Mountain House Inn

The hotel's most notable feature is its prime location, offering walking distance to downtown Gatlinburg and its many attractions, making it an excellent value for money for many visitors. It serves as a practical base for sightseers and budget-conscious travelers who prioritize accessibility over luxury. While some guests appreciate the overall cleanliness and comfortable accommodations, others note the property's dated appearance and inconsistent upkeep. The staff generally receives praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing positively to the guest experience. This hotel is particularly well-suited for families and couples looking for an affordable and convenient stay to explore the area. To make the most of your visit, guests suggest being prepared for an older property and taking advantage of the free parking and proximity to the main strip, which can save time and money on transportation.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers several practical amenities, though their condition and functionality vary. Guests have access to pools, with some finding them clean and enjoyable, while others noted issues such as green algae or a general need for maintenance. Free Wi-Fi is available, but many guests reported it to be slow or unreliable, impacting their ability to stay connected. Rooms are equipped with a refrigerator and microwave, which are appreciated for convenience. A coffee maker is also provided in rooms, though some guests mentioned a lack of coffee pots or condiments. Parking is a significant advantage, being free and conveniently located right outside the rooms for many guests, which is highly valued given the area's parking challenges.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Many guests found their rooms to be clean and the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep. However, a significant number of reviews highlighted concerns, including reports of roaches and bed bugs by some guests, as well as mold in bathrooms and stains on sheets and carpets. Some rooms were described as having a musty smell or cigarette odors. The bathrooms are often noted as small, with some having very low toilets, broken fixtures, or slow drains. While some rooms featured a welcome heated floor in the vanity area, the overall room condition is consistently described as dated and in need of updates, with issues like gaps under doors, poor lighting, and worn furnishings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is its strongest asset, consistently praised by guests. It is within easy walking distance to the main strip and numerous attractions in downtown Gatlinburg, including Anakeesta, the aquarium, and the convention center. This proximity allows guests to explore the area without needing a car, saving on parking fees and avoiding traffic. The availability of free parking directly at the hotel is a major convenience, with many guests appreciating the ability to park right outside their room. Some visitors also noted useful shortcuts to bypass heavy traffic on the main parkway, further enhancing the accessibility and convenience of the location for exploring the wider area.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Many guests highlighted positive interactions, describing staff members as going "above and beyond" to assist with requests, such as accommodating room changes or helping with car issues. The check-in process is often described as quick and easy, though some guests reported arriving to find the office closed and their room keys taped to the door, which caused some initial concern. While staff are generally attentive, some reviews mentioned inconsistent availability of front desk personnel, particularly after hours. Housekeeping service is not daily; guests need to request fresh towels or supplies from the front desk.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several unique aspects of the hotel experience. The property is scheduled for a major renovation starting June 2025, which may address some of the noted issues with outdated rooms. A notable and frequent occurrence is the presence of bears on the property, especially in the parking lot at night, prompting advice not to leave food in vehicles. Some guests experienced hot water issues, ranging from lukewarm temperatures to inconsistent pressure, while others reported scalding water. In-room technology can be inconsistent, with some guests noting TVs that did not work or Wi-Fi that was very slow. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy for certain rooms, catering to guests traveling with animals.