Name: Gatlinburg River Inn
Address: 324 Hemlock Street, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, United States of America, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, US
Price range: $70–$245 per night
Rating: 8.23

What guests think

Across reviews, Gatlinburg River Inn is praised for its convenient location near downtown yet slightly removed from the bustle, with relaxing riverfront balconies, offering decent value and easy access on foot or by the nearby trolley.

Rooms range from recently refreshed to dated, with small bathrooms, limited storage, and occasional road noise; TVs and Wi-Fi are basic and sometimes unreliable. Staff are frequently described as friendly and helpful, though several guests reported rude interactions or surprise fees. Amenities draw mixed feedback: the riverfront fire pits and seating are popular, but recurring elevator outages, occasional pool or hot-tub issues, and tight parking are common complaints; the free breakfast is convenient yet inconsistent. Overall, expect a simple, scenic stay with strong location value and variable maintenance.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Outdoor riverfront fire pits and seating are well liked. Recurring elevator outages, occasional pool or hot-tub closures/cleanliness issues, and tight or shared parking are common complaints.

Related guest reviews

10

Glenn

Apr 25, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The picture of the hotel did not match the one online. Noisy being right next to main rd. Pool and hot tub needed to be cleaned and pool would have been nice if heated

10

Stephany

May 3, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

We loved our stay. The only problem was parking due to a near by restaurant using hotel parking. Other than that it was very clean, quiet, and loved the peaceful view or sound of the river. Nice firepit area to smoke and relax near the hotel. Id stay again for sure!!

2

Christina

Mar 19, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Pool wasn’t open due to construction. Jacuzzi went out of service due to a part needing to be replaced. Rooms were not clean. Restroom had a leak/ mildew stain on ceiling. Room service wasn’t room service they didn’t clean the room or make beds.

10

Neena

May 17, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Rooms were updated no Carpet, which was very nice soap and shampoo and bath gel dispensers in the shower. We had a balcony which looked out to the river creek it was so pretty . Breakfast was good waffles sausage Pattie’s biscuits, gravy, eggs, yogurt, Elevator was not working We just use the ramp to take our luggage to our rooms The hot tub the first night was just lukewarm water. It was not working correctly. We reported it and they came and fixed it the next day. You can walk everywhere from the hotel, or you can take the trolley that picks you up right in front of the hotel. Some of the areas outside around the pool needs some updating or painting other than that it was still nice Would definitely stay again

10

Ashley

Aug 9, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

This was the cheapest property nearby to everything that seemed clean and safe. Everything was perfect. No issues. There are Sooo many bears in the area but we definitely felt safe. Would definitely stay here again. Breakfast was good. Clean. Hot tub and pool were clean. Great cheap vacation on a budget.

6

Beata

Aug 13, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

The hotel is in a great location but with the elevator being out of service for the whole stay it made getting to and from the room very difficult especially with a handicapped guest. Would not have booked had I known. Front staff at breakfast couldn't be any less interested in the guests, was stuck on his phone the whole time and was very difficult to talk to and get questions answered. Also found if a bit disturbing that we were forced to watch news about wars, bombing and people dying while eating breakfast. When we asked the very unhelpful front desk person to change the channel he informed us that it is "hotel policy" to keep the TV on that channel. Won't stay there again.

6

Terri

Apr 25, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The property is a bit run down. Hot tub did not work. The concrete ramp running up to rooms is crumbling looks like a health hazard. Tv was not good. Picture fuzzy hardly any channels.

6

James

Jan 26, 2025

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Stayed 2 nights

Nice older property- the hot tub was not hot- way too cold

10

Carla

May 4, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

We love staying at this quiet little hotel. Great hot tub and close enough to walk around.

4

michelle

Jun 14, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Pros: location close to most attractions. Clean, comfortable rooms. Breakfast included. Cons: young man at front desk was rude and not accommodating. The elevator was broken so lots of steps to carry your luggage up, pool and hot tub looked dirty. Until the elevator is fixed I would NOT recommend this hotel.

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Cleanliness

Many guests report clean rooms, but complaints recur about dirty or sticky floors, mildew or musty odors, smoke smells, and stained linens; some common areas look worn.

Related guest reviews

8

Suzanne

Oct 15, 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

Staff were very friendly and helpful. We had a balcony which looked out on the river in front of the hotel, which was quite pleasant. It is convenient to downtown Gatlinburg by foot or by trolley. Parking at the hotel is also convenient. While it takes a lot to keep up a hotel, I have to say that the floors inside the room were very dirty. The other room surfaces were all clean, along with the bedding and towels.

2

Connie

Mar 11, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Our hotel room was not very clean and it smelled like a dirty dog. The blankets on the bed was old and stained. Is it too much to ask for a clean room and electrical plugs that are not worn out? I could not wait to leave and very disappointed.

2

Christyn

Aug 11, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The hotel was old the rooms smelt and the door to the balcony didnt close on neither rooms i had. The hallway, stairs and elevators smelt like pee. The tvs were old and blurry. Gorgeous view but couldnt enjoy it because the balcony was dirty. I wouldnt recommend to anyone. If everything wasnt booked we would of changed our hotel and let the money go as a lost.

4

Kelly

Oct 1, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The photos online make this establishment look like a newly renovated hotel. Fact of the matter is this is a motel style facility and our room had water damage on the floor boards. The bathroom is incredibly small. And I was underwhelmed by the ambiance. There were many spiders (alive & dead) on the walls. The outdoor patio can use some serious attention. The bathrooms were clean and the bedding was clean. But to say I was comfortable would be a lie.

4

Cartie

Apr 8, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The room wasn’t super clean. The couch was very stained. Couldn’t even use the balcony because the door was broken. Next day bees and wasps galore.

8

Crystal

Jun 10, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Expedia came through in a pinch with rates for Gatlinburg River Inn for my husband and my trip. We had booked another hotel, but when we arrived, it was nothing like the photos and there was construction all around. River Inn was the most like its photos that we found before booking. The view was gorgeous and we enjoyed sitting on the balcony first thing in the mornings and last thing in the evenings. The staff was very kind and friendly. However, it was impossible to get them on the room phone. I had to call from my cell to get a hold of anyone. When we arrived, our cooler had leaked water on the floor and I wiped it up with a towel. The towel was so dark and dirty, it was like they hadn't mopped the room in weeks. We're both already very conscientious of things like this and always walk around with socks or shoes on, but I was not expecting it to be so dirty. Some of the stairs on the way up to the room have chips of cement missing and the metal along the front to "brace" them can easily get caught on your shoe and you will trip. Otherwise, it was a great time and we would stay at the Gatlinburg River Inn again.

4

Luis

Mar 2, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

It was a convenient location, but the room we got smelled like cigarets the whole time we stayed there, the smell even stayed on our clothes after we left, the pillows and sheets smelled like smoke as well and the smell wouldn’t go away, even though we got a non smoking room.

2

Joshua

Feb 18, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Upon arrival to our room we discovered red stains on the bed sheets. I brought this up to staff and they gave us new blankets. Then when I went to use the restroom I discovered dirty toilet paper, which had red stains on it still attached to the role by the toilet. The shower had still water in it. Overall the room was very run down. The only plus was it was right by a trolley stop.

4

Bruce

May 4, 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

Terrible bed, floors wore out and damaged, breakfast empty by 830 in the morning. Bathroom moldy. Not clean.

4

Ana

Nov 29, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The shower tub was not properly cleaned. There were hairs all over ( not ours)!

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Rooms

Balconies with relaxing river views are a highlight, and some rooms feel refreshed. Bathrooms are small, storage is limited (often no closet), decor and TVs can be dated, road noise is noted, and Wi-Fi reliability varies.

Related guest reviews

6

John

Sep 30, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Hotel was fine.... comfort, mostly clean, breakfast. Would be fine for anyone. Just wanted something since our regular hotel was full. Wife said air conditioner was not cold enough - but it didn't bother me. Street is noisy until about 10pm - other then that, it was quite during the night. Ok view to the river (was low during our visit). NOW the part it didnt like - dunno who to blame.... Hotel charged me $33 for so.e kind of "fee" on my credit card after I checked out. Dunno if this is something new or I didn't read the fine print..... still not happy. Anyways, it was an ok place, i will just wait for my regular hotel.

8

Amy

Jul 8, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Pictures were not recent. The lobby could use some updated paint, the hall to the elevator was dirty & smelled bad, but once in the room it was completely different. The room was clean & updated. Had an electric fireplace, large room with couch, balcony overlooking the river. I was very pleased with room!

4

Mike

Jun 23, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Old, bad TV.

10

Jesse

Apr 24, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The balcony over the river was nice. The sound was amazing. The fridge was huge. The heater on the bathroom was nice. There was a baking dog in one room. I know it's not the hotels fault, but one should know there may be pets in this motel. The bed was pretty good, not fantastic. Great location. It was easy to walk to Annakeesta, and restaurants, and shops. A shirt drive to everywhere.

8

Adam

Nov 26, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Hotel is older but, you can't beat the view or the location. It's a 10 minute walk right into Gatlinburg.

6

Sandra

Sep 1, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Rooms need to be updated. Floor was peeling in several places. No iron and ironing board. Would like to see a shower in the rooms. The staff was very friendly and helpful (except for the lady doing the breakfast area).

8

Laura

Aug 1, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Front desk always very friendly, room was clean and modern. No closet, only one oddly located hook for hanging clothing. The breakfast was pretty standard and they did not run out but there wasn't enough seating. Interior hallway around the elevator area had large stains on the carpet. The exterior looked worn and tired. The ceiling of the patio was dirty and perhaps moldy. Overall, it might actually be a 3 but the room was good and the exterior condition was probably fitting for the price.

6

Lisa

Sep 27, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The hotel is in a decent location. Easy check in. The rooms are really dated and beds and pillows were not very good. Room was clean but there were some areas of neglect by the windows and in bath area. Breakfast was fine with waffle maker, eggs, very salty sausage, yogurts and toast. There were cereal options. Few pieces of fruit were out. It was nice having a small balcony and listening to the creek but I couldn’t relax as there was so much cigarette smoke from others around us. We had to leave one day early due to a road being closed down and the hurricane so we could get back home to ATL. It would have been nice to be offered a little discount or something on another visit as our trip had to be cut short due to weather/ safety concerns. With all this being said I would stay here again.

6

Nathan

Mar 5, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The room had unfinished concrete ceiling (white paint isn’t finished) that made the room feel cold and damp uninviting. The shower was missing part of the assembly that would shut off one of the shower heads so you could have pressure to shower. The door to the balcony was missing the weather strip so light and noise was coming in. The bed and pillows were comfortable but the room was so clammy feeling with not extra blankets.

8

William

Oct 11, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Room was great but a lot of street noise.

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Service

Many highlight friendly, helpful staff and smooth check-in. Others cite rude or unresponsive front-desk interactions, undisclosed fees, or requests not addressed.

Related guest reviews

10

karen

Dec 14, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The staff was very helpful and kind as we were 1st timers in Gatlinburg! We will definitely be back!

4

Dana and David

Sep 21, 2024

·

Stayed 5 nights

Front desk guy was not friendly (Mario) was annoyed that I tried to check in at 3:30 and told me you know check- in is at 4!!! Then made me come back the parking lot was empty! I think he didn’t wanna be bothered. Then when I came back at 4 there was a long line to check in . One lady was nice and friendly and the other one who checked me in was rude!!! She also worked Monday evening and was rude again! This was on September 16th at 8:45 pm. My husband stayed at the hotel one day when I took my son to Dollywood and when I got back he even said that the staff here is miserable and not friendly at all!!! We do have to say that the cleaning lady was very nice and helpful with clean towels each day as we were there 5 nights. We probably would not stay here again due to the fact that the front office staff was so rude!

8

Angela

Jul 1, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The day shift desk guy is rude but the night shift woman Niki was fabulous

10

Kimberly

Nov 21, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The balcony was definitely a plus! Room was clean with plenty of towels etc provided. Staff were very accommodating. Breakfast was excellent! Tastes great and good variety. I would definitely recommend to others.

6

Bill

Feb 6, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Overall our stay was good. When we asked for an extra blanket for room we were told they didn’t have any, that they are out. This is February and there are only two other families staying here. When we left for the day we were walking by their laundry room and there was piles of fresh clean blankets. Just makes you feel unwelcomed.

10

Teresa

Dec 25, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Staci and Megan were both very friendly and helpful.

10

Philip

May 30, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

the staff were above amazing as there were some issues with a Expedia making changes to the reservation( my screw up). First Hotel I have been to that has hammocks and outdoor games, as well as some outdoor grills to enjoy the outdoors. some nice restaurants nearby to dine at. mountain coaster is within walking distance of the hotel as well.

10

Brenda

Aug 4, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Staff answered all my off the wall questions with friendliness. It was our second stay! We enjoy the location!

2

Miranda

Sep 26, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff are not friendly. Didnt inquire how we were doing that day, no small talk or recommendations for things to do in the town. Bathroom is full of mildew, sink is not clean, foundation from previous guest on toilet paper holder and bathtub stained with some black stuff on bottom. Thank goodness I brought my own pillows and blanket because who knows if they were changed. Air conditioning locked at 71 even though it reached almost 90 in the afternoon of our stay. So hot we couldnt sleep through the night. Tried to tell them and ask for partial refund due to us not sleeping and was met with attitude. Will not recommend this hotel to anyone, ever. So embarrassed i chose this for my partners 30th birthday stay. They must pay people to write the postive reviews online because i give this hotel a 1/10 and that is simply because of the river view.

10

Martin

Apr 27, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Niki at the front desk was great and took great care of us.

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Location

Convenient, walkable spot near downtown with a trolley stop nearby, and a quieter setting than the main strip. The riverfront outlook adds a pleasant, scenic vibe.

Related guest reviews

10

Scott

Nov 1, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great view of the river, close to the main strip of gatlinburg but far enough away from the bustle and traffic

8

Stafford

Jul 19, 2024

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Stayed 1 night

I love this spot because it is quiet but an easy walk to the commercial areas. Parking is very easy too. I always stay here.

8

Tecy

Sep 14, 2024

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Stayed 4 nights

While the property isn't the fanciest, the rooms are clean and the location was perfect for us. The river view rooms do face the street so you will hear traffic during the day but it quiets down significantly at night. The Motel is right at the beginning of Gatlingburg shortly after the first traffic light. Even though its at the edge of town, it was a great spot for us to be able to walk the entirety of Gatlinburg center and not have to worry about finding a parking spot. If you walk straight down it takes about 30 minutes to get to Crockett's breakfast at the opposite end of Gatlinburg. Being just north of the center of town its a little less chaotic and yet still allows for easy access to all the shops.

8

Caroline

May 2, 2024

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Stayed 2 nights

Lovely view of the river. Trolley stop right outside the hotel. Easy walking to dining options.

10

Brittany

Nov 24, 2025

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Stayed 1 night

We normally shy away from staying near Gatlinburg because of congestion, but this hotel was the perfect balance. Close enough for walking distance to many things yet not directly on the strip to have the privacy.

10

James

Aug 26, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great option outside of the congestion yet walkable. Convenient trolley stop if you don’t want to walk. Nice accommodations. Friendly staff. Nice continental breakfast!

8

Jodi

Mar 28, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

This location is great. Very easy access to shopping, sightseeing, and restaurants.

8

Jake

Sep 15, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

It’s a 15 or 25 minute walk to the Main Street, which is nice because there is less noise here. The hotel itself looks dated but my room was recently remodeled and looked and felt nice/comfortable. Covered parking was a bonus. The river view is alright; alright because the river itself is alright. Price was very affordable.

10

Angela

Jul 30, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great location!! Near trolly stop, great restaurants and Hillbilly Golf and Moonshine Coaster. Right on the river! So relaxing! Only thing I would change is to add a regular sitting chair to the room!

10

Carolyn

Sep 21, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

We stayed at this hotel in May and again in September. It’s not a fancy hotel, but we don’t look for fancy. Location is perfect as you can easily walk into downtown Gatlinburg and catch the free trolley right across from the hotel. We loved sitting along the river by the fire pits enjoying cocktails and planning our evening. The balconies don’t have tables, but we remembered that and brought our own collapsible table with us on this trip. The rooms (at least the two rooms we have stayed in) don’t have closets, but we didn’t have things to hang up so it didn’t matter to us. Good bang for your buck.

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Dining

Complimentary hot breakfast is a plus, but quality, variety, and restocking are inconsistent; seating can be limited at busy times.

Related guest reviews

8

Robbin

Jun 21, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The room was clean and beds were comfortable. The door to the balcony was busted at the bottom. I was worried about insects or snakes coming under the door since we were on the river. Staff were helpful and friendly. Breakfast was good. Pool wasn’t the cleanest. Lots of sand in the bottom.

8

Colleen

May 30, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Overall the my experience was good. Nice view. TV kept going out. Had to have fixed. Pool and Hot Tub was nice. Breakfast was basic continental. Very loud neighbors shared connecting doors.

8

Virginia

Aug 26, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

The property could use a bit of updating here and there, but was very clean, staff was kind and breakfast was tasty. Especially for the price point, I would stay again.

8

Mon Triumph

Sep 26, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

I liked everything about my stay, but the breakfast. Same every morning and breakfast was from 7-10, by 8am they were out of items, and then what was put out wasn’t up to par.

6

Scott

Jun 12, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Hotel was clean and Ok. Breakfast is blah better off going to a McDonalds or Dennys. After check ot had a surprise charge to my credit card for 8.58 but no mention at check out nor invoice for the funds. It is probably a charge for something stupid but should have been disclosed.

10

Stephanie

Oct 12, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Loved hearing the rushing River from our balcony that overlooked it. Convenient location in the quieter end of gatlinburg, right behind a trolley stop, but trolly was slow so we walked to the action. Breakfast was free and appreciated but could have been healthier ingredients. Would definitely stay there again.

10

Kimberly

Nov 21, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The balcony was definitely a plus! Room was clean with plenty of towels etc provided. Staff were very accommodating. Breakfast was excellent! Tastes great and good variety. I would definitely recommend to others.

8

Jeanette

Jun 11, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Older property but very clean. Location is very close to trolly stop, hillbilly golf and mountain coaster. I would definitely stay again! Free breakfast was ok

10

recoverme

Feb 12, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Was pleasantly surprised at the full breakfast of Belgium waffles, biscuits and gravy, cereal, bagels, toast, sausage and coffee and juices. Super affordable. Quick access to everything downtown. Soothing river view

8

Maxine

Jun 8, 2025

·

Stayed 6 nights

It was nice, staff was very good, beds ok, full breakfast. Pool was only 5ft but husband made do. Hot tub didn't work. Free trolly to gatlinburg.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Month	Average price
January	$73
February	$69
March	$88
April	$100
May	$104
June	$115
July	$119
August	$104
September	$97
October	$152
November	$116
December	$134

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14 $84	15 $112	16 $78	17 $70	18 $149	19 $142
20 $71	21 $83	22 $85	23 $85	24 $123	25 $167	26 $157
27 $72	28 $89	29 $95	30 $82

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $94	2	3 $199
4 $98	5 $86	6 $84	7 $99	8 $83	9 $233	10
11 $98	12 $100	13 $99	14 $99	15 $99	16	17 $245
18 $100	19 $100	20 $100	21 $99	22 $98	23	24 $225
25 $100	26 $98	27 $105	28 $108	29 $106	30 $198	31 $195

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Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

King Deluxe Riverview Balcony

2 Queen Riverview Balcony

King Deluxe Fireplace Riverview Balcony

Connecting Room: 1 King, 2 Queen Beds. Riverview Balcony

2 Queen Premier Fireplace Riverview Balcony

King Premier Fireplace Riverview Balcony

Connecting Room: 4 Queen Beds. Riverview Balcony

Guest reviews

Very good

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about Gatlinburg River Inn

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