Smart Stay

Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

by Megan DuBois
Photo: Courtesy of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
by Megan DuBois
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Photo: Courtesy of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
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Photo: Courtesy of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
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Photo: Courtesy of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
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Photo: Courtesy of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
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Looking for a mountain escape near a national park but don’t want to be cut off completely from the outside world? Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is the spot for a luxury mountain vacation, whether or not you’re part of the resort’s timeshare program. The resort features a fun on-site water park, incredible villas with up to five bedrooms, and easy access to Gatlinburg via trolley. Keep reading for all the details on this beautiful mountain lodge. 

What You Need to Know

The Look of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

It's All in the Details

Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is a quintessential mountain lodge. Walking up to the main building, you’ll see columns of dark wood and a forest green roof, while inside, cozy lounge chairs are lined up near a fireplace for an extra charming welcome. All room styles, from studio villas to five-bedroom villas, have the same woodsy charm with warm lighting, wood accents, nature photography, and leather seating. Studios have a kitchenette, while the larger villas all feature full kitchens — great for big families who want to cook some of their own meals. 

The Vibe at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Think of a mountain summer camp with an epic pool. Expect excited kids to race you to the water park, adults mingling convivially, and evenings spent lounging by firepits overlooking the mountains.  

Who Will Love Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Families with youngsters who love water and a bit of adventure will love the resort. The water park is a lot of fun, but for those who don’t want to spend their entire vacation there, the resort is only a few minutes from downtown Gatlinburg. 

Who Might Not Love Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Travelers looking for a more serene adult vibe might want to look elsewhere for accommodations. While the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort is beautiful, it’s heavily focused on kids and families. 

Best Amenity at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Wild Bear Falls is easily the best amenity at the resort. The sprawling indoor waterpark features dump buckets, splash pads, a lazy river, and fun slides. 

Money Matters

What’s Included at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

A stay at the resort includes free self-parking, access to two outdoor heated pools and hot tubs, a mini-golf course, a fitness center, and picnic areas. 

Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Admission into the onsite water park, Wild Bear Falls Water Park, is an additional cost for hotel guests. Prices fluctuate depending on age and whether you’re part of the Westgate timeshare program or not. Single-day admission for guests is $35 for adults and $25 for kids. Trolley rides to downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are also an additional cost, as are treatments at the on-site spa.

How to Get a Deal at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

Before booking your stay, check out the hotel’s specials tab for the best deals. Some current offers include discounts for AAA members, senior citizens, and military and government officials. 

The Sweet Season

To get some real deals and low crowds, consider visiting in January or February — you’ll be spending most of your time at the indoor waterpark anyhow. The holiday crowds will be gone, and the spring breakers won’t have descended on the city quite yet. 

Getting There

In the Neighborhood of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

The resort is just on the outskirts of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, which is filled with live music venues, breweries, and great eateries. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just a short drive away as well, and there are also mountain coasters, white water rafting, golf, and more in the area. 

Nearest Airport to Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

The closest airport is the McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, which is about an hour away. 

Nearest Public Transportation to Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park

There’s not much public transportation around the hotel. If you need to get somewhere in Gatlinburg, you can drive, or the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle into town. 

The Bottom Line

For a stunning lodge stay just minutes from the excitement of a national park and fun downtown, the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is the ideal stay. 

It's All in the Details