Best places to stay when you want to be near The Island in Pigeon Forge
When planning your Pigeon Forge vacation, the intent has to factor into the equation. For instance, if I plan on spending the majority of my vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I’m probably not going to pick one of the Pigeon Forge hotels. That doesn’t mean you can’t take in the majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains if you base camp in Pigeon Forge, just that other places may suit your purpose better.
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I don’t always think of The Island as my go-to destination to get into the mountains. I would, however, keep The Island on my list if I was considering spending a day or two at the Dollywood theme park. If you want to get as close to the action as possible, here some of the best hotels near The Island in Pigeon Forge:
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10. Mountain Vista Inn & Suites
This moderately reviewed hotel offers “down-to-earth” rooms at a modest price. Some rooms come with hot tubs and the hotel has a heated indoor swimming pool. It’s located .03 miles from The Island. Check for current rates here.
9. Timbers Lodge
This hotel – which has mostly good reviews – offers free parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free breakfast and free wifi. It’s more expensive than some other options but certainly a better lodging experience, especially with the outdoor pool. It’s just under a half mile away from The Island. Check current offers and rates here.
8. Baymont by Wyndham Pigeon Forge
This one is technically within walking distance of The Island, but it’s across U.S. 441 and a decent ways up the road. I cringe every time I see people crossing the millions of lanes of traffic to get from one side of the highway to the other. Otherwise, this hotel is well-reviewed. And it’s a great option for a Pigeon Forge vacation in general. However, if the goal is to stay near The Island, you can get closer. Check for current rates on Booking.com.
7. Quality Inn
This is well-reviewed for a 2-star hotel, but I wanted to quibble with this being “near” The Island. I went back and reviewed the maps. And as a result, I will allow it. It’s 0.3 miles away. It’s across the highway though. And it’s going to be a bummer walking past Margaritaville Island Inn every night and then crossing all that traffic to come back to a hotel with rooms that are called “unfussy.” It does offer two pools, a hot tub and a free breakfast. Check for current rates here.
6. Holiday Inn and Suites Pigeon Forge
We’re getting a little too far afield here. However, it’s on the same side of the highway and we’re assuming a certain level of willingness to walk. Therefore, we’re including the Holiday Inn and Suites. The hotel features include a fitness room which you will not need if you walk to The Island and back every day. It is also well-reviewed. I assume you know what you’re getting with this brand. It fits well within those expectations. Also, it has a restaurant and bar. Get the current offers from Booking.com.
5. Tru by Hilton Pigeon Forge
Located across Teaster Lane from The Island, I don’t know that I would say that this or the sister hotel next door, Home2 Suites by Hilton Pigeon Forge are within walking distance. Tru is listed as a two-star hotel, but it reviews quite well. Certainly, it doesn’t look like a two-star hotel, nor does it charge like a two-star hotel. In addition, if you’re traveling with your fur babies, Tru by Hilton is one of the pet friendly hotels in the region. Check current rates and offers here.
4. Riverstone Resort & Spa
This hotel is nowhere near The Island – well, it’s in the same city. Actually, it’s probably a 5 to 10-minute drive depending on traffic. But if you want something a little more upscale, this four-star hotel may be your best bet. Riverstone offers luxury cabins and condos and a legitimately cool lazy river surrounded by faux stone mountain waterfalls. Specifically, this resort on the edge of the Gatlinburg Golf Course is pretty much the opposite of everything going on at The Island. Check for rates and availability here.
3. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Pigeon Forge
SpringHill Suites is a surprising option not within walking distance. However, it is on Teaster Lane, which means you can get to and from The Island without encountering all of the traffic on the main strip. And it is a well-reviewed three-star hotel. Billed as kid-friendly, this is a surprisingly good option off the main strip. Check for current rates and offers here.
2. Margaritaville Island Hotel
The Margaritaville Island Hotel is billed as a perfect blend of mountain latitude and island attitude. Margaritaville Island Hotel brings a new perspective to the Smoky Mountains experience with its contemporary, mountain-luxe surroundings, dedication to hospitality and full-service amenities. Check for current rates here.
1. Margaritaville Island Inn
The Margaritaville Island Inn is simply paradise. I feel like this is running dangerously close to the Jimmy Buffet-Gene Wilder mashup nobody was demanding. Apparently, paradise is check-in and chill out in the laidback, tropically inspired guest rooms. Special amenities include two pools, complimentary breakfast, free bikes and many special touches that have been thoughtfully included for comfort and enjoyment. Check for current offers here.
What is The Island in Pigeon Forge?
It’s a vacation destination within a vacation destination. Located on the shores of the Little Pigeon River in the heart of Pigeon Forge, The Island is a collective of shops, restaurants, games and hotel rooms, many of which are based on the lifestyle of the singer and author Jimmy Buffett.
Do you have a favorite place to lodge near The Island when you visit the Smokies? Let us know in the comments!
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