Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River review

Overall impression

You’ll find Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River to be a reliable, comfortable choice if you want a riverside stay that keeps you close to downtown Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The property balances modest, well-equipped rooms with outdoor leisure spaces, making it suited to couples, families and anyone who likes spending time outside without sacrificing basic hotel conveniences. Staff are consistently rated highly, the river-facing patios create a calming atmosphere, and the location makes getting around simple.

Quick snapshot (at-a-glance)

Why you might choose this property

• Prime spot near Gatlinburg City Center and only minutes from Smoky Mountains attractions.
• Riverside setting with patios and a sundeck along Roaring Fork stream.
• On-site amenities for families and active travelers: pools, courts, fitness center.
• Comfortable rooms with private balconies and in-room conveniences.
• Helpful staff and good value for the location.

Property details table

Category	Key details
Official name	Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River
Location	Along Roaring Fork stream; short walk to Gatlinburg City Center
Distance to Great Smoky Mountains NP	≈ 4.8 km
Distance to Dollywood	≈ 16 km
On-site dining	Baht (Thai restaurant)
Pools	Two seasonal outdoor pools
Recreational facilities	Basketball/volleyball, shuffleboard, fitness center
Room features	Private balconies (many river-facing), flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker, safe
Accessibility	Elevator, accessible rooms
Parking & Wi‑Fi	Free parking; property-wide Wi‑Fi
Check-in / Check-out	From 16:00 / By 11:00
Pets	Not allowed
Payment	Card required at check-in
Family info	Children welcome; rollaway beds for a fee; cribs not provided
Typical guest types	Couples, families, outdoor lovers

Location and surroundings

When you pick Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River, you’ll benefit from a location that feels both tranquil and convenient. The Roaring Fork stream runs right along the property, so you’re getting the calming sound of water with most rooms and outdoor areas facing the river. The East Parkway is a short walk away, placing restaurants, shops, and attractions within easy reach.

Travel times that matter:

• About a 9-minute walk to Gatlinburg City Center — you’ll reach shops and many restaurants quickly on foot.
• Approximately 4.8 km from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance — you can be on key trails and scenic drives in minutes by car.
• Around 16 km to Dollywood — a reasonable drive if you plan a theme-park day.

Because many attractions in and around Gatlinburg involve driving or at least short transfers, the free on-site parking is a welcome convenience. If you want to return to a quieter riverside setting after a busy day downtown, this property makes that effortless.

Rooms and suites

You’ll find a range of room types at Brookside Lodge that cater to both couples and families. Room categories include king rooms, rooms with two queen beds, deluxe and standard options, plus suites — including a honeymoon suite and king rooms with a fireplace for extra atmosphere.

What you can expect inside your room:

• Private balconies, many overlooking the river — ideal for morning coffee or evening wind-down.
• Flat-screen TV for basic entertainment.
• Small in-room appliances: microwave, refrigerator and coffeemaker — handy if you’re keeping snacks or reheating meals.
• In-room safe for valuables.
• Clean, comfortable bedding and simple, functional furnishings.

If you travel with family, two-queen rooms and suites provide space and separation, while couples may prefer the king rooms or a suite with a fireplace for a cozier stay. Accessibility options and elevators are available if you need them.

Room comfort and cleanliness

Guests generally report that rooms are well-maintained and clean. The property focuses on delivering dependable housekeeping rather than boutique luxury, so you’ll feel comfortable but shouldn’t expect high-end finishes. The riverside balconies are a standout feature that elevates the experience beyond a basic hotel stay.

On-site amenities and leisure

Brookside Lodge does more than provide a bed — it offers enough on-site amenities to keep you entertained without going far.

Pools:

• Two seasonal outdoor pools are available. Several guests mention that one pool has a warmer temperature and can feel like a hot tub — perfect if you prefer milder water.
• Pool areas include a sundeck and lounging space by the river.

Outdoor lounges and gathering spaces:

• Patios along Roaring Fork stream make for peaceful evenings. You can relax and listen to moving water while reading or socializing.
• A BBQ/fire-pit area lets you grill and enjoy an informal riverside meal or evening gathering.

Sports and activity courts:

• Basketball and volleyball courts are on property.
• Shuffleboard courts provide a low-pressure group activity.
• Fitness center is available if you want to keep your workout routine while away.

Other conveniences:

• Guest laundry on-site is helpful for longer stays or family trips.
• Elevator service makes moving between floors easier.
• Property-wide Wi‑Fi keeps you connected for planning and sharing photos.

These features make the property suitable for both active travelers who want courts and pools, and for those who prefer quiet relaxation by the river.

Dining

You won’t have to go far for a meal. Brookside Lodge houses an on-site Thai restaurant called Baht. The menu provides a convenient option for dinner especially if you’re returning from a long day. In addition, there are many dining options directly across the street and in downtown Gatlinburg, offering a wide range of tastes from casual to more sit-down experiences.

Breakfast:

• The property offers breakfast options including continental and buffet choices. Whether you prefer a quick continental grab-and-go or a fuller buffet, you’ll have options to start your day.

Pro tip: If you enjoy morning coffee outdoors, pick a river-facing balcony for your room so you can sip while watching the stream and local birdlife.

Service and staff

Staff at Brookside Lodge consistently receive strong marks for friendliness and helpfulness. You’ll typically find them responsive to questions about local activities, directions and basic needs. Reviews average very positive scores for staff, indicating that the front-desk experience and on-site assistance are dependable.

If you need special accommodations (e.g., accessibility needs or information on rollaway beds), the staff are usually willing to assist or advise during booking and check-in.

Accessibility and practical details

Understanding the practical rules helps you plan efficiently.

Check-in and check-out:

• Check-in from 16:00; check-out by 11:00.

Children and family policies:

• Children are welcome, but specific age rules can apply — check at booking.
• Cribs are not provided, so plan accordingly if you travel with an infant.
• Rollaway beds are available for a fee, useful for families who need extra sleeping space.

Pets and payments:

• Pets are not allowed, so book alternative pet care if required.
• Card payment is required at check-in — make sure you have an accepted card and any deposit details.

Accessibility:

• Elevator and accessible rooms are available. If you have mobility needs, request the appropriate room type when booking and confirm any accessibility amenities you require.

Practical tips for arrival:

• Free parking is on-site, so you won’t have to worry about meter fees or long parking walks.
• Wi‑Fi is available across the property — useful for coordinating outings, booking tickets, or streaming in-room.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Riverside location with patios and relaxing water views.
• Short walking distance to Gatlinburg’s City Center.
• Friendly, helpful staff with high review scores.
• On-site restaurant and multiple dining options nearby.
• Pools, courts and fitness center keep families and active travelers satisfied.
• Free parking and property-wide Wi‑Fi.

Cons

• Seasonal pools may be closed outside peak months.
• No pets allowed — can be inconvenient if you travel with animals.
• No cribs provided — not ideal if you need a bassinet for infants.
• Rooms are comfortable but not luxurious — this is a practical, value-focused property rather than an upscale resort.
• Card required at check-in — if you prefer cash, plan accordingly.

Who this is perfect for

• Couples: If you want a quieter riverside setting with easy access to downtown Gatlinburg, you’ll enjoy the private balconies, river views and proximity to shops and restaurants.
• Families: Pools, courts and family room types make this a sensible pick for kids and parents wanting variety in on-site activities.
• Outdoor enthusiasts: You’ll be close to trailheads and scenic drives in the Great Smoky Mountains, so this serves as a convenient base for hiking, wildlife watching and day trips.
• Budget-conscious travelers: The property offers good value for location and amenities without high-end pricing.

Who might consider other options

• Travelers seeking luxury boutique properties may find the finishes and room styling at Brookside Lodge too basic.
• Guests traveling with pets will need to find pet-friendly hotels; this property does not allow animals.
• Those who need cribs should plan ahead since cribs aren’t provided.

Booking tips and tricks

• Request a river-facing balcony when you book. The river aspect is one of the property’s strongest features, so prioritize that if it matters to you.
• Book early for popular seasons. Gatlinburg sees heavy visitation during fall foliage and summer; reserve rooms in advance to secure the best types and rates.
• Verify pool availability for your travel dates. Pools are seasonal, so if an outdoor swimspace is important to you, confirm whether they’ll be open.
• Ask about rollaway bed pricing ahead of time if you need an extra bed for a family member.
• If you need accessibility features, request them at booking and confirm directly with the hotel to avoid surprises on arrival.
• Consider off-peak weekday stays to avoid crowds downtown while still enjoying the riverside calm.

Sample daily itinerary ideas (using the property as base)

These sample days assume you’ll use Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River as your home base.

Relaxed riverside day

• Morning: Sip coffee on your balcony and take a short river-side stroll.
• Midday: Walk into Gatlinburg for lunch and a casual stroll along the Parkway.
• Afternoon: Return for pool time or try shuffleboard.
• Evening: BBQ at the property fire-pit and then a low-key night watching the stream.

Active outdoor day

• Early morning: Drive to a nearby trailhead (within a 15–30 minute drive) for sunrise hiking.
• Midday: Lunch downtown at one of the many restaurants.
• Afternoon: Visit a nearby attraction such as Ripley’s Aquarium or the Ober Gatlinburg area.
• Evening: Have dinner at Baht on-site or a downtown restaurant, then relax on your balcony.

Family fun day

• Morning: Hit the pools and courts early while they’re less crowded.
• Midday: Visit Dollywood (≈16 km) for a full day; return to Brookside Lodge in the evening.
• Evening: Use rollaway beds or a suite for relaxed family time and easy bedtime routines.

Nearby attractions and practical access

You’ll be positioned to reach a variety of local highlights:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Drive times are short; you can access multiple bases for hiking, wildlife watching and scenic drives.
• Gatlinburg City Center: Restaurants, shops, attractions and street entertainment are walkable.
• Dollywood and Pigeon Forge: Within driving distance, making day trips manageable.
• Local tube and scenic river activities: Check seasonal options — some are available nearby.

Safety and neighborhood feel

The immediate riverfront and East Parkway area feel safe and visitor-friendly. Reviews indicate that the property staff contribute to a secure vacation experience by maintaining property standards and offering helpful local guidance. If you plan late-night walks, stay on lit roadways and the main pathways near the City Center.

Value for money

The property offers a strong value proposition for its location. You’re paying for convenience to Gatlinburg and a riverside atmosphere without the premium of a luxury resort. When you compare hotels in similar locations, Brookside Lodge typically stands out for:

• Free parking — which can save you money compared to downtown lots.
• On-site family amenities — reducing the need to spend on extra entertainment elsewhere.
• Reasonable room inclusions like microwaves and refrigerators, which help lower meal costs.

If your priority is upscale design or boutique service, you may find higher-priced options that better match that expectation. However, for dependable comfort, a scenic location and useful amenities, the property is well-positioned.

Guest experience — what you’ll likely notice

• Consistently friendly staff: You’ll encounter helpful front-desk service and on-site team members who tend to get high marks in reviews.
• A calming riverside ambiance: The sound of the Roaring Fork stream and river-facing balconies are often highlighted by guests as a meaningful part of the stay.
• Functional rooms: Expect comfortable, practical rooms rather than luxury finishes. The in-room amenities are geared toward convenience.
• Family-friendly features: Pools and courts keep kids engaged, and room layouts often accommodate families well.
• Busy-season crowds: Downtown Gatlinburg gets busy in peak seasons, so expect more foot traffic on the short walk into town during those times.

Accessibility considerations

If you have mobility constraints or require specialized room features:

• Use the elevator and request an accessible room during booking.
• Confirm bathroom layout and any grab bars or shower accessibility you require — hotel accessibility can vary by room even within a single property.
• Check parking proximity to your room if mobility is a concern; ask the front desk to advise on ideal parking spots.

Sustainability and environmental notes

While Brookside Lodge is primarily a comfort-focused property, the riverside location suggests some natural sensitivity. If sustainability matters to you:

• Ask during booking what environmental practices the property follows (towel/linen reuse programs, energy-saving measures, waste management).
• Respect the river environment by using designated paths and avoiding littering near the stream.

Final recommendations and booking considerations

If you want a comfortable riverside stay that keeps you within walking distance of Gatlinburg’s City Center and minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains, Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River is a strong choice. It’s ideal when you prioritize:

• Proximity to downtown and park access.
• A calming river-facing balcony or patio.
• Family-friendly amenities and on-site recreation.
• Helpful staff and practical conveniences like free parking and on-site laundry.

Before you book:

• Request a river-facing room if that’s important.
• Confirm pool availability for your travel dates.
• Ask about rollaway bed fees and accessibility specifics if needed.
• Be aware that pets and cribs are not provided.

Short checklist before you go

• Reserve a river-facing balcony room.
• Confirm pool season status for your dates.
• Request any accessibility needs or rollaway beds in advance.
• Plan for card payment at check-in.
• Arrange pet care if you travel with animals (pets not allowed).
• Pack for variable mountain weather — mornings and evenings can be cooler by the river.

Final verdict

Brookside Lodge – Gatlinburg – On the River gives you a pleasant mix of riverside calm and convenient access to downtown Gatlinburg and the Smokies. You’ll appreciate the friendly staff, practical room features, and outdoor amenities that cater to families and active travelers. If you want scenic simplicity and functional comforts rather than boutique luxury, this property will meet your needs well.