Whether you’re a hiker looking to get out into nature or a lover of kitschy and unusual attractions, you’re going to love Gatlinburg Tennessee.
The gateway to Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, head along the city’s Parkway to get into the national park itself. But first, be sure to explore downtown Gatlinburg, which has a mixture of cultural and flashy things to see and do.
When it comes to where to stay, check out vacation rentals in Gatlinburg. Rather than heading to a dull and characterless hotel, look at the eclectic range of Airbnbs in Gatlinburg. You’ll find several properties out in the mountains reflecting the true character of the city.
In this post, I’ll show you the best Airbnbs in Gatlinburg. From jaw-dropping treehouses to cabins with mind-blowing views, there’s sure to be something that will match your travel style – and most importantly, budget!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 15 Airbnbs in Gatlinburg
Romantic Mountain Escape
- > $$
- > 4 guests
- > Self-check-in
- > Hot tub with mountain view
Cute Cabin near Pigeon Forge
- > $$
- > 6 guests
- > BBQ
- > Private hot tub
Cabin in Smoky Mountains
- > $$$
- > 6 guests
- > Private Pool
- > Outdoor Hot tub, Children’s play area
Gatlinburg’s Best Kept Secret
- > $$
- > 2 guests
- > Free parking
- > Wine on arrival
Downtown Gatlinburg Log Cabin
- > $$$
- > 4 guests
- > Laptop-friendly workspace
- > Bench and rocking chairs
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Gatlinburg
In any other city in the United States, you’d expect to sift through apartments and private rooms on Airbnb. However, staying in Gatlinburg is a little different. Thanks to its location at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’re much more likely to come across a cosy cabin or a cool treehouse.
Should you go for one of these over a hotel, it’s likely you’ll have a home away from home – just with more wood. A fully equipped kitchen and living area come as standard even in the cheapest properties.
However, splash out just that little bit extra, and you’ll be in line for spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains, hot tubs, and even pool tables!
First up, is the most common type of Airbnb in Gatlinburg. Forget finding a hotel or a hostel in the Great Smokies – you’ll have a much easier job of finding a cabin – and it’s got a lot more character!
With everything from cosy cabins for two to huge Airbnbs that will comfortably hold the extended family, there’s so much variation in what you can expect. Small cabins are wonderful for couples who want a bit of privacy, while the largest ones can be used for gatherings and celebrations.
You won’t find treehouses are particularly common anywhere – that’s a massive part of their appeal. However, in Gatlinburg, there is a range to choose from. Often custom made, these are cool ways of blending living spaces and nature.
To the average person, a cabin and chalet may seem like the same thing. However, there are a few subtle differences you should know about when deciding which unique property to book.
Chalets originated in Switzerland – the European Alpine country has loads of things! They’re usually made of wood and have overhanging eaves – unlike cabins, which are made of logs.
Though it’s not always the case, chalets are normally cute and cosy, so these are a great option if you’re travelling as a couple. You can expect your chalet to be self-contained, with outdoor spaces, a kitchen, and a living space.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Gatlinburg
So, now you know why you should choose an Airbnb in Gatlinburg (over say, an Airbnb in nearby Pigeon Forge) and what you can expect. Let’s not wait any longer – here are the 15 best Airbnbs in Gatlinburg!
Romantic Mountain Escape | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Gatlinburg
First on my list of the best Airbnbs in Gatlinburg is the Bear Dance Cabin. While there’s room for up to four guests, it’s super romantic, so it will suit a couple just as well.
Thankfully, it’s quite friendly on the pocket too! While some cabins have taxidermy that might make some guests feel uncomfortable, this is full of cute and cuddly plush animals – a modern and humorous take on traditional cabin decor!
With space for up to four guests, the Bear Dance Cabin is perfect for small groups and couples. It boasts awesome views of the Great Smoky Mountains that you can enjoy from a hot tub!
Cute Cabin near Pigeon Forge | Best Budget Airbnb in Gatlinburg
Finding somewhere affordable in Gatlinburg can sometimes feel like a pointless task. Thankfully I know exactly where to look, and that’s how this cute cabin near Pigeon Forge has ended up on the list!
Nothing beats this cozy cabin location in the heart of the woods. It has tons of space, a gorgeous balcony looking into the forest and a private hot tub. If you’re travelling with kids, it has a pack n play crib plus some children’s books and toys. There’s also a shared pool onsite.
If you’re looking for somewhere with one of best prices in Gatlinburg Tennessee, so you can choose this place and concentrate on spending your money on moonshine and visiting the local attractions!
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View on Osprey View on REICabin in Smoky Mountains | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Gatlinburg
This gorgeous A-frame luxury cabin in Gatlinburg is the perfect luxury retreat for a family. With two bedrooms, one with a king-size bed and one with a bunk bed, plus an outdoor pool and play area, you’ll have everything you need to keep the little ones entertained.
The design of this cozy cabin is gorgeous. From modern interiors with rustic pieces thrown in, everything about this cabin screams elegance. If you’re looking for seclusion, the remote location near the Smoky Mountains National Park is perfect. Not only that, but the wrap-around deck is the perfect place to enjoy this forested hideaway.
Gatlinburg’s Best Kept Secret | Perfect Gatlinburg Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Is that bed wearing a bow tie?! I guess you won’t know until you arrive at this lovely private room perfectly positioned for exploring the bright lights of Gatlinburg. You’ll get a warm welcome here – you’ll even be presented with a bottle of local wine!
As well as being near the town, hiking trails go through the property itself, so be sure to enjoy a quiet walk once you’ve got your bearings.
Downtown Gatlinburg Log Cabin | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Gatlinburg for Digital Nomads
If you need to get inspiration for your work, where better to do so than from the seclusion of a one bedroom log cabin?
Take advantage of several laptop-friendly workspaces and fast Wi-Fi before kicking back with a game of pool or a soak in the hot tub. You can also choose between sleeping in the king bed in the roomy loft, or on the futon as you catch a game on the flat-screen TV.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Gatlinburg
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Gatlinburg!
Romantic Cabin w/ Hot Tub | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
Looking for somewhere you and your other half will love? You can’t go far wrong with the Bearadise Cabin.
Secluded and private, you can sit out on the porch and wait for local wildlife to amble on by – either in the open air or in the hot tub! Though the tub will keep you warm, don’t miss cosying up in the heart-shaped bathtub inside before retiring to the king bed.
Mountain View near Gatlinburg | Best Airbnb in Gatlinburg for Families
With space for six guests, this chalet is perfect for families of any age. Teens and parents will love chilling out in the hot tub on the back porch, while DVDs are available for younger children. Prefer cool water?
There’s a nearby clubhouse with a swimming pool – and you can pop in there for food too. In the winter months, cosy up together for a board game in the living room in front of the fire!
Rustic Cabin w/ Hot Tub | Best Cabin in Gatlinburg
It’s not easy to choose the best cabin in Gatlinburg, but couples will be queueing up for the secluded ‘Mountain Romance.’ It’s cosy and warm and offers everything you could hope for from a romantic break. If the weather isn’t right for the hot tub inside, light the fire, jump into a chunky armchair, and watch a movie together!
The Hemlock in Treehouse Grove | Best Treehouse in Gatlinburg
One of the coolest types of accommodation in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park – and, in fact, in all US National Parks – is the treehouse.
At Treehouse Grove in Norton Creek, there’s a selection to choose from. Hemlock will perfectly suit a small group of friends or family as there’s space for four guests. Enjoy the comfort of your very own treehouse or sit on the raised porch and marvel at the surrounding forest!
The Lodge at Ski Mountain | Best Chalet in Gatlinburg
No matter what time of year you stay, this place looks stunning – although you might have trouble making it here in the snow! This triangular lodge-style chalet is a wonderful spot for outdoor lovers: there are several trail heads to some of the best hikes in the USA just a stone’s throw away. After a day out in the mountains, rest those aching muscles in the private hot tub!
Sweet Retreat Luxury Cabin | Best Airbnb for Honeymooners in Gatlinburg
I’ve already given you an idea of where to stay if you’re travelling as a couple. However, another entire cabin wouldn’t hurt! This one is particularly special.
In an Airbnb Plus property, you have a queen bed with not a bedside table, but a bedside jacuzzi! Don’t spend all your time in there though – you’ll miss out on stargazing from the hot tub!
Cabin w/ Views, Downtown Gatlinburg | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Gatlinburg
There are lots of absolutely stunning Gatlinburg Airbnb cabins, so when it comes to choosing the most beautiful, you have to factor in the views too. With Mount Leconte front and centre from the porch and living room of this place, you won’t be disappointed.
Despite being in a downtown Gatlinburg location, you’ll feel like you’re staying right in the wilderness. Previous guests have spotted bears – so maybe you will too!
The Ruby Slipper Retro Camper | Most Unique Airbnb in Gatlinburg
One of the more unusual Airbnbs in Gatlinburg, this definitely isn’t one for a big group. The Ruby Slipper Retro Camper will suit a solo traveller or an intimate couple – but what a cool place it is to make memories!
This 1960’s retro camper is perfect for glamping, and there’s a bed in the van itself. Chill outside at the fire pit and check out the heated pool and library on-site for things to do.
Mountain Freedom “Private Retreat” | Best Airbnb with Parking
If you’re renting a car or travelling with your own vehicle, you’re going to need somewhere to store it. Thankfully, there’s ample parking space at this ‘mountain freedom’ cabin.
Located at the end of a long road, you won’t get many cars passing and posing a danger to yours on the twisty mountain roads! Thankfully, it has all the other features you can expect from a cozy cabin, including a hot tub and cosy living area.
Luxury Mountain Retreat | Best Airbnb for a Group of Friends
On the outskirts of Gatlinburg near Pigeon Forge, this cabin gives you the best of both worlds. Oh, and there are awesome views of the mountains from the balcony!
This cabin has three bedrooms with king-size beds, plus there’s an outdoor fire pit where you and your mates can roast smores and share stories. Or perhaps you’d all prefer to jump into your private hot tub?
No matter what your reasons for visiting Gatlinburg are, you and your friends will love staying here.
FAQs About Airbnbs in Gatlinburg
Here’s what people usually ask me about Airbnbs in Gatlinburg.
What To Pack For Gatlinburg
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb 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!
Don’t Forget Your Gatlinburg Travel Insurance
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 Gatlinburg Airbnbs
With all these awesome accommodation options in Gatlinburg Tennessee, you’re sure to have found somewhere that fits into your taste and budget. You’ve seen cabins, treehouses, chalets, and other places, too.
If you’re still trying to make up your mind, let us point you in the direction of my overall best value Airbnb in Gatlinburg. That’s the Romantic Mountain Escape. It offers wonderful value for money, and it’s a real authentic Smokies cabin!
Now that you’ve got your accommodation sorted, it’s time to think about travel insurance. A policy from World Nomads will cover your trip from beginning to end!
- Check out our Backpacking USA guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Gatlinburg guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of USA.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around USA.
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