There are literally hundreds of hotels and resorts to choose from when you plan your Smoky Mountains vacation. If one of them on your list is the Margaritaville Gatlinburg Resort, book it! You will LOVE your stay at this beach, mountain resort and here’s why!
I count myself lucky that we’ve had the opportunity to travel as a family over the last 10 or so years. We’ve stayed in different hotels and condos in different cities and states. When I look to book a hotel, there are always a few things I look for first – price, amenities and reviews.
One name that is always at the top of amenities and reviews when I search is Margaritaville properties. While it’s always been on our list of “wants”, I had just never booked a stay… until this past week. And now, Margaritaville will be at the top of our list AND will get booked this time!
I was blown away by the Margaritaville Resort in Gatlinburg, Tennessee from the moment I walked in. I literally felt like I was steps from the beach instead of in a tiny town in the middle of mountains. The “No Passport Required” sign was certainly true. I felt like I had traveled hours to a Bahamian town instead of stepping through a resort door.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is definitely one of the biggest draws of the Margaritaville Resort. In fact, during check-in I told the hostess that I no longer felt like I was in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and she said “Yes! That’s exactly what we want you to feel – like you’re right at the beach!” You got that one right for sure, Margaritaville!
Don’t get me wrong. I love the mountains and you likely do too if you’re thinking of vacationing in the Great Smoky Mountains, but I’m definitely a beach girl and the fact that I can have both on the same vacation? Yes please!
I mean, look at this lobby!
The tones and hues of the aquatic blues and greens are carried throughout the entire resort, right into the room.
Room Size
That leads me to my next favorite thing about the Gatlinburg Margaritaville Resort… amazing rooms! We stayed in a Double Queen room, which is actually the most affordable option at the resort and the room was HUGE!
Let’s start with the bathroom that featured a soaking tub, standalone rain shower, and huge vanity with the best lighting for instagram selfies [yes, I totally took advantage]!
Then within the room there are two beautifully decorated, and even more comfortable than they are lovely, Queen beds, as well as a small dining table. There’s plenty of storage with drawers under the huge LCD TV and small walk-in closet.
One of our favorite ways to save money on vacations is to bring snacks and easy foods for breakfast and this room featured a sink in the small kitchenette as well as a refrigerator and microwave.
This is really one of the nicest and largest hotel rooms we’ve stayed in in awhile, especially considering it’s the most affordable in the entire resort!
Amenities
The amenities offered in the Margaritaville Resort in Gatlinburg are numerous. A few that are definitely note-worthy are the pools! They have an indoor pool, outdoor pool with large slide, a splash area for little ones, and a deluxe hot tub.
They also have a 24-Hour Fitness Room that hubby took advantage of in the morning. They offer on-site laundry and also have a Trolley Stop right at the resort, which is important when you’re using the inexpensive transportation in Gatlinburg.
You’ll also find a full-service spa, the St. Somewhere Spa, right outside the main resort doors. I didn’t have a chance to visit the spa on this visit, but I’m totally putting it on my To-Do list for next time!
There are also a few restaurants onsite including the Changes in Latitudes Lobby Bar, LandShark Bar & Grill, Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions, and In-Room Dining.
We had dinner right outside the hotel at a Parrothead favorite, the Landshark Bar & Grill.
You’ll also find the brand new Ole Red Bar and Grill, which is Blake Shelton’s newest restaurant in Gatlinburg, right outside the doors of the resort.
Location
The Margaritaville Resort is in the heart of the tiny, bustling mountain town of Gatlinburg. I feel like it’s really in the BEST location in the city because you’re within walking distance to Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and so many great restaurants.
Service
Lastly, the service we received during our visit from the Margaritaville Resort staff was exceptional. Check-in was a breeze and even though I’m definitely familiar with the area I asked about kid-friendly dinner options within walking distance and received great advice from the hostess.
I also loved that every time we came into the resort, or even met a staff member in the hallway, they always smiled and spoke to our family. This is so huge when you’re visiting a resort… it really makes you feel like home away from home.
If you’re planning a visit to the Smoky Mountains soon, I’d definitely recommend putting a stay at the Margaritaville Resort in Gatlinburg at the top of your list for all the reasons I’ve shared above. They are definitely the reason we’re already ready to return as soon as possible too!
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