Since the establishment of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1926, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, has become an important mountain resort town. Along with the abundant natural beauty of its location, the town also offers over 450 specialty shops and a thriving community of artists and craftsmen. Visitors to the area may choose from any number of cabins, motels and hotels from the Star line.
The Sleep Inn is found within walking distance of downtown Gatlinburg, and a mile from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located along the local trolley route, and with a shuttle also available, transportation to many of the town's attractions is right at the Inn's doorstep. A heated indoor pool as well as an exercise room are offered for the active guest who wants to stay in. Restaurants adjacent to the property include the Hard Rock Cafe, and the Alamo Steakhouse, and miniature golf, Ripley's Aquarium and Ripley's Haunted Adventure are all within walking distance. As of October 2010, room rates start at $86 per night.
The Hampton resides within convenient walking distance of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park entrance and is a five-minute drive from Dollywood. It is also next door to a Tramway, which can transport adventure-seekers to the Ober Gatlinburg amusement park and ski resort. A seasonal outdoor pool is located on the premises. The hungry guest can choose from a variety of local restaurants, such as Best Italian, T.G.I. Friday's and the Pancake Pantry. Room rates start at $75 per night, as of October 2010.
The three-star Hilton Garden Inn, Gatlinburg, is less than 100 yards from the entrance of Great Rocky Mountain National Park. An environmentally-conscious hotel, it includes many "green" features, including in-room recycling, a chemical-free, heated, indoor, saltwater pool and a hand-laid brick parking lot. The Great American Grill offers bistro-style dining, and the Pavilion Lounge boasts a comfortable atmosphere for cocktails. Located right on the Gatlinburg Trolley route, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Wonder Works, and the Aerial Tram are among the attractions only a short walk or ride away. As of October 2010, room rates begin at $89 per night.
