If you’re searching for one of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg, Greystone Lodge on the River should be at the top of your list. This family-owned classic has been a fixture in the Smoky Mountains since the 1960s, and while it holds onto that rustic mountain-lodge character, the lodge is in the middle of a thoughtful remodel that’s bringing new life to its guest rooms. Fresh floors and furnishings give the space a clean, modern touch, yet the design stays true to the Smoky Mountain vibe that has made it a favorite for generations. It’s like swapping your old hiking boots for a new pair that still feel broken in on the first day.
One of the best-kept secrets at Greystone is in the six-story riverfront building. If you can snag a room ending in 55 through 61, you’ll fall asleep to the sound of the Little Pigeon River. The steady rush of the water makes for the perfect hillbilly lullaby—better than any white noise machine money can buy.
The location is unbeatable. You’re just steps away from major Gatlinburg attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and the SkyPark, and you can easily walk to countless restaurants, pancake houses, wineries, and of course, the famous Gatlinburg moonshine distilleries. With free parking included, you can leave the car behind and explore downtown Gatlinburg on foot, which makes the value here even stronger compared to other hotels in the area.
Greystone Lodge recently added a beautiful new patio with fire tables that’s perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. Grab a bottle from a local winery or a mason jar of moonshine from Ole Smoky and settle in by the fire for an evening that feels straight out of a Smoky Mountain postcard.
The staff here deserve a special mention too—they’re as warm as a campfire on a chilly mountain night and always ready to help with directions, dining tips, or a friendly word. The only weak pour in the whole experience is the complimentary breakfast. It will get you by, but Gatlinburg is loaded with pancake houses and diners that make breakfast an attraction in its own right, so it’s worth venturing out.
When you add it all up—freshly remodeled rooms, classic Smoky Mountain character, a riverfront location, new patio amenities, and walking-distance access to downtown—Greystone Lodge on the River stands out as one of the best hotels in Gatlinburg for families, couples, and anyone who wants to enjoy the heart of the Smokies without giving up comfort or convenience. Like a good barrel of Tennessee moonshine, this lodge just gets...
Read moreThe first thing I want to say. The order was made through the booking site at another hotel. When I arrived there, they told me that they had canceled the reservation and transferred me to another hotel, also 4 stars. And I still don't understand why? As they say, I turned a blind eye to it, because I was very tired on the road. The girls at the reception were polite, which is a plus. The hotel is located in the center, which is also a plus because we walked, which we all really miss. There are disadvantages because it looks like a 2.5 star. Humidity in the room, a steam room in the bathroom, hot air does not come out, well, the rest is in the photo. And my suggestion is - no matter how many 2 or 3 or 4 stars, keep your buildings in good condition!!! This is your face... Thank you for...
Read moreThe cottages are beautiful!! We almost stayed at the sleep inn but when we got down here it was terrible and moldy smelling not to mention heavily perfumed. So we searched around and ended up paying a little bit more for this beautiful cottage. Beautiful livingroom/dining room/kitchen downstairs and in room bathrooms in 2 separate rooms upstairs. Plus 1 queen bed and 1 king. It is everything you need. Home away from home. We couldn't have made a better mistake. I'm so happy we didn't settle for the other place. The staff is very nice and we still were able to get free parking when we wanted to be closer to Gatlinburg stores to walk around and free breakfast and pool...
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