Appalachian cuisine. Even if you’re not staying at the lodge, the bistro is worth a visit for its innovative fare, like the smoked trout cakes and sweet tea-brined pork chops. If you happen to drive a Tesla, Dancing Bear Lodge has one of the only electric vehicle charging stations in the Great Smoky Mountains.
With numerous accommodation types to choose from, you’re spoiled for choices at Dancing Bear Lodge. The villas are ADA-compliant, with ramp entrances, roll-in showers, shower rails, and shower chairs. They can be rented as single or double rooms connected by an adjoining door. The cottages and cabins can accommodate families and groups, and some have fully equipped kitchens. Optional room add-ons can include flowers, a celebration cake, and a welcome bottle of wine with a cheese platter and chocolate-covered strawberries.
Our criteria for choosing the best hotels in the Great Smoky Mountains
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All the hotels on this list were chosen based on their star ratings and rankings on reviewer sites like Tripadvisor, Google, Agoda.com, and Booking.com. Each hotel has a ranking of at least 4.5 stars or higher, and the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Based on the reviews, these are the accommodations that travelers consider the best hotels in the Great Smoky Mountains.
