Meadowlark Motel – A Beloved Mountain Retreat in Maggie Valley
Tucked in the heart of Maggie Valley, North Carolina, the Meadowlark Motel has been welcoming guests to the Smokies for generations. Originally built in the 1940s by Carl Painter and his wife, the property grew alongside the town, expanding in the 1960s as Maggie Valley became a mountain resort destination.
In 1975, Roger and Donna McElroy took the reins, running the motel for more than four decades. Today, it’s lovingly operated by their son Joseph Franklyn McElroy and his wife Simone Woodyear McElroy, who have infused new life and thoughtful renovations while preserving the property’s authentic charm.
Why We Recommend It
✔ Just 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and only 30 miles from Asheville
✔ Next door to the Wheels Through Time Museum and close to Cataloochee Ski Area & Harrah’s Cherokee Casino
✔ Easy access to top hiking, fishing, and motorcycle routes in the Smokies
✔ A family-run property with decades of history and hospitality
✔ Perfect for quick getaways, family trips, or group events
Highlights We Love
🏠 Spacious Accommodations – 38 guest rooms, cabins, suites, and cottages, most ground level for convenience.
🌊 Beautiful Creekside Setting – 200 feet of frontage on Jonathan Creek for trout fishing or simply relaxing.
🌿 Private & Shared Outdoor Spaces – Three cabins feature private creekside decks, plus a large communal deck for gatherings.
🔥 Recreation Area & Pavilion – With a kitchen, fireplace, restroom, and BBQ area, ideal for reunions and events.
🏊 Resort-Style Amenities – Swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and in-room comforts like A/C, Wi-Fi, microwaves, and fridges.
🚶 Walkable Location – Restaurants and attractions right next door or within walking distance.
A True Local Gem
More than just a motel, Meadowlark is woven into the story of Maggie Valley itself. Independent, family-owned, and rooted in tradition, it delivers something chains simply can’t, authentic mountain hospitality. With its welcoming spirit, rich history, and prime location, Meadowlark Motel is a classic Smokies stay that continues to make lasting memories for every generation of traveler.