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Summary of reviewsEcono Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center in Gatlinburg predominantly receives positive reviews, especially for its strategic location. Situated just a block from the main strip, it offers guests easy access to downtown, the convention center and an array of local shops, restaurants and attractions. This central yet private location is highly commended, making it an excellent base for exploring Gatlinburg's vibrant nightlife, nearby ski slopes and family-friendly activities such as the SkyBridge and Ripley's attractions.
The hotel's rooms are often described as comfortable, spacious and clean with many having been recently remodeled. Guests appreciate essential amenities like microwaves, refrigerators and fluffy pillows. Families particularly favor the large rooms and connected units, creating an ideal setup for group stays. The pool area is a hit with children, adding to the accommodation's family-friendly appeal. Additionally, the cozy ambiance and ample space make it a sought-after spot for family gatherings and vacations.
Guests frequently commend the friendly and accommodating front desk staff, who are noted for their welcoming demeanor and efficient service. However, some reviews indicate that the housekeeping service could be more consistent, suggesting a need for enhanced training and oversight.
The most significant area for improvement appears to be the breakfast offerings, which guests often find lacking. The limited grab-and-go options, such as honey buns, granola bars and coffee, do not meet the expectations of those looking for a more traditional or substantial breakfast.
Cleanliness receives mixed reviews with many guests praising the clean and well-maintained rooms and common areas. However, inconsistencies in housekeeping standards are noted with some complaints about mold, musty smells and general upkeep issues in certain rooms.
The beds receive varied feedback, often cited as comfortable by many but occasionally described as too firm or worn out by others. The bedding quality is generally praised, although some guests have had issues with cleanliness.
The hotel's Wi-Fi is another point of contention with experiences ranging from smooth connectivity to frustratingly slow and unreliable service. Despite some negative comments, many guests find the internet adequate for their needs.
In summary, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center stands out for its prime location, family-friendly environment and commendable service at the front desk. Although improvements in breakfast offerings, housekeeping consistency and Wi-Fi reliability could enhance the overall guest experience, it remains a popular choice for those looking to enjoy all that Gatlinburg has to offer. Show more
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Hotel near Ski Resorts
This hotel is located in Gatlinburg and is close to Ober Gatlinburg. It provides affordable accommodations with easy access to the ski slopes.
Cheap Hotel
Provides budget-friendly accommodations with a convenient location near the convention center. Offers essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Room Types
King Room - Non-SmokingThis non-smoking room features a cable TV as well as tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Queen Room with Two Queen Beds - Non-SmokingThis non-smoking room features a cable TV as well as tea- and coffee-making facilities.
King Room - Accessible/Non-SmokingThe spacious double room features air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, heating, a TV with cable channels, as well as mountain views. The unit has 1 bed.
Queen Suite with Two Queen Beds - Non-SmokingThe air-conditioned suite offers a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe and heating. The unit offers 2 beds.
King Suite with Two King Beds - Non-SmokingThe suite offers air conditioning, a minibar, a wardrobe along with heating.
Suite with One King and Two Queen Beds - Non-Smoking
Guest Reviews
7.9
Good
Location
The location of the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center in Gatlinburg is consistently praised by guests. Situated just a block from the main strip, it offers easy walking access to downtown, the convention center, local shops, restaurants and a variety of attractions. The convenience of being close to everything yet sufficiently off the main drag to provide some privacy is a recurring theme. The hotel's proximity to the main street with minimal need to use a car, enhances its appeal for tourists looking to explore Gatlinburg on foot. The property's central position also allows guests to enjoy nearby amenities such as the SkyBridge and Ripley's attractions. The favorable location is cited numerous times, making it a clear highlight for visitors who value easy access to the heart of Gatlinburg.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center is widely noted for its minimalistic offerings. Guests found that the breakfast provided was often limited to grab-and-go options such as honey buns, granola bars, oatmeal packets, fruit cups, coffee and juice. Many reviews highlighted the absence of a more traditional or hot breakfast, which was particularly disappointing for those who expected more substantial meal options as advertised.
Several guests noted the convenience of nearby breakfast places where they could find a more satisfying meal. The perception that the pandemic has led to the reduction of breakfast items was also mentioned with some guests pointing out that other hotels have resumed serving a fuller breakfast. While the coffee and juice were appreciated by some as basics to start the day, the overall sentiment was that breakfast offerings could be significantly improved.
Rooms
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center offers a mix of experiences for its visitors, especially when it comes to room quality. On the positive side, many guests found the rooms to be comfortable, spacious, clean and often freshly remodeled. The rooms by the pool are particularly favored, providing a nice ambiance and convenient access to the swimming facilities. Guests appreciated the updated decor in some rooms, comfortable bedding and essential amenities like microwaves, refrigerators and fluffy pillows. The spaciousness and cleanliness of many rooms met guests' expectations and the view from certain rooms added to the pleasant stay.
However, there are also several areas where the hotel needs improvement. Issues with cleanliness were noted by multiple guests, including mold, musty smells and general lack of upkeep in some rooms. Some guests reported outdated furnishings, malfunctioning air conditioning units and problems with the bathrooms such as poor water pressure, mold and dirty floors. Rooms located in the parking garage area seemed neglected and uncomfortable. Noise was another concern with some rooms being close to loud areas like the ice machine or facing noisy streets.
Though the location is convenient and the staff is friendly, the inconsistent room quality and maintenance issues detract from the overall experience. For those hoping for a basic, affordable stay close to the convention center and other attractions, Econo Lodge can be sufficient; however, it's hit or miss depending on the specific room assigned.
Beds
The beds at Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center have received a mixed range of feedback from guests. Many reviewers found the beds to be very comfortable, clean and cozy, often appreciating the clean bedding and comfy pillows. Some highlighted the location of the hotel being close to downtown as an added advantage to the overall comfort of the beds.
However, there are consistent mentions of the beds being too firm or hard with a few guests describing them as comparable to sleeping on a rock. A notable number of reviewers pointed out that the mattresses could benefit from replacement, citing issues like mattresses that sloped downhill or felt worn out. Several guests also mentioned discomfort from the pillows, describing them as small, flat or hard.
Cleanliness of the bedding received positive remarks, although there were sporadic mentions of bedding that smelled or had hair on it. Despite these varied opinions, the phrase "comfortable beds" appears frequently, suggesting that while there are inconsistencies, many guests did have a pleasant sleeping experience at the hotel.
Cleanliness
The Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center has garnered a range of opinions regarding cleanliness from its guests. On a positive note, many reviewers found their rooms to be clean and comfortable with several mentioning that the property appears updated and well-maintained. Guests frequently appreciated the cleanliness of common areas and the overall tidiness.
However, there were numerous concerns regarding inconsistent cleanliness standards. Some rooms had dirty floors, dust accumulation and mold issues, particularly in bathrooms. Specific complaints included dirty mirrors, unclean bathrooms, stained linens and occasional findings of hair and other debris. Issues like cockroaches and an unpleasant smell in some areas were also reported, indicating that certain rooms or sections of the hotel need more rigorous cleaning routines.
While some rooms boasted spotless conditions and freshly laundered bedding, others fell short. It was evident that housekeeping did not uniformly meet expectations and there were reports of inadequate room cleaning during guests' stays.
Overall, although the hotel benefits from a convenient location and has some well-cleaned and updated rooms, addressing the inconsistency in cleanliness could significantly enhance guest satisfaction.
Staff
The staff at Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center generally receive high praise from guests, particularly those at the front desk. Many visitors found the front desk staff to be extremely friendly, courteous and accommodating, making the check-in and check-out process smooth and efficient. Guests noted that the staff consistently went out of their way to be helpful and were always smiling and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
However, the reviews also reveal some areas needing improvement, especially concerning the housekeeping team. Guests reported issues with the cleaning crew, citing instances of unprofessional behavior, such as entering rooms without knocking and not replacing towels on multiple occasions. Several reviewers felt that housekeeping's customer service and cleaning standards were lacking, suggesting a need for better training and oversight.
Despite the mixed feedback on housekeeping, the overall impression of the staff remains positive. Most guests appreciated the friendly and helpful nature of the team, particularly the desk clerks. Special mentions were made about individuals who were kind, informative and made the stay more pleasant. While there are noted exceptions where staff seemed indifferent or unfriendly, the general sentiment leans toward a commendable service experience at this hotel.
Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi experience at Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center is mixed. While some guests found the Wi-Fi to be useful and easy to connect to, others experienced slow speeds, weak connections and frequent disconnections. A few guests noted that the internet was perfect during their stay, but many others mentioned ongoing issues with poor signal strength and unreliable access. There were also instances where Wi-Fi and TV services were completely out, contributing to a less satisfactory experience for some visitors. Overall, the quality and reliability of internet connectivity appear to be inconsistent, ranging from excellent to terrible.
Family
The Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center is frequently highlighted as a great destination for families. Visitors often describe it as a family-friendly environment with a variety of amenities and activities that cater to both adults and children. Many families have enjoyed their stay, finding the large rooms convenient for groups and appreciating the connected rooms that facilitate keeping everyone together. Previous guests repeatedly mention feeling safe and secure throughout their stay, which is a big plus for those traveling with children.
The hotel's pool area is particularly popular among youngsters with several mentions of children loving this feature. Apart from the pool, there are various activities available for family members, creating an engaging environment for everyone. The property is described as an ideal spot for family gatherings and vacations, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all age groups.
In terms of the overall ambiance, the atmosphere is noted to be relaxing and away from the hustle and bustle, making it a perfect place for unwinding. Families have returned multiple times, indicating a satisfactory experience that encourages repeat visits. Lastly, the location of the hotel is often praised, adding to its convenience and appeal for a family trip. Despite some occasional negative comments, the consensus leans heavily towards positive experiences, making it a solid choice for family vacations.
Ski
Nestled conveniently near a variety of ski slopes, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center offers an ideal location for ski enthusiasts. Visitors frequently praise its proximity to top-notch ski resorts and rental shops, making it an excellent choice for those planning multiple skiing trips. Guests have highlighted the ease of walking to the ski slopes with many appreciating the short distance to the best ski spots in town. The hotel's location offers a dual advantage: not only is it close to prime skiing areas, but it is also within easy walking distance to local attractions like the main strip, space needle, sky lift and bridge, ensuring that there is plenty to do off the slopes as well. The convenient access to both the ski resorts and popular local landmarks contributes to a perfect ski trip experience, delighting ski lovers and adventure-seekers alike.
Nightlife
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Gatlinburg, the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites at the Convention Center offers an ideal location for those eager to explore the local nightlife scene. It is within walking distance of a plethora of bars, restaurants and shops. Visitors appreciated the proximity to numerous nightlife spots, including lively rooftop bars and popular nightclubs, which made it easy to experience the fun-filled atmosphere. Being right off the strip provides convenient access to all the excitement Gatlinburg has to offer, enhancing the overall experience. For those looking for a night out, the nearby clubs and nightclubs promise a good nightlife experience.
However, its central and bustling location also means that it can get noisy at night. Some guests mentioned that the evening noise from nearby clubs and live bands at the convention center affected their sleep. Despite this, the clean rooms and enjoyable nightlife near the hotel were highlights for many. An easy and short walk, the central location allowed guests to fully immerse in the lively and unique nightlife of Gatlinburg, making their stay memorable.
No, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Gatlinburg at the Convention Center doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Gatlinburg at the Convention Center.
No, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Gatlinburg at the Convention Center doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Gatlinburg at the Convention Center.
No, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Gatlinburg at the Convention Center doesn't have a gym.