The Best Hotels to Book in Pigeon Forge

You don’t mind the occasional stampede during your stay, do you? Worry not. Even though Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show is right next door, you won’t hear it from the private balcony of your queen suite. What you may hear is the excitement of the families heading down to Ripley’s Super Fun Park. But don’t feel as if you have to follow the crowd; walk in the opposite direction to the Old Forge Distillery and let the flavored spirits direct your night.

A business trip to Pigeon Forge is basically a vacation in disguise at the Ramsey. Perched next to the Convention Center, the Ramsey tries really, really hard to distract you from your work. Sure, it has a business center, but the smell of popcorn will lure you away to one of the outdoor movie nights. You’ll only plan for one drink at the cocktail lounge, but before you know it, you’ll be swimming in the 24-hour pool and canceling that 9am meeting.

If a secluded, 200-year-old cabin isn’t tempting enough, the outdoor hot tub and firepit are sure to convince you to book a stay at Smokies Bed and Breakfast. Let them up the ante by insisting that their chef prepare flavorful breakfasts and dinners during your stay. Still on the fence? The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is only 20 minutes to the south, in case your cabin in the woods doesn’t feel remote enough.

Go on and sing Jolene off-key; hardly a soul at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort will mind. In fact, you could probably get a little singalong going while you wait in line to ride the Barnstormer. The staff may just hum along, too, as they show you to the luxurious penthouse Dolly Parton Suite (especially those working 9-to-5). With a homely fireplace, dreamy marble bathroom, and the light of a clear blue morning pouring in through the windows, you’ll wish DreamMore was your Tennessee mountain home and not just one of the best places to stay in Pigeon Forge.

RiverStone Resort & Spa will split your family up – at least for the day. Your little ones will run to the playground while the teens explore the Little Pigeon River nature trail. You’re welcome to spend all day working out that back knot in the spa, but someone will have to stay with the kids by the pool while your partner hits the links for a “quick” 18. The Gatlinburg Golf Course may be just a chip shot away from the resort, but don’t worry, even the worst slice won’t sink your raft as you float around the lazy river.

Have you ever wanted to make your own gigantic vanilla waffle and eat it on the riverside? Well, this oddly specific wish is Twin Mountain Inn & Suites’ command. Every room features a balcony with river views, but you could also chow down on your breakfast at the riverfront firepit. A small suggestion – it’s best to make a modest waffle so your plate has enough room for fresh biscuits and gravy.

Parents can move onto the next section; the Inn on the River caters to the kids. Little ones who haven’t hit double digits will receive a special gift bag full of toys when they check in. They’ll then be directed to the kid zone where more toys, games, and activities await. The whole family can fit in the huge hot tub, and hopefully you won’t take it personally when the kids need to skedaddle to one of the Inn’s KidFest events.

You may like a cheeseburger in paradise as much as the next person, but you don’t need to be a Parrothead to love your stay at Margaritaville Island Inn. On the contrary, if you’re a fan of Paula Deen’s cooking, exhibits about Alcatraz Island, and live theater, Maragaritaville is perfect for you. A shopping spree, dinner show, and head-scratching escape rooms are a short walk from your room, giving the whole family something to do while you hang back at the pool for some well-deserved peace and quiet.

Before you dive into the West Prong Little Pigeon River, might we suggest you float a little closer to home at Courtyard by Marriott? The private lazy river may not be as long, but it is right beside a hot tub, fire pit, and a game room which we’re pretty sure the real river lacks. You also won’t forage for food after you dry off; the Bistro will happily prepare a fresh leafy salad that’s guaranteed to be twig-free.

How can you possibly say no to the Moonshine Ridge cabin at Arbors at Island Landing? You and five of your friends will have a secluded 7 acres (3ha) to do nothing except sit in the hot tub, sip on moonshine and stare at the stars. Drive down to the hotel and rent a few free fishing rods or do a few laps in the pool, but don’t stay in “town” for too long; your s’mores back at the cabin are getting cold.