5 Unique Places to Stay in Pigeon Forge

Consider these 5 unique accommodations in Pigeon Forge, TN.

By: Erin Gifford

Related To:

At the base of the Great Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, TN, you’ll find a wonderland of colorful attractions, musical dinner shows, theme parks and outdoor activities that range from zip lines to rafting trips. There’s almost too much to do. The area even has choices upon choices when it comes to where to stay. Of course, there are plenty of chain hotels, but consider a few places that can make a trip to Pigeon Forge even more of an adventure.

Take a look at 5 fun and unique accommodations to consider as you plan your visit.

1. The Inn at Christmas Place

It’s Christmas every day at The Inn at Christmas Place. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel right at home and in the spirit of the holidays. Take in the 2-story fireplace, the 12-foot Christmas tree and the festive garland and decorations festooning the lobby of this Bavarian-style inn. As a bonus, the “Singing Santa” entertains guests every Thursday and Saturday evening with a variety of Christmas classics. Even better, the free hotel breakfast is first-rate. Look for gourmet coffees, made-to-order omelets, biscuits and gravy, waffles and pastries. Homemade cookies await in the afternoon before you settle in for the night on the much-lauded Sleep in Heavenly Peace mattresses, which, incidentally, are available for purchase when you check out.

2. Margaritaville Island Hotel

Photo by: Don_Dudenbostel___(865)809-2166

Don_Dudenbostel___(865)809-2166

Jimmy Buffett fans, the Margaritaville Island Hotel has just what you need, including cabanas at the rooftop pool, a Changes in Latitude bar in the lobby and a blender in every room for creating your own frozen drinks. You’ll even find a recipe booklet to give you some ideas. Start your day in the Margaritaville Coffee Shop with a quick bite before heading out to hike, bike or fish in the nearby mountains. In the evening, take a spin on the 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, watch the dancing fountain show or spend time shopping at the Island, a retail and entertainment complex located adjacent to the hotel. Margaritaville Island is also a stone’s throw from a number of theaters boasting popular dinner shows, such as the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show and the Smoky Mountain Opry.

3. RiverStone Resort & Spa

Photo by: Steve Rich 803-640-3763

Steve Rich 803-640-3763

If you prefer an 80-minute hot stone massage to making your own frozen libations, then check in to the RiverStone Resort & Spa. There, you’ll find traditional hotel rooms as well as luxury condos and log cabins, which are ideal when you just want to relax and take in the mountain scenery. Look for stone fireplaces, large flat-screen TVs and private balconies and patios. Book a selection of rejuvenation treatments, including facials, manicures and aromatherapy massages. The spa even offers packages just for men (Gentleman’s Retreat) and pregnant women (Mommy-to-Be). Enjoy a round of golf at the on-site course and take a hike along the Little Pigeon River nature trail before making dinner in the room or heading into town for a meal and show.

4. Great Smoky Mountain Jellystone Camp-Resort

For outdoor lovers looking for a unique camping experience, book a Yogi Yurt at the Great Smoky Mountain Jellystone Camp-Resort. Each yurt includes a mini-fridge, a ceiling fan, bunk beds, heat and a picnic table, making for a comfortable year-round camping experience. Or try a Cindy Bear Lodge, the most glamorous of all accommodations, featuring 2 bedrooms, a full kitchen, a full bathroom, air conditioning and a TV with DVD player. At the campground, look for numerous events such as scavenger hunts, mini-golf tourneys, karaoke and movie nights. Then, take a hike along the nearby Albright Grove trail. As a bonus, keep an eye out for Yogi Bear as he makes his way around the campground to pose for pictures and roast marshmallows with little campers.

5. Twin Valley Bed & Breakfast Horse Ranch

Hike or ride horseback on a variety of country trails or spend time caring for animals at this ranch, which keeps bunnies, chickens, llamas and more. Ranch hands are even available to teach the basics of horse care and offer riding lessons. At Twin Valley Bed & Breakfast Horse Ranch, guests have several overnight options, including a private, pet-friendly cabin, a primitive shelter in the woods and a room at the main lodge that comes with mountain views, a Jacuzzi tub and a country breakfast. Off the ranch, visitors can enjoy biking, antiquing and shopping for arts and crafts. Nearby Tuckaleechee Caverns and Cades Cove are worth exploring before departing for home.