Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains but not sure where to stay? Whether you’re looking for a full-service resort, a hotel close to the area’s biggest attractions, or a place with incredible mountain views, there are plenty of great options for families. We’ve stayed at several of these properties ourselves, and each one offers something a little different depending on the type of vacation you’re planning. Here are some of the best family-friendly hotels and resorts in the Smoky Mountains.
Wilderness at the Smokies – Sevierville
If your family loves waterparks, Wilderness at the Smokies is hard to beat. This resort features one of Tennessee’s largest indoor waterparks along with outdoor water attractions, adventure activities, restaurants, arcades, and spacious accommodations. It is the perfect place if you want a vacation where the kids stay entertained without having to leave the resort. Plus, guests receive discounted admission to Soaky Mountain Waterpark during the summer.
DoubleTree by Hilton Park Vista – Gatlinburg
Perched on a hillside overlooking the Smoky Mountains, DoubleTree by Hilton Park Vista is one of our favorite places to stay in Gatlinburg. Families will love the spacious rooms, private balconies with mountain views, and the indoor pool with a waterslide. Located just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, it provides easy access to Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg SkyPark, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park while still offering a quieter setting away from the crowds.
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg – Gatlinburg
If you want to stay within walking distance of downtown Gatlinburg, Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is an excellent choice. The spacious rooms, outdoor pool, relaxing spa, and convenient location make it a favorite for families and couples alike. You can easily walk to restaurants, shops, Ripley’s Aquarium, and many of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions without worrying about parking.
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville – Pigeon Forge
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville is a great choice for families who want resort amenities and easy access to Pigeon Forge attractions. The hotel offers spacious rooms and two-bedroom family suites, outdoor pools, a lazy river, fire pits, and lawn games. Complimentary breakfast makes it easier to get everyone out the door before a day at Dollywood or The Island.
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort – Pigeon Forge
HeartSong Lodge combines modern mountain style with family-friendly amenities in a peaceful setting near Dollywood. The resort offers beautiful gathering spaces, indoor and outdoor pools, fire pits, and complimentary trolley transportation to Dollywood. It is a wonderful choice for families wanting a relaxing resort while staying close to the area’s biggest attractions.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa – Pigeon Forge
DreamMore Resort & Spa continues to be one of the most popular family resorts in the Smokies. Guests enjoy exclusive Dollywood perks, complimentary transportation to the parks, beautiful pools, family activities, and spacious accommodations. If visiting Dollywood is the highlight of your trip, DreamMore makes planning your vacation incredibly easy.
Margaritaville Island Hotel – Pigeon Forge
Located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, Margaritaville Island Hotel is perfect for families who want to be in the heart of the action. Spacious rooms, many featuring fireplaces and soaking tubs, combine with a rooftop pool and easy access to shopping, restaurants, rides, and entertainment. Its walkable location makes it easy to enjoy one of Pigeon Forge’s most popular destinations without constantly getting back in the car.
Eagles Ridge Resort – Pigeon Forge
If your family prefers the privacy and extra space of a cabin, Eagles Ridge Resort is an excellent option. Offering cabins ranging from cozy retreats to large homes for extended families, the resort provides full kitchens, game rooms, hot tubs, and beautiful mountain surroundings while still being just minutes from Dollywood, The Island, and all of Pigeon Forge’s top attractions. It is a great choice for families wanting the comforts of home with easy access to everything the Smokies have to offer.
Which Area Should You Stay In?
Choosing the right area depends on what you want to do during your vacation.
- Gatlinburg is ideal if you want to walk to restaurants, shopping, and attractions like Anakeesta and Ripley’s Aquarium.
- Pigeon Forge is perfect for families planning to visit Dollywood, dinner shows, The Island, and many of the area’s most popular attractions.
- Sevierville is a great choice if you’re looking for larger resorts, waterparks, and a slightly quieter atmosphere while still being close to everything.
No matter which area you choose, the Smoky Mountains offer something for every family. From luxury resorts and mountain-view hotels to waterpark destinations and spacious cabin resorts, you’ll find plenty of places to relax after a day of exploring. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a full week of adventure, choosing the right place to stay can make your Smoky Mountains vacation even more memorable. What is your favorite resort in the Smokies?
