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Hello fellow adventurers! As a mom of four energetic boys and a seasoned traveler to the beautiful city of Gatlinburg, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with the wide range of accommodations this city has to offer. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families, based on my own family’s adventures.
Gatlinburg, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, is a haven for families seeking a blend of outdoor fun and cozy comfort. From the thrill of hiking trails to the joy of exploring downtown Gatlinburg, every day brings a new adventure.
But, as any parent knows, the key to a successful family vacation is not just about the activities; it’s also about finding the perfect place to rest, recharge, and enjoy some downtime.
Over the years, my family has stayed in everything from quaint cabins tucked away in the mountains to luxurious hotels complete with hot tubs and game rooms. We’ve even spent a few nights in some unique places that offered a different kind of charm.
Each place has its own story to tell, and today, I’m here to share those stories with you. So, whether you’re planning your first trip to Gatlinburg or you’re a seasoned visitor like me, I hope this guide helps you find the perfect accommodation for your family. Let’s dive in!
What Makes a Hotel Family-Friendly?
When planning a family vacation, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. But what exactly makes a hotel family-friendly? As a mom who has navigated this question many times, I’ve found that there are two key factors that can make or break a family stay: the amenities and the atmosphere.
Kid Friendly Amenities
Family-friendly amenities are those features and services that cater specifically to the needs and enjoyment of both kids and adults. For my family, a hotel with an indoor pool and a game room is always a hit. After a long day of exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or downtown Gatlinburg, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the pool or a friendly family competition in the game room to wind down.
Hotels that offer rooms with full kitchens are also a big plus for us. With four growing boys, snacks and meals are a big part of our day. Having the option to prepare our own meals not only saves us money but also allows us to enjoy cozy family dinners together.
Here are some of the amenities that would make for a better family vacation experience:
- Indoor and outdoor pools: Perfect for both summer months and rainy days.
- Game room: Offers plenty of space for family fun.
- Hot tub: A great place for parents to relax after a long day.
- Full kitchens: Ideal for families who prefer home-cooked meals.
- Fitness center: For those who want to keep up with their workout routine.
- Free breakfast: Saves time and money in the mornings.
- Free parking: Adds convenience for families traveling by car.
- Guest rooms with flat-screen TVs: For family movie nights.
- Free Wi-Fi: Keeps everyone connected.
- Laundry room: Essential for longer stays or unexpected messes.
- Outdoor playground: Keeps young children entertained.
- Family suite: Offers spacious rooms for larger groups or family reunions.
- Easy access to popular attractions: Short drive or walking distance to places like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, downtown Gatlinburg, and Ripley’s Aquarium.
- Picnic area: For a fun family meal outdoors.
- Water slide or lazy river: Adds an extra fun factor for kids.
- Onsite restaurant: Convenient for days when you want to dine in.
- Outdoor fire pit: Great for evenings under the stars.
Remember, not every hotel will offer all of these amenities, so it’s important to prioritize what’s most important to your family when choosing a place to stay.
For us, we need a room large enough to sleep 6 (not all hotels have these), a pool of some sort, especially nice is an indoor pool when it’s cold out, full kitchens so we can eat some in the room and save money and time over always eating in somewhere, free breakfast, free parking and wi-fi is always great (luckily most everywhere offers it now).
The Family Vacation Experience
The atmosphere of a hotel plays a significant role in the overall family vacation experience. Hotels that understand the needs of families create an environment where kids feel welcome and parents can relax. This can be seen in the small details, like providing child-friendly utensils in the restaurant, to larger considerations like ensuring a safe and fun play area for kids.
In my experience, the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families are those that strike a balance between fun and relaxation, where the staff goes above and beyond to make sure all members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, feel at home.
In the next section, I’ll share with you our top picks for family-friendly hotels in Gatlinburg, where you’ll find these key factors and more.
Best Hotels in Gatlinburg for Families
Margaritaville Resort
Why We Chose Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is a gem nestled in the heart of Gatlinburg, making it one of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families. This mountain hotel is not just about its prime location, but it’s the exceptional family-friendly atmosphere that sets it apart. With a rating of 9.6 out of 10 from over 1,694 verified guest reviews, it’s clear that this resort knows how to make families feel at home.
As a mom of four boys, I can attest to the fact that Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay for families. The staff is always welcoming, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the resort itself is beautifully designed to create a relaxing environment after a day of adventure.
Amenities at Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg offers a wide range of amenities that cater to families of all sizes:
- Indoor and outdoor pools: These are a hit with the kids and a great way to relax and cool off after a day of exploring.
- Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected and sharing your vacation experiences with friends and family back home.
- Free parking: A convenient feature for families traveling by car.
- Air conditioning: A must-have for those hot summer months.
- Gym: For those who want to keep up with their fitness routine even while on vacation.
- Spa: The resort’s St. Somewhere Spa offers a variety of treatments, including deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, sports massages, and Swedish massages. It’s the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate.
- Proximity to attractions: The resort is a short walk from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and a 19-minute walk from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its central location makes it easy to access the best that Gatlinburg has to offer.
These amenities and more make Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg a top choice for families looking for the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and fun in their Gatlinburg accommodation.
Check availability and learn more about this resort here
The Park Vista Hotel
Why We Chose The Park Vista
The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Gatlinburg is another top pick for the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families. This 4-star hotel has consistently received high ratings from guests, with an impressive score of 8.6 out of 10 from over 1,034 verified reviews.
Amenities at The Park Vista Hotel
The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Gatlinburg offers a variety of amenities that cater to families:
- Indoor and outdoor pools: Perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of exploring.
- Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected during your vacation.
- Free parking: A convenient feature for families traveling by car.
- Air conditioning: Ensures a comfortable stay during the hot summer months.
- Gym: For those who want to keep up with their fitness routine while on vacation.
- Proximity to attractions: The hotel is an 11-minute walk from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and a 4-minute drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
In addition to these, the hotel offers a variety of room types to suit different family needs, including suites and family rooms. The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Gatlinburg is a great choice for families seeking a comfortable and convenient base for their Gatlinburg adventure.
Check availability and learn more about the Park Vista
Baymont On the River
Why We Chose Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River
Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River is a hotel that truly understands what families need. With a high rating of 8.4 out of 10 from over 1,113 verified guest reviews, it’s clear that this hotel delivers a fantastic experience for families.
What makes Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River stand out is its perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and value. As a mom, I appreciate how this hotel offers a comfortable and relaxing environment while being conveniently located near key attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. The beautiful setting on the river adds a touch of tranquility that is often much needed after a day of family adventures.
Amenities at Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River
Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River offers a range of amenities that cater to families:
- Indoor pool: Perfect for a refreshing swim, regardless of the weather.
- Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected during your vacation.
- Free parking: A convenient feature for families traveling by car.
- Air conditioning: Ensures a comfortable stay during the hot summer months.
- Gym: For those who want to keep up with their fitness routine while on vacation.
- Proximity to attractions: The hotel is a 13-minute walk from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
In addition to these, the hotel offers premium bedding in their rooms, ensuring a good night’s sleep for the whole family. Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River is a great choice for families seeking a comfortable and convenient base for their Gatlinburg adventure.
Check availability and learn more about the Baymont
The Appy Lodge
Why We Chose Appalachian Lodge
Appalachian Lodge, also known as The Appy Lodge, is a mountain hotel that offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure, making it one of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families. With a fabulous rating of 8.8 out of 10 from over 596 verified guest reviews, it’s clear that this hotel delivers a fantastic experience for families.
As a mom who has stayed in many different places in Gatlinburg, I can confidently say that The Appy Lodge stands out for its warm hospitality and attention to detail. The hotel’s location near Anakeesta and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies makes it a convenient base for family adventures. Plus, the beautiful mountain setting offers a tranquil retreat after a day of fun.
Amenities at The Appy Lodge
The Appy Lodge offers a range of amenities that cater to families:
- Indoor pool: Perfect for a refreshing swim, regardless of the weather.
- Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected during your vacation.
- Free parking: A convenient feature for families traveling by car.
- Air conditioning: Ensures a comfortable stay during the hot summer months.
- Gym: For those who want to keep up with their fitness routine while on vacation.
- Proximity to attractions: The hotel is a 16-minute walk from Anakeesta and an 18-minute walk from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
In addition to these, the hotel offers premium bedding in their rooms, ensuring a good night’s sleep for the whole family. The Appy Lodge is a great choice for families seeking a comfortable and convenient base for their Gatlinburg adventure.
Check availability and learn more about the Appy Lodge
Bearskin Lodge on the River
Why We Chose Bearskin Lodge on the River
Bearskin Lodge on the River is a mountain hotel that offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure, making it one of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families. With a superb rating of 9.2 out of 10 from over 631 verified guest reviews, it’s clear that this hotel delivers a fantastic experience for families.
As a mom who has stayed in many different places in Gatlinburg, I can confidently say that Bearskin Lodge on the River stands out for its warm hospitality and attention to detail. The hotel’s location near Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies makes it a convenient base for family adventures. Plus, the beautiful setting on the river adds a touch of tranquility that is often much needed after a day of fun.
Amenities at Bearskin Lodge on the River
Bearskin Lodge on the River offers a range of amenities that cater to families:
- Indoor pool: Perfect for a refreshing swim, regardless of the weather.
- Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected during your vacation.
- Free parking: A convenient feature for families traveling by car.
- Air conditioning: Ensures a comfortable stay during the hot summer months.
- Gym: For those who want to keep up with their fitness routine while on vacation.
- Proximity to attractions: The hotel is a 2-minute walk from Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a 17-minute walk from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
In addition to these, the hotel offers premium bedding in their rooms, ensuring a good night’s sleep for the whole family. Bearskin Lodge on the River is a great choice for families seeking a comfortable and convenient base for their Gatlinburg adventure.
Check availability and learn more about the Bearskin Lodge
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Water Park
Why We Chose Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort
The Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is a top choice for family-friendly accommodations in Gatlinburg. This 4-star hotel is situated in between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, making it an ideal location for families looking to explore the local attractions. The resort’s high rating of 8.2 out of 10 from verified guests attests to its quality and service.
One of the standout features that we loved is the full kitchen that we had in our two-bedroom villa, which was so nice to prepare and serve meals. It also had a table big enough to seat all of us, so we could have breakfast and dinner at the room and have lunch out at a restaurant. The kids, on the other hand, absolutely loved the indoor water park, which provided hours of fun and entertainment.
Amenities at Westgate Resort
- Water park
- Spa with deep-tissue massages and Swedish massages
- Pet-friendly
- Parking available
- Restaurant
- Connecting rooms available
- Fitness facility
- Game room
- Mini-golf
- Children’s play area – outdoor
- Ziplining
- Archery
- 3 restaurants serving lunch and light fare
- Roaring Fork Snack Bar
- Mountain Top Pool Bar
- The Market Place – Onsite delicatessen.
Check availability and learn more about the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort
Hilton Garden Inn
Why We Chose the Hilton Garden Inn
The Hilton Garden Inn in Gatlinburg, TN, is a top choice for our family for several reasons. This 3-star hotel is conveniently located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it an ideal base for our outdoor adventures. It’s also a short walk from the SkyPark and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, two of our family’s favorite attractions.
The hotel’s high rating of 9.0 out of 10, based on 687 verified guest reviews, attests to its quality and service. We particularly appreciate the availability of different room types, including rooms with a single king bed, double queens, and even rooms with a fireplace, whirlpool, and balcony. These options allow us to choose the perfect room configuration for our family’s needs.
Amenities at the Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg:
- Indoor pool: Perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of exploring, regardless of the weather.
- Pet-friendly: We don’t have to leave our furry family member behind.
- Free WiFi: Essential for planning our daily adventures and keeping in touch with friends and family.
- Free parking: A convenient feature that makes our road trips hassle-free.
- Air conditioning: Ensures our comfort during the hot summer months.
- Gym: Allows us to keep up with our fitness routine even while on vacation.
- Garden Grille: This on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, offering convenient dining options.
- Meeting facilities and a business center: Useful for those times when we need to mix a bit of work with our leisure time.
- Close proximity to local attractions: The hotel is just a short walk from SkyPark, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
With its combination of comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities, the Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg is our go-to choice for our family vacations in Gatlinburg, TN.
Check availability and learn more about the Hilton Garden Inn
Holiday Inn Express Downtown Gatlinburg
Why We Chose the Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown
The Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown, an IHG Hotel, is another one of our top picks for family accommodation in Gatlinburg, TN. This hotel’s prime location near the Gatlinburg Convention Center and its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make it an excellent choice for families who love nature and outdoor activities. It’s also just a short walk from SkyPark and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, providing plenty of entertainment options for the kids.
The hotel’s high rating of 9.2 out of 10, based on 709 verified guest reviews, speaks volumes about its quality and service. The availability of different room types, including standard rooms and suites with one king bed or two queen beds, allows us to choose the perfect room configuration for our family’s needs.
Amenities at the Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown:
- Indoor pool: Open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, this is a great place for the kids to burn off some energy, and a small waterpark for the kiddos!
- Free WiFi: Essential for keeping in touch with friends and family, and planning our daily adventures.
- Free parking: A convenient feature that makes our road trips hassle-free.
- Air conditioning: Ensures our comfort during the hot summer months.
- Child-friendly activities: Keeps the little ones entertained during our stay.
- Laundry facilities: Handy for those longer stays or unexpected spills.
- Proximity to local attractions: The hotel is just a short walk from SkyPark, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
The Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown combines comfort, convenience, and a host of family-friendly amenities, making it an excellent choice for our family vacations in Gatlinburg, TN.
Check availability and learn more about the Holiday Express
Some other great options in nearby Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are:
The Inn at Christmas Place
The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge, TN, is a unique and family-friendly hotel that offers a magical experience for families. This mountain hotel, with its Christmas-themed decor, brings the joy and wonder of the holiday season to life all year round. Its exceptional rating of 9.8 out of 10, based on 440 verified guest reviews, is a testament to its outstanding service and amenities.
Located near the Island at Pigeon Forge, the hotel provides easy access to a variety of family-friendly attractions. The different room types, including standard rooms and suites, cater to families of all sizes, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
Amenities at The Inn at Christmas Place:
- Free breakfast: Start your day with a hearty meal before heading out to explore.
- Indoor and outdoor pool: Whether you want to take a refreshing dip or relax by the poolside, these facilities cater to your needs.
- Free WiFi: Stay connected with your loved ones and share your holiday experiences in real-time.
- Free parking: No need to worry about finding a parking spot during your stay.
- Air conditioning: Stay comfortable and cool during the hot summer months.
- Gym: Keep up with your fitness routine even while on vacation.
- Proximity to local attractions: The hotel is conveniently located near the Island at Pigeon Forge, offering a range of entertainment options for the whole family.
The Inn at Christmas Place provides a unique and enjoyable experience for families, making it a great choice for a memorable vacation in Pigeon Forge, TN.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge, TN, is a fantastic family-friendly hotel that offers a unique and immersive experience. This mountain resort is conveniently located near Dollywood’s Splash Country, making it an ideal choice for families who love water parks and outdoor activities. It’s also a short drive from the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge and Dollywood, providing a variety of entertainment options for the whole family.
The hotel’s exceptional rating of 9.4 out of 10, based on 1,001 verified guest reviews, is a testament to its quality and service. The resort offers a range of room types, including standard rooms and suites, catering to families of all sizes and ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
Amenities at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort:
- Seasonal outdoor pool: Perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months.
- Outdoor spa tub: A great place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
- Free WiFi: Essential for planning daily adventures and staying connected with friends and family.
- Free parking: A convenient feature that makes road trips hassle-free.
- Free transportation to the park: Take a trolley to a special entrance and save the parking fee.
- Air conditioning: Ensures comfort during the hot summer months.
- Gym: Allows guests to maintain their fitness routine while on vacation.
- Proximity to local attractions: The resort is just a short drive from Dollywood’s Splash Country, the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, and Dollywood.
With its combination of comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort is an excellent choice for a memorable family vacation in Pigeon Forge, TN.
Wilderness at the Smokies
Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, TN, is an excellent family-friendly hotel that offers a unique and immersive experience. This resort is conveniently located near the Sevierville Convention Center and is a short walk from the Soaky Mountain Waterpark, making it an ideal choice for families who love water parks and outdoor activities.
The hotel’s impressive rating of 8.2 out of 10, based on 2,220 verified guest reviews, is a testament to its quality and service. The resort offers a range of room types, including standard rooms and executive suites, catering to families of all sizes and ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
But what truly sets this resort apart is its free water park. This feature is included with your stay, providing endless fun for the kids (and the kids at heart) without the additional cost.
Amenities at Wilderness at the Smokies – Stone Hill Lodge:
- Free water park: A highlight of the resort, providing hours of fun for the whole family.
- Outdoor pool: Perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months.
- Free WiFi: Essential for planning daily adventures and staying connected with friends and family.
- Free parking: A convenient feature that makes road trips hassle-free.
- Air conditioning: Ensures comfort during the hot summer months.
- Gym: Allows guests to maintain their fitness routine while on vacation.
- Proximity to local attractions: The resort is just a short walk from the Soaky Mountain Waterpark and the Sevierville Convention Center.
With its combination of comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities, especially the free water park, Wilderness at the Smokies – Stone Hill Lodge is an excellent choice for a memorable family vacation in Sevierville, TN.
Read more about Gatlinburg hotels with indoor water parks here
Proximity to Attractions
When planning a family vacation, especially with my four energetic boys, the location of our accommodation is always a top priority. We need easy access to popular attractions to keep the kids entertained and minimize travel time. Gatlinburg, with its wealth of family-friendly activities and attractions, is an ideal place for a family vacation.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit. With its beautiful mountain views, hiking trails, and opportunities for horseback riding, it’s a natural playground for kids and adults alike. Some of our favorite hotels, like the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg and the Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, are just a short drive from this national park.
Pigeon Forge, with its theme park, outdoor water park, and mini golf courses, is another popular destination for families. The Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is conveniently located between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, making it a great option for families who want to explore both areas.
Downtown Gatlinburg is also a hub of family-friendly attractions. From the Gatlinburg Space Needle to the Gatlinburg Skylift Park, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. The Bearskin Lodge on the River and the Old Creek Lodge are both within walking distance to downtown Gatlinburg, making them ideal for families who prefer to explore on foot.
Lastly, don’t forget about the unique attractions like the Ober Gatlinburg, a ski area and amusement park, and the Ripley’s Aquarium. Many of our favorite hotels, including the Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg on the River and the Appalachian Lodge, offer easy access to these attractions.
Remember, the best places to stay in Gatlinburg for families are those that offer a combination of comfort, amenities, and a great location. As a mom who has experienced Gatlinburg with her family, I can assure you that these hotels will provide a memorable vacation for your entire family.
Thoughts on Lodging for Larger Groups
When it comes to accommodating large groups, Gatlinburg, TN, offers a variety of lodging options that cater to the needs of larger families and family reunions. One of our favorite places to stay is the Fairfield Inn, a kid-friendly hotel that not only provides spacious rooms but also adjoining rooms for those who need extra space. This hotel is a short distance from some of our favorite restaurants, making it a perfect location for families who love to explore the local cuisine.
For those who prefer a more home-like setting, consider cabin rentals or log cabins in the surrounding area. These vacation rentals often come equipped with a pool table and offer the privacy of a private balcony, making them an excellent choice for large groups. Some even have an outdoor pool or an outdoor swimming pool, which is a hit with the kids.
If you’re planning a family gathering or reunion, several hotels in Gatlinburg offer larger facilities like banquet halls or meeting rooms. The right place for such events could be a hotel with a tennis court or even an indoor waterpark, adding an element of fun to your family gathering.
Final Thoughts on the Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, often considered the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, is a gem in the United States that offers a plethora of family-friendly hotels. From the Fairfield Inn with its free wifi and outdoor pool area to the rustic charm of log cabin rentals, there’s something for every family.
When choosing a hotel for your next family vacation, consider your family’s specific needs. Do you need a hotel with an outdoor swimming pool or a cabin with a pool table? Perhaps you’d prefer a hotel with a gift shop or one that’s a short distance from the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook or the Little Pigeon River.
Experiencing Gatlinburg with family is a joy. Whether you’re playing mini-golf, riding roller coasters, or simply enjoying the view from your private balcony, you’re in for a treat. Remember, the perfect Gatlinburg hotel for your family is the one that best suits your family’s needs and makes your stay a memorable one.
Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly hotels with a tennis court, a cabin rental with a private balcony, or a hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, Gatlinburg, TN, has got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready to create some unforgettable memories on your next family vacation.
I hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best places to stay in Gatlinburg TN for families!
Hope to see you there!
Amanda
