The Smoky Mountains is hands down one of my favorite spots in the entire world. The Smokies are a stones throw from campus life at the University of Tennessee, where I spent the best four years. I can’t even begin to tell y’all how many wonderful memories I have hiking these trails, sleeping under the stars and exploring quaint & quirky Gatlinburg nearby.
Even before we had children, Patrick and I looked forward to the day we would bring our kids to the majestic Smoky Mountains. We found ourselves nearby in Knoxville earlier this summer and added onto our trip with a 2-night stay nestled in the mountains at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort. I’m sharing a peek into our a trip, a little review on the resort & what makes it oh-so-family-friendly too. More below!
Steps from the Smokies
Just a few minutes drive from Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Westgate is the perfect retreat to relax, dine & unwind after an outdoor adventure. This Gatlinburg resort is tucked away from the town’s hustle and bustle – nestled in the mountains with rustic-chic cabin-like rooms offering various views of the surrounding splendor.
Room to Sprawl Out
We stayed in a One-Bedroom Villa at the top of the property boasting balcony views that can’t be beat. Our accommodations came equipped with a full kitchen, (always thankful for a dishwasher when traveling with a baby) a dining room, spacious living area and massive en-suite bath.
outfit details: mother jeans // tevas // loveshackfancy top
Did I mention our favorite thing about Westgate was the views!? We spent so much time hanging out together on Adirondack chairs soaking in the sights. The evening fire each night was such a treat – especially for our s’mores loving Annie.
Best Places to Play at the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort
Staying somewhere that is especially accommodating to small children can make a world of a difference in your vacation. Seeing Westgate’s playground for the first time quickly elicited a squeal from Annie. It was the perfect place for her to run off that after dinner energy.
Westgate’s activities are endless, with multiple swimming pools, mini golf, and even zip lining. Their star attraction, however, is Wild Bear Falls, a 66,000 square foot indoor water park – encouraging guests to make a splash no matter the weather.
We spent the morning at the water park while Patrick had to catch up on work. It was my first time to do anything related with both kids all by myself. Thanks to the life guards and both children-friendly play areas – we had an amazing time!!
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort On Site Dining
Your room may come with a full eat-in kitchen, but that doesn’t mean you have to cook! Southern Comfort is the star of the show, offering home-cooked meals like your mama makes. The atmosphere is both luxe & laid back at the same time and conveniently located off of the hotel lobby.
There’s also Roaring Fork, a water park snack bar, a poolside bar on top of the mountain and a lounge in the lobby with specialty cocktails that taste even sweeter after a day in the Smokies.
Speaking of the Smokies!
You can’t come all the way to Westgate without seeing the nearby national park. There is something here for every age & skill level. We knew we wouldn’t be climbing to the peak at Chimney Tops (one of our favorite trails) with two little children in tow but we still had an adventurous afternoon.
Driving the loop at Cades Cove is probably the most relaxing way to see the Smokies. You’ll see mountain views, wildflowers and may even spot a black bear or two! If you want to get out on foot and explore, we love Abrams Falls trail, Alum Cave Trail (takes you up to LeConte) and Laurel Falls Trail.
Laurel Falls is a 2.6 miles hike and a great one for little children – as it is one of the most accessible trails in the entire park.
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Have you ever been to the Great Smoky Mountains?! If not, what is your favorite National Park to explore!?
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Big thank you to Westgate Resorts for hosting us during our stay in the Smokies. It was such a treat to share this special spot with our children. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Lone Star Looking Glass possible.
