Book Your Stay at The Inn on the River Pigeon Forge
Check availability and get the best rates
1 night • Secure booking • Best price guarantee
Duration
2-4 nights (typical base camp stay for exploring Smokies)
Price
$110-220+ per night depending on room type and season
Best For
Families wanting pools and free breakfast • Couples seeking riverfront romance on a budget • Groups needing central Parkway location
Pro Tip
Request a river-view room on the back side of the building - you'll get peaceful water views and duck watching while avoiding road noise from the busy Parkway.
About The Inn on the River Pigeon Forge
The Inn on the River consistently ranks among Pigeon Forge's top hotel choices. This 128-room riverfront property sits directly on the Little Pigeon River, offering peaceful water views while maintaining prime access to Parkway attractions.
The complimentary hot breakfast justifies the stay alone - featuring eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, plus make-your-own waffles. Children particularly enjoy the nightly popcorn service in the lobby from 7-10 PM.
Both pools maintain year-round heating, providing comfort during chilly mountain evenings. The indoor pool features an oversized hot tub that rivals most resort spas.
Travelers should note this property books quickly during peak season due to its reputation among locals as a hidden gem. The Parkway location allows walking access to The Island and several dinner shows, though guests should expect heavy traffic during busy weekends.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Little Pigeon River Setting
The hotel sits directly on the Little Pigeon River with riverfront balconies, a fire pit, and walking paths. We love watching the ducks and listening to the water flow - it's surprisingly peaceful despite being on the busy Parkway.
Dual Heated Pool Setup
Both the indoor and outdoor pools stay heated year-round, which is rare in this price range. The indoor pool has a huge hot tub that's honestly better than most resort spas, while the outdoor pool overlooks the river.
Free 24-Item Hot Breakfast
This isn't your typical continental breakfast - they serve eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, make-your-own waffles, plus all the usual cereals and pastries. It easily saves $60+ per day for a family of four.
Nightly Popcorn Service
Every evening from 7-10 PM, they serve free popcorn in the lobby along with 24-hour coffee and hot chocolate. It's a small touch that kids absolutely love and makes the hotel feel more like a mountain resort.
Prime Parkway Location
You can walk to The Island, Lumberjack Feud, and Titanic Museum from here. Most other major attractions like Dollywood are just a short drive away, making this an ideal base camp for exploring.
River Recreation Area
The hotel has grills, picnic tables, rocking chairs, and a fire pit right along the river. It's a great spot for morning coffee or evening wind-down without leaving the property.
Know Before You Go
- Request river-side rooms to avoid Parkway road noise - the difference is significant
- Bring swimsuits year-round since both pools stay heated
- No extra fees for breakfast, WiFi, parking, or pool access
- Traffic gets heavy on weekend evenings - plan extra time getting in and out
- Interior corridors and elevators make it accessible for mobility devices
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsThe Inn on the River Pigeon Forge earns high marks for comfortable accommodations and helpful staff. The property offers a quality experience for those exploring the Smoky Mountains.
Best Times to Visit The Inn on the River Pigeon Forge
Book well in advance for peak seasons (summer and fall foliage).
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for The Inn on the River?
The front desk operates 24 hours a day. Nightly popcorn is served from 7:00-10:00 PM, and there's 24-hour coffee available in the lobby.
How much does The Inn on the River cost?
Standard rooms typically range from $110-220 per night depending on season and demand. River view rooms with balconies, fireplaces, or jetted tubs cost extra but are worth the upgrade.
Do I need reservations for The Inn on the River?
Yes, definitely book ahead. This hotel consistently ranks as one of Pigeon Forge's top properties and sells out during peak seasons like summer and fall foliage time.
How long should I spend at The Inn on the River?
Most guests stay 2-4 nights to explore the Smokies. The central Parkway location makes it an excellent base for day trips to Dollywood, Gatlinburg, and the national park.
Is The Inn on the River good for kids?
Absolutely - it's one of the most family-friendly hotels in Pigeon Forge. Kids love the indoor and outdoor heated pools, nightly popcorn, river walk, and being able to walk to nearby attractions.
Is there parking at The Inn on the River?
Yes, free onsite parking is included. There's a surface lot around the hotel, though it can feel crowded when they're at capacity during busy weekends.
Does The Inn on the River include breakfast?
Yes, the complimentary hot breakfast is one of their best features. It includes eggs, potatoes, sausage, biscuits and gravy, make-your-own waffles, yogurt, cereals, and fresh fruit.
Are the pools at The Inn on the River heated year-round?
Yes, both the indoor pool and outdoor riverfront pool stay heated throughout the year. The indoor pool also has a large hot tub that's especially nice during cooler months.
You May Also Like
More great places in Pigeon Forge
Sunliner Diner
The Island in Pigeon Forge
Dollywood
The Old Mill Restaurant
Dolly Parton's Stampede
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
The Inn on the River Pigeon Forge earns high marks for comfortable accommodations and helpful staff. The property offers a quality experience for those exploring the Smoky Mountains.
Last Updated Jan 4, 2026
2492 Parkway Pigeon Forge TN 37863
2492 Parkway Pigeon Forge TN 37863
Pigeon Forge
Get Insider Tips
Sign up for local deals, hidden gems, and travel guides.