Picturesque Pigeon Forge in Tennesse lies in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains and is as unusual as its name. This tiny town burns bright on the banks of the Little Pigeon River and is famous for Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s namesake theme park. Not only does it house the 200-feet-high Ferris Wheel called Titanic, but also the first thrilling Wing Coaster ride in the U.S.! With outdoor activities and vibrant attractions aplenty, it’s no wonder that the town with a population of 5,000 sees millions of visitors! Consequently, hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee are a dime-a-dozen and also get filled up quickly. What’s more, these hotels in Pigeon Forge, TN cater to travelers with all kinds of budgets.
The Great Smoky Mountains, one of the 35 Top Attractions In the US For Tourists is hardly 8km (5mi) away. Earlier, many travelers liked staying in private cabins. However, in recent times, lots of hotels, including ones with mountain cabin feels, have sprung up. What’s more, these range from budget accommodations to mountain cabin-esque hotels to full-blown-out resorts. So, whether you’re headed to Pigeon Forge for a family adventure or with your significant other on a romantic vacation, you’re spoilt for choices. To that end, here are the 11 best hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, home of Dollywood.
Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge might not be a huge town, but you sure need to zero on where you exactly want to stay. To begin with, all action in town is focused on Parkway, the main thoroughfare. It’s packed with family-friendly attractions, cafes and restaurants, and hotels. It’s also where the famous Dollywood Theme Park lies. This main road branches off into what is the rest of Pigeon Forge, TN where you can find its many amazing hotels. About 10 minutes north of town lies the suburb of Sevierville, the gateway to the gorgeous countryside. It’s primed for every kind of outdoor adventure, including the likes of horseriding, hiking, fishing, and what-not. Here, you can find some delightful inns. Finally, 14 minutes south you have Gatlinburg, which also has hotels for all kinds of budgets. You might also want to read about the 11 Best Hotels In Gatlinburg too.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa
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An upscale resort connected to a water-and-amusement park? Now, only Dolly Parton could pull that off. It’s only fair that Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa be one of the best hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Located less than five minutes from the eponymous Dollywood Theme Park, the resort is perfect if you’re traveling with your kids. The best part? There’s even a free park shuttle!
There’s a lot to love about this fabulous hotel. For one, it boasts incredible views of the Smoky Mountains. Secondly, it has scores of amenities for everyone, kids, and adults alike. If you’re traveling solo or with your partner, lounge at the indoor or outdoor pools with waterfalls or head for a soothing massage to the spa. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll have a great time at the kids’ programs, which include everything from arts and crafts to outdoor activities, You can even make s’mores over the open fire pit or enroll for packages which include bypass-lines tickets to the theme park. Two on-site restaurants serving classic American and Southern fare keeps you more than satiated, and your kids enthralled as well.
The modern and stylish rooms and suites here are equally amazing. Albeit having different sizes and layouts, they all have plenty of space, plush beds, and all mod-cons. If you’re traveling with children, the larger suites even offer bunk-bed setups, living rooms with pullout beds, and handy kitchens.
Inn on the River
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Nestled between the Little Pigeon River and the main Parkway boulevard is the Inn On The River, an excellent value resort. The location offers you the best of both worlds. You can kick back and relax amongst lush greenery, and jump immediately into all the action in a matter of minutes.
The best part about the resort is that it offers a slew of great amenities, all at a wallet-friendly price. There’s a heavenly heated outdoor pool as well as a lovely indoor pool which is a blessing during colder months. This also makes it one of the 11 Best Hotels In Pigeon Forge TN With Indoor Pool. Plus, the outdoor pool is peppered with daybeds and has fabulous views of the Little Pigeon River. After a swim, a soak in the hot tub feels nice. Spend the evening grilling by the barbecues with your friends and family. Before that, you’re even treated to free refreshments, tea, and popcorn every evening in the main lobby, which is a great perk. What’s more, there’s a fabulous breakfast served every day.
You have lots of room options here, most of which are are larger suites that are perfect for families and groups. These not only have lots of living space, but also huge furnished balconies with river views, Jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and pullout couches.
Riverstone Resort & Spa
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If you and your significant other are planning a romantic getaway to Pigeon Forge, then you’ll love the elegant Riverstone Resort & Spa. The dreamy upscale resort sits right on the Little Pigeon River and offers you mesmerizing views of the river and the Great Smoky Mountains. It sits right next to the Gatlinburg golf course in the heart of town and is close to the town’s attractions and sights. The best part? It’s also one of the Top 11 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Pigeon Forge! So, if you’re traveling with your pet pooch, then this hotel is perfect.
The accommodations are the highlight here. Look beyond the standard rooms – it’s the standalone luxe log cabins and condo-style suites that you’ll want. While both have lots of space and full kitchens, we’d recommend the log cabins to honeymooners. They feature a lovely wraparound porch and a Jacuzzi tub which makes for some very romantic times. What’s more, they boast jaw-dropping views over the Smoky Mountains.
Besides the dreamy accommodations, there are lots of other things to do on-site. You can lounge beside the heated outdoor swimming pool, complete with fun waterfalls and a lazy river. During colder climates, retreat to the indoor pool sanctuary. Head down to the spa for a good unwinding session, and enjoy the evening grilling on the barbecues outdoors. There’s even a superb riverfront picnic area where you and your partner can enjoy a cozy picnic lunch.
The Inn At Christmas Place
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It’s Christmas throughout the year at The Inn At Christmas Place, one of the best hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This might seem quirky, but it’s this kind of quirk that flies in this town. This unusual Bavarian-themed resort lies a 10-minute walk north of the town center. The resort sits on gorgeous, manicured grounds, complete with ponds and gardens.
The Christmas theme, unsurprisingly, extends to the rooms too, which are decorated for the holidays the entire year. For instance, the double queen room features holly wreaths and Santa Claus red bedspreads. The suites, on the other hand, feature whirlpool tubs and full-sized, decorated Christmas trees! Besides the Christmas decor, all rooms feature all mod-cons, plus lavish bathrooms. What’s more, the turn-down service includes cookies and your downs might just have a lot of fun holiday references too!
The Christmas theme extends beyond the accommodations to the rest of the resort too. In fact, there are visits from Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and the elves at the complimentary breakfast. Apart from the heated indoor pool, there’s even a fantastic outdoor pool with a hot tub and water-slide, which is a hit with kids.
Courtyard Marriott Pigeon Forge
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Apart from being a reliable chain hotel, the name Courtyard Marriott Pigeon Forge might not exactly sound dreamy or thrilling. But, does every Courtyard Marriott have a lazy river that flows to an amazing outdoor pool? We thought so. Overlooking the Little Pigeon River, this particular Courtyard Marriott not only lives up to the brand name but goes beyond to make your experience memorable. This family-favorite hotel sits right in the heart of town, a 10-minute drive from both Dollywood and Smoky Mountains.
The hotel, like any other Marriott brand, boasts a slew of extensive amenities. To begin with, there are two fantastic indoor and outdoor swimming pools, complete with a hot tub and sun loungers. The highlight is the lazy river, which children will absolutely love. Moreover, you can even work out in the fitness center, which has nice views of the pool. The fire pit is a great way to spend an evening grilling outside, especially when the weather is dry and there’s a nip in the air. A convenience store, Starbucks, and a restaurant round off the facilities.
You’ll also be impressed by the spacious rooms and suites, which feature a bevy of smart and high-tech mod-cons. Moreover, some of them even have walk-out balconies with incredible river views.
Margaritaville Island Hotel at Pigeon Forge
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When Jimmy Buffet sang ‘Margaritaville,’ we all felt that! Now, experience his idea of heaven at the Margaritaville Island Hotel, one of the best hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. After all, where else better could you sit back, relax, and take a vacation? The mountain retreat lies in the Island entertainment district of the town but feels like a beach vacation. Think this – an excellent pool, live music, beachy furnishings, etc., making this the perfect Pigeon Forge base for your family.
This eclectic retreat blends island-like decor into its thorough mountain village property with a blue-green color scheme, lots of alfresco seating, and rattan furniture. There’s even a choreographed water fountain show every hour, with Jimmy Buffet music in the background all the time. The highlight here is the rooftop pool, with a hot tub, cabanas, and deck chairs. For some unwinding or “me” time, the St. Somewhere Spa is where you should be. You have the choice of four restaurant/bar options, which combine Southern favorites and coastal-inspired items. You can even sit around the fire pit and grill to your heart’s content.
The beach-mountain theme extends to the rooms, which makes them feel even more spacious. They’re all decked out in the latest mod-cons, including flatscreen TVs sand Keurig coffeemakers. Bathrooms are equally lovely, and some rooms even have separate hot tubs and bathtubs if you want to splurge. Nevertheless, all rooms have private balconies with stunning views of the fountains, the village, or the Little pigeon river.
Margaritaville Island Inn at Pigeon Forge
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If one Margaritaville wasn’t enough, Pigeon Forge has two! Welcome to the Margaritaville Island Inn at Pigeon Forge, located on the Island in Pigeon Forge amusement park. It lies right on Parkway right in the heart of the town and is less than 10-minute from Dollywood.
The Margaritaville Island Inn has a plethora of amenities to boast off. Even though there are many restaurants on The Island right next door, the inn has its own restaurant serving delicious American fare. Its highlights, however, are the outdoor and indoor swimming pools, which are heavenly to swim or lounge in no matter the weather. After a swim in the pool, a soak in the hot tub sounds like a terrific idea. You could even engage in a spot of workout at the fitness center. Com evening, and you can spend time grilling by the fire pit with your friends or family. Begin your day with a superb complimentary breakfast.
Just like the rest of the resort, its rooms also emanate a laid-back vibe. The decor is out-and-out beach-themed, but not in the least kitschy. Besides a slew of mod-cons, the rooms have lovely fireplaces as well as balconies that look out over the property or the Little Pigeon River.
Clarion Inn
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A five-minute drive north from the heart of town brings you to Clarion Inn, a chain hotel with the flair of a mountain lodge. The lobby blends both styles, complete with natural wood accents, rocky columns, and exposed beams. It also has a lovely fireplace with a sitting area and a piano, which is where an evening reception with free tea, coffee, cookies, and popcorn is served.
The hotel has much by way of amenities. The pools here are perfect for kids and families, whether it’s the indoor one with basketball hoops or the outdoor one with a water slide and a small lazy river. You can head to the small spa for unwinding with a massage or a body treatment or engage in a spot of workout at the fitness center. The complimentary hot breakfast is the most extensive in the town and even features omelet and waffles stations.
The two-color themes, a mountain-blue and a harvest-red one rule the roost in the spacious rooms. Amenities, although, remain the same, including Keurig coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and microwaves. There are even work desks in each room, plus plush bathrooms.
Arbors at Island Landing Hotel & Suites
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The five-story Arbors at Island Landing is hands-down one of the best hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The hotel has quite the cozy B&B aesthetic and lies on gorgeous grounds that include the Little Pigeon River running right next to a large meadow. The hotel radiates a typical mountain property vibe, complete with stone fireplaces, honey-blond furniture, and certain tranquility. What’s even better is that it lies right in the heart of town, so you’re close to all the action.
If you’re traveling with your family, then you couldn’t find a better place. The hotel has excellent views of the meadow and the river on one side and the Island entertainment district on the other. An outdoor heated swimming pool, hot tub, and kids pool are the center of all action. During some evenings, the property even arranges for a s’mores grilling and sing-a-long session on the meadow. Right across from the street is Reagan’s Pancake House, where you’re treated to a complimentary breakfast. You can even grab free doughnuts, apple cider, lemonade, and coffee in the lobby. Rounding up the amenities are sports activities, board games to borrow, and free Wi-Fi.
Rooms at this hotel have quite a romantic vibe, complete with fireplaces and four-poster beds. Moreover, all rooms have all standard amenities, including coffeemakers and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are equally done-up, and some even have lovely bathtubs. So, make sure you ask before you book rooms. If you want to splash, go for the suites which even have jetted tubs and all the more space.
Grand Smokies Lodge Resort
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If you’re a group traveling on a budget, then the Grand Smokies Lodge Resort is the best place you can put your feet up. The staying accommodations at his hotel cannot be beaten, especially if you’re traveling in a group. For one, it has many options for adjoining or connecting rooms, which ensure both privacy as well as the ability to stay connected at all times. What’s more, all rooms are feature mod-cons like flat-screen cable TVs, fridges, and ovens in a fully-equipped kitchenette, so whipping up cheap meals is easy. Moreover, some of the rooms even have balconies with spa baths, which will make staying together absolutely fun.
Apart from the great rooms, the resort itself has a slew of amenities. For instance, if you don’t have hot tubs in the balconies, fret not, The indoor and outdoor pools with water slides are open till as late as 1 a.m.! The on-site grocery shops and convenience stores make it easy to buy stuff for cooking meals on your own. Take some time off and head to the game room for a spirited game with your pals. The free WiFi is an additional blessing. However, what’s really great is that this resort is well-placed for you to explore all that Pigeon Forge has to offer. Most of the things and sights to see in town are no less than a 10-minute drive away, including the Smoky Mountains.
Econo Lodge Riverside
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The Econo Lodge Riverside is one of the best value hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, located right next to the Little Pigeon River. Even though it’s a value hotel, it sure doesn’t look like one. To begin with, its homey, stone-floored lobby with an equally gorgeous stone fireplace feels welcoming. It also features fun tan-blue-striped seating, which is where free tea and coffee are served all day.
Despite being a value property, Econo Lodge sure has a lot of amenities. To begin with, it has a rather lovely oval-shaped heated outdoor pool, complete with a kids pool and wicker seating right next to it. The area is sprinkled with stunning potted plants that lend it a lively vibe. Complimentary breakfast is a plus here, and moreover, it’s a hearty affair. Think everything from pancakes, biscuits, and juice to muffins, fruit, eggs, and sausages. Children can have fun at the arcade section, while business travelers can check up on work at the computer station. The nicest part is, undoubtedly, the Riverwalk, which is one of the best in the area. Besides enjoying a picnic or grilling at the fire pits, you can also feed geese and ducks or fish and swim in the river.
Rooms at Econo Lodge are delightful and surprisingly spacious. A slew of mod-cons, comfy mattresses, and modern bathrooms make staying here very comfortable. The best feature in some of the rooms is the balconies, which overlook the village and the gorgeous Little Pigeon River.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Pigeon Forge:
- Tennessee Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge: The region is famous for the Ole Smoky Moonshine and Whiskey, which you can sample on this tour.
- Sawyer’s Farmhouse: This restaurant is an ode to American culinary past and serves classic American dishes all day long.
Recommended Activities In Pigeon Forge:
- Smoky Mountains Roaring Fork 2.5-Hour Jeep Tour: Explore the fascinating Smoky Mountains National Park in an exciting off-road adventure.
