Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg review

You’ll find Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg tucked into the heart of downtown Gatlinburg at 539 Parkway, placing you within steps of shops, restaurants and many of the town’s top attractions. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a family getaway, the resort blends island-inspired styling with mountain-town convenience. Guests repeatedly praise the resort’s spotless, welcoming lobby, friendly staff and spectacular downtown views, which helps the property earn an overall “exceptional” score and a standout location rating.

Below you’ll get a comprehensive, practical review that covers location, room choices, amenities, dining, family and accessibility features, policies, real guest impressions, pros and cons, useful tips for making the most of your stay, and a few sample itineraries tailored to couples and families.

Quick facts at a glance

Feature	What you need to know
Address	539 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
Nearby attractions	Ripley’s Aquarium (~0.2 mi), Gatlinburg Space Needle (~0.4 mi), Sweet Fanny Adams Theater (1-minute walk)
Overall rating (guest reports)	Exceptional — 9.5
Location rating	9.7
Check-in / Check-out	From 4:00 PM / By 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age	21
Pets	Not allowed
Parking	Free private parking on site
Wi‑Fi	Complimentary
On-site dining	Margaritaville Restaurant and full bar
Pools & spa	Seasonal outdoor pool, indoor pool access, hot tub, full spa services
Nearest airport	McGhee Tyson Airport (approx. 28 miles)

Location and neighborhood

You’ll love how central Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is. Its address on Parkway puts you within walking distance of the most popular downtown sights and entertainment. If you want to see Ripley’s Aquarium, you’re only a short walk (roughly 0.2 miles) away. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is around 0.4 miles, and the Sweet Fanny Adams Theater is close enough that you can practically stroll over.

What this means for you:

• You’ll save time on driving and parking since many attractions, shops and restaurants are walkable.
• Evenings are easy — you can return to the hotel between activities or to drop off shopping bags.
• If you plan to use the resort as a base while hitting local attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains, its central location makes it straightforward for day trips and evening plans.

Practical neighborhood notes:

• Downtown Gatlinburg can get busy on weekends and during peak seasons, so expect foot traffic and street-level activity.
• Street parking and local traffic are common; however, the resort’s private parking helps you avoid hunting for spots.
• If you want a quieter mountain experience you may prefer lodging outside the downtown core, but for convenience and nightlife, this location is hard to beat.

Rooms and suites — comfort and options

Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg offers a range of rooms and suites geared toward couples, families and groups. Rooms are modern, well-appointed and designed to be comfortable while reflecting the laid-back Margaritaville aesthetic.

Room types and features:

Room type	Sleeps	Key features
King Room	2	One king bed, flat-screen TV, spa-like bathroom, complimentary toiletries, free Wi‑Fi, some with gas fireplace and downtown or pool views
Double Queen Room	4	Two queen beds, flat-screen TV, modern décor, complimentary toiletries, free Wi‑Fi, some pool or downtown views
Junior Suite	2–4	More living space, sleeper sofa options, upgraded layout, often pool-facing
One-Bedroom Suite	4	Separate living area with sleeper sofa, full amenities, ideal for families or longer stays
Family Suite	4–6	Larger floor plan, sleeper sofas, designed for families with additional sleeping space
ADA-Accessible Rooms	Varies	Multiple accessible options designed for mobility and accessibility needs

What you can expect in your room:

• Clean, contemporary décor with island and mountain influences.
• Spa-like bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
• A flat-screen TV and reliable free Wi‑Fi for streaming and work.
• Many guest rooms include cozy gas fireplaces for added ambiance.
• Some rooms have direct pool views or downtown vistas — request a view at booking if that matters to you.

Insider tip: If you want a quieter stay, request a room facing away from Parkway. If you enjoy being in the middle of the action, choose a downtown- or pool-facing room.

Amenities — resort-style convenience

The resort focuses on providing a full-service experience so you won’t feel like you have to leave the property if you don’t want to. Amenities suit couples and families alike.

Amenity breakdown:

Amenity	Details / Notes
Pools	Seasonal outdoor pool, indoor pool access (seasonal outdoor may close in off-season), pool area with seating
Hot tub	On-site hot tub for relaxation
Fitness center	On-site, equipped for basic cardio and strength training
Spa	Full spa services available (book ahead for treatments)
On-site dining	Margaritaville Restaurant with a full bar — breakfast, lunch, dinner options
24/7 Reception	Staff available around the clock for check-in and assistance
Parking	Free private parking on site
Housekeeping	Standard housekeeping; confirm frequency of service if you have specific preferences
Business services	Basic services via front desk; Wi‑Fi included for remote work or streaming

Why these amenities matter to you:

• You’ll have both indoor and outdoor pool options depending on the season, so families and sun-seekers will be pleased.
• The spa and fitness center let you keep up with your routine or practice serious relaxation.
• On-site dining and 24/7 reception add convenience and make it an easy place to stay if you arrive late or need local tips.

Dining and bars

The on-site Margaritaville Restaurant brings the brand’s island-inspired menu and relaxed bar atmosphere to downtown Gatlinburg. It’s convenient for breakfast before a day of sightseeing, for a casual lunch, or for a dinner or drink without leaving the property.

What to expect from dining:

• Familiar Margaritaville menu items with a mix of comfort and tropical-inspired dishes.
• A full bar offering cocktails, beer and wine — good for unwinding after a day of hikes or shopping.
• Service tailored to hotel guests, so you can often dine without reservations; however, peak times may require short waits.

Practical note: If you have specific dietary needs or want a quieter table, call ahead and the staff will usually accommodate you.

Family-friendliness and accessibility

Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is positioned as family-friendly and offers specific features to make family travel easier.

Family-friendly features:

• Family suites and one-bedroom suites with sleeper sofas give you space and flexible sleeping arrangements.
• Pools and on-site dining are convenient for families with mixed schedules and picky eaters.
• The location is walkable to family attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and entertainment theaters.

Accessibility:

• Multiple ADA-accessible room types are available. These rooms are designed to assist guests with mobility or other accessibility needs.
• You can request cribs free of charge on request, though availability is subject to inventory.
• If you have specific accessibility requirements (bathroom modifications, roll-in showers, visual alarms), contact the hotel before booking to confirm the exact room features.

Tips for families:

• Ask about connecting rooms or family suites if you want separate sleeping areas.
• Take advantage of on-site dining for late arrivals or tired kids who don’t want to travel again after attractions.
• Confirm crib or extra bed availability ahead of time — extra beds typically cost $15 per stay and may be limited.

Practical information and policies

Knowing the property policies helps you plan and avoid surprises during check-in and check-out.

Essential policies:

Policy	Detail
Check-in	From 4:00 PM
Check-out	By 11:00 AM
Minimum age to check in	21
Pets	Not allowed
Parking	Free private parking on site
Smoking policy	Property is non-smoking
Extra bed fee	$15 per stay (subject to availability)
Crib	Available free on request
Nearest airport	McGhee Tyson Airport — approximately 28 miles

Practical tips:

• Arrive after 4:00 PM for guaranteed check-in; if you’ll get there early, ask about luggage storage so you can start enjoying Gatlinburg.
• The 21+ minimum check-in age means younger adults traveling alone should bring a valid ID and be aware of the policy.
• Non-smoking policy applies across the property; if you have allergies or sensitivities, the hotel’s clean, spotless reputation is reassuring.

What guests say — highlights from real feedback

Guests consistently highlight several features that make Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg stand out. You’ll see recurring praise around location, cleanliness, staff helpfulness and the overall atmosphere.

Common positive points:

• Prime downtown location: Guests love being able to walk to attractions and restaurants without having to drive.
• Friendly staff and 24/7 reception: Numerous reviews mention staff going out of their way to help with directions, recommendations and requests.
• Cleanliness: Many guests point to the spotless lobby and well-maintained rooms.
• Comfortable rooms: Reviews often mention cozy beds, modern décor and well-appointed bathrooms.
• Views and atmosphere: Downtown and pool views get frequent praise, as does the Margaritaville vibe.

Constructive feedback you might encounter:

• Peak-season crowding: Because of the central location, weekends and peak travel months can feel busy in the downtown area.
• Pool seasonality: The outdoor pool is seasonal; if you visit off-season you’ll rely mainly on the indoor facilities.
• Pricing: As a higher-rated downtown property, nightly rates can trend higher during peak dates; booking in advance or seeking off-peak dates helps with value.

How to interpret reviews:

• If you value location and service over solitude, reviews confirm this will likely be a great fit.
• Families appreciate the layout and nearby entertainment; couples enjoy the atmosphere and amenities, especially if you get a room with a fireplace or a downtown view.

Pros and cons — straightforward assessment

When you’re choosing a hotel, a clear list of pros and cons helps you weigh priorities.

Pros:

• Exceptional downtown location — walkable to major attractions and dining.
• Clean, modern rooms with comfortable beds and spa-like bathrooms.
• Multiple pools and spa services for relaxation.
• On-site Margaritaville Restaurant and full bar for convenient dining.
• Free private parking and complimentary Wi‑Fi.
• Accessible room options and family suites.

Cons:

• Downtown setting means street-level noise and busier surroundings during peak times.
• Outdoor pool is seasonal — may be closed during colder months.
• Higher demand leads to premium pricing during holidays and weekends.
• Pets are not allowed — not ideal if you travel with animals.

Tips to get the most from your stay

You’ll get more enjoyment and fewer surprises if you plan a little in advance. Here are practical tips based on guest experiences and hotel policies.

Before you arrive:

• Request your room orientation: If you prefer quiet, ask for a room away from Parkway. If you want vibrant street views or pool-facing rooms, specify that when you book.
• Confirm cribs or extra beds: Ask ahead to make sure the request is confirmed and that you won’t be surprised by availability.
• Reserve spa treatments early: If you plan to use the spa, booking treatments ahead of your arrival can secure prime time slots.
• Ask about parking arrangements: While parking is free, large events downtown can fill the area. Verify any large event dates if you have strict travel windows.

At check-in:

• Bring ID for the 21+ minimum check-in requirement.
• If you arrive early, use luggage storage and ask the front desk for early check-in options if available.
• Ask about daily housekeeping preferences — if you want reduced service for privacy, let the desk know.

During your stay:

• Use the 24/7 front desk to get local dining tips, theater recommendations, or assistance with reservations.
• If you’re sensitive to noise, bring a white-noise app or request a high-floor room away from street traffic.
• Take advantage of on-site dining for evenings you want to stay in — it’s convenient and typically lively.

Booking advice:

• Compare dates and book earlier for better rates, especially around peak seasons and holidays.
• Consider weekday stays if you want a quieter downtown experience and potentially lower rates.
• Look for packages that bundle dining or spa credits — these can increase value.

Sample itineraries

Use these sample plans to help structure your time in Gatlinburg. Both are designed around staying at Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg as your base.

Couples — romantic downtown escape (2 nights)

• Day 1: Check in late afternoon, request a room with a fireplace or downtown view. Enjoy drinks at Margaritaville Restaurant and a sunset stroll along the Parkway. Catch live music or a theater show downtown afterward.
• Day 2: Breakfast at a nearby café, then leisurely visit Ripley’s Aquarium. Return to the resort for a spa treatment in the afternoon. Dinner at the restaurant or try another downtown spot. End the night relaxing in the hot tub or by your room’s gas fireplace.
• Day 3: Quick morning swim or gym session, check out by 11:00 AM, and grab brunch before heading out to a scenic drive in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Family — activity-packed weekend (3 days)

• Day 1: Arrive, check into a family suite. Spend late afternoon at the pool, then take a short walk to Ripley’s Aquarium for evening activities. Dinner at Margaritaville Restaurant for relaxed family dining.
• Day 2: Full day of attractions — Space Needle, arcades, and souvenir shopping. Return for a mid-afternoon pool break. Evening theater show and an easy dinner near the hotel.
• Day 3: Morning indoor pool session if weather is cool, check out by 11:00 AM, stop at a local pancake house on the way out of town.

Comparison with similar downtown Gatlinburg options

If you’re choosing between centrally located resorts, consider these key differentiators for Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg:

• Brand and atmosphere: Margaritaville brings an island-inspired, casual vibe that blends well with mountain town charm — different from purely rustic or boutique options.
• Location advantage: Few properties match the combination of on-site dining, 24/7 reception and immediate proximity to the major downtown attractions.
• Amenities: Multiple pool options, spa services and a fitness center make it more of a full-service resort compared with smaller motels or boutique inns.
• Accessibility: The broad selection of ADA rooms and family suites gives you a wider set of options if you need specific room features.

If you want more privacy or a secluded mountain experience, consider properties outside the Parkway core. If you want maximum convenience for nightlife and attractions, Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is one of the stronger choices.

Booking and value considerations

When assessing value, you’ll weigh nightly rates, convenience and the hotel’s included services. Here’s how to approach your booking decision.

Value enhancers:

• Complimentary parking and Wi‑Fi reduce incidental costs.
• On-site dining eliminates the need to find restaurants in bad weather or late hours.
• Family suites and ADA options provide flexibility without paying for multiple rooms.

When rates are higher:

• Peak season demand and weekends push prices up. If your dates are flexible, shifting to weekdays or off-peak times will save you money.
• Compare packages that may include dining credits or spa discounts; these sometimes offer better total value than booking inclusions separately.

How to find deals:

• Book early for popular dates.
• Check the hotel website for packages or special offers.
• Sign up for alert services or check third-party booking sites for promotions, but always verify cancellation policies.

Final recommendation

If your priorities include an unbeatable downtown location, resort-style amenities and consistent high marks for cleanliness and service, Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is an excellent choice. You’ll get the convenience of walking to top Gatlinburg attractions, access to pools and a full-service spa, and the reliability of a well-run property with friendly staff.

Who should choose this property:

• Couples who want a romantic downtown stay with easy access to dining and entertainment.
• Families who need suites, pool access and a central location close to kid-friendly attractions.
• Travelers who value a full-service resort experience in the heart of Gatlinburg.

Who might look elsewhere:

• Travelers seeking a remote, quiet mountain retreat away from downtown bustle.
• Guests traveling with pets, since the property has a no-pet policy.

Make sure you confirm your room preferences, accessibility needs and any special requests before arrival to guarantee the best possible stay. With thoughtful planning, you’ll find Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg a comfortable, convenient and enjoyable base for your Gatlinburg trip.