Howard Johnson by Wyndham Downtown Gatlinburg

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional location, offering unparalleled access to downtown attractions, and its unique outdoor amenities that enhance the guest experience. It is an ideal fit for sightseers and families looking to explore the area on foot, as well as couples seeking a convenient and comfortable base. Many guests appreciate the overall value and the generally clean and spacious accommodations. A distinctive feature that adds to the memorable stay is the frequent sighting of bears roaming the property, providing a unique wildlife encounter. To make the most of your visit, consider requesting a room away from high-traffic areas if sensitive to noise, and be aware that the advertised breakfast is a simple grab-and-go option.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the hotel's inviting outdoor fire pits, which provide a popular spot for relaxation and socializing, especially in the evenings. The property also features two pools, which are generally well-maintained and enjoyed by families, though some note they are not heated or may be seasonally closed. Many rooms come with a balcony or terrace, often equipped with comfortable chairs, offering guests a pleasant space to unwind and enjoy the surroundings, sometimes with views of a nearby creek. While parking is available and generally convenient, some guests report it can be cramped or challenging during peak times or due to ongoing construction. Feedback on Wi-Fi is mixed, with some finding it reliable and others experiencing connectivity issues outside the lobby. In-room amenities typically include a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker, though some guests have reported issues with these appliances. The elevator in one building is occasionally described as noisy or "sketchy," leading some guests to prefer using the stairs.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. Many guests consistently praise the rooms as clean, very clean, or even spotless, noting a fresh smell. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for many. However, a notable number of guests reported specific cleanliness issues, including dirty floors, stained sheets, hair on surfaces, and instances of mold in bathrooms or around AC units. Some reviews also mentioned bugs or pests in rooms. Regarding room condition, while many find the rooms spacious and updated, others observed signs of wear, such as cracks in walls, peeling baseboards, or minor maintenance needs like leaky faucets or loose fixtures. Noise levels receive mixed comments; some guests appreciate the quiet atmosphere despite the central location, while others experienced disturbances from noisy neighbors or street noise.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining offerings, specifically breakfast, consistently receive mixed to negative feedback. While the hotel is often advertised as providing breakfast, guests clarify that it is a grab-and-go style, typically consisting of coffee, orange juice, and pre-packaged muffins or granola bars. Many guests express disappointment, stating that this offering does not constitute a "real breakfast" and lacks variety, such as fresh fruit or seating areas. Some appreciate the availability of coffee in the lobby, but the overall sentiment is that the breakfast falls short of expectations, especially given how it is sometimes promoted. There are no other on-site dining facilities like a full-service restaurant or room service mentioned in guest reviews.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly praised as its strongest asset, allowing guests to walk to everything in downtown Gatlinburg. It is conveniently situated within easy reach of major attractions such as Anakeesta, the Aquarium, and the Village shopping area, saving guests the cost and hassle of driving and parking. Many appreciate being just a short stroll from the main Parkway, providing both accessibility to the bustling strip and a slightly quieter retreat. A trolley stop located directly at the hotel entrance offers an additional convenient transportation option. Parking is available on-site and is generally considered easy and free, a significant advantage in an area where public parking can be expensive and limited.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives positive remarks for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism, with many guests highlighting their accommodating nature. The check-in and check-out processes are often described as quick and hassle-free. However, there are recurring instances of negative experiences, particularly concerning some front desk personnel who are perceived as rude, unhelpful, or having a poor attitude. Housekeeping feedback is mixed; while some guests report consistent and attentive service, others note issues with towels not being replenished, rooms not being cleaned daily, or trash not being emptied. Maintenance requests sometimes receive prompt attention, such as quick replacement of a non-working mini-fridge, but other issues, like hot water problems or leaky faucets, have been reported as taking longer to resolve or going unaddressed.

Additional Information
A unique and frequently mentioned aspect of staying at this hotel is the opportunity to observe bears roaming the property, particularly in the evenings, which many guests find to be a memorable experience. The hotel features charming wooden bear statues as part of its decor, adding to the local ambiance. Guests also appreciate the inviting creek-side sitting area, offering a peaceful spot to relax. It is important for guests to be aware that the hotel is an older property that has undergone renovations, which contributes to its character but also means some areas may show signs of age. During certain periods, guests have reported roofing construction taking place, which can lead to noise and debris in the parking areas.