Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park and one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Southeast. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another mountain adventure, this guide will help you discover the best places to stay, scenic drives, hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife, and unforgettable experiences throughout the Smokies.
Why Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is famous for its breathtaking mountain views, scenic drives, diverse wildlife, hundreds of hiking trails, and beautiful waterfalls. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a family vacation, the Smokies offer unforgettable experiences in every season.
What You’ll Discover
- 🥾 Scenic hiking trails
- 💦 Beautiful waterfalls
- 🐻 Wildlife viewing
- 🚗 Scenic mountain drives
- 📸 Incredible photography spots
- 🏨 Hotels & cozy cabins
🏨 Find the Perfect Place to Stay
Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort in Gatlinburg, a cozy mountain cabin, a family-friendly hotel in Pigeon Forge, or a peaceful campground near the park, there are accommodations for every style and budget. Use our hotel search below to compare prices from trusted travel partners and find the perfect place to stay for your Smoky Mountains adventure.
Find Hotels & Cabins Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Compare prices from trusted travel sites to find the perfect hotel, cabin, or mountain resort near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
🏨 Where Should You Stay?
The two most popular places to stay when visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park are Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Both offer easy access to the park, excellent accommodations, and plenty of attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which destination is right for your trip.
🏔️ Gatlinburg
Best for first-time visitors, mountain views, walkable attractions, restaurants, and cozy cabins.
🎢 Pigeon Forge
Perfect for families, dinner shows, shopping, entertainment, and a wide selection of hotels.
⭐ TravelEastTN Recommendation
If this is your first visit to the Smokies, we recommend staying in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Gatlinburg is perfect if you want to be close to the national park and enjoy a walkable downtown, while Pigeon Forge is ideal for families looking for entertainment, shopping, and a wide variety of hotels.
🌄 Discover Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Choosing the right gateway town can make all the difference when planning your Great Smoky Mountains vacation. Each town offers its own unique attractions, accommodations, and access to the park. Explore the best gateway towns below to find the perfect base for your adventure.
Gatlinburg
The heart of the Smokies with mountain views, cabins, attractions, restaurants, and endless entertainment.
Pigeon Forge
Home to Dollywood, family attractions, dinner shows, shopping, and some of the area’s best hotels.