There’s a lot to recommend Gatlinburg as a student travel destination. Things to do? Yeah, plenty of those. Kid- and teacher-worthy eateries? Not a problem. High-octane activities? Check. Learning opportunities? Got it. America’s favorite national park? Right down the road.
However, Gatlinburg has at least one thing in common with all other student travel spots: at some point, everyone will need a place to crash. Ergo, there needs to be a selection of student-friendly lodging options, available at wallet-friendly prices. And yes, Gatlinburg has a range of choices there as well.
Of all of these potential R&R spots, though, Greystone Lodge on the River stands out. It’s a place where guests don’t have to choose between a convenient location and a natural setting. And many of the rooms in the three buildings that make up Greystone Lodge benefited from a recent, $7-million renovation. In fact, with all the amenities at hand, groups won’t just look at the hotel as a place to chill between frenetic, action-packed days. It’s also a pretty cool place to hang out.
Where is Greystone Lodge Located in Gatlinburg?
Greystone Lodge is located directly off the Parkway at traffic light #5 in Gatlinburg. (For the convenience of out-of-towners, traffic lights are numbered in Gatlinburg.)
What Amenities Does Greystone Lodge Offer Student Travelers?
Greystone Lodge offers a variety of room types, from budget-pleasing standard rooms and family suites to executive guest rooms and suites. The posher accommodations even come with gas fireplaces and soaking tubs. But fear not; guests in the standard rooms aren’t exactly starved for amenities. Each room has its own comfy furnishings in an attractively modern setting, and in-room Wi-Fi and flat TVs will make sure that boredom will never strike.
In the common areas of the lodge, comfort and hospitality remain the keywords. The lobby has a fireplace and a large TV, and there’s a spacious meeting room that can be booked in advance. Teachers and other responsible adults may also want to make use of the onsite 24-hour business center and its free hot beverages.
What kind of perks can your student travel group expect at Greystone Lodge? Here’s a sampling:
- A souped-up version of a continental breakfast, including scrambled eggs, oatmeal, toast, doughnuts, cereal, beverages and – like any good Southern host – biscuits and gravy.
- Free Wi-Fi Internet in all guest rooms as well as in the lobby and breakfast area.
- An exercise room with commercial-quality equipment.
- Refrigerators in all rooms and microwaves and refrigerators in all suites.
- Private balconies on the river view in most rooms. Some rooms have balconies or patios overlooking Ripley’s Aquarium.
- A heated outdoor pool (open from April to October, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.), complete with waterslide and a toddlers-only splash pool. Towels provided.
- And when it’s time to explore the rest of Gatlinburg, the local trolleys all stop at the lodge.
What Student Group-Friendly Attractions are Near Greystone Lodge?
One of Gatlinburg’s popular student-friendly attractions, Ripley’s Aquarium, is right next door to Greystone Lodge. Nearby, you’ll also find the Guinness World of Records Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Moving Theatre, and Gatlinburg’s very own Space Needle.
Most groups don’t journey into the Smoky Mountains and then limit themselves to indoor activities. If your group wants to get out and explore – or just race down a few steep slopes at Tennessee’s only ski resort – they’ve come to the right place. The tramway and ski lift at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort give students an aerial view of the city, and the alpine slide gives them a chance for real fun.
Commercial photos with talent at Greystone Lodge in Gatlinburg, TN Photo by Steven Bridges
Active or not, no one in the group should miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cars can drive along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for a chance to see bears and other wildlife. Or pick up a brochure and drive out to Cades Cove. There’s always the chance for a hike in the forest as well, and fall-time visitors can snatch a peak at one of the most spectacular displays of autumn color in the country.
What Should I Know Before Booking My Student Travel Group into Greystone Lodge?
Greystone Lodge offers a group discount for 10 or more rooms. Be sure to contact them directly to plan your proposed stay. They also email guests about upcoming specials.
Staying at Greystone Lodge on the River isn’t just about find a place to sleep in between visiting the national park and Ober Gatlinburg. It’s also about enjoying every minute of your stay and making sure your student travel group remembers Gatlinburg as a highlight.
Have you taken a group to Greystone Lodge? Tell us about it! Share your story using the comment field below. Thanks!
