Best Western Plaza Inn

This hotel has been in business since 1969, but the style is that of a generic, budget-friendly chain -- which this is. Floor-to-ceiling windows on the exterior are a welcome addition, brightening up the large indoor pool space and the small lobby. The attractive wooden front desk dominates the lobby, and there are a few plants, a chandelier, and decorative wall sconces adding warmth. The three pools never get too busy, so there's no bad time for a dip. The breakfast room, however, can get crowded in the mornings, and some guests complain of long waits for food.

A gateway town to the Great Smoky Mountains area's scenic views and outdoor activities, Pigeon Forge is home to the famed Dollywood theme park. The Best Western Plaza Inn is right on the busy Parkway that runs through town, providing easy access to all the regional attractions, especially The Dixie Stampede, which is just next door, and the Dollywood theme park, which is only two miles away. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance is less than a 20-minute drive away, in nearby Gatlinburg.

The rooms are arranged in different buildings adjacent to the three pools, some with outdoor entry from a parking lot and others with entry from the indoor pool area. Each of the 201 rooms is large, and some are equipped for guests with mobility or accessibility concerns. The suites have interior hallway entries, fireplaces, small balconies, and in-room whirlpool tubs. All the rooms have wall-to-wall carpet and the basic decor of a budget-friendly chain -- some rooms have slight country character, while others simply have bland, outdated wooden furniture. Each room has a flat-screen TV with free HBO, microwave, mini-fridge, and coffeemaker.

Two outdoor pools have ample sunbathing areas and attached kids' pools; the front pool also has a man-made waterfall and a hot tub, while the rear outdoor pool has a second kids' pool with an interactive water feature, as well as an open-air gazebo with a fireplace. The indoor pool is housed in a large, bright space with vaulted ceilings and skylights, covering a sizable lounge area, too. It also has waterfall features and a small integrated whirlpool. The hotel's free breakfast has hot options like waffles, biscuits, and gravy, served in a cheery room that has a few extra tables on an outdoor patio. Other notable free features include Wi-Fi and on-site parking.