Compass by Margaritaville Review: The Best Hotel in Pigeon Forge?
If you visit Pigeon Forge often, you know that finding a hotel with a great pool, modern rooms, and a good location is like striking gold. Well, we might have just found the new "gold standard."
We recently stayed at the brand-new Compass by Margaritaville, located right off Teaster Lane. Having been open only since November, it still has that "new hotel smell." But is it worth the hype (and the price)?
Here is our full review of the King Family Suite, the massive pool complex, and whether we think this tops our list of Pigeon Forge favorites.
1. The Room: King Family Suite Tour
We booked the King Family Suite, and honestly, the layout is fantastic for families.
Space: It features a private master bedroom with a king bed and a separate "kids' room" with two twin beds right off the entry.
Amenities: We loved the huge kitchenette area with a sink, Keurig, and microwave (located in the hall, not the room, but still convenient).
The Bathroom: This might be the best bathroom we've seen in a standard hotel room. It has a massive rainfall shower, a separate soaking tub, and plenty of space.
One Hiccup: We have to be honest—our sheets were not clean when we arrived (hair and stains). It took a few calls and a trip to the front desk to get it sorted, but the staff was friendly and fixed it. Since they are so new, we’re chalking this up to "growing pains."
2. The Pool Complex: A Lazy River in a Hotel?!
This is where the Compass truly shines. The pool area is hands-down one of the best in Pigeon Forge.
Outdoor: A massive zero-entry pool, a slide, and—yes—a Lazy River that takes about 3 minutes to float around!
Indoor: A large indoor pool with a splash pad for the little ones, meaning you can swim rain or shine.
Vibe: Plenty of seating, fire pits, and that classic "5 O'Clock Somewhere" atmosphere.
3. Free Breakfast & Location
Unlike the Margaritaville Island Hotel, the Compass offers FREE breakfast, which is a huge money saver for families. The location on Teaster Lane is also a major plus. You are right behind the Christmas Place and within walking distance to attractions like the Lost Mine Mountain Coaster, but you avoid the bumper-to-bumper traffic on the main Parkway.
The Verdict: Is it the Best?
Despite the housekeeping issue, we think the Compass by Margaritaville is a strong contender for the #1 hotel in Pigeon Forge, especially if you love a good pool.
Pros: incredible pool complex, modern rooms, free breakfast, great location.
Cons: Housekeeping is still working out the kinks.
Watch our full room tour and pool walkthrough in the video above to see if this is the right spot for your next Smoky Mountain vacation!
