Gatlinburg River Inn

The hotel offers a memorable stay, particularly noted for its riverfront balconies that provide a serene backdrop with the soothing sound of rushing water. This unique feature makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and peaceful escape, families looking for convenient access to local attractions, and especially pet owners who appreciate the accommodating policies. Its central location allows for easy exploration of the area, complemented by a complimentary breakfast and generally friendly staff. Guests consistently highlight the tranquil ambiance created by the river and the overall value. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room on a lower floor if mobility is a concern, as the elevator has been noted to be out of service at times, and be mindful of local wildlife, as bears are occasionally sighted in the vicinity.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of amenities, though guest experiences with their functionality vary. A swimming pool and hot tub are available, but many guests reported the hot tub was often out of order or the pool water was too cold for comfortable use. Despite these issues, the presence of fire pits with provided firewood is a popular feature, offering a cozy outdoor gathering spot. Guests appreciate the convenience of in-room amenities such as a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. While free Wi-Fi is offered, some guests experienced weak or unreliable signals. A significant recurring concern is the elevator, which has frequently been reported as out of service for extended periods, posing a challenge for guests with luggage or mobility issues, particularly those on upper floors. Free parking is available, though spaces can be tight, especially during busy periods.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. Most guests found their rooms to be clean upon arrival, with some praising daily housekeeping. However, a notable number of reviews mention issues such as mold in bathrooms, stained towels, worn-out mattresses, and a general sense of the rooms being dated or in need of updates. Some guests reported noisy spring mattresses and hard beds, impacting sleep quality. While many rooms offer a quiet atmosphere despite being near a main road, others experienced significant noise from thin walls, neighboring rooms, and traffic, especially due to gaps in balcony doors. In-room features like bathrooms are described as small, and some guests noted a lack of hand soap or sufficient closet space and hangers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast that receives varied feedback. Many guests found the breakfast to be good, with a decent variety of options including waffles, scrambled eggs, sausage, and biscuits and gravy. Some praised the food quality and found it a convenient way to start the day. However, a considerable number of reviews describe the food as bland, watery eggs, or cold. Issues with limited options and crowded seating in the breakfast area were also mentioned, particularly during peak times. While some appreciated the coffee, others found it watered down. Despite the mixed reviews, the inclusion of breakfast is generally seen as a valuable amenity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within walking distance of many popular attractions in downtown. It is conveniently situated slightly outside the busiest part of town, offering a quieter environment while still providing easy access to the main strip. A trolley stop directly in front of the hotel offers a convenient alternative for getting around, though some guests noted that trolleys can be full during peak times. While the proximity to attractions is highly praised, guests frequently mention that traffic in the area can be very heavy, making driving challenging. Free parking is available on-site, which is a valuable perk in a busy tourist area, though some found the parking spaces to be tight.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Many guests highlighted positive interactions with front desk personnel, describing them as welcoming and efficient during the check-in process. Staff members are often commended for their willingness to assist with requests and provide local tips. Housekeeping services are also frequently mentioned, with many guests appreciating the clean rooms and daily refreshing of towels. However, some reviews indicate inconsistent service, with a few guests reporting unhelpful or rude interactions with specific front desk staff, and occasional issues with housekeeping not fulfilling requests or providing sufficient supplies. Overall, the positive experiences with the staff contribute significantly to guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably pet-friendly, a feature highly appreciated by guests traveling with their animals, with designated areas for pet relief. However, guests should be aware of the hotel's smoking policy, which prohibits smoking on balconies, leading some to experience unpleasant smoke odors from other areas. A unique aspect of the location is the frequent sighting of bears in the parking lot and surrounding areas, adding an element of local wildlife interaction that many guests found exciting. The hotel also features outdoor fire pits, which are a popular amenity for evening relaxation. Some guests mentioned a laundry room is available for guest use, adding to the convenience for longer stays.