Relaxing Stay at Edgewater Hotel in Downtown Gatlinburg
Relaxing Stay at Edgewater Hotel in Downtown Gatlinburg
Are you looking for a calm riverside retreat in the heart of Gatlinburg where you can relax after a day of mountain sights?
Relaxing Stay at Edgewater Hotel in Downtown Gatlinburg
You’ll find the Edgewater Hotel & Conference Center perched along the Little Pigeon River in downtown Gatlinburg, offering easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Parkway attractions. This article gives you a detailed guide to what the property offers, practical tips for your stay, and how to make the most of the surrounding area.
Quick Overview
You’ll appreciate that Edgewater is an eight-story high-rise located at 402 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN, with covered parking and river views from many rooms. Contact details are available directly from the hotel (phone: 865-436-4151; email: info@edgewater-hotel.com), and you should confirm times, rates, and current policies before booking.
Location and Setting
Edgewater sits directly on the banks of the Little Pigeon River, which gives many rooms soothing river views and a pleasant soundtrack for waking up or winding down. You’ll be just steps from downtown Gatlinburg’s attractions, restaurants, and shops, and a short drive to the park entrance for hiking and scenic drives.
Rooms and Suites
You can choose from several room categories depending on your needs, including Double Queen Rooms, King Rooms, Hot Tub Rooms, and Suites. Each room is designed for comfort with amenities like private bathrooms, wireless internet, and many rooms featuring private balconies.
Double Queen Room
If you’re traveling with family or friends, a Double Queen Room typically offers two queen-size beds and comfortable living space. You’ll enjoy convenient amenities like a private bathroom, complimentary Wi-Fi, and often a balcony with a view.
King Room
When you want space for two and a touch more luxury, a King Room usually provides a king-size bed and cozy bedding that helps you relax after a day on the Parkway or in the mountains. These rooms are often chosen by couples for their larger bed and comfortable layout.
Hot Tub Room
If you prioritize relaxation, you can book an in-room Hot Tub Room which often includes a private hot tub for your personal use. You’ll find this option handy for celebrating special occasions, unwinding after hikes, or simply enjoying a soothing soak at your leisure.
Suites
Suites typically offer a larger footprint with separate living and sleeping areas, making them ideal if you want more space to spread out or if you’re staying longer. When you book a suite, you’ll often get extra comforts such as more seating, additional bathrooms in some layouts, and better river or downtown views.
Room Types at a Glance
| Room Type | Typical Occupancy | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Double Queen Room | 3–4 guests | Two queen beds, private bathroom, Wi-Fi, balcony (often) |
| King Room | 1–2 guests | King bed, private bathroom, Wi-Fi, balcony (often) |
| Hot Tub Room | 1–2 guests | In-room hot tub, private bathroom, Wi-Fi, balcony (sometimes) |
| Suite | 2–4 guests | Separate living area, more space, enhanced views |
Amenities
You’ll find a range of amenities aimed at making your stay comfortable, convenient, and restful. The property highlights include pool access, hot tubs, complimentary breakfast, and conference facilities that suit both leisure and business travelers.
Pools and Hot Tubs
Edgewater features a split indoor/outdoor pool area and public hot tub facilities that many guests highlight as a prime relaxation spot. You’ll enjoy the convenience of an indoor section for year-round swimming and an outdoor area when the weather is pleasant.
Continental Breakfast
Every morning you’ll get a complimentary continental breakfast included with your stay, which typically includes freshly brewed coffee, fresh fruit, eggs, biscuits, and cereal. This quick morning meal is designed to get you out the door energized for hikes, sightseeing, or shopping.
Wireless Internet and Business Services
You can stay connected with complimentary wireless internet throughout the property, and the hotel provides business-friendly services through its conference center. You’ll find the conference facilities handy if you’re organizing meetings, group gatherings, or events.
Parking and Transportation
The hotel offers covered garage parking, which is convenient during rainy or hot weather. Note that there is a parking fee—$15.00 plus tax, per room, per day—so you should plan that into your budget. The Gatlinburg Trolley is easily accessible and lets you hop around downtown without the hassle of driving.
Amenities Summary Table
| Amenity | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| Indoor/Outdoor Pool | Year-round indoor area + seasonal outdoor section |
| Hot Tub(s) | Public hot tub and select in-room tubs |
| Breakfast | Complimentary continental breakfast each morning |
| Parking | Covered garage; fee applies ($15 + tax/room/day) |
| Internet | Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property |
| Conference Center | Meeting rooms and event space for groups |
Conference and Event Spaces
You can use Edgewater’s conference center for business meetings, retreats, or private events, with convenient downtown access and on-site accommodations for attendees. If you’re planning a group trip or wedding weekend, contact the hotel directly for room block rates and event space layouts.
Planning a Group Stay
When you’re organizing a group, plan ahead to secure room blocks and preferred meeting space, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage and holiday weekends. The hotel’s location simplifies logistics since attendees can walk or take short trolley rides to many downtown attractions.
Dining and Breakfast
You’ll get a solid start to the day with the complimentary continental breakfast, and downtown Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of dining options for the rest of your meals. From casual pancake houses to steakhouses and local barbecue, you’ll find something for every appetite within walking distance.
Nearby Dining Suggestions
If you’re looking for specific places, Gatlinburg has favorite spots like pancake houses for breakfast, family-style diners, and several steakhouses and barbecue restaurants downtown. You’ll also find bakeries, coffee shops, and seasonal food vendors that make strolling the Parkway a tasty experience.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Staying at Edgewater puts you close to an array of attractions suited for families, couples, and solo travelers. You’ll be within easy reach of Ripley’s Aquarium, SkyLift Park, Ober Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and many other points of interest.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you’re heading to the park, you can quickly reach trailheads, scenic drives, and visitor centers from your hotel. You’ll find hiking options for all levels, wildlife-viewing opportunities, and seasonal wildflower displays in spring.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
You’ll enjoy visiting Ripley’s Aquarium for its engaging exhibits and accessible downtown location; it’s a popular stop for families. The aquarium is walkable from the Parkway and often pairs well with a relaxing evening back at the hotel.
SkyLift Park and SkyBridge
You can take the SkyLift for panoramic views of the mountains and town and cross the SkyBridge for a memorable experience above the forest canopy. These attractions make for excellent photo opportunities and a gentle way to experience height and views.
Ober Gatlinburg
If you’re visiting during winter or looking for mountain recreation, Ober Gatlinburg provides skiing, snow tubing, and year-round activities including an aerial tram. You’ll need a short drive to the ski complex, making it a good day trip from your downtown base.
Anakeesta
You can spend a day strolling through Anakeesta’s tree-top adventures, mountain gardens, and dining on-site while enjoying sweeping views. This attraction is great for families and couples seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Arts & Crafts Community
If you appreciate local art and handcrafted goods, you’ll enjoy browsing the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, where you can meet makers and take home unique souvenirs. It’s a relaxed way to spend an afternoon and support local artisans.
Attractions at a Glance
| Attraction | Approximate Distance/Time from Edgewater |
|---|---|
| Ripley’s Aquarium | Short walk (about 5–10 minutes) |
| SkyLift Park / SkyBridge | Short walk or quick drive (5–10 minutes) |
| Ober Gatlinburg | Short drive (about 10–20 minutes) |
| Great Smoky Mountains NP (local entrance) | Short drive (10–20 minutes depending on trailhead) |
| Anakeesta | Short drive or walk depending on season (10–15 minutes) |
| Arts & Crafts Community | Short drive (10–15 minutes) |
Seasonal Highlights and Best Times to Visit
You’ll want to consider seasonality when planning your trip—each season in Gatlinburg offers different benefits. Fall is famous for foliage, spring brings wildflowers, summer offers full activity schedules, and winter provides holiday lights and mountain sports.
Fall (Peak Foliage)
You can expect stunning fall colors usually peaking in mid-to-late October, making this a popular time to visit. Because demand is high, you should book months in advance and expect busier roads and downtown sidewalks.
Winter (Holiday Events and Skiing)
If you enjoy winter sports or festive holiday displays, you’ll find Ober Gatlinburg’s snow activities and Gatlinburg’s winter events very accessible. You’ll also appreciate the indoor amenities at Edgewater when colder weather keeps you cozy.
Spring and Summer (Wildflowers and Outdoor Activities)
During spring, you’ll see wildflowers and milder hiking conditions, while summer provides full access to outdoor festivals, longer daylight, and warm evenings perfect for a dip in the pool. You’ll want to plan for higher visitor volumes during summer holidays and weekends.
Practical Information and Hotel Policies
You’ll get the most comfortable stay when you plan around key practical details like parking fees, breakfast hours, and proximity to the trolley. Always check the hotel directly for the latest policies on pet acceptance, smoking rules, and cancellation terms.
Parking Details
Edgewater offers covered garage parking with a fee of $15.00 plus tax per room, per day; you should budget this into your stay costs. You’ll also find the convenient Gatlinburg Trolley nearby for travel without parking hassles.
Check-in, Check-out, and Reservations
Standard check-in/check-out times vary by hotel; you’ll want to confirm the times when you book, and consider early-arrival or late-departure requests. If you need special arrangements, contact the hotel in advance so they can advise on availability and possible fees.
Booking Tips and Specials
When you’re booking, look for direct-booking perks, seasonal specials, and group or conference rates that can lower your per-room cost. Signing up for the hotel’s newsletter or following them on social media can put you on the list for occasional promotions or package deals.
How to Get the Best Rate
You can often secure better rates by booking midweek, reserving further in advance, or asking the hotel about package deals that include breakfast or conference space. If you’re traveling with a group, request a block rate to potentially reduce cost and simplify logistics.
Getting There
You’ll find Edgewater is easy to reach by car, and it’s a straightforward drive from regional airports and nearby cities. If you’re flying, the nearest major airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, while Asheville and Nashville are longer drives but accessible options.
Typical Travel Times
Expect about a 45–60 minute drive from McGhee Tyson Airport (Knoxville), roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. From Asheville you’ll typically plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, and from Nashville a 3.5–4 hour drive is reasonable.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Details
You’ll find the hotel is family-friendly with pools and proximity to downtown attractions, and the location supports families with easy walking routes to many kid-friendly attractions. If you need specific accessibility features like roll-in showers or wheelchair-accessible rooms, contact the hotel to confirm availability and accommodations.
Traveling with Children
You’ll have plenty to keep children entertained—from aquarium visits to kid-oriented rides and easy access to nature trails—so packing swim gear and a few activity items can help keep younger travelers happy. You should also inquire about any child policies, rollaway bed fees, and breakfast suitability for picky eaters.
Safety and River Proximity
Because the hotel is on the Little Pigeon River, you’ll find relaxing river sounds and scenic views, but you should always follow common-sense safety practices like supervising children around balconies and river-edge areas. Check local weather advisories if heavy rain is forecasted and be mindful of seasonal river level changes.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary for a Relaxing Stay
You’ll get the most out of a weekend by balancing outdoor time, downtown strolling, and relaxation at the hotel.
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive, check in, and grab the complimentary continental breakfast to get oriented.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk to the Parkway, visit Ripley’s Aquarium or browse shops, and return for some pool time.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant and relax with a soak in the hot tub or on your private balcony.
Day 2
- Morning: Breakfast, then head to a nearby trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a short hike suited to your energy level.
- Afternoon: Lunch downtown, visit SkyLift Park for panoramic views, and stroll the Arts & Crafts Community if time permits.
- Evening: Pack up with a final dip in the pool or enjoy a casual downtown meal before heading home.
Longer-Stay and Group Itineraries
If you’re staying longer or traveling with a group, you can mix full-day park hikes with more relaxed afternoons back at the hotel. Use the conference center for group sessions or plan off-site dining and activities—Edgewater’s central location makes coordinating multiple plans simple.
Packing Checklist
You’ll want to pack based on season and the types of activities you plan to do, from hiking to city strolls.
| Activity | Items to Pack |
|---|---|
| Hiking/Outdoor | Daypack, water bottle, hiking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent |
| Pool/Hot Tub | Swimsuit, flip-flops or water shoes, quick-dry towel (hotel provides towels), cover-up |
| Winter Activities | Warm layers, waterproof boots, gloves, hat, thermal base layers |
| General Downtown | Comfortable walking shoes, camera, light jacket, reusable water bottle |
| Conference/Business | Laptop, chargers, business attire, portable power bank, meeting materials |
Tips for a Relaxing Stay
You’ll maximize relaxation by planning a few simple steps before and during your visit.
- Book a river-view room or a high floor for quieter nights and better views.
- Reserve in-room hot tubs or suites early if you want those features.
- Plan morning activities early to avoid midday crowds when the Parkway is busiest.
- Use the covered parking garage to keep your car sheltered from the elements.
- Take advantage of the complimentary breakfast to start your day without extra expense.
- Walk or use the Gatlinburg Trolley to reduce stress over finding parking during peak periods.
- Bring layers—even summer nights can be cool near the river and mountains.
- Check the hotel’s event calendar to avoid noisy weekends if you’re seeking quiet.
- If you need special accommodations, contact the property ahead of time to ensure a smooth arrival.
- Sign up for the hotel’s newsletter for special offers and seasonal packages.
Reviews and What Guests Say
Guests commonly praise the Edgewater for its location, pool and hot tub facilities, and included breakfast, which you’ll likely appreciate during your stay. You’ll see many guest comments highlighting comfortable rooms, amazing pool areas, and easy walking access to downtown attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find answers to common questions below, but always verify details with the hotel before you travel.
- What is the parking fee? The hotel charges a covered garage fee of $15.00 plus tax per room, per day.
- Is breakfast included? Yes, a complimentary continental breakfast is usually included with your stay.
- Does the hotel have a pool? Yes, there is a split indoor/outdoor pool plus hot tub facilities.
- Can I get an in-room hot tub? In-room hot tub rooms are available in certain room types—book early to secure this option.
- Is there easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Yes, the hotel is only a short drive from park entrances and many trailheads.
- Are pets allowed? Policies on pets vary and can change; you should contact the hotel directly to confirm any pet policy or additional fees.
Final Thoughts
You’ll find Edgewater Hotel & Conference Center a convenient and comfortable home base for a relaxing downtown Gatlinburg stay, with easy access to the river, the Parkway attractions, and the national park. With thoughtful planning—choosing the right room, checking policies, and mapping your ideal mix of adventure and downtime—you’ll come away recharged and ready for your next trip to the Smokies.
