River Terrace Resort and Convention Center

For those of us here in Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains hold a special place in our hearts. When the call of Gatlinburg beckons, we're often looking for a place that offers both convenience to the vibrant downtown attractions and a sense of connection to the natural beauty of the Little Pigeon River. The River Terrace Resort and Convention Center aims to provide just that – a well-located resort hotel designed to be your hub for exploring all that Gatlinburg has to offer.

Located at 240 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, River Terrace Resort and Convention Center positions itself as a prime spot for visitors. As a "resort hotel," it suggests a broader range of amenities and services beyond a typical hotel, aiming to cater to both leisure travelers and those attending events at its convention facilities. While guest experiences can vary, the promise of a riverfront location and proximity to Gatlinburg's famous Parkway is a consistent draw for many planning their Smoky Mountain escape.

This article is crafted with our fellow Tennesseans in mind, providing a clear, engaging, and factual overview of River Terrace Resort and Convention Center. We'll explore its strategic location, the array of services and features that are typically offered, and why, for many, it remains a suitable choice for experiencing the magic of Gatlinburg. We will aim to provide a balanced perspective, incorporating publicly available information about the property.

The River Terrace Resort and Convention Center boasts a truly advantageous location at 240 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. For us Tennesseans, getting to Gatlinburg is a familiar journey. From major cities like Nashville, it's typically a scenic 4 to 4.5-hour drive eastward on I-40 E. From Knoxville, the drive is much shorter, usually around an hour to an hour and a half, predominantly via US-441 S.

What makes this location particularly appealing is its direct positioning along the Little Pigeon River and its immediate proximity to downtown Gatlinburg. The resort is "nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains and overlooking the Little Pigeon River." This means guests are often within comfortable walking distance to many of Gatlinburg's premier attractions, including Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, Anakeesta, and a vast array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues along the Parkway. Being able to stroll to dinner or an attraction without needing to find parking is a significant convenience in this bustling mountain town.

The address also highlights its "Convention Center" aspect, making it highly accessible for those attending events, with convenient access points for large groups. Furthermore, the hotel is just a short drive from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, allowing for effortless excursions into the breathtaking wilderness for hiking, scenic drives, or wildlife viewing. The combination of riverfront views, downtown walkability, and easy access to the National Park solidifies its standing as a well-situated base for any Gatlinburg adventure.

The River Terrace Resort and Convention Center aims to provide a range of services designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience, catering to both leisure travelers and convention attendees. Based on publicly available information, typical services you can expect include:

• 24-Hour Front Desk Service: The resort offers continuous front desk support for check-in/check-out, inquiries, and assistance throughout your stay.
• Complimentary On-the-Go Breakfast: Guests typically receive a free "on-the-go" breakfast each morning from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM, which often includes items like muffins, Danishes, granola bars, yogurts, cereals, and bottled juice and coffee.
• Outdoor Pools: The resort features outdoor swimming pools, providing a refreshing option for relaxation, especially during warmer months. Note that some reviews mention only one pool being open at times.
• Free Self-Parking: On-site self-parking is available at no additional charge, a valuable amenity in a popular tourist destination like Gatlinburg.
• Complimentary WiFi: Free wireless internet access is available throughout the property, including in guest rooms and public areas, allowing guests to stay connected.
• Meeting and Convention Facilities: With over 20,000 square feet of meeting space, including a banquet hall, the resort is equipped to host various events, conferences, and conventions.
• Business Center: A business center is available for guests needing access to computers and printing services.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The resort welcomes dogs (with certain restrictions, typically two per room, up to 27 kg per pet, and an additional fee). Service animals are also welcome.
• Laundry Facilities: Self-serve laundry facilities are provided on-site for guest convenience.
• Daily Housekeeping (on request): While daily cleaning is offered, guests may have the option to opt out.
• Vending Machines: Available for quick snacks and beverages.
• Concierge Services & Tour/Ticket Assistance: Staff can assist with local information, tour bookings, and ticket purchases.
• Room Amenities: Guest rooms typically feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, in-room safes, iron/ironing boards, microwaves, mini-refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, and private bathrooms with hydromassage showerheads and hair dryers.

The River Terrace Resort and Convention Center, while a long-standing fixture in Gatlinburg, offers several features that attract visitors looking for a convenient and accessible stay in the Smokies.

• Prime Riverfront Location: A key highlight is its setting directly on the Little Pigeon River. Many rooms offer "River View" options, allowing guests to enjoy the serene sounds and sights of the water. This also provides a picturesque backdrop for a Gatlinburg stay.
• Unbeatable Proximity to Downtown: The resort's address at 240 River Road places it within easy walking distance to a significant number of downtown Gatlinburg attractions. It's just a "5 min walk" to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Convention Center, and also very close to the Gatlinburg Space Needle and Anakeesta. This eliminates the need for constant driving and parking, a major convenience in Gatlinburg.
• Convention Facilities: With over 20,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, including an outdoor pavilion, the resort is well-equipped for hosting large groups, business events, and special occasions, making it a versatile venue for various types of stays.
• Outdoor Swimming Pools: The property offers outdoor pools, providing a refreshing way to cool off and relax, especially during the warmer months in the mountains.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodation: River Terrace is a welcoming option for travelers with dogs, allowing up to two dogs per accommodation (with a fee and weight restrictions), which is a significant plus for pet owners.
• Complimentary Grab-N-Go Breakfast: Guests receive a free on-the-go breakfast daily, offering a convenient start to the day without having to seek out a separate dining option.
• In-Room Conveniences: Rooms come equipped with mini-refrigerators and microwaves, which are highly convenient for storing snacks, drinks, and reheating leftovers, especially for families. Many rooms also feature private balconies or patios.
• Free Parking: On-site self-parking is available at no charge, which is a valuable amenity in a tourist town where parking can often be expensive and limited.

While some reviews suggest areas for improvement regarding updates and consistent amenity availability, the strong points of its location and a range of useful services remain consistent features.

As part of the Westgate Resorts family, River Terrace Resort and Convention Center frequently offers a variety of promotions and special deals to make a Gatlinburg getaway more accessible for our fellow Tennesseans. While offers can change seasonally, here’s a look at the types of promotions you might typically find:

• Tennessee Resident Discount: A highly relevant offer for locals, the resort often provides up to 10% off for Tennessee residents. Proof of residency is usually required at check-in, and terms and conditions apply regarding availability and blackout dates.
• Senior Citizen Discount: Guests aged 50 and older can often receive up to 10% off the best available rates, requiring proof of age at check-in.
• AAA Member Discount: AAA members can frequently enjoy savings of up to 10% on their stay by presenting their membership card at check-in.
• Military & Government Discount: Special rates are typically available for active military personnel, veterans, and government employees as a gesture of appreciation.
• Advance Purchase Savings: Booking your stay at least 21 days in advance can sometimes yield savings of up to 20%, often requiring full non-refundable payment at the time of booking. This is frequently an exclusive offer for World of Westgate Loyalty Members.
• "Stay Longer, Save More" Deals: Promotions that encourage extended stays, such as a "FREE Night Mountain Escape" or discounted rates for booking multiple nights, are common. For example, a 4-day/3-night package in a standard room might be offered at a significantly reduced rate.
• Vacation Ownership Presentation Offers: Some deeply discounted packages (e.g., 3 nights for as low as $99, sometimes including tickets to Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park) are available to qualified recipients who agree to attend a 120-minute vacation ownership sales presentation at a host Westgate resort. Specific eligibility criteria apply, including income requirements and residency restrictions (e.g., "Not open to Tennessee residents that reside less than 60 miles from the resort or in any of the following counties: Sevier or Cocke").
• Seasonal Sales: Look out for general "Summer Savings" or other holiday-specific sales that offer percentage discounts off best available rates for limited periods.
• WOW Loyalty Member Discounts: Members of Westgate's "World of Westgate" loyalty program may receive additional savings on room rates and reduced resort fees.

For the most current and specific promotions for River Terrace Resort and Convention Center, it is highly recommended to visit their official website or call their reservation line at (865) 436-5161. Always review the terms and conditions carefully before booking.

For reservations, to inquire about specific amenities or convention center bookings, or for any questions regarding your stay at River Terrace Resort and Convention Center, you can reach them using the following contact details:

Address: 240 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Phone: (865) 436-5161

Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-5161

For group sales and convention inquiries, you might also find a dedicated group sales number, which is often listed separately. It is always best to call the resort directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date information, discuss specific room types, or inquire about any special offers that might be available for your travel dates. Their official websites, often associated with Westgate Resorts, also provide comprehensive information and online booking options.

For us Tennesseans, River Terrace Resort and Convention Center in Gatlinburg presents a compelling option for a Smoky Mountain getaway, particularly for those who value location and a range of on-site conveniences. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that align well with what we often seek in a regional escape.

Firstly, the geographical accessibility is a major advantage. Being located right here in East Tennessee, the drive to Gatlinburg from anywhere in the state is manageable, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer family vacations without the hassle of extensive travel. Once you arrive at River Terrace, its prime downtown riverfront location means you’re already in the heart of the action. We know how busy Gatlinburg can get, so the ability to walk to attractions like Ripley's Aquarium, the Space Needle, and various shops and restaurants without needing to constantly drive and find parking is an invaluable convenience. This allows for a more relaxed and immersive experience of the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Secondly, the resort's offering of essential services and recreational amenities, such as the outdoor pools, pet-friendly policy, and complimentary on-the-go breakfast, provides a solid foundation for a comfortable stay. While some properties in the area might offer more extensive luxury features, River Terrace focuses on core amenities that many families and travelers appreciate for a practical and enjoyable vacation. The presence of a convention center also suggests a capacity to handle larger groups, which can be beneficial for family reunions or local events.

Lastly, the overall experience of being nestled by the Little Pigeon River while still having the bustling downtown at your fingertips offers that unique Gatlinburg charm that many Tennesseans love. It provides a base from which to easily venture into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for outdoor adventures, and then return to the comfort of the resort. Despite some feedback about dated aspects, the fundamental value proposition of a well-located, accessible, and functionally equipped resort remains strong for those of us looking for a convenient and enjoyable break in our beloved mountains.