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Hello, fellow travel enthusiasts! As a mom who frequently visits the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains with my bustling family, I’ve come to appreciate the charm and convenience of Pigeon Forge hotels with lazy river.
These hotels are not just places to rest after a long day of adventure, but they are destinations in themselves, offering new experiences and family entertainment that my four boys absolutely love.
Located in the heart of Eastern Tennessee, Pigeon Forge is a gem of a vacation spot. It’s a place where the excitement of amusement parks like Dollywood Theme Park meets the serene beauty of nature.
And what better way to enjoy this mix than by staying in a hotel that offers both comfort and fun? A hotel with a lazy river, perhaps a seasonal outdoor water park, and a hot tub to relax in after a day of exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Choosing the right hotel is crucial for a memorable family vacation. And if you’re like me, a mom who values both relaxation and fun-filled activities, then Pigeon Forge hotels with lazy rivers will be a perfect fit for you.
In this post, I’ll share my experiences and tips to help you find the perfect place for your family’s next adventure. So, let’s dive in!
The Joy of Staying in a Hotel with a Lazy River
As a mom of four energetic boys, I can’t stress enough the importance of keeping them entertained during our vacations. And let’s face it, what could be more entertaining than a hotel with its own water park or lazy river? It’s like having an amusement park right at your doorstep!
New Experiences and Family Entertainment
One of the main reasons we love Pigeon Forge hotels with lazy rivers is the new experiences they offer. Each hotel has its own unique features, from high-speed water slides for the thrill-seekers in your family to a relaxing outdoor lazy river for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. Some hotels even have a retractable roof, ensuring the fun continues, rain or shine.
Relaxation and Leisure
But it’s not all about the kids. As parents, we also need time to unwind. That’s where the hot tub and lounge areas come in. After a day of exploring the Titanic Museum or cheering on the boys at the Gatlinburg Golf Course, there’s nothing better than sinking into a hot tub while the kids enjoy the game room. And with the lazy river just a few steps away, you can easily join in the fun when you’re ready.
Fitness and Fun
Staying fit during vacation can be a challenge, but not when you’re staying in a Pigeon Forge hotel with a lazy river. Many of these hotels also feature a fitness center, so you can keep up with your workout routine. And let’s not forget the fitness benefits of swimming! Whether it’s racing the kids in the indoor pool area or taking a leisurely float down the lazy river, you’re getting a workout without even realizing it.
Convenience and Proximity to Attractions
Finally, one of the biggest advantages of staying in a hotel with a lazy river is the convenience. Many of these hotels are centrally-located, making them an easy walk or a minutes’ drive to main attractions like Dollywood Theme Park, LeConte Convention Center, and the Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet Mall. Plus, with amenities like a snack bar and free Wi-Fi, everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Top Pigeon Forge Hotels with Lazy Rivers
Courtyard by Marriott Pigeon Forge
The Courtyard by Marriott Pigeon Forge is a favorite among families, and it’s easy to see why. Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, this hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and fun. It’s a stone’s throw away from some of America’s most exciting attractions, including Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s award-winning amusement park. After a day of adventure, you can retreat into the hotel’s contemporary accommodations, complete with modern essentials and private balconies offering refreshing mountain or river views.
Here are some of the amenities you can expect at the Courtyard by Marriott Pigeon Forge:
- Heated outdoor pool and indoor pool
- Outdoor fire pits
- Hot tub
- Game room
- Fitness center
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi
- Plush bedding
- Private balconies with mountain or river views
- The Bistro – a restaurant offering diverse fare for breakfast and dinner
- Flexible meeting space and adjacent outdoor event lawn
- Full-service business center open 24 hours
- Complimentary on-site parking
- Electric car charging station
- Convenience store and gift shop
- Daily housekeeping service
- Guest room entertainment
- Dry cleaning service and laundry facilities
This hotel truly offers a resort-style experience, making it a perfect choice for families looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Check availability and learn more about the Courtyard by Marriott Pigeon Forge
LeConte Hotel
The LeConte Hotel is another fantastic option for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Nestled on 25 acres of serene farmland and bordered by a scenic stream, this all-suite hotel is just two blocks off the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. It’s ideally located near The LeConte Center, Dollywood, Dollywood Splash Country, The Island Attraction, Titanic, Wonderworks, and all the Pigeon Forge Attractions. This makes it a perfect base for exploring the fun things to do in Sevierville and Gatlinburg.
Here are some of the amenities you can expect at the LeConte Hotel:
- 129 guest suites with queen-sized beds and a sofa sleeper
- Flat panel cable TVs in rooms
- Free in-room Wi-Fi
- Kitchen with full-sized refrigerator/freezer, microwave, two-burner range top, dishwasher, coffee maker, and toaster
- Free Deluxe Hot Breakfast
- Outdoor pool, spa, lazy river, and kiddies’ pool with umbrella falls
- Indoor pool and spa
- Exercise room
- 6,000 square feet of meeting space in the Convention Center and Conference Rooms
- Creek side pavilion and available event planning services
The LeConte Hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a place to experience. With its combination of comfortable accommodations, extensive amenities, and a prime location, it’s a top choice for families visiting Pigeon Forge.
Check availability and learn more about the LaConte Hotel here
Music Road Resort
Music Road Resort is a charming hotel located in the heart of Pigeon Forge. This hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and service, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo travelers. With its close proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and other local attractions, guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The hotel’s design is inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding area, with rooms that offer stunning views of the mountains or the Little Pigeon River.
Amenities at the Music Road Resort include:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- 24-hour front desk
- Outdoor pool
- Indoor pool
- Water park
- Fitness center
- Business center
- Conference space
- Arcade/game room
- Children’s pool
- Air conditioning
- Daily housekeeping
- Front desk safe
- Laundry service
- Meeting rooms
- Concierge services
- Gift shops/newsstands
- Wedding services
- In-room accessibility
- Accessibility equipment for the deaf
- Braille or raised signage
- Free continental breakfast
- Free water park access
- Terrace
- Luggage storage
- Elevator
- Designated smoking areas
- Television in common areas
- Garden
- Picnic area
- Wheelchair accessible path of travel
- Wheelchair accessible parking
- Assistive listening devices available
- Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
- Wheelchair-accessible pool
- Wheelchair-accessible fitness center
- Wheelchair-accessible meeting spaces/business center
Check availability and learn more about the Music Road Resort here
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
The Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is a family-friendly resort located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It offers a unique blend of rustic mountain charm and modern comforts. Nestled amidst the Great Smoky Mountains, the resort provides breathtaking views and a serene environment. It is also home to the Wild Bear Falls Water Park, the largest indoor water park in the South and the fifth largest in the country. This resort is the only one on our list that features an indoor lazy river, making it a perfect choice for year-round fun.
Amenities at the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park include:
- Wild Bear Falls Water Park, featuring a state-of-the-art retractable roof, lazy river, and numerous water slides
- Two heated outdoor pools and hot tubs
- Serenity Spa by Westgate, offering a full range of spa services
- Westgate Smokehouse Grill, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Mason Jar Lounge, where guests can enjoy drinks and appetizers
- A fitness center equipped with the latest workout equipment
- A game room for family fun
- A playground for kids
- A 24-hour front desk and concierge services
- Free parking
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Complimentary WiFi
- Fully-equipped kitchens or kitchenettes in all villas
- Fireplace in each villa
- Washer and dryer in each villa
- Private balconies or patios with scenic mountain views in each villa
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park has something for everyone.
Check availability and learn more about the Westgate Resort here
Check out this great video of the waterpark:
Additional Noteworthy Hotels
Best Western Plaza Inn
The Best Western Plaza Inn in Pigeon Forge offers a comfortable and convenient stay for visitors. The hotel is located near Dollywood and other popular attractions, making it a great base for exploring the area.
The hotel features a variety of amenities including three outdoor pools, one of which is a kiddie pool, and another that is seasonally heated. The rooms are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, ensuring guests have all the comforts of home. The hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast, providing a great start to the day.
Learn more about the Best Wester Plaza Inn here
Park Tower Inn
The Park Tower Inn is another excellent choice for accommodation in Pigeon Forge. It is located in the heart of Pigeon Forge and offers easy access to local attractions. The hotel features an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a lazy river, providing plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a complimentary continental breakfast.
Learn more about the Park Tower Inn here
Clarion Inn
The Clarion Inn is a highly-rated hotel in Pigeon Forge, known for its excellent location and quality service. The hotel offers a variety of amenities including a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a business center.
The rooms are modern and comfortable, equipped with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers. Some rooms also feature whirlpool tubs. The hotel also offers a complimentary hot breakfast and has an on-site restaurant and bar.
Learn more about the Clarion Inn here
Dollywood’s Dreammore Resort
Dollywood’s Dreammore Resort offers a unique and luxurious stay in Pigeon Forge. The resort is built around the rich traditions of storytelling, family, and togetherness, and is just minutes away from Dollywood’s award-winning theme parks.
The resort features indoor and outdoor pools, six dining locations, a full-service spa, and a variety of children’s activities. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with more than 350 square feet of living space, complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access, and a 42″ flat screen TV.
Learn more about the DreamMore Resort here
Black Fox Lodge
The Black Fox Lodge, nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, offers tranquil views overlooking the Little Pigeon River and the picturesque Smoky Mountains. The lodge features a resort-type pool with a water slide, an on-site breakfast & casual dining restaurant, a full-service bar, and free Wi-Fi.
The lodge offers 178 hotel rooms and suites with larger room layouts, making it a comfortable and spacious option for families or larger groups. The lodge is also conveniently located near popular attractions such as the LeConte Event Center, The Island, Old Mill, Ripken Experience, and Comedy Barn.
Learn more about Black Fox Lodge here
Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel
Choosing the right hotel can make a significant difference in your vacation experience. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
Considerations for Location
Location is key when choosing a hotel. Look for centrally-located hotels in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Being within walking distance to the main road or a 10-minute drive to popular attractions can save you time and transportation costs. For instance, the Music Road Resort Hotel is a great option due to its convenient location.
Importance of Modern Amenities
Modern amenities can greatly enhance your stay. Look for hotels that offer amenities like a flat-screen TV in guest rooms, a coffee machine for your morning caffeine fix, free Wi-Fi for staying connected, and a fitness centre for keeping up with your workout routine. Some hotels even offer extra beds, which can be a lifesaver when traveling with a larger family or group.
Value of Great Deals and Friendly Staff
Everyone loves a great deal! Keep an eye out for hotels that offer special packages or discounts. But remember, a great hotel experience isn’t just about the price. Friendly staff can make your stay more enjoyable and stress-free. They can provide local insights, help with reservations, and ensure you have everything you need during your stay.
Importance of Clean Room and Private Bathroom
Cleanliness is crucial for a comfortable stay. Look for hotels that prioritize cleanliness and offer a clean room and private bathroom. Some hotels even offer rooms with a private balcony, where you can relax and enjoy the view.
Additional Considerations
Other factors to consider include the availability of a free breakfast, a heated indoor pool for year-round swimming, and proximity to entertainment venues. If you’re flying into Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport, consider the distance from the airport to the hotel. And don’t forget to check if the hotel is open year-round, especially if you’re planning a trip during the off-peak season.
Remember, the best Pigeon Forge hotel for you depends on your personal needs and preferences. Whether it’s the breathtaking mountain views, the bustling location, or the modern amenities, there’s a perfect hotel in Pigeon Forge, TN waiting for you.
See also: Best Gatlinburg Hotels with Indoor Water Park
Final Thoughts on Pigeon Forge Hotels with Lazy River
As a mom who regularly visits Pigeon Forge with my husband and four boys, I can confidently say that choosing a hotel with a lazy river has transformed our vacations. These hotels offer a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, creating unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Staying at a hotel with a lazy river means our vacation starts the moment we check-in. The boys can dive straight into the fun, whether it’s splashing in the pool, racing down water slides, or floating along the lazy river. And for my husband and me, we can unwind in the hot tub, enjoy a coffee on our private balcony, or simply relax in our clean room.
The convenience of being centrally-located, within walking distance or a short drive to the main attractions, is another huge plus. It means we can easily explore the heart of Pigeon Forge, from the thrilling rides at Dollywood to the educational exhibits at the Titanic Museum.
But what truly sets these hotels apart is their commitment to ensuring guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From the friendly staff who greet us with a smile to the modern amenities that add a touch of luxury to our stay, it’s these little details that make us feel at home.
So, if you’re planning a family vacation to Pigeon Forge, I highly recommend considering a hotel with a lazy river. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to create lasting memories with your family. And isn’t that what family vacations are all about?
Hope to see you there!
Amanda
