The Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has lots of great amenities for families as they enjoy time together and exploring the fun town of Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
A complimentary stay was given to us so we could review the hotel. All opinions are those of the author.
If you’re looking for a central place to stay when you visit the Smoky Mountains that has a lot of great amenities that help your dollar stretch pretty far, then look no further than the Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The hotel is centrally located amidst all the great attractions in Pigeon Forge, has several family-friendly amenities, and has staff that truly go the extra mile to make you feel at home.
The Inn on the River
The Inn on the River is exactly like it says, right on the Little Pigeon River. We had a riverfront view from our room, complete with chairs outside so we could sit and watch the calming river run by. We even saw a Blue Heron fishing for dinner on our first night there. Plus, we could see the Great Smoky Mountain Sky Wheel and were within walking distance to several attractions and restaurants.
In fact, our first night there, we walked across the street to try out Magiquest and then walked over to Five Guys for burgers and fries for dinner. It was really nice not to have to drive since we had just come from Greenville. There are several restaurants that you can walk to as well as shows and other entertainment. The Inn lists lots of those places on their website. Pigeon Forge is only a three-hour drive but I’m not a big fan of sitting in the car for long so this was perfect for us.
We explored several attractions during our visit and nothing was more than a six-minute drive. It was truly an ideal location. The 128 rooms have all been recently renovated and were clean and comfortable. Each room also has a customized Alexa device, which my kids endlessly used to request Dolly Parton songs and ask what cats sounded like, a coffee maker, a mini-fridge, and a microwave.
So Many Amenities at Inn on the River
The Pools
Let’s start with what kids care about: the pool. The Inn on the River has both an indoor heated pool with jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. We traveled there in January so we didn’t use the outdoor pool but I did need to tear my kids away from the indoor pool because they loved it. The water is heated and there are pool toys and goggles available. The room is so nice and warm, too, which felt amazing after being outside in the chilly air most of the days we were in Pigeon Forge. The hot tub is so relaxing as well. Each night we spent at the Inn included a pre-bedtime swim, which was just a great way to wind down the busy days.
Free Breakfast
The Inn on the River also provides free breakfast each morning and has an assortment of both hot and cold offerings like eggs, sausage, biscuits, fruit, waffles, and oatmeal. There is a beautiful sunroom that you can choose to eat your breakfast in that overlooks the river. It’s really nice and calming and we loved eating out there. Fill up on that breakfast so you can tackle all your fun plans while in the Smokies.
Free Hot Drinks and Popcorn
Additionally, the Inn offers free hot chocolate, coffee, and tea all day long. I cannot even count how many times we had hot chocolate during our visit. It was a lot. They also offer free popcorn from 7 am – 10 pm every night. My kids were in heaven.
One thing that we didn’t make use of that I completely forgot about was the outdoor fire pit. It’s right on the river but I forgot because the kids wanted to use the pool at night. Next time!
Gifts for Kids
When we checked in, the hotel staff let each of my kids pick a little gift, which included a small toy. So cute and personable. Check-in was fast and the staff was very kind and helpful, letting us know when breakfast was, how late the pool was open, and also that they had free books and games available for guests to make use of while they enjoyed their stay. The lobby is very inviting as well, with comfortable couches to relax on in front of the fireplace.
Honest Mom Review of the Inn on the River
There are tons of choices of places to stay in Pigeon Forge and it’s hard to know which one is right for your family. I was impressed with the Inn on the River because firstly, their staff was very kind, helpful, and welcoming. Everyone from the front desk clerk and manager to the employees cleaning the tables and replenishing food during breakfast to those sweeping the floors of the hallways was so nice.
Secondly, the location was perfect. I didn’t need to travel much at all once we arrived to the hotel and it was easy to get around Pigeon Forge both by car and foot. And lastly, I don’t think it gets much better for kids on vacation to have a pool all year round. I’m a lot more lenient with my kids when it comes to their bedtimes when we are traveling and was happy to have them enjoy swimming for a couple later-than-usual nights. The hot chocolate was awesome, too, and a free breakfast is so helpful when traveling to save on meal costs.
I also really loved the location right next to the river. It was chilly when we went but I could open the curtains and watch the river, which I really enjoyed. Anything close to nature like that is a win for me.
Making Your Reservation
Be sure to sign up for their email newsletters and check their Specials page before you book as they offer some packages that may be of interest. All active duty military get 10% off their stays.
Like any hotel, costs vary depending on the season and room type. During the slower winter season, you can get a riverside room with two queen beds for around $159/night. That same room in the busiest months of July and October is around $285/night and in December, is about $259/night. If you have AAA or AARP, that will knock the price down about 10%.
You can book a room online on the Inn on the River website.
For more things to do in Pigeon Forge, see our Guide to Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg.
Inn on the River
2492 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TNÂ