Gillette Motel – A Gatlinburg Classic with Deep Local Roots
For travelers looking to stay somewhere with authentic local roots and a welcoming, family-run feel, Gillette Motel is a standout in downtown Gatlinburg. This isn’t just another chain hotel, it’s a piece of Gatlinburg’s history.
The Gillette story began in 1957, when Carl Gillette opened a modest six-room motel next to his home, just one block from the town center. Balancing two businesses,Gillette Motel and a local plumbing and HVAC service, Carl built something lasting. His family grew up on the property, and today, they still manage the motel, carrying forward a tradition of personal care and community spirit.
Why We Recommend It
🏨 Established in 1957 and still proudly family-owned
📍 Prime location, across from the Gatlinburg Convention Center and W.L. Mills Auditorium
🛏️ 80 clean, comfortable rooms and suites with classic charm
🏞️ Just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park
🛍️ Walkable access to restaurants, shops, and live entertainment
👨👩👧 Generations of loyal guests who return year after year
A True Local Legacy in the Heart of Town
As Gatlinburg transformed into a premier mountain getaway and conference hub, the Gillette Motel grew with it. The last major expansion in 1974 brought the property to its current size, now spanning an entire block along Historic Nature Trail, directly across from the Gatlinburg Convention Center and W.L. Mills Auditorium.
With 80 well-kept rooms and suites, Gillette Motel places you steps from the city’s top dining spots, boutique shopping, and live entertainment, all while keeping the relaxed pace and friendliness you’d expect from a family-run business.
What Makes It Special
📆 Family-run for more than 65 years, now in its second generation
🚶♂️ One-block walk to downtown Gatlinburg attractions
🌄 Easy access to hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures in the Smokies
🛌 A mix of standard rooms and suites to suit all travelers
💬 Personalized service from on-site owners who know the area inside and out
🎣 Ideal base for trout fishing, scenic hikes, and Smoky Mountain discovery
🏘️ A rare find: authentic hospitality in a bustling tourist town
A Place That Feels Like Tradition
If you’re after convenience, comfort, and a true sense of place, Gillette Motel is more than just a place to sleep, it’s a part of the Gatlinburg story. Its mix of heritage, hospitality, and unbeatable location makes it one of our top recommendations for anyone visiting the Smokies.
Make it your tradition, too.
