Gatlinburg hotels on the strip are the best options for tourists who want to be close to everything. The strip in Gatlinburg is often busy because it has so many attractions, shops, and restaurants. So, it’s a great place to explore in between your plans, and choosing one of the Gatlinburg TN hotels within walking distance can make your trip even more interesting.
What is the Gatlinburg Strip?
When people talk about the “Gatlinburg strip,” they’re referring to U.S. Highway 441, also known as Parkway. It’s a walkable street that goes through the center of the city, so it’s an area that many tourists explore. Most of Gatlinburg’s popular hotels, restaurants, and attractions are near the strip, so that’s why it’s such a great spot to stay at.
Popular Attractions on the Gatlinburg Strip
If you’re hoping to be within walking distance of many exciting attractions, hotels on Gatlinburg strip will be your best bets. So, here are a few fun things to do on the Gatlinburg strip:
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Hollywood Star Cars Museum
- Gatlinburg Space Needle
- Gatlinburg Skylift Park
- Anakeesta
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not!
Best Gatlinburg Hotels on the Strip
There are plenty of Gatlinburg hotels on the strip, so here are some of the most popular options to help you narrow down your search. Each hotel is unique, so there’s something to accomodate every family. Here are some of the best hotels in Gatlinburg TN.
#1 – Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
This Jimmy Buffet-themed hotel is a newer addition to the Gatlinburg strip. It opened in 2018, and while it’s not on a beach, it’s the most tropical destination in the city. The Margaritaville Hotel Gatlinburg is at the bottom of the strip, so it’s within walking distance of a few popular places, such as Anakeesta, Ole Red’s, Cheapeake’s, and Ripley’s Aquarium.
Most of the rooms at this Gatlinburg hotel have a balcony, and the pool at this location is like a little oasis that has space for all ages to enjoy. There are also several dining options on-site, and of course, the entire place is decked out in tropical decorations. Staying at Margaritaville Gatlinburg is like going on a vacation within a vacation.
#2 – Gatlinburg Inn
The Gatlinburg Inn is a historic hotel known for its old-fashioned Southern hospitality. It first opened in 1937, and it has hosted famous historical figures like Lady Bird Johnson and Liberace. It’s also in one of the best locations because it’s in the center of the strip near the Gatlinburg Skylift Park and the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
There are a variety of room options, and all of them have a rustic charm. While it doesn’t have many private balconies, is has a large patio with rocking chairs that overlook the mountains. The outdoor pool also has great views. Even though it’s older than many of the other hotels on the Gatlinburg strip, it’s recently renovated.
#3 – Black Bear Inn & Suites
Black Bear Inn & Suites is one of the best options for visitors looking for outdoor adventures because it’s very close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the trailhead of the Gatlinburg trail. So, it’s a great place to retreat to after a day of hiking or biking. You can even get a great view of the mountains from your private balcony.
Some amenities include complimentary hot breakfast, an enclosed heated swimming pool, and a fireplace on the terrace. There are several room options, with some accommodating up to eight people. This Gatlinburg TN hotel also has plenty of meeting rooms for any guests planning events.
#4 – Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg on the River
Instead of focusing on mountain views, Baymont by Wyndham is known for its gorgeous views of the Little Pigeon River. Many rooms are right along the river with their own private balconies. It’s great for all visitors, whether you’re alone, traveling with kids, or even keeping pets in your room!
If kids are joining you on the trip, there are plenty accommodations for kids, including a game room and play area. Some other amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness center, and hot breakfast. There’s even a public terrace where you can enjoy your coffee in the morning while taking in the views.
https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/great-smoky-mountain-national-park-gm1154877409-314199759
#5 – Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg
The Hilton Garden Inn doesn’t sit directly on the strip, but it’s only a short walk away. It’s a modern Hilton that’s great for visitors looking for a simple hotel option. The hotel has great views of the mountains, and many of the rooms have private balconies.
While staying at this hotel, there are plenty of restaurants and bars in Gatlinburg you can walk to. Yet, there are also plenty of amenities right at the inn, such as an indoor pool, a firepit, and an on-site restaurant. The Hilton Great Smoky Mountains a great option for guests who want to stay a little bit away from the busy streets of the strip.
#6 – The Appy Lodge
The Appy Lodge is in a great location, and it’s known for its cozy environment. It’s only a short walk from the attractions and businesses of the Gatlinburg strip. However, you can spend a lot of time at the hotel too because it has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool with a slide. It also has many public areas for guests to lounge and take in the views.
This hotel has a rustic charm, and the rooms are decorated with hickory furniture. Each room comes with a flatscreen TV, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker. There are fireplaces in the main areas, but if you upgrade to a bigger room, you can have a private fireplace and balcony.
#7 – Greystone Lodge on the River
Like Baymont by Wyndham, Greystone Lodge is also located on the Little Pigeon River. It’s a little more expensive than some of the other options, but it’s great for visitors looking for a more intimate setting because it has cottages available. Yet, the rooms are also very nice since they’re newly renovated with private balconies.
This resort has everything you need to sit back and relax. It has complimentary continental breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Some rooms even have a wall-mounted TV that you can watch while relaxing in the bathtub.
#8 – River Terrace Resort
The River Terrace Resort is another option overlooking the Little Pigeon River. It’s right next to Ripley’s Aquarium, and it’s also within walking distance of many other popular shops and restaurants, such as the Pancake Pantry. It’s one of the most convenient accommodations for visitors who like to explore the area while on vacation.
At this resort, there are two outdoor pools that guests can take advantage of. However, if it’s not warm enough to go swimming, the guest rooms are spacious with great views of the nearby area. If you’re not worried about the cost, there are many higher end rooms that include a fireplace and a loft.
#9 – Bearskin Lodge on the River
Bearskin Lodge isn’t directly on the strip, but it’s only a short walk away. It’s not far from The Peddler Steakhouse, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, and Ober Gatlinburg. While it’s in a great location, it’s also a great place for families looking for some lazy days while on vacation, thanks to its cozy wilderness setting.
There’s plenty to explore are this lodge, and it even has an outdoor pool with a lazy river. This cozy accommodation has been around since 1925, before televisions were around. So, this location prides itself in being a place where guests can have fun without needing to use technology all the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re still unsure whether or not you want to stay at a hotel in Gatlinburg TN, you may have some lingering questions. So, here are a few things that travelers commonly wonder.
https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/people-walking-around-main-street-in-downtown-gatlinburg-tennessee-usa-gm1313018288-401641197
How Long is the Strip in Gatlinburg?
The Gatlinburg strip is about 0.8 miles long. So, no matter where you find a hotel in Gatlinburg, you’ll be able to walk to all the thrilling attractions on the strip.
What Shops are on the Gatlinburg Strip?
There’s no shortage of shopping on the strip, so exploring is the best way to see what it has to offer. Here are a few popular shops you might want to check out:
- The Village shopping area
- Buckboard Too
- Spice and Tea Exchange
- Aunt Mahalia’s Candies
- Mountain Mall
- Nantahala Outdoor Center
- Tennessee Homemade Wines
Start Planning Your Trip to Gatlinburg!
Gatlinburg is a wonderful destination for all ages. It has plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions, so everyone can find something to enjoy. Best of all, the Gatlinburg hotels downtown are excellent choices because of their proximity to attractions and their great amenities.
However, if you’re unsure about visiting Gatlinburg, there are plenty of others cities nearby to consider. Tennessee has lots of fun things to do, so there could be a more suitable Tennessee destination for you and your travel companions.