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The most visited national park in the United States isn’t the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, or Yellowstone — it’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this vast mountain range is known for its diversity in ecosystems, scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife, waterfalls, and charming gateway towns.
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If you’re planning a trip, one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the best place to stay in the Smoky Mountains. Do you base yourself in Gatlinburg for quick park access? Pigeon Forge for family-friendly attractions? Or somewhere quieter for a peaceful cabin retreat? In this guide, you’ll learn the differences between the main areas and find inspiration for where to stay based on your travel style.
The mountains are calling — let’s find the perfect place for you.
What You’ll Get Out Of This Article
- A breakdown of the best places to stay in the Smoky Mountains, including Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and quieter cabin areas
- The pros and cons of each town and who they’re best suited for
- Tips on choosing between cabins, hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals
- Advice on proximity to hiking trails, scenic drives, and top attractions
- Booking tips to help you plan around peak seasons and avoid crowds.
Best Place To Stay In The Smoky Mountains
Choosing the best place to stay in the Smoky Mountains isn’t just about picking a town — it’s about deciding what kind of experience you want. Because Great Smoky Mountains National Park stretches across both Tennessee and North Carolina, you’ll find everything from lively tourist hubs to secluded mountain retreats.
One thing that makes this region stand out is the variety of accommodations. The Smokies are known for their cozy log cabins, luxury mountain lodges, romantic treehouses, and scenic vacation rentals with sweeping views. In many cases, these unique stays offer a more memorable experience than traditional hotels or motels.
Whether you’re looking to pick one spot for your trip or thinking about stringing a couple of places together like we did on our 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary, here are a few of our favorite places to stay in the Smoky Mountains if you’re in a hurry and just want the best of the best.
Log Cabin On A Christmas Tree Farm
The Meadow Fork Cabin is one of the many cabins on the Boyd Mountain Log Cabins property and is a quintessential and historic log cabin. Located in Waynesville, North Carolina, the cabin is surrounded by a family-owned Christmas tree farm, fishing ponds, and hiking trails. When you walk in from the idyllic porch with rocking chairs, you’ll see how they’ve modernized and transformed the cabin into a cozy and spacious place to stay with full dining room, air conditioning, fire pit and dining space outdoors, and three bedrooms good for 8 people.
Tiny Home Near Bryson City
There’s certainly an allure to tiny homes but if you’re like us, you’re not quite sure you’d want to own one but would love to see what it’s like. Gina’s Great Getaways has a marvellous collection of vacation rentals near Bryson City, North Carolina. One of them is called Sweet Pea Tiny Home. Located along the creekside, you’ll be surprised with how much space you actually have inside despite its small footprint. This is an adorable place to stay perfect for couples.
Luxury Lodge With Southern Charm
While traditionally this wouldn’t be a location of choice for those exploring the Smoky Mountains, this may be worth the detour if you’re looking for a special place to stay, RT Lodge oozes southern charm that is perfect for those that want a place where there are plenty of places to lounge and relax. All stays include breakfast and all-you-can-eat s’mores at their firepit. The Restaurant at RT Lodge is a delight as well.
Legendary Treehouse In Gatlinburg
These are treehouses built by the Treehouse Master himself, Pete Nelson. Treehouse Grove has a unique collection of treehouses built near the Smoky Mountains and the town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The specific one you should look at is the Maple which they designed a s a retreat where you can enjoy your forest surroundings in comfort. Dubbed the “Honeymoon Treehouse”, you’ll have a large viewing deck, screened porch, kitchenette, couch with TV, second floor bunk, modern rainfall shower bathroom, and one master bedroom.
Plan A Smoky Mountains Itinerary
Not sure how to plan your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains and looking for inspiration? Here is an adventure-filled itinerary that will certainly get you started with a ton of our personal experiences and insider tips.
6 Day Smoky Mountains ItineraryWhere To Stay Near The Great Smoky Mountains
There are several towns and regions on both the Tennessee and North Carolina sides of the Smokies to consider when planning your trip. Choosing the right area to stay in can completely shape your experience, whether you’re after quick access to hiking trails, family-friendly attractions, or a quiet mountain escape.
While many guides focus only on the biggest tourist hubs, it’s worth exploring some of the lesser-known towns that might’ve slipped your radar and may better suit your travel style.
The truth is you really can’t go wrong with any of these places to stay. With a car, getting around the region is easy, and each town offers its own unique vibe, attractions, and lodging options — from cabins and cozy B&Bs to resorts and quirky stays.
The key decision is whether you want to base yourself on the North Carolina side, the Tennessee side, or, like we did on our multi-day Smoky Mountains itinerary, split your time between both. Each side of the park has its own character, so the choice can make a big difference in the feel of your trip.
Below, we’ve broken down the best towns near the Smoky Mountains, including what makes each one special, who it’s best for, and our recommendations for unique stays, hotels, and resorts.
Gatlinburg: Overall The Best Place To Stay In The Smoky Mountains
Out of all the towns near the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is probably the most recognizable name — and for good reason. Located in Tennessee, it sits right at the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it one of the most convenient bases on this side of the park.
Mostly surrounded by mountains, Gatlinburg has an intimate mountain-town feel, yet it’s packed with entertainment. Within a compact, walkable area, you’ll find viewpoints, attractions, themed restaurants, shops, bars, and family-friendly activities around every corner. It’s lively, a little kitschy (think wax museums and themed dining), and undeniably fun.
If you’ve ever been to Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls, it has that same playful energy — but with a distinct mountain frontier charm that makes it feel nostalgic and uniquely Smoky Mountains.
From a national park perspective, it almost feels like Gatlinburg blends right into it. Key roads lead straight into the park, and you’re right next to the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
It’s also just a short drive to Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, which opens up even more attractions and dining options.
When it comes to accommodations, Gatlinburg offers one of the widest selections in the region. You’ll find large family-friendly resorts and lodges in town, but venture slightly outside the main strip and you’ll discover cozy cabins and even incredible treehouse stays tucked into the forest.
Best For: First-time visitors and families who want direct access to the national park, a variety of attractions, and a lively mountain town atmosphere.
Things To Do In Gatlinburg
- For the best views of the Smoky Mountains, consider Anakeesta, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
- If you’re looking for adventure, Anakeesta’s Rail Runner and Dueling Zipline Adventure activities (extra cost) are worth doing.
- Grab the Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Flex Pass to get instant access to a wide range of activities not only in Gatlinburg but also Pigeon Forge.
- For foodies, Buckhorn Inn is a rustic fine-dining restaurant with an exceptional view of the Smokies.
- Discover the world of moonshine with Gatlinburg’s distilleries with the Wine and Shine tour.
- A popular breakfast spot is Crockett’s 1875 Breakfast Camp where you’ll always find a large lineup outside.
- There’s a spooky side to Gatlinburg and with this Ghost and Haunt Tour, you’ll learn all about its ghosts and ghouls.
Where To Stay In Gatlinburg
LEGENDARY TREEHOUSE
Pete Nelson and his team featured in the Animal Planet show, Treehouse Masters, built these collection of treehouses in the forest on the outskirts of Gatlinburg.
We personally stayed in Maple and I have to say that out of all of the cool properties we stayed in as part of our 6 days in the Smoky Mountains, this takes the cake.
Live out your treehouse dreams while in the serenity of the forest.
NEXT LEVEL LOG CABIN
Can you believe that in one log cabin you can get a hot tub, pool table, arcade, indoor hot tub, and be mere 5 minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg?
This is a perfect example of the hidden gems you can find in the Smokies, where you can cozy cabin that sleeps 8 away from the crowded city while being just a stone’s throw away from the action.
Bear puns aside, you can’t go wrong with this cabin.
PRIME FAMILY LODGE
If you’d prefer something walking distance to all of the main attractions in Gatlinburg, it doesn’t get any more convenient than Greystone Lodge on the River.
While this is certainly more of your standard hotel, what you’ll love about this property is that it has a large swimming pool complete with slide, breakfast is included to save you the hassle each morning, and there’s free private parking which means further savings.
NEXT LEVEL LOG CABIN
Can you believe that in one log cabin you can get a hot tub, pool table, arcade, indoor hot tub, and be mere 5 minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg?
This is a perfect example of the hidden gems you can find in the Smokies, where you can cozy cabin that sleeps 8 away from the crowded city while being just a stone’s throw away from the action.
Bear puns aside, you can’t go wrong with this cabin.
Search Accommodation In Gatlinburg
Pigeon Forge – Larger Than Life In The Smokies
Pigeon Forge is one of the most popular towns near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s best known as the home of Dollywood. If Gatlinburg feels lively, Pigeon Forge turns the volume up even more.
The town’s main parkway is lined with attractions, dinner shows, themed entertainment venues, family restaurants, and interactive experiences. As you drive through, you’ll pass larger-than-life replicas of the Titanic and Alcatraz, King Kong climbing the Empire State Building, giant dinosaurs, castles, and more.
It’s bold, energetic, and completely unapologetic about being fun.
If you’re traveling with kids — or you simply want entertainment beyond hiking and scenic drives — Pigeon Forge delivers nonstop activity. From museums and mini golf to mountain coasters and dinner theaters, there’s no shortage of things to do once you’re back from the trails.
Celebrity influence is also part of the town’s identity. Country music legend Dolly Parton has a major footprint here with Dollywood and her famous dinner show, while Paula Deen brings her Southern-style experiences to town, including themed dining and entertainment.
Another major advantage of staying in Pigeon Forge is its central location. It sits conveniently between Sevierville and Gatlinburg, making it easy to explore multiple areas of the Smokies while having a wide range of resorts, cabins, and unique properties to choose from.
This mountain town is all about big-scale family fun. While it shares similarities with Gatlinburg, everything here feels just a little bigger, louder, and more entertainment-driven.
Best For: Families, first-time visitors and travelers who want a mix of national park access and entertainment.
Things To Do In Pigeon Forge
- Naturally, Dollywood is the headline attraction and well worth planning around if you have several days in the Smokies.
- For something unexpected and wildly fun, try zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park, where you roll downhill inside a giant inflatable sphere.
- If you’re interested in history and immersive exhibits, the Titanic Museum Attraction is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks.
- For off-road adventure, Pink Jeep Tours has several off-roading adventure tours including the Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour.
- There’s also American chef and culinary personality, Paula Deen, who has her own experiences including the Lumberjack Feud show, store, and family kitchen.
Where To Stay In Pigeon Forge
MOUNTAIN SUNSET VIEW
This is the near perfect luxury cabin in the Smoky Mountains. Fitted with 1 bedroom and 1.5 baths and hot tub on deck, this is in the Hidden Spring Resort area of Pigeon Forge with ridiculously good views of the mountains while also being close to Dollywood and 20 minutes from the national park.
Another bonus is that it has the perfect angle to view the nightly fireworks at Dollywood which runs from June to August.
This is easily one of the most-reviewed property on VRBO in Pigeon Forge that somehow manages to hold 5 stars. Everyone that has left feedback has exceptional things to say about Destiny Den.
MODERN CABIN IN RESORT
This a 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and 2 story vacation rental that features a full kitchen and hot tub that’s newly built in the community. Like the other cabins, this will give you plenty of space for families and the kitchen will allow you to cook food to save on expenses.
Being within the grounds of a Bear Cove Falls resort means that you also have access to their pool.
Location-wise, it’s very close to all of the major attractions in Pigeon Forge, making it a great place to stay in the Smoky Mountains.
LICENCE TO CHILL
*cues* Escape (The Piña Colada Song) by Rupert Holmes.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville is synonymous for carefree vibes, Hawaiian shirts, live music, and good food and drinks. Of course, all of this transitions seamlessly to their RV Resort & Lodge in Pigeon Forge.
There are two ways to stay here. If you have your own RV, there are designated spots or you can stay at The Lodge which is your traditional hotel. Within the grounds, you’ll find many incredible amenities such as extensive pool with water slide, lots of seating, playground, pet park, lazy river, bowling, arcade, and games room.
Even better is the fact that this is walking distance to the main parkway so you’re also not far from all the fun and action in town.
It’s worth noting that there’s also the Margaritaville Island Inn which is right along the Parkway in Pigeon Forge.
Search Accommodation in Pigeon Forge
Sevierville – Where To Stay Near The Smoky Mountains On A Budget
The next town on our list of the best areas to stay near the Smoky Mountains is Sevierville, Tennessee. While many people know it as the birthplace of Dolly Parton, there’s much more to this laid-back mountain town than that claim to fame.
Sevierville is the quieter, lesser-known sibling of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. As the northernmost of the three Tennessee towns near the national park, it tends to be less congested, more affordable, and noticeably more local in feel.
If the other towns lean heavily into tourist entertainment, Sevierville offers a more authentic slice of the region.
That doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do — far from it. You can dig into Southern comfort food at the iconic Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, explore underground cavern networks once used by moonshiners, enjoy family-friendly attractions like petting zoos, or spend an afternoon shopping at Tanger Outlets Sevierville.
Another big advantage? Price. Accommodations here are often more affordable than in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, and you’ll find excellent vacation homes and cabin rentals with more space for your money.
Even though it feels more off-the-beaten-path, you’re still only about 30 minutes from entering Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and just a short drive from both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. That makes Sevierville a smart base if you want balance — proximity without the crowds.
Best For: Travelers looking for a quieter, more affordable base near the Smoky Mountains with local restaurants and easy access to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Things To Do In Sevierville
- For shopping, head straight to Tanger Outlets for major brand deals.
- If you’re craving adventure, check out the 7-line experience at Legacy Mountain Ziplines or the courses at Adventure Park at Five Oaks.
- For a different perspective of the Smokies, helicopter tours over the French Broad River and Douglas Lake are surprisingly popular and often more affordable than you’d expect.
- And honestly? A visit to the Smokies isn’t complete without a meal at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant — their apple fritters alone are worth the stop.
Where To Stay In Sevierville
NATURE CABIN RETREAT
Close but just far away enough from the main drag along Sevierville is this lovely cabin in Mooseberry Ridge. Surrounded by the forest, you’ll be sure to find peace and relaxation here.
This hand-hewn log cabin features steep vaulted ceilings, rustic decor, gas fireplace, screened porch hot tub area, plush living room furniture, a full kitchen, porch swing, board games, and more.
This is the perfect getaway for two.
COZY B&B
Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn
Also featured in our 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary is this lovely country inn that is in a quieter and more peaceful part of Sevierville. Set in a Victorian-style farm at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, this property is a favourite for many and is always highly regarded.
With 12 guest rooms and 5 romantic cottages, this is your classic family owned and operated B&B where their staff will make sure your stay as comfortable as possible. Breakfast is included as well as homemade signature desserts in the evening and refreshments.
WATER PARK FUN
Club Wyndham Great Smokies Lodge
We haven’t featured too many traditional hotel properties but this is a great place to stay in the Smokies if you’re looking for somewhere that has a full indoor and outdoor waterpark.
As a Wyndham, you’ll love that you also get a kitchen as well so these are full-fledged apartment units.
If you read the reviews, you’ll see why visitors swear by this property especially when travelling with kids.
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Waynesville – Go Off The Beaten Path Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Officially part of Haywood County, Waynesville is a quaint North Carolina town with genuine mountain charm and just enough urban polish to make it feel special. Located at the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Waynesville’s downtown feels like stepping back in time.
Main Street is lined with classic storefronts, a historic theater, general stores, boutiques, and cozy eateries. But look a little closer and you’ll notice that while the facades preserve that nostalgic feel, inside you’ll find modern shops, artisanal goods, and lively hangouts like Boojum Brewing Company Taproom.
Compared to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Waynesville is more off-the-beaten-path — and that’s part of the appeal. It feels like a hidden gem on the North Carolina side of the Smokies, offering a slower pace and a more refined, local atmosphere.
If you want access to the mountains without being surrounded by neon lights and heavy traffic, this is a smart pick.
Another advantage is location. Waynesville puts you close to Cataloochee Valley in the national park and just about 36 minutes from Asheville, giving you access to both mountain wilderness and a vibrant food and arts scene.
Accommodations here range from cabins and cottages to charming B&Bs and unique stays — often at more reasonable prices than the busier Tennessee towns.
Best For: Travelers seeking a charming, off-the-beaten-path town with easy access to the Smoky Mountains and Asheville, plus boutique shopping and local eats.
Things To Do In Waynesville
- The star attraction nearby is Cataloochee Valley, one of the best places in the Smokies for elk viewing. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Motorcycle enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Wheels Through Time Museum, an impressive collection of rare American motorcycles located nearby.
- For lakeside scenery, Lake Junaluska offers beautiful walking paths and opportunities for light water activities.
- If you’re looking for a guided experience, there are naturalist-led hikes to waterfalls like Clear Creek Falls that explore lesser-known areas of the Smokies.
- For a luxury splurge, The Swag is the premier mountain resort in the area, with rooms that often sell out more than a year in advance. Even if an overnight stay isn’t in the budget, booking a picnic lunch gives you access to the property and nearby Gooseberry Knob — a worthwhile experience on its own.
Traveling to Waynesville?
We have just the guide for you that features things to do in Hendersonville and Spruce Pine which are both within driving distance.
THE BEST WEEKEND TRIPS FROM CHARLOTTE (WITH RESTAURANTS AND THINGS TO DO)Where To Stay In Waynesville
AUTHENTIC 1926 RED CABOOSE
If you look deep into the vacation rentals in the area, you’ll find that there are actually quite a number of these caboose trains for rent but I have to say that this one is the most luxurious.
Taking an old Chesapeake and Ohio Railway caboose, it’s set up on an authentic 1920’s railroad track and further joins to a bath house which looks like a matching train depot. This has to be one of the coolest places to stay in Waynesville, if not all of the Smokies.
B&B WITH AMAZING BREAKFASTS
There are many superlatives that could be used to describe this cute bed & breakfast but we’ll let the reviews speak for themselves.
Located right in downtown Waynesville, Oak Hill is best known for their awesome breakfasts on the porch. While it might be listed as a continental breakfast, it’s anything but. Previous guests rave about with huge portions and freshly made dishes that will have you skipping lunch.
The 120 year old mansion is in remarkably good shape, has great views of the city and mountains, has a firepit with s’mores, and is dog friendly as well! This is everything a B&B should be.
LOG CABIN IN CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
I’m sure you’ve never thought about looking for a cabin in the middle of a Christmas tree forest but this tranquil paradise is one of those hidden gems that you’d know about only if someone told you.
Boyd Mountain Log Cabins has an impressive collection of historic log cabins relocated from all around North Carolina and rebuilt to modern standards while retaining their rustic charm.
We stayed at the Meadow Fork Cabin and were very impressed with all of the amenities it comes with as a cabin, private surroundings, and convenient distances to the attractions near Waynesville.
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Bryson City: Center Of Adventure Near The Smoky Mountains
If you’re looking for a low-key but incredible base near the Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is a fantastic choice — especially if adventure and wide-open landscapes are high on your priority list.
Located on the North Carolina side of the park, Bryson City offers a noticeably different feel than the Tennessee towns. It’s quieter, more natural, and far less commercial.
Instead of neon lights and themed attractions, you’ll find mountain views, rivers, and forests shaping the experience. For many travelers, that slower, outdoorsy atmosphere is exactly what makes it special.
Bryson City is not only close to an entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but it also sits beside Nantahala National Forest, the Nantahala River Gorge, and Fontana Lake.
You’re also within easy driving distance of Cherokee, Waynesville, and Maggie Valley, making it a strategic base for exploring the North Carolina side of the Smokies.
Adventure is truly Bryson City’s calling card. You can ride the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River, chase waterfalls in Deep Creek, explore the famous Road to Nowhere, or spend your days tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, and camping.
The outdoor possibilities here feel almost endless.
When it comes to accommodations, Bryson City leans into cozy mountain cabins, unique stays, and rentals tucked into the hills — perfect for travelers who want nature at their doorstep rather than a busy main strip.
Best For: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a low-key base with easy access to rafting, hiking, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Things To Do In Bryson City
- One of the biggest highlights is rafting the Nantahala River with outfitters like Wildwater, a classic Smoky Mountains experience.
- The downtown depot for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad makes it easy to hop on a scenic train ride through the mountains.
- Consider the Raft & Rail package which combines the train experience and rafting with Wildwater.
- You’re also just a short drive to Cherokee, with easy access to Highway 441 to cross through the national park, and close to the Deep Creek area — known for waterfalls, tubing, and some of the most accessible hiking in the park.
- There’s a fun full-day waterfalls and breweries tour that leaves from Bryson City you should check out.
- If you’d like to see more of the Blue Ridge Parkway, there’s a full-day private tour that includes a summit at Craggy Gardens, Linville Falls and Roaring Fork Falls.
Where To Stay In Bryson City
TINY HOME
You might not’ve heard of Gina’s Great Getaways but they have an amazing collection of unique stays in and around the Bryson City area that will blow you away.
The one we stayed at is called the Sweet Pea Tiny Home. It’s truly an adorable small space that backs into a tumbling creek. While small, it isn’t lacking in features with tons of privacy, firepit, charcoal grill, full kitchen, queen bed, air conditioning, and full size bathroom. No shortcuts were made with this home.
1880s HOMESTEAD
If you’re looking for a spacious cottage with views of the Smoky Mountains, this is a quiet part of Bryson City to stay in.
This is a house trailer converted into a homely vacation home that has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen, and living room. The consensus of the reviews say that this is immaculate, cozy, fully stocked, and a true home-away-from-home.
Being on the Booking platform, if you have Genius status, you’ll be able to apply a 17% discount too which makes this a great stay for those on a budget.
POSTCARD VIEWS OF THE MOUNTAINS
Picturesque Mountain Cabin
Nestled in the mountains with a 5 acre property, this a classic Bryson City holiday cabin that you’ll absolutely love and will turn into your home away from home with ease.
With its large glass windows and spacious deck, you’ll be able to see a panoramic beautiful view of the Great Smoky Mountains. Even better, there’s a hot tub outdoors, a highlight for most guests here for sure.
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Planning Your Trip & Final Tips For Staying In The Smoky Mountains
When we first started planning our Smoky Mountains itinerary, we thought it would be straightforward — book a few standard hotels or motels and hit the trails. But as we dug deeper, we discovered that the region offers far more than just traditional accommodations.
Between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains reveal two distinct sides, each with its own character, charm, and unique lodging options.
The challenge for most travelers is twofold:
- Choosing the right town or area: Each town near the Smokies offers a very different experience. Gatlinburg delivers lively attractions and direct park access, Pigeon Forge is a hub for big-scale family entertainment, Sevierville is quieter and more affordable, Bryson City appeals to adventure seekers, and Waynesville offers a charming North Carolina escape. Knowing your travel style, priorities, and whether you want a Tennessee or North Carolina base (or both) makes all the difference.
- Finding the perfect accommodation: Many of the most unique cabins, lodges, and boutique stays aren’t easy to discover on the big booking platforms. Our curated recommendations for Waynesville, Bryson City, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville will help you skip the endless scrolling and find the best spots for your trip. From rustic cabins tucked in the forest to luxury resorts with panoramic mountain views, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Extra Tips For Planning Your Smoky Mountains Trip
- Book early for peak season: Summer and fall are the busiest times. Popular resorts, cabins, and boutique lodgings fill up quickly.
- Consider a multi-base trip: Splitting your stay between North Carolina and Tennessee lets you experience both sides of the Smokies.
- Check the national park access points: Some towns are closer to popular trailheads or scenic drives, so align your lodging with your activities.
- Plan for travel time: Even though the towns are relatively close, mountain roads can slow your journey. Factor in extra time to explore or hit multiple areas in a day.
- Mix comfort with experience: Don’t just book a hotel for convenience. Consider a unique cabin, treehouse, or mountain lodge to make your stay part of the adventure.
With this guide, you now have a clear roadmap to choosing the best place to stay in the Smoky Mountains, whether you’re after family fun, adventure, scenic tranquility, or a mix of all three. Use it to plan your itinerary, lock in accommodations, and get ready for an unforgettable mountain getaway — the Smokies are calling!
Make sure to have travel insurance for the Smoky Mountains
As you continue planning your trip, remember to pick up travel insurance because you never know what might happen especially if you’re doing all of the adventurous activities in the Smoky Mountains.
We have a full breakdown of where and how to buy travel insurance but one company that you should get a quote from is HeyMondo. Make sure to get a quote with them and compare with others out there to make sure you get the right coverage at the right price.
Packing List For Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains offer a mix of scenic drives, hiking trails, charming towns, and unpredictable mountain weather. Packing smart will help you stay comfortable whether you’re exploring national park trails, relaxing at your cabin, or wandering through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Layers and practical outdoor essentials are key here.
- Comfortable hiking shoes – Many of the best experiences involve walking or light hiking, so sturdy footwear is essential.
- Layered clothing – Mountain weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall.
- Light rain jacket – Afternoon showers are common, even on otherwise sunny days.
- Daypack or small backpack – Perfect for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers on hikes.
- Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated while exploring trails and scenic overlooks.
- Sunscreen & sunglasses – Higher elevations can mean stronger sun exposure.
- Bug spray – Especially important in warmer months near wooded areas.
- Portable phone charger – Cell service can be spotty in parts of the park, so keep your device powered.
- Camera or binoculars – Wildlife sightings and mountain views are worth capturing.
- Swimsuit – Many cabins and resorts have hot tubs or pools.
What You Should Read Next
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you stay inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Most lodgings can be found in towns surrounding the park on the North Carolina or Tennessee side. The exception is the LeConte Lodge and campsites in the park.
Where is the best place to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Overall, Gatlinburg is a great place to stay that’s close to the national park and has many attractions and sights nearby.
What is the difference between the North Carolina and Tennessee sides of the Smoky Mountains?
While they share the mountains, both sides are quite different. In Tennessee, you’ll find the larger hotels/lodges and is in general more developed in terms of having a lot of activities sand attractions. North Carolina on the other hand is much more about connecting with nature and adventure activities from its surroundings. The Tennessee side has more to offer for families but North Carolina is more of a true mountain getaway.
Where is the most unique accommodation in the Smoky Mountains?
The treehouses of Treehouse Grove are the most unique properties.
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Credit Cards
Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.
Flights
In our opinion, of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check.
Rideshare
You probably already have accounts but if you don’t, for new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code cbh4j6plxt8p for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.
eSIM
eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.
- AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
- Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
- Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
- KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
- AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%.
- Ubigi – AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
- Holafly – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 5%.
- Roamless – Use code AWESOME20 to save 20.
- Saily – Use code GAP15 to save 15%.
Wifi Hotspot
We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.
Hotels
Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.
Tours and Activities
When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.
Travel Insurance
Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 5% discount!
- RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
- SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Check Out Our Toolbox
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
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