Reagan Resorts Inn

The Reagan was such a good find that we'll be back. We arrived before check-in and the room wasn't ready, which was understandable, but they gave us a parking pass so we could start our visit. The location is right on the strip, a short walk from everything. We got lunch, then quickly received a call that our room was ready. Our jacuzzi suite was huge and very clean. I brought cleaning supplies and didn't need them. The shower pressure was amazing, a welcome change for my long, thick hair, which usually makes hotel showers a nightmare. Staff were friendly and welcoming. There's no breakfast, just coffee, tea, and cocoa in the lobby, but the coffee was good and several restaurants serving breakfast are steps away. That wasn't a deal breaker. It was our first stay, but definitely not the last.

The downtown location was great, and the person who checked me in was pleasant and attentive. I booked a renovated room for one night based on reviews. The guest room was in very good shape, though the public areas were worn and well past tired. I'd rather see the owners spend money on the rooms. When I lifted the covers, I found small blood spots on the sheets. It wasn't a lot, but the thought of using sheets from a previous guest made me nauseous. Someone brought fresh sheets after I called, which I appreciated. I've worked in hotels for decades and can tell the difference between old wash stains and recent blood. I was also asked for a credit card for "incidentals." Since Reagan Inn doesn't provide incidentals, I was told it was in case of damage. I don't mind leaving a card, but call it a damage deposit. I'm not looking for a refund or future coupon. I come to Gatlinburg often and liked the location and price, but the sheets have me looking elsewhere.

It's an older place that's been updated, right in the middle of the action. My only issue was the shower: the water was cold when I used it, then hot when my husband showered half an hour later. Go figure.

For a first family trip, this was just right. We stayed two nights, and the staff were very friendly, the room was clean, and the location was great. We didn't have to pay for extra parking. We loved our stay and would happily come back.