Gatlinburg, a town cradled by the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, captivates nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Brimming with cozy charm, this town never fails to dazzle its visitors with breathtaking scenery, thrilling outdoor activities, and rustic allure.
Being so close to the Smoky Mountains means you’ve literally got the USA’s greatest (and my all-time favorite) National Park on your doorstep. So, pack those hiking shoes and make the most of it, my friends! Get ready for your mind to be completely and utterly blown, the vistas here are INSANE.
However, Gatlinburg is somewhat spread out, making it seemingly difficult to navigate at first glance. Not only is it surrounded by mountains, but some neighborhoods are up steep hills, making them hard to access without a car or public transport. Before setting on where to stay in Gatlinburg, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with its diverse areas.
I’ve scoured Gatlinburg to bring you the top three neighborhoods, each tailored to fit a range of travel styles and budgets. I’ve noted the best places to stay and things to do in each to give you a good idea of what to expect.
So, let’s find the best place for you to be in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Gatlinburg
- Gatlinburg Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Gatlinburg
- Gatlinburg’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Gatlinburg
- What To Pack For Gatlinburg
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Gatlinburg
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Gatlinburg?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Gatlinburg is one of the hottest spots to vacation in America’s South on a budget right now. Public transport is quite good in Gatlinburg, and the tourism office will gladly help you get your bearings.
If you don’t mind which neighbourhood you’re staying in, these are my top overall accommodation picks.
Bear Creek Inn | Best Hotel in Gatlinburg
Bear Creek Lodge is a wonderful stay in Gatlinburg, this hotel has rooms with balconies overlooking the creek where you can watch the locals (bears!)! It’s close enough to downtown and everything you might need in Gatlinburg but out of town enough to feel the outdoor vacation vibe. This is a simple stay and there aren’t any frills or luxury but the Bear Creek Lodge staff are lovely and the location is great.
Hampton Inn Gatlinburg | Best Budget Hotel in Gatlinburg
Sometimes you just want the convenience of a hotel in a great location and the Hampton Inn offers this without hitting your wallet too hard. Located right on the outskirts of town, it is well placed for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is an outdoor pool area surrounded by the forest, creating a calm and quiet atmosphere to enjoy on those lazy afternoons.
Downtown Mountain Hideaway | Best Airbnb in Gatlinburg
This is another epic Airbnb Plus property that you won’t want to leave! Despite its city-centre location, it is nestled in a somewhat secluded street – giving you peace and quiet away from the main tourist strips. The extravagant porch area is fully decked and comes with swing chairs and a top-of-the-line hot tub.
My Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains post has so many epic Gatlinburg options if you’re looking for more options already.
Parkway District
Also known as Downtown Gatlinburg, the Parkway District is the beating heart of the city! For first time visitors, this is where you will find most of the main attractions on offer.
Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is best known as a ski resort during the winter, but it also has plenty of excellent summer attractions. The aerial tramway and bear habitat are open year-round, and there are some great trails and slides for the kids in the summer months.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The park is obviously quite sparse, but the road network is excellent. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in the country.
Gatlinburg’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Gatlinburg is a diverse destination that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a family, couple, or group of friends looking for some adventure, I have you covered in this guide. Keep reading for top tips on where to stay and what to do. stay in a cabin in Tennessee!
1. Parkway District – Overall Best Place to Stay in Gatlinburg
- COOLEST thing to do in Parkway District: Discover a fascinating insight into local culture with this Moonshine and Whisky Tour – a great alternative to pub crawls!
- BEST place to visit in Parkway District: Anakeesta is a great adventure park for families, with zip lines and gondola rides to suit all ages.
Also known as Downtown Gatlinburg, the Parkway District is the beating heart of the city! For first-time visitors, this is where you will find most of the main attractions on offer. From theme parks and waterparks to dinner shows, restaurants, and bars – there’s a little something for everyone in the Parkway District.
This is the most lively neighborhood in the city, so those who like to stay up late will have plenty to do. Though seemingly designed with only tourists in mind, there are plenty of local attractions if you look beneath the surface. The Moonshine and Whisky Tour is a great way to do this, but make sure to check local event listings before you arrive.
As the center of the city, the Parkway District is well-connected to all the other neighborhoods mentioned in this guide. It also has great connections to Sevierville and Pigeon Forge – and even a regular service to Nashville! If you don’t have a car, staying in the Parkway District is your best bet for getting around easily.
The Park Vista a DoubleTree by Hilton | Best Hotel in Parkway District
DoubleTree is a family-friendly Hilton brand with a focus on unbeatable attention to detail. Perched right next to the mountains, all the rooms come with stunning views.
There’s a games room and arcade on-site for keeping the entire family entertained in the evenings. There’s also a well-equipped fitness suite – perfect for keeping up your fitness while traveling. And, this downtown Gatlinburg hotel is pet friendly so bring Fido!
River Crossing | Best Apartment in Parkway District
In a wonderful location with access to Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, complete with an outdoor pool, this is it! David and Peggy have thought of the comfort of their guests and spending a night or more here feels like home. This property is not pet friendly but there is an unleashed dog park within walking distance if you are missing your furry friend.
Downtown Mountain Hideaway | Best Airbnb in Parkway District
This is another epic Airbnb Plus property that you won’t want to leave! Despite its city-centre location, it is nestled in a somewhat secluded street – giving you peace and quiet away from the main tourist strips. The extravagant porch area is fully decked and comes with swing chairs and a top-of-the-line hot tub.
Visiting Gatlinburg to relax? This is the place for you – unless it’s booked out! Luckily, there are quite a few epic Airbnbs in Gatlinburg, which might make your stay something truly special.
Things to See and Do in Parkway District:
- Soaring above the Great Smoky Mountains, the Gatlinburg Sky Needle is the largest observation deck in the city – and also has an arcade!
- Wild Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark is the largest attraction of its kind in the south – perfect for keeping the family occupied on a rainy day.
- Visiting as a couple? I recommend the Smoky Mountain Winery – they offer multiple tours a day with complimentary tastings.
- Not the most skilled hiker? The chairlifts at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park will take you to some of the most stunning viewpoints in the area.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Ober Gatlinburg – Best Neighborhood in Gatlinburg for Families to Stay In
- COOLEST thing to do in Ober Gatlinburg: Ride the Gondola between Ober Gatlinburg and the Parkway District.
- BEST place to visit in Ober Gatlinburg: Ober Gatlinburg Resort is a must-visit attraction year-round!
Ober Gatlinburg is best known as a ski resort during the winter, but it also has plenty of excellent summer attractions. The aerial tramway and bear habitat are open year-round, and there are some great trails and slides for the kids in the summer months. In the winter, they offer a variety of snow sports to suit all ages.
The area surrounding Ober Gatlinburg is peaceful, especially in the summer, there are lots of cute little log cabins in Gatlinburg. For this reason, I reckon it’s a great neighborhood for families heading to the Great Smoky Mountains. The gondola to the city center is open year-round, giving you easy access to all the major attractions without the noise in the evenings.
Bear Creek Inn | Best Hotel in Ober Gatlinburg
Bear Creek Lodge is a wonderful stay in Gatlinburg, this hotel has rooms with balconies overlooking the creek where you can watch the locals (bears!)! It’s close enough to downtown and everything you might need in Gatlinburg but out of town enough to feel the outdoor vacation vibe. This is a simple stay and there aren’t any frills or luxury but the Bear Creek Lodge staff are lovely and the location is great.
Bearskin Lodge | Best Luxury Cabin in Ober Gatlinburg
This is a nine-bedroom villa that you can rent for your vacation in Gatlinburg Tennessee – room for the whole family and then some! Bearskin Lodge is a stunning rustic style lodge that might be missing an outdoor pool but comes with a hot tub and a pool table. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained and lots of space to hang out together or separately – I know how traveling with family can be!
Greystone Lodge | Best Lodge in Ober Gatlinburg
Offering a free breakfast, a room in this hotel is an affordable option in a great location in downtown Gatlinburg. There’s free wifi at this Gatlinburg TN Hotel as well as an outdoor pool and the staff are lovely. Enjoy your Gatlinburg vacation in Tennessee while staying at Greystone Lodge, it’s a treat with lush spacious rooms and comfy beds.
Million Dollar Views | Best Cabin in Ober Gatlinburg
I just can’t get enough of the dazzling scenery that surrounds this adorable chalet! Admire the sunset from the balcony every evening over a glass of wine before heading to the sauna and hot tub to unwind.
There is a large sun deck for use throughout the summer, and the lounge comes with a TV with subscription channels. It can sleep up to eight – but many couples traveling through Gatlinburg Tennessee opt for the entire place to themselves.
Things to See and Do in Ober Gatlinburg
- No trip to Ober Gatlinburg is complete without a visit to Puzzled – a quaint little toy shop offering handmade delights.
- Discover the beauty of the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon River on a fun white water rafting tour from Hartford.
- Embark on an unforgettable journey through the dark and mysterious history of Gatlinburg with our walking ghost tour.
- Ride the chairlift up to Mount Harrison – even in the summer, you will find some great views and Instagram backdrops from the peak.
- Take a trip down towards Pigeon Forge and feel the thrill of a zipline canopy tour as you zip through the treetops.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Where to Stay in Gatlinburg for Adventure
- COOLEST thing to do in the Great Smoky Mountains: Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life with this Unplugged Waterfall Hike.
- BEST place to visit in the Great Smoky Mountains: Sugarlands Visitor Center is where you will find great hiking maps and activity information.
Isn’t Gatlinburg already in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park? Technically, no – but it is located right along the edge.
If you want a true adventure, some excellent lodges are awaiting you right in the heart of the national park. There are some more typical hotels along the outskirts. If you’re here for the natural beauty, you absolutely have to get out of the city and stay in the Great Smoky Mountain NP.
The park is quite sparse, but the road network is excellent. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in the country. Modern tourism companies also allow you to take a guided adventure if you’re less experienced.
Hampton Inn Gatlinburg | Best Hotel in Great Smoky Mountains
The Hampton Inn is the closest hotel to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and it’s also right next to the trolley to Ober Gatlinburg. This is perfect for those visiting the town for an extended stay.
They also provide a complimentary breakfast buffet, saving you some money! The pool area is calm and peaceful, and there’s also a small fitness suite.
Lover’s Loft | Best Lodge in Great Smoky Mountains
Right on the outskirts of Gatlinburg, this cabin gets you close to the mountains without leaving the comforts of the city. The interiors are decorated with rustic furnishings – and the modern appliances will ensure you enjoy all your home comforts.
With only one bedroom, it’s popular with couples looking for a romantic getaway in Tennessee. There is a private hot tub and fireplace on the deck.
Smoky Mountain Ridge Resort | Best Cabin in Great Smoky Mountains
Sleeping up to twenty-four people, this is one for the big groups and important family gatherings! It comes with its own private pool – as well as a theatre room and games room.
Laurel Falls is only a short journey away, and many major hiking routes pass outside the front of the cabin. This accommodation is the closest to the center of the national park, so perfect for getting away from it all.
Things to See and Do in the Great Smoky Mountains:
- Hike along the many trails on offer in the National Park – Old Sugarlands Trail is a great option for beginners.
- Hiking not your thing? You can bring the car with you to Cades Cove and discover the native wildlife along the way.
- Cataract Falls is the most accessible waterfall from the visitor center – and great for capturing a photo of your trip.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Gatlinburg
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Gatlinburg and where to stay.
What To Pack For Gatlinburg
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Why would I go to Pigeon Forge?
One word – Dollywood.
I’ve got some epic Pigeon Forge Airbnbs if you’re wondering about places to stay in Pigeon Ford… Or if you want to stay in the foothills of the Smoky Mountain, then a vacation rental in Pigeon Forge is also a good idea. That way you still get to visit the home of the queen herself and stay in the wonderful nature!
What are some cool things to do in Gatlinburg TN?
My all-time favorite is watching the TN fireflies. For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing light show. Over 20,000 people come to see them so be prepared for swarms of people but the show the fireflies put on is worth it.
Where is the best place to stay in Gatlinburg on the river?
Bear Creek Lodge is the best place to stay in my opinion. You can literally sit on your private balcony and watch the creek (and the bears!).
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Gatlinburg
Everyone needs good travel insurance – especially with those bears about!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Gatlinburg?
Gatlinburg seems to rise out of nowhere from the forested landscape of the Smoky Mountains. It is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. And, its proximity to Dollywood has made it a popular base for family staycationers in the United States.
When it comes to the ultimate best place to stay, I have to go with the Parkway District! It is well connected to all of the other neighborhoods – as well as some great destinations outside of the city. If you’re still on the fence about where to stay, book a couple of nights here in a downtown Gatlinburg hotel.
Downtown Mountain Hideaway would be my pick for a vacation home in town that’s comfortable and in a great location. I like to stay just out of town but have easy access to anything I might need (ie. things I’ve forgotten to pack). This Airbnb fits the bill and feels like a luxury hotel without the hotel BS.
If you’re looking for somewhere more budget-friendly (I feel ya!), book a night at The Park Vista a DoubleTree by Hilton. This family-friendly hotel has a variety of room options and is pretty affordable. Tennessee is seriously lacking on the hostel front I’m afraid.
All that said, all of the neighborhoods mentioned in this guide have their own unique charms. I hope I’ve helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming trip to Gatlinburg.
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Gatlinburg instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂