Travelling to Tennessee? Once you’ve enjoyed the delights and the music of Nashville and Memphis, why not venture out and explore some of the most picturesque spots in the whole of the United States! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Eastern Tennessee offers a year-round wonderland. Not only is it a gorgeous place for outdoor enthusiasts, but it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site which has the most biodiversity of any national park in the United States. Need more reasons to visit?

So, now that we’ve convinced you that your next big vacation should be to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s time to think about where to stay. So, rather than hotels and hostels, let’s look at some of the top unique accommodation in Tennessee. Do you really want to get in touch with nature? Enjoy gorgeous cabins, treehouses, and lodges to really make the most of your vacation to Tennessee!

In this post, we’ll take a look at the best unique accommodation in Tennessee. We’ve taken into account location, travel style, but above all else, your budget. We’re confident that after going through our list you’ll find the perfect treehouse, cabin, or lodge in Tennessee!

IN A HURRY? HERE’S WHERE TO STAY IN TENNESSEE FOR ONE NIGHT

FIRST TIME IN TENNESSEE

Bearadise City

For those outdoor enthusiasts, look no further than Bearadise City. After returning from a day out in the Great Smoky Mountains, enjoy the cosy indoor fireplace or escape to the outdoor hot tub!

NEARBY ATTRACTION:
  • Dollywood Theme Park
  • Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
  • Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Is this amazing Tennessee cabin booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!

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    Unique Accommodation in Tennessee

    Staying in a Treehouse in Tennessee
    If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Tennessee is just for you!

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    If you’re heading to Tennessee, you’ll want to make your trip as memorable as possible. And while you might be comfortable in a hotel, it won’t blow you away.

    For those who are travelling to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, it’s even more important that you choose the right accommodation. A stuffy hotel or a noisy hostel just doesn’t reflect the beauty and nature that you’ll find here. Rather search for somewhere that’ll enhance your experience of the great outdoors!

    So, take a look at some of the coolest and most unique accommodation in Tennessee. Worried that these options will exceed your budget? You’ll be surprised! Cabins, especially in the Great Smoky Mountains, can satisfy even the most shallow pockets! And although the prices might look expensive at first glance, remember that you can split the cost of many of these properties multiple ways with your friends and family.

    We really can’t stress enough how much it’ll make your trip by staying in either a treehouse, a cabin, or a lodge in Tennessee. Once you’ve made your choice, you can thank us later.

    Staying in a Cabin in Tennessee
    The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a year-round travel destination.

    Staying in a Treehouse in Tennessee

    Staying in a treehouse will literally take your holiday to the next level. The highlight of staying in a treehouse is having bragging rights to say that you actually stayed in a treehouse! These unique accommodation options are not found everywhere and they’re truly amazing.

    Treehouses give you a chance to really connect and be at one with nature – especially since a number of them have trees growing through the house itself!

    Even though they’re incredibly beautiful – they are rare. So much so in fact, that we’ve only managed to find one treehouse in Tennessee for our list. However, you can be safe in knowing that we’ve chosen quality over quantity. You might recognise it from the DIY Network Show, and it was the first treehouse built in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge.

    Treehouses offer an amazing luxury experience, so if you’re travelling on a budget, you might want to skip this section and look at cabins or lodges instead. However, if you’ve got the money to splurge on a treehouse experience, you’ll never want to leave.

    Staying in a Cabin in Tennessee

    There’s no shortage of cabins in Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and you’ll notice that they make up the majority of accommodation options on our list. That’s not a bad thing though – cabins come in all shapes and sizes! From tiny, cute spots perfectly hidden away in the mountains to huge luxurious buildings that can fit the entire family, you’ll have your pick of the best cabins in Tennessee.

    What you get from your cabin in Tennessee depends entirely on your budget. If you’re shopping at the lower end of the scale, you can still find something pretty special. Expect a kitchen, living room and outside space. Some cabins even allow you to bring your own pets – but only if you ask nicely, of course!

    Got a bit more cash to spare, or if there’s a big group and you’re happy to pool your money together, then the starry clear night sky is the limit! You can expect awesome views as far as the eyes can see, hot tubs, pool tables, multiple rooms with big comfy beds, and indoor fireplaces where you can warm up after a long day of hiking.

    Cabins are the best option on our list for travellers on a budget, but if we’re being honest, all travellers will find a cabin perfectly suited to their needs on our extensive list.

    Staying in a Lodge in Tennessee

    Last but not least, let’s look at staying in a lodge in Tennessee. At first glance, they’re really not all that different to staying in a cabin! Technically, a lodge is bigger than a cabin, and you’ll see that the lodges on our list are pretty huge.

    They’re quite expensive too, but you can host more than 20 people in a lodge. Therefore, we didn’t think it fair to group them in our over-the-top luxury section just for being expensive. That leads us to our next point. Who are these lodges for? You’re not going to book a lodge for yourself, or just for you and your other half. These are for a large group occasion or a family celebration!

    You can expect a huge kitchen, multiple terraces, dining tables where the whole group can gather around, and super fun extras like pool tables and air hockey tables! To be honest, if you can imagine it, you’ll probably be able to find it in a Tennessee lodge.

    And another bonus? If you’re staying in a lodge that’s within a dedicated holiday park, you may even get access to facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and on-site restaurants. Of course, you’re welcome to use the great outdoors as your gym when you embark on a magnificent hike or bike ride!

    OVERALL BEST VALUE CABIN IN TENNESSEE
    Bearadise City
    OVERALL BEST VALUE CABIN IN TENNESSEE

    Bearadise City

    • > $$
    • > 5 Guests
    • > Large indoor fireplace
    • > Remote setting
    BEST BUDGET CABIN IN TENNESSEE
    The Kabin Home away from home, Tennessee
    BEST BUDGET CABIN IN TENNESSEE

    The Kabin Home away from home

    • > $$
    • > 2 Guests
    • > Huge front porch and back deck
    • > Prime location near the national park
    BEST CABIN IN TENNESSEE FOR COUPLES
    Just the Two of Us Cabin, Tennessee
    BEST CABIN IN TENNESSEE FOR COUPLES

    Just the Two of Us Cabin

    • > $$$
    • > 2 Guests
    • > Comfortable king bed
    • > Spectacular mountain views
    BEST CABIN FOR A GROUP OF FRIENDS
    Rippling Waters Rustic Cabin
    BEST CABIN FOR A GROUP OF FRIENDS

    Rippling Waters Rustic Cabin

    • > $$
    • > 12 Guests
    • > Riverside location
    • > Indoor fireplace
    OVER-THE-TOP LUXURY CABIN
    Real Log Cabin with Hot Tub, Tennessee
    OVER-THE-TOP LUXURY CABIN

    Real Log Cabin with Hot Tub

    • > $$$$
    • > 6 Guests
    • > Huge deck with hot tub
    • > Arcade machine
    BEST CABIN FOR FAMILIES VISITING TENNESSEE
    Moonshine Manor
    BEST CABIN FOR FAMILIES VISITING TENNESSEE

    Moonshine Manor!

    • > $$
    • > 8 Guests
    • > Free parking
    • > Pets are welcome
    BEST TREEHOUSES, CABINS, LODGES FOR BACKPACKERS
    Modern Farmhouse Tiny Cabin, Tennessee
    BEST TREEHOUSES, CABINS, LODGES FOR BACKPACKERS

    Modern Farmhouse Tiny Cabin

    • > $
    • > 7 Guests
    • > Laptop-friendly workspace
    • > Situated on a working farm

    The 21 Top Treehouses, Cabins, Lodges in Tennessee

    Overall Best Value Cabin in Tennessee – Bearadise City

    Bearadise City
    How stunning is the setting of this gorgeous cabin in Tennesse!

    Let’s kick off our list of the best unique accommodation in Tennessee with a totally awesome cabin. Bearadise City can host up to 5 guests in 2 bedrooms, so it’s perfect for a small group of friends or a family vacation! Or, if a couple want to have plenty of their own space, that could work too.

    It’s one of the best value for money cabins in the Great Smoky Mountains, and you’ll get plenty of bang for your buck if you stay here. The two large TV’s are perfect for watching a movie or a sports game after a long day out exploring. Prefer to keep the electronics off? If that’s the case, relax those aching muscles in the hot tub on the back porch!


    Want to save money on accommodation?

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    Best Budget Cabin in Tennessee – The Kabin Home away from home

    The Kabin Home away from home, Tennessee

    Looking to stay in the Great Smoky Mountains on a budget? You might think that this will be difficult, but not if you stay at The Kabin! The cosy cabin is like a bed and breakfast in Tenessee, as it comes with breakfast items included, plus an indoor fireplace and is in a great location – just a stone’s throw away from all that’s going on in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

    However, it’s easy to feel a million miles away and truly disconnect. That’s because there’s no Wi-Fi! There is a television though, so you won’t be totally out of options when it comes to entertainment. Fuel up in the morning with the breakfast items provided by the hosts at no extra cost – those include coffee, tea, oatmeal, and nutrition bars.

    Budget Tip: Dorms in Tennesee start from $40 USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the area. Search for hostels in the area!

    Best Cabin in Tennessee for Couples – Just the Two of Us Cabin

    Just the Two of Us Cabin, Tennessee

    If you’re travelling with your other half, you’ll want something comfortable and cosy. Thankfully, there’s a really special cottage just a hop, skip, and a jump from Gatlinburg that will make all your romantic dreams come true.

    You can enjoy spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains either from the romantic terrace or the heart-shaped bathtub inside. And when it’s time to cuddle up together, you’ve got a king-sized bed. This is the perfect place for a romantic escape and we know you’ll love it as much as we do!

    Best Cabin for a Group of Friends – Rippling Waters Rustic Cabin

    Rippling Waters Rustic Cabin
    This cosy cabin is a great choice for a group of friends!

    With space for up to 12 guests and an extremely reasonable price tag, Rippling Waters Rustic Cabin will suit a group of friends down to the ground! Not only is it situated alongside a river, but there are also swinging chairs on the back porch where you can admire the awesome panoramic views.

    Further down the garden, there’s a fire pit, which is a great place to chill with a few beers or a bottle of wine. Although the cabin has a remote and secluded feel, you’ll have a grocery store and restaurants within walking distance in Townsend. Perfect!

    Over-the-top Luxury Cabin – Real Log Cabin with Hot Tub

    Real Log Cabin with Hot Tub, Tennessee

    Okay, so let’s pretend for a moment that money’s no object. What kind of Tennessee cabin are you going to book? Well, there are quite a few that cater to high-end luxury trips. But this one just stands out above the rest!

    There’s a huge deck that overlooks the forests and you can enjoy these views from the hot tub. And when it comes to entertainment, you don’t just have to rely on the Wi-Fi. There’s an arcade game in the bedroom.

    Best Cabin for Families Visiting Tennessee – Moonshine Manor

    Moonshine Manor
    There’s plenty of space for the whole family in this Tennessee cabin

    Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Knoxville, you’ll find Moonshine Manor, one of the best cabins on a budget in Tennessee! There’s space for up to eight guests across three bedrooms, so everybody can have their own space without it feeling too crowded.

    If you’re arriving by car (which is likely) you can take advantage of free parking. And if you’ve got your furry friend with you? No problem! Pets are welcome here! It’s not right on the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains, but it is under an hour by road to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

    Why not stay in Gatlinburg if you love the area? Check out my guide!

    Best Treehouses, Cabins, Lodges for Backpackers – Modern Farmhouse Tiny Cabin

    Modern Farmhouse Tiny Cabin, Tennessee
    Budget travellers will love this cosy cabin which is situated on a working farm.

    Yes, we know that this cabin hosts up to seven people, so you might raise an eyebrow when we say it’s the best Tennessee cabin for backpackers. However, look at the price. This is one of the cheapest cabins you’ll find in Tennesee, and it’s a tiny cabin, filled with its own unique charm.

    Fitting 7 people in here will be a bit of a squeeze! However, for a backpacker or maybe a couple, you’ll have a great place to stay. It’s also on a working farm where you can enjoy horseback rides with gorgeous views no matter where you look. The family who own the farm will be happy to give you insider tips and advice on the best things to see and do in the area!

    Amazing Luxury Cabin in Tennessee – Away From It All in The Smokies

    Away from it all in the Smokies
    Don’t you just love the open plan living of this charming cabin.

    Was our over-the-top luxury cabin in Tennessee slightly out of your budget? Here’s another awesome luxury cabin that you’re sure to love! And it has space for up to 9 guests – so that luxury becomes more affordable when you realise you can split it multiple ways.

    The property has a fully equipped kitchen as well as an outdoor fire pit with free wood. The highlight of this beautiful cabin in Tennessee is the outdoor hot tub. It’s on the back terrace and you’ll have incredible views looking out over the Smokies!

    If you want to stay in Chattanooga, I’ve got a pretty sweet treehouse there too.

    Best Treehouse in Tennessee – The TreEscape

    The TreEscape Pigeon Forge Tennessee
    If you’re looking for a unique experience, this treehouse in Tennessee is the best choice.

    Tennessee has loads of great cabins and treehouses, but this is the only one on this list. If you’re travelling to Sevierville, have a big budget, and want something that you’ll remember forever, then make sure you book this place ASAP! You’ll have two live trees growing through the deck space and two more growing through the living area. That might sound terribly inconvenient, but it’s super cool.

    There a suspension bridge leading to the crow’s nest, where you’ll have awesome views of the surroundings and the covered hot tub is perfect for soaking those aching muscles after a long day hiking or biking. You’ll love everything about this place!

    Absolute Cheapest Cabin in Tennessee – Cozy quiet apartment. Bring pets!

    Cozy quiet apartment Bring pets
    This affordable cabin is all you need for a comfortable stay in Tennessee.

    If you’re travelling on a budget, you’ll be asking yourself if it’s worth paying a bit more for a better place? However, you won’t have that problem here! This is one of the best cabins in Tennessee on a budget – and that gets even cheaper if you can split it between the 4 guests that the cabin can accommodate.

    For the digital nomad travelling on a shoestring, this place is awesome as it has a laptop-friendly workspace. And if you’re hoping to bring your pets, it will suit you too as there are no extra fees to bring your furry friends along!

    Another Great Cabin for Couples in Tennessee – The Cuddleup Cabin

    The Cuddleup Cabin, Tennessee
    We love this room – especially the hot tub in the corner.

    Just in case our previous best cabin in Tennesse didn’t tickle your fancy, here’s another great option! The Cuddleup Cabin is right in the Smoky Mountains, and it’s a super romantic place to enjoy Tennessee from.

    As well as being close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlingburg, music lovers will be delighted that they can get to the world-famous Dollywood in just 15 minutes! Back at the cabin, curl up in the romantic living room and watch a movie with a few glasses of wine. Then, have a game of pool before bed! What could be better?!

    Another Great Cabin for Families in Tennessee – Rustic Cabin in Sevierville

    Rustic Cabin in Sevierville

    We’ve already shown you an awesome unique accommodation in Tennessee for families, but what if it’s fully booked for your dates? Rustic Cabin is in Sevierville and there’s plenty of space for you and 5 of your nearest and dearest. It’s especially good for families with young children, as there are 3 rooms; one has a queen bed and the other two have double beds.

    Enjoy a night out with the kids on the patio, where you can all gather around the BBQ and enjoy each other’s company or play games. After the kids have gone to bed, mum and dad can fire up the hot tub for a cosy and relaxing end to the day!

    Most Beautiful Cabin in Tennessee – Cosy Dog-Friendly Cabin

    Cosy Dog Friendly Cabin, Tennessee
    The views from this large deck are absolutely stunning.

    If you’re looking for an absolutely stunning unique accommodation in Tennessee, both inside and out, then check out this gorgeous cabin that offers mountain views from the hot tub! It’s an architectural gem with a great location in Sevierville.

    If you want to enjoy the view, you can make use of the rocking chairs instead of just chilling in the hot tub, both of which we know you’ll love. There’s a pool table should you want to get competitive with other guests, or simply admire the scenery from the huge windows and bathe in the bright light that they let in.

    Another Great Cabin for a Group of Friends – Best view of the Smokies!

    Best view of the Smokies, Tennessee
    This cabin is a great choice for a group of friends.

    As with our family option, we didn’t think we could give you just one awesome Tennessee cabin that could accommodate you and your friends. After all, what if it isn’t available for your dates? Luckily, this Sevierville cabin complete with hot tub is another incredible option.

    And it’s not just the hot tub where you can kick back – there’s an indoor swing too! If you prefer to be more active, why not have a pool tournament with a few beers or a bottle of wine? Or watch your favourite series or film on the Smart TV!

    Best Cabin in Tennessee for Views – Pigeon Forge with Hot Tub Views

    Pigeon Forge with Hot Tub Views

    This is one of the most popular cabins in Tennessee and it’s not hard to see why. The views from this Pigeon Forge Airbnb are absolutely sublime! This would be an awesome spot for a couples’ retreat and the rooms are fitted with comfortable king-sized beds, perfect for your weekend getaway.

    And when you get tired of looking at those jaw-dropping views, you can instead cast your eyes towards the 65 inch smart TV – guaranteed to make any movie or TV series totally awesome. Just don’t stay up too late, you’ll want to catch the sunrise through those enormous windows the next day. In our opinion, this is one of the best vacation rentals in Pigeon Forge for views.

    Best Cabin in Tennessee for Solo Travellers – Braylee’s Bungalow

    Braylees Bungalow
    Solo travellers will love this quint cabin in Tennessee.

    Solo travellers will love Tennessee, but let’s be honest, all that space of a big cabin is unnecessary. And what’s the point of paying for a pool table if you’ve got no-one to play against? Set your sights on this awesome cabin. It’s something a little smaller, but still an awesome example of unique accommodation in Tennessee.

    There’s a community lake nearby with loads of activities, so if you want to make friends you can head there and try some watersports or just hang out at a cafe. Once you’re done, head back and enjoy the fire pit on the back porch before turning in for the night!

    Best Cabin for Honeymooners in Tennessee – Private log cabin with hot tub

    Very private log cabin with hot tub
    If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this cabin is just for you!

    Just married? First of all, congratulations! As our wedding present, we’re going to show you the best cabin in Tennessee for your honeymoon. This log cabin has absolutely incredible views and a hot tub, and it’s the perfect romantic escape.

    On your first night, you can sit together on the porch swing and count all of the stars, or if it’s chilly, cuddle up together in front of the cosy fireplace! Regardless, you’ll have a memorable stay at this charming cabin in Tennessee.

    Most Traditional Cabin in Tennessee – Honey for the Bears

    Honey for the Bears
    The location of this cabin couldn’t be better.

    Yes, we know, these Tennessee cabins are pretty great. How about a bit of traditional old US charm. That’s what you’ll get from Honey for the Bears. This awesome cabin has a wood-burning fireplace and a charcoal BBQ out back, which is all you need to enjoy the company of your other guests.

    There’s a small kitchen to prepare meals inside too. By the way, there is a hot tub, but you’re not going to complain about that, are you?!

    Best Lodge for Families in Tennessee – West Oak Lodging Family Destination

    West Oak Lodging Family Destination, Tennessee

    Now, we’re onto lodges. And if you’re looking to commemorate a special family celebration, take a closer look at this incredible unique accommodation in Tennessee! This log-filled home has 100 years of history, but that’s not the only thing that will draw you to it.

    It can accommodate more than 16 guests allowing you to host the biggest family or group parties. You’re right in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains too, so you can all go on a group hike, or split off and do your own thing like kayaking, tubing, or explore nearby Bryson City.

    Best Lodge for Couples in Tennessee – Le Conte View Lodge

    Le Conte View Lodge

    There aren’t that many small lodges in Tennessee, but we have cast our net far and wide and have left no stone unturned in finding your perfect unique accommodation in Tennessee. So, if you and your other half would prefer a lodge over a cabin, check out this place.

    Le Conte View Lodge has views of the famous mountains, which are quite a sight to wake up to! Outdoor enthusiasts will love this lodge as it has a remote setting and there are various hiking routes nearby.

    Amazing Luxury Lodge in Tennessee – Upscale Cabin with Games Room

    Upscale Cabin with games room, Tennessee
    How gorgeous is that feature wall.

    Last, but not least, is one of the most epic unique accommodations in Tennessee. This one comes with an awesome games room allowing you and your guests to enjoy a game of pool before taking a dip in the hot tub.

    This magnificent lodge has three floors so there’s plenty of space for everyone. Enjoy the beautiful views from one of the many decks, or simply take time out and relax in the spacious and tastefully decorated living room.

    Check out these other great resources

    We have loads more information to help you plan your trip.

    FAQs About Treehouses, Cabins, Lodges in Tennessee

    Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Tennessee.

    Don’t Forget Your Tennessee Travel Insurance

    ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

    They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

    SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

    Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

    Final Thoughts on Tennessee Treehouses, Cabins, Lodges

    So, that concludes our list of the best unique accommodation in Tennessee. Whether you want to have an incredible view of the Smokies from your hot tub, have a tree growing through the centre of your home, or simply just a place where an entire group of friends and family can congregate, we’re sure that there’s a perfect unique accommodation in Tennessee for you.

    We just hope you’re not too overwhelmed with how much choice there is. If that’s the case, take a deep breath and have a cup of tea! Then, head back up to the top of our list and go for the overall best value cabin in Tennessee – Bearadise City. It combines excellent value for money, a great location, and an unforgettable experience for your vacation in the Volunteer State.


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