Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn

I came into town to buy a truck and made a last-minute decision to stay the night. This place had a room at a great price, and it turned out to be quiet and cozy. The bed and staff were both perfect, and the cleanliness was spectacular. Even the door hinges looked brand new. Don't pass this place up!

We chose this motel because we wanted to see peak fall color in the Smokies and needed something within our budget, so we expected a few compromises. It was a clean place to sleep, and for the price it was just okay. Some of the downsides were significant, though. The room was cramped, even for just my husband and me, and there was nowhere to put our things. We turned down housekeeping during our three-night stay, even though we needed more towels than had been left before we arrived, because our stuff was everywhere and we knew it would be in the way. Breakfast also fell short. We'd seen reviews praising it and chose the motel partly for its complimentary continental breakfast, but it was one waffle maker, a few bagels, cereal, a little fruit and instant grits or oatmeal. That wasn't enough to fuel our morning hikes. The location was both beautiful and felt safe, with foliage and mountains outside our window. We could reach anywhere we wanted to go in Western NC, including the national park and Asheville, in an hour or less. Staff weren't rude. But the walls were paper thin. We heard everything from outside and the adjoining room. We didn't ask for a connecting room, but were given one, and had different neighbors in it each night. We could hear every word, snore and more, which meant they could hear us too. It didn't feel private at all. I don't understand reviews calling this motel quiet.

The pool was closed for the season, which was my only regret since the pool area and pool itself looked immaculate. I'd have loved to spend time there. Otherwise, we were much happier with this stay than we'd expected at this price. The location felt homey and especially safe, a little off the beaten path, and there are rocking chairs outside. Landscaping made a welcoming first impression. Our room had fresh-looking paint and clean new fixtures; the sheets were comfortable, and the bed by the door was perfect. The second bed in our two-queen room wasn't as comfortable. I told the morning desk person, who said they'd pass it along, and I feel sure they'll follow up. The hotel was clean and seemed to take pride in the place. There's even a posted note inviting guests to speak up about problems. We were greeted warmly at the front desk, and a welcome bag with water and treats was a nice surprise for the price. We stayed in room 101 for one night after choosing the place based on reviews. We don't know the area well, but we'd happily stay again when passing through and would recommend it to anyone wanting a clean, safe place.

The room was clean, and the staff were really friendly. It's in a good spot close to town. The mattress was very worn, the linens looked dated, and the shower head was loose and didn't spray properly. Breakfast was very poor, I'd give it a 1 out of 10.