If you worry a last-minute getaway to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will cost an arm and a leg, think again. The booking platform HotelTonight is an easy solution for trimming a few bucks off the average nightly cost of a stay (and you’ll gain credit towards your next Airbnb booking). Looking at the mountain resort of Gatlinburg, these hotels are conveniently located for a spontaneous weekend exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Getting there from the airport: Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) and McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) are the closest options for those flying in. It takes around 30 minutes to drive a rental from the former, and an hour to drive from the latter.
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Poised right along the river north of the busiest part of town, the Baymont by Wyndham is a solid pick for families, groups, and couples alike. The decor and rustic vibe bring it closer to a mountain lodge than a roadside hotel, with forest views and an indoor pool being major perks. It’s a handy choice if you’re looking to split your time between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Typical HotelTonight rate: Last-minute deals do vary greatly, with the lowest being around $100 and other deals being upwards of $200.
Just off the main Parkway west of downtown, The Wander Hotel by Ramada offers a convenient base for exploring Gatlinburg and its surroundings. Rooms are simple but can’t be faulted for comfort; many even have a mountain view or a balcony, and this particular location is rated for its quietness. The hotel has free parking and complimentary breakfast.
Typical HotelTonight rate: You can find a last-minute deal for between $105 and $180 per night.
A spendier choice, the Hotel Indigo is one of Gatlinburg’s more upscale lodges, with a boutique feel. It’s as central as you’ll find, marrying big mountain views and downtown conveniences. This dog-friendly hotel sports Gatlinburg’s highest outdoor infinity pool and a classy rooftop bistro, which puts on live music acts and screens soccer games.
Typical HotelTonight rate: Last-minute deals at this upscale hotel have been seen for as little as $190 per night to $340.
A basic yet comfortable choice, a number of rooms at the River Edge Inn overlook the Little Pigeon River — that’s a sweet bonus for a wallet-friendly hotel. You can walk to downtown restaurants, attractions, and shops from this classic hotel, and enjoy the outdoor pool in summer. Dogs are welcome in some rooms and free breakfast is included.
Typical HotelTonight rate: Last-minute deals can be found for around $130 to $190 per night.
Minutes from the national park entrance, this resort-style property is awesome for families. It has a waterpark for little kids as well as a gamer den and indoor pool for everyone to share. Deluxe rooms have spa tubs, while the largest suites accommodate 10 guests. There is no restaurant, but all units have kitchenettes and some even have laundry facilities.
Typical HotelTonight rate: Last-minute deals have been seen from as low as $229 to over $500.
One of the closest options for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance, the Sure Stay Plus is one of the cheapest hotels in Gatlinburg. Well-equipped rooms have all the essentials, and many have river-view balconies. Free parking, complimentary breakfast, and a sunny outdoor pool seal the deal.
Typical HotelTonight rate: Last-minute deals have been seen from as little as $86 per night.