3755 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, United States | (888) 635-3814
Convenient location near Dollywood and The Dixie Stampede
Three pools, kiddy pool and hot tubs
Large rooms, some with mountain views
Some rooms have a fireplace and whirlpool tub
On trolley route
Free hot breakfast
Free parking and free Wi-Fi
On a busy street
Some rooms need updates and better cleaning
Some smoking rooms (pro for some)
No bar/restaurant
No fitness center
Breakfast can be crowded
This average Best Western has three pools and a convenient location working in its favor. It's got an ideal spot on the parkway in Pigeon Forge for tourists visiting the area's attractions, especially those interested in Dollywood and The Dixie Stampede, both of which are minutes away. There is a free hot breakfast but no restaurant or bar on-site, though there are other dining options within walking distance. The rooms are large, especially for this price range, but bland and in need of some updates. There are three different small pools to choose from -- especially popular with families -- and budget travelers can stretch their dollar with the added freebies like parking and HBO. Up the Parkway, The Inn On The River has similar amenities along with river views for the same rates.
Scene
An affordable mix of contemporary and bland big chain, with three pools and budget-oriented guests
This hotel has been in business since 1969, but the style is that of a generic, budget-friendly chain -- which this is. Floor-to-ceiling windows on the exterior are a welcome addition, brightening up the large indoor pool space and the small lobby. The attractive wooden front desk dominates the lobby, and there are a few plants, a chandelier, and decorative wall sconces adding warmth. The three pools never get too busy, so there's no bad time for a dip. The breakfast room, however, can get crowded in the mornings, and some guests complain of long waits for food.
Location
On the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, near Dollywood and the Smoky Mountains
A gateway town to the Great Smoky Mountains area's scenic views and outdoor activities, Pigeon Forge is home to the famed Dollywood theme park. The Best Western Plaza Inn is right on the busy Parkway that runs through town, providing easy access to all the regional attractions, especially The Dixie Stampede, which is just next door, and the Dollywood theme park, which is only two miles away. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance is less than a 20-minute drive away, in nearby Gatlinburg.
Rooms
Large, if dated, with microwaves and mini-fridges, and some with balconies
The rooms are arranged in different buildings adjacent to the three pools, some with outdoor entry from a parking lot and others with entry from the indoor pool area. Each of the 201 rooms is large, and some are equipped for guests with mobility or accessibility concerns. The suites have interior hallway entries, fireplaces, small balconies, and in-room whirlpool tubs. All the rooms have wall-to-wall carpet and the basic decor of a budget-friendly chain -- some rooms have slight country character, while others simply have bland, outdated wooden furniture. Each room has a flat-screen TV with free HBO, microwave, mini-fridge, and coffeemaker.
Features
Three kid-friendly pools and free breakfast
Two outdoor pools have ample sunbathing areas and attached kids' pools; the front pool also has a man-made waterfall and a hot tub, while the rear outdoor pool has a second kids' pool with an interactive water feature, as well as an open-air gazebo with a fireplace. The indoor pool is housed in a large, bright space with vaulted ceilings and skylights, covering a sizable lounge area, too. It also has waterfall features and a small integrated whirlpool. The hotel's free breakfast has hot options like waffles, biscuits, and gravy, served in a cheery room that has a few extra tables on an outdoor patio. Other notable free features include Wi-Fi and on-site parking.