The Great Smoky Mountains offer a variety of kid-friendly accommodations and activities that cater to families. From cozy cabins with game rooms to sprawling resorts with water parks, the Smoky Mountains region has something for every family. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top kid-friendly places to stay in the Smoky Mountains, along with exciting family-friendly activities and hiking trails that are perfect for children.
Top Kid-Friendly Accommodations
1. Eagle’s Ridge – Pigeon Forge
Eagle’s Ridge offers a range of cabins with 1-9 bedrooms, perfect for families of all sizes. These cabins come equipped with game rooms, shuffleboard, wrap-around porches, complimentary WiFi, and pool tables. Some cabins even have theater rooms and access to swimming pools.
2. Wilderness at the Smokies Hotel & Waterpark Resort – Sevierville
The Wilderness at the Smokies Hotel & Waterpark Resort is a true family-friendly destination. It features Tennessee’s largest indoor waterpark, complete with a lazy river, tube slides, and a wave pool. The resort also includes an adventure center with laser tag, a ropes course, and miniature golf.
3. Dollywood DreamMore Resort & Spa – Pigeon Forge
The Dollywood DreamMore Resort & Spa offers spacious rooms, a luxury spa, and a dedicated kids’ area with a splash park, arcade, and playground. The resort also provides priority access to the nearby Dollywood theme park.
4. Riverstone Resort & Spa – Pigeon Forge
Riverstone Resort & Spa features suites ranging from 600 to 1,400 square feet, each with an upscale kitchen, dining room, stone fireplace, and private balcony. The resort boasts an outdoor lazy river, playground, and indoor pool, making it a great choice for families.
5. The Resort At Governor’s Crossing – Pigeon Forge
The Resort At Governor’s Crossing includes an indoor water park with a toddler splash zone and high-speed slides. The resort is conveniently located near Dollywood and Tanger Outlets, offering easy access to popular attractions.
Family-Friendly Activities
1. Dollywood – Pigeon Forge
Dollywood is a must-visit destination for families in the Smoky Mountains. This theme park offers thrilling rides, water slides, and family-friendly attractions like Wildwood Grove and Splash Country.
2. Titanic Museum Attraction – Pigeon Forge
The Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge features interactive exhibits and artifacts from the famous ship, including a replica of the Grand Staircase. It’s an educational and engaging experience for children and adults alike.
3. Tennessee Museum of Aviation – Sevierville
The Tennessee Museum of Aviation in Sevierville showcases military and aviation artifacts, including aircraft models and a 52-foot “Wave Wall” that traces the history of aviation.
4. SkyLand Ranch – Sevierville
SkyLand Ranch in Sevierville offers a mountain coaster, miniature animals, and live entertainment, providing a fun and unique experience for families.
Hiking Trails for Kids
1. Laurel Falls Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Laurel Falls Trail is a 2.5-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall, making it a great option for young children.
2. Grotto Falls Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Grotto Falls Trail is a 2.6-mile roundtrip hike that takes you to a waterfall, and it’s generally less crowded than the Laurel Falls Trail.
3. Spruce Fir Nature Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Spruce Fir Nature Trail is a short, mossy trail that is suitable for small children, offering a peaceful and easy hike.
Tips and Recommendations
- Consider staying in Gatlinburg, as it is centrally located and provides easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and various attractions.
- Renting a cabin with amenities like arcade games and hot tubs can be a great option for families.
- Visit Cades Cove, a historic area within the national park, for its open spaces and potential bear sightings.
- Avoid visiting during holidays to minimize crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
The Great Smoky Mountains offer a wealth of kid-friendly accommodations and activities, making it an ideal destination for families. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a resort with water parks, or exciting outdoor adventures, the Smoky Mountains region has something to suit every family’s needs.
Reference:
– Dollywood
– Titanic Museum Attraction
– Tennessee Museum of Aviation
– SkyLand Ranch
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park