Music Road Resort Hotel

Music Road Resort Hotel is basically two hotels across the street from each other — the Hotel sits right on the Little Pigeon River while the Inn is across the way. We've stayed at both and honestly prefer the Hotel side for the river views, though you get water park access no matter which building you're in. The outdoor water parks with 60-foot slides only run April through October, so if you're coming in winter just know you're down to indoor pools.

The location is pretty sweet — 5.8 miles from Dollywood, walking distance to the Titanic Museum, and you're right in the thick of Pigeon Forge without being on the crazy-busy Parkway strip. Parking is actually decent here, which is saying something for this town.

One heads up though — housekeeping has been hit or miss lately. We've heard from multiple people that it's not what it used to be pre-COVID, so maybe pack some extra towels just in case. The hot tub by the indoor pool has been closed for a while too, which is disappointing if you're counting on that after a long day at Dollywood.

The free breakfast saves you time and money, especially with kids who want to get to the water slides early. Oh and keep your room key away from your car keys — we had to get ours reactivated twice because apparently they demagnetize each other or something. Small thing but annoying when you're juggling wet kids and pool gear.

If you're coming for the water parks, definitely book between April and October. The slides are the main draw here and honestly what makes this place worth it over just staying at a regular hotel downtown.