Dancing Bear Lodge

3.5 star property
Lodge in Townsend with free breakfast and a coffee shop

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Dancing Bear Lodge

Escape to a secluded cabin surrounded by a lush forest, featuring a cozy porch and natural charm.
Situated in a forested area, this cabin features a front porch with a lattice design and a stone pathway.
Cozy room with a stone fireplace, wooden dining table, and cabinet.
Cozy dining area with a central fireplace, wooden benches, and a rustic wooden bear sculpture.
Relax in this inviting bedroom with a large bed, wooden desk, and wardrobe.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Housekeeping
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
137 Apple Valley Way, Townsend, TN, 37882
  • Townsend Visitor Center
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Laurel Valley Golf Course
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Tuckaleechee Caverns
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson)
    ‪33 min drive‬

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Room options

Luxury Villa, 1 King Bed (Not Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 301 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Cottage, 1 King Bed (Spruce) (Semi-Detached) (Not Pet Friendly)

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Villa, 1 King Bed, Kitchen (Semi-Detached) (Not Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Cottage, 2 Double Beds (Jack Pine) (Semi-Detached) (Not Pet Friendly)

  • 300 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Villa, 2 Queen Beds (Semi-Detached) (Not Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Luxury Cabin, 1 King Bed (Leconte) (Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 495 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Cabin, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms (Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 602 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 King Beds

Deluxe Cabin, 1 King Bed, Fireplace (Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 398 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Deluxe Plus Cabin, 1 King Bed (Pet Friendly)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 452 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Cabin, 1 King Bed, Hot Tub (Pet Friendly)

  • 398 sq ft
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Townsend

Dancing Bear Lodge places you within a few miles (5 km) of The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum and Dark Island Swinging Bridge. This 20-room, 3.5-star lodge has conveniences like free in-room WiFi, free self parking, and a conference center.

What's nearby

  • Townsend Visitor Center - 4 min drive - 2.7 miles
  • Laurel Valley Golf Course - 5 min drive - 2.1 miles
  • Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center - 6 min drive - 4.1 miles
  • Tuckaleechee Caverns - 6 min drive - 3.0 miles
  • Cades Cove - 30 min drive - 14.3 miles

Getting around

  • McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Townsend Abbey - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Artistic Bean - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Apple Valley Cafe - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Riverstone Family Restaurant - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Burger Master Drive In - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Dancing Bear Lodge

Lodge in Townsend with free breakfast and a coffee shop
At Dancing Bear Lodge, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, a conference center, and free use of bicycles. There's free parking if you drive. Front-desk staff can help with tours or tickets, and provide local restaurant recommendations. Additional amenities include express check-out, a garden, and a banquet hall.
TVs come with cable channels, and free WiFi keeps guests connected. Pillowtop beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and free minibar items. Housekeeping is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the lodge include complimentary bicycles.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Languages

English

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant
  • Couples/private dining
  • Private picnics

Things to do

  • Free bicycle rentals
  • Hot tub
  • Shopping mall

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • 2 meeting rooms
  • Conference center

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In the mountains
  • Picnic area

Spa

  • In-room massages

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Portable shower seat

More

  • Banquet hall
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Free minibar (limited items)
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: USD 50.00
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9 AM - 5:00 PM
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and key retrieval information; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 6:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), key retrieval

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 75 per accommodation, per stay
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 10.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 75 per accommodation, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Late check-out fee: USD 50.00 (subject to availability)
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 10.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • Some facilities may be restricted. For more details, contact the property. Contact information can be found on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Dancing Bear Lodge
Dancing Bear Lodge Townsend
Dancing Bear Townsend
Dancing Bear Hotel Townsend
Dancing Bear Lodge Lodge
Dancing Bear Lodge Townsend
Dancing Bear Lodge Lodge Townsend

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Dancing Bear Lodge?

Dancing Bear Lodge provides free cancellation on certain room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Dancing Bear Lodge?

As of Jul 15, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dancing Bear Lodge on Jul 16, 2025 start from $240.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see close to Dancing Bear Lodge?

This lodge is located in Townsend, close to Tuckaleechee Caverns, Laurel Valley Golf Course, and Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. You'll also find Great Smoky Mountains National Park and The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Dancing Bear Lodge?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge.

Does Dancing Bear Lodge have a casino at the property?

No, Dancing Bear Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Dancing Bear Lodge?

No, there is no indoor pool at this lodge.

Is Dancing Bear Lodge a good place to stay for couples?

There are many amenities for couples at this lodge, including in-room massages as well as a bar and a restaurant.

Does Dancing Bear Lodge have a hot tub?

Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this lodge.

Does Dancing Bear Lodge have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Yes, Dancing Bear Lodge serves free continental breakfast each morning from its restaurant.

Will Dancing Bear Lodge allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Dancing Bear Lodge for a fee of USD 75 per accommodation, per stay.

Does Dancing Bear Lodge have connecting rooms?

No, this lodge doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Dancing Bear Lodge?

The closest major airport to Dancing Bear Lodge is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), which is 19.1 mi away (28 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Dancing Bear Lodge?

Yes, some guestrooms at this lodge offer either a furnished balcony or a furnished patio where guests can enjoy valley or resort views.

Dancing Bear Lodge Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 245 out of 310 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 53 out of 310 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 7 out of 310 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 310 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 310 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Nathan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Amy and Debbie at front desk was amazing really great customers service went above beyond great service
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacinda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Valued

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

deborah

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everyone that worked there was so friendly and helpful. Loved the area ,the cabins were lovely And The food was fantastic
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A little pricey compared to the others places in the area but the grounds are beautiful and the cabin was cozy. It was nice to walk down to the restaurants and coffee shop.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Absolutely wonderful stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jane

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Perfectly peaceful location

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Francis

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Leafie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Birthday get away

Loved the area and the villa! The only downside was the bed, very hard and uncomfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We were surprised how the individual units were tucked away on a quiet road in the woods. Our unit met our expectations and more. Porch off the back looked into the woods. Dinner at the bistro was wonderful. We had salmon and fried oysters. It is a Fabulous property.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our cabin was fabulous from the gift basket, robes, pillow to beds, great pillows clean coffee, Crane in the fridge. I would recommend 10
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Galina

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property/cabin was in a great location (not far from anything). Their were plenty of restaurants near by and all kinds as well.This Cabin was pet friendly which made me happy and could not find a petsitter at the last minute. I took my dog with me and plenty of places accepted him with outdoor seating with no issues. My only issue for the Dancing Bear lodge Cabin which was located near the restaurant was there was no parking space available when I had returned from my evening adventures. I had a very tough time finding a parking spot when I had returned back to the cabin very tired. There were supposed to be signs up for spaces reserving spots for both of those cabins but no one seems to be paying attention to them! Space is limited and it is a very small parking lot as well. I went to cades cove (saw a least 2 sets of bears with cubs) , saw some waterfalls and went shopping.Overall, I'm glad I picked this place and would recommend it to friends and family!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cabins are very nice with nice views.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

8/10 Good

Rashelle, Chattanooga

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Enjoyed our stay at Dancing Bear Lodge

I only have one small complaint about our stay at Dancing Bear Lodge - the mattress needs replacing (it felt like falling in a hole). Everything else was wonderful - clean, comfortable, welcoming, attractive. Loved welcome basket and lots of towels. Setting is lovely and nice comp'd breakfast at Apple Valley Cafe. Would gladly stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Secluded but convenient location
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Santhanam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Check in was at 4 pm later than other hotels
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Fantastic!

Our family of 3 spent 3 nights at Dancing Bear Lodge in one of the duplex cabins, and also ate at the restaurant 3 nights in a row. It was absolutely fantastic in every way, from the welcome basket in the cabin to s'mores by the fire pit after dinner. The breakfasts down the hill at the cafe are also outstanding. If we come back to the SMNP area, this is where we will stay again, no question.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

charlotte

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Branch, Fayetteville

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is an excellent place to stay for a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park entrance is only a few minutes away, with quick access to Cades Cove. The cabins are named after certain sites in the Smokies. We stayed in the “Abrams Falls” double king loft cabin. The entire cabin was very clean and the grounds were well-maintained. At the entrance to the premises, there is the Dancing Bean coffee shop, plus a family restaurant, an outdoor store, and a gift shop all right there. The cabins are up the hill, and a high end bistro in the middle of the cabins (we did not get to try the bistro). Each cabin has its own parking. There are walking trails on the property. The staff was very welcoming, helpful, and informative about the area. Our only regret was that we didn’t stay longer.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Beautiful area, property...amazing stay

This is a one of a kind, top tier cabin and property. The bistro was OUT of this world! You WILL SPEND A LOT dining there, but every cent is worth it. The cabins are beautiful, romantic, and every single detail is well thought out. We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Best restaurant in the mountains
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tommy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024