Dancing Bear Lodge Townsend

Amanda Stover

2024-04

If you’re searching for a place to stay around the Smokey Mountains, you’ve found the best place- Dancing Bear! My Husband and I stayed at Dancing Bear in Townsend for our honeymoon and it was the best experience we’ve had. The cabin was clean, easy to get to, quiet, and absolutely beautiful. They offered complimentary bikes to take on trails and had a very nice hot tub on the porch that was so peaceful.The town of Townsend can still accommodate your travel needs with the Cades Cove winery, coffee shops, beautiful trails to hike, and cute shops but it is crowded with crazy traffic. If I could give our whole Townsend experience more stars, I would! The bistro was also hands down the best food we’ve had in our trip! The chicken is the best chicken I’ve ever had. I cannot recommend Dancing Bear and the bistro enough!

Brandy Henson

2024-03

We had a wonderful night stay at The Dancing Bear. Our cabin was so beautiful and cozy and we loved all of the little details that made our stay so inviting. The welcome basket with delicious granola, a sweet note from Hailey in housekeeping, comfy robes, coffee from The Dancing Bean, a giant tub, a comfortable bed and a delicious breakfast in the morning at The Apple Valley Cafe all together made for a fantastic night away. We're already planning a return trip for our anniversary!

Alice Stoudenmire

2024-03

On our most recent trip to the Smokies this year (Feb. 2024), we decided to stay at the Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend for the first time and were very pleasantly surprised! This is the place to stay in Townsend and we will definitely come back. We reserved the Clingman's Dome #2 villa. It was spotlessly clean upon arrival. There was a hiking/welcome basket waiting for us with fresh apples, snacks and water. Our villa had two comfortable queen beds, a kitchenette with microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, plates and utensils, and the bathroom with a sizeable walk-in shower. We also had a balcony overlooking the wooded area - which we didn't use because it rained for most of our stay. Also included, were free breakfast vouchers for the Apple Cafe for each day of our stay. The breakfasts were fantastic. Pancakes, croissants, biscuits, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, fresh juice, coffee and much more. Much, much better than the complimentary breakfasts at most hotels. We did not try the Bistro, but we certainly will on future visits. I really cannot say enough nice things about the Dancing Bear Lodge. We will definitely come back for future trips to the peaceful side of the Smokies! Thank you to all the staff - who were always friendly and helpful!

Robin

2024-04

It was our destination for our 57th anniversary. We spent two nights their including eating Sunday Brunch and a five star dinner with them. They made it soooo special!If you are looking for a quiet place with scenic surroundings this place is a winner.

Cherie Brooks

2024-04

Top notch cabins with every amenity you didn't know you needed. Quiet, beautiful, easy to get to, no scary mountain roads, and beyond peaceful. The Appalachian Bistro is world class. Get reservations- you need them! It is expensive, but so worth it! The staff is super accomodating. You are near Cades Cove and all that the Smokies have to offer without the craziness of Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. (You can get there in 35 minutes if you must, but, really why???

Gail Lyke

2023-12

We just stayed here for 2 nights for our wedding anniversary! Everything was amazing from making our initial room & dinner reservation with Samantha until we checked out this morning! We were pleasantly surprised when Samantha called to tell us our room was available for early check in. The check-in process went very smoothly & we received a surprise gift card & hand-written card for our anniversary (very thoughtful). We stayed in Rich Mtn #2. It was perfect for our stay, very clean & comfortable! Our room had a hiking gift basket which we loved & used on our hike to Abrams Falls in Cades Cove. Our stay included 2 complimentary breakfast cards. We used them both & thoroughly enjoyed everything. Our anniversary dinner at the Appalachian Bistro was delicious (posted a separate review there). We highly recommend & definitely plan to come back!

Charleen Green

2023-09

My daughter and son in law got married here on June 17th. What a beautiful venue. The staff was phenomenal along with the wedding planner Kristi. If anyone is planning a wedding i highly recommend reaching out to Kristi. She did such such a phenomenal job that it was everything my daughter and son in law wanted and more.i promise you will not be disappointed. The food was GREAT!! It was also nice to have family stay right on the property.Food & drinks: Food us phenomenal!!!

Ms. M B

2023-08

As you ascend a beautiful lit driveway into the mountains, you approach the grand restaurant that is the dancing bear lodge. The food is absolutely amazing. I had the truffle filet cooked medium well and the rest of the group also had a filet but cooked medium. The server was attentive and very hospitable to our group. The outside dining area is very beautiful. I highly recommend this establishment. The prices are a tad high, so you know.

Sarah Kuban

2023-05

If you’re looking for a venue to host a team retreat or group event in the mountains—look not further! Dancing Bear curated the most special week for our team. The event space was perfect for hosting sessions—snacks and drinks were great. They even brought out warm, homemade cookies on a last minute request. The fire was a nice touch on a cold January day.The cabins were cozy and rustic and clean and we did not eat one bad thing. Food was phenomenal! The catered breakfast, lunch and dinners were 5-star for our out of town foodie guests. And the service was unmatched. The most delightful, gracious, helpful staff! Big shout out to Nicole and Jon for not only serving up a great dinner and amazing cocktails—but also figuring out how to set up karaoke for our wild bunch and joining right along in the singing. Anna and the entire team made this the most special week and we won’t soon forget it!Our team of travelers from NYC, Seattle, Austin and Waco will be back for sure!

Bill Linton

2023-09

We ate dinner here August 24th, and thoroughly enjoyed. It’s about a 40 minute drive from our West Knoxville home and we thought it worth the trip.The table started with the pork belly and the scallops. The scallops were enormous and good, but the pork belly was the table favorite. It is served on a bead of greens with balsamic glaze or reduction. If there are pork belly fans in the party, get this.Dancing Bear brews it’s own beer, and I had the Chequreboard Pilsner and really enjoyed it.My wife and I split a really good smash burger. One of our friends had the duck gumbo and he raved about it. The other person had the trout and enjoyed that as well.Brad was our server and he was friendly, helpful and efficient. This spot is pretty popular, so make reservations well in advance. Once the trees start to turn, this may be a tough one to get, and with good reason. Highly recommend.

Tina Tye

2023-05

Our meal was exceptional last night at Dancing Bear. Our server Aileen made us feel like royalty while we were there. Aileen’s knowledge of wine and food was not only amazing and extremely professional, her descriptions made me feel like I could taste it just from her presentation. I savored every sip of wine and bite of food as I enjoyed discovering the the flavors with the description she presented. 5 star dining at its best right here folks!!!! The view on the veranda where we dined is something you just can’t explain you need to discover it yourself! Thank you Aileen and all the staff that puts this together! It was an experience that I will remember for a long time and can’t wait to come back again. Enjoy ❤️

Gary Lewis

2023-05

This is really a 4.5 for me but I have to leave a review in whole stars and I always round down.This is a great location if you're interested in staying close to the Great Smoky Mountains. The service is excellent, the staff are friendly, and the rooms are nice. The food is amazing as well.Rooms get 4 stars because they are a bit pricey when compared to others in the area. I think they're nicer rooms, but maybe not $100 nicer.The property would also be great for a wedding or a company retreat.

Erin Morrison Photography

2023-09

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GLR

2023-05

We came to Dancing Bear Bistro tonight to celebrate a birthday. The atmosphere was perfect and the food was delicious. The staff was very attentive and made sure the birthday boy had a fabulous experience. You must ask for Courtney if she's working. Excellent service!

Kathryn Hawthorne

2023-05

My husband and I had the most fabulous romantic getaway at Dancing Bear. From the time of arrival the staff greet you warmly and efficiently check you in. Setting you off with a map to show exactly where to go on the beautiful mountain property. Our cabin, Doe Knob, was charming, private, clean, well decorated, and had tons of thoughtful touches. From a welcome snack basket, huge plush bed, private outdoor hot tub, cute notes from housekeeping, and wood stacked in the fire place(with lighter and extra fire starter as well!)…. We were in Heaven!If you go you must dine at their Bistro. We tried several plates to get a feel for the menu. The Appalachian inspired menu, overseen by in house chef Jeff Carter was phenomenal. From the scratch made corn bread, to cheese plate, taste of fall, Thai inspired lamb ribs, trout, filet mignon, and vanilla bean creme brûlée, nothing disappointed. Our server Aileen was knowledgeable about each dish and served flawlessly.In the morning we enjoyed complementary coffee and pastry at the Dancing Bean coffee shop, located on property. Emory was delightful and made the most wonderful drinks, using the beans which are roasted in house! We dined on the covered porch and listed to the mountain drizzle.Our experience could not have been more special, if you have the chance to visit, you will not regret it!

Rashan Fulenwider

2023-06

I have never stayed here, so why do a review you ask? Well Im fixing to tell you why. We own a cabin within walking distance to this cabin. I believe this is a 2 bedroom cabin. We walk past this cabin all the time. It is very beautiful and in the most gorgeous location ever! You want to swim or do some fly fishing or trout fishing? The creek is right out your front door. But, Becareful the water is cold now haha. They have a really nice firepit area right in front of the creek. It also has picnic tables and a grill for outdoor dining and games. The cabin is gated and locked with a code so not just everyone can drive through here. The best part is that the Townsend swinging bridge is right out your front door! This bridge is a local landmark. It was restored in 1994 after the flood took it by local prisoners and then again in 2004. You are within walking distance to Restaurants Lillys Cafe, The Abbey, and The Townsend Buffet. You can walk to the Little River Railroad train Museum which is free just ask for a donation and the you can walk next door to very fun family game of putt putt golf at Charlie Bears Putt Putt. You are a 10 min drive from cades cove and about a 10 drive to wears valley which is full of really nice eateries and shops and the Eagles View Sky Lift. Which is very pretty by the way. Your about a 25 min drive from Pigon Forge and 30 min drive from Gatlinburg. This cabin is located on the Peaceful Side Of the Smokies with a absolutely gorgeous view of little river that you can hear flowing at night. They have 2 parking spaces for your cars. I would recommend this cabin simply because of the scenery. If you like the outdoors with less hustle n bustle of the gatlinburg noise then this cabin is just for you!

Reshma R

2022-05

Dancing Bear Lodge was perfect in every way. Beautiful location, clean and great hospitality!The breakfast basket was a good touch.The cabin is beautiful with all amenities. We even saw hundreds of fireflies outside our cabin on one night. So magical.Loved the Appalachian bistro too. The creme brûlée was so amazing that I ordered it on every night I stayed there. The trout and risotto was cooked to perfection and the service was outstanding.

Tyke Hillmer

2022-05

My wife and I stayed at the Dancing Bear Newfound Gap cabin and we can't wait to return. Check in/out was seamless and the staff reached out to us before and after our visit to ensure they met our expectations. We told them we wanted to go hiking prior to check-in and they sent a personalized description of recommended trails that you won't find in any publications. We had lunch at the Peaceful Side Social in Townsend and it blew us away! We had drinks in our studio cabin with fireplace, kitchen, and porch in the woods before going to dinner and the stuffed mountain trout, service, and ambience will be tough to top. It was the perfect ending to a great day, THANK YOU Dancing Bear Team!!!

KELLY Rogers-Murphy

2023-05

The atmosphere was romantic and rustic! Friendly service, delicious food, and peaceful ambiance all nestled in a wooded paradise. The pork chops were perfect and I highly recommend the pork belly as an appetizer. We even had dessert, and it was a pleasant splurge. Thanks for giving us a positive memory!

Matthew Connolly

2023-05

I absolutely loved this place. It was peaceful and cozy, the beds were so comfy I didn’t want to get out of the sheets in the morning. The area around the cabins is beautiful, the staff were super nice. We were here for a wedding but now my gf and I want to come back just to explore the surrounding area some more.

Laura Mehler

2021-05

We had the absolute best stay at Dancing Bear Lodge, and plan to return time and time again! This mountain resort is beautiful, we also were lucky enough to attend a fabulous wedding here a few years ago and if you're looking for a relaxed but gorgeous venue definitely check it out!Our cabin (Rainbow Falls) was perfectly rustic, extremely clean, with new cozy beds and updated bathrooms- the hot tub was a great bonus! We also had one of the most memorable meals of our lives at The Appalachian Bistro. The service, wine and food was all superb, all 7 of us loved our meals and felt safe dining on the patio space during COVID. Cannot speak highly enough about Dancing Bear!

Russell Brown

2023-10

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Aspin Amick

2022-05

We weren't too sure about this place initially from the pictures but couldn't be happier with our choice! We booked our cabin late and received a call from the manager with details to everything and was given her personal number to contact if there were any issues. Ended up being upgraded before we arrived and was told we would receive a breakfast basket in the morning. The cabin was very nice and clean with a hut tub on the porch. When morning came we didn't receive a basket so we texted the manager asking if that came with our upgraded room and not only received the basket but also pancakes and a breakfast sandwich to make up for the inconvenience! Amazing service! Very satisfied with our choice and would happily stay here again!

Tony King

2023-05

I had the delightful opportunity to stay at the Dancing Bear Lodge last evening. I stayed in Newfound Gap, so comfortable and homey rustic feeling. Slept like a baby bear 🐻, the check in staff Channing, CY made me feel like I've known them for years. Upon checkout which was seamless I met the GM Aimee and senior manager Christie, I can't recommend the dancing bear higher. The Oldham Hospitality group have a great concept and super people to run it

katie grace

2022-05

went here as a beginning of summer getaway! and people were extremely nice!! because the bed broke in our cabin we were treated to the owner/managers LARGE cabin!!! we are extremely great-full and will be coming back. amazing bistro. everyone made sure it was perfect!! i will never regret this trip it makes me so happy to see people put their customers first

Mountains Are Best

2021-05

Room was very clean, full kitchen was nice, bed comfortable and breakfast materials were very tasty. We love staying here. Our reservation was changed without notice and we were moved next to a construction site which was a bit annoying but no problem. The cabin wasn't very well sealed and a little cold but the fireplace did the trick. Great place to stay if you enjoy quiet and peaceful surroundings. Access to lots of neat nearby places to hike and sight see too. Restaurant is really a great addition to a visit.

Stephen Nelson

2021-05

What’s wonderful: reasonable price, quiet, beautiful, conveniently close to the smokies, delicious food.What is compromised: attention to detail. We had a few issues like they didn’t leave us a key and we had to ask for one, the bed dropped in the middle, the pillows were overstuffed into the pillowcase, and the included breakfast was good only one of the two days.My wife and stayed in May 2020. We had a nice stay and would do so again. Overall, I think the cabin privacy and amenities are great for the price. I would recommend it to anyone looking for something nicer than a hotel room, but willing to forego to detailed touches of a luxury experience.

Tracey Grant

2022-05

Dancing Bear Lodge was fantastic. We were greeted warmly at check in and thrilled our cabin was ready early. The property offers a variety of cabins. We stayed in le conte which was huge! We had a sleeping area with a king bed, desk, armoire and tv. Then there was a sitting area with a sofa, two arm chairs, TV, game table and wood burning stacked stone fireplace. And a full stocked kitchen too!! The furnishings are rustic but the cabin was clean and comfortable.There are newer smaller cabins as well if you prefer a more modern mountain vibe.On property is the Appalachian bistro which looks great but we did not try. Loved the bonfire and s’mores at dusk and complimentary breakfast at Apple valley cafe in the morning.So many great activities here too. We were surprised to find free bikes available for guests. We rode into Townsend and enjoyed exploring. There are also many hiking trails around the Dancing Bear property. Beautiful walk though the woods with wildflowers galore!I’m so thrilled we discovered this beautiful place. I felt like I was at grown up camp! Would be great with kids, a wedding or reunion also.

Mustafa Abubaker

2022-05

Had an excellent dinner here to commiserate my wife and I’s November wedding with my Best Man. We arrived at the restaurant without reservations and there was an hour and a half wait for indoor dining but could be seated outdoors immediately but were informed full service was an option at the bar. So we went to the bar. After ordering drinks, we were informed a table was ready for us. Sarah graciously and patiently waited on us. We ordered the Artisan Cheese Board, the Veal Piccata, the Caesar Salad, Steak, Chicken, Fries. The Veal Piccata was amazing. My chicken was awesome too. The Coke my wife ordered was sweeter than any Coke she’s ever had. Water glasses were never empty. All in all a terrific experience. Thank you Dancing Bear Lodge Townsend for a wonderful dinner.

Shannon Harper

2014-05

We had a wonderful experience at Dancing Bear Lodge. The staff was well equipped to handle everything we needed and everyone was incredibly inviting. The food was out of this world. We had an exquisite meal that was obviously fresh and expertly prepared. The rooms are well sized with a comfortable bed and great showers. My wife was so in love with the bed that she asked the staff about where to buy one like it! The breakfast in the morning was much better than your typical continental style breakfast. As with dinner, all the food was delicious and fresh. The staff would drop what they were doing to help you with your requests as you'd expect at a five star hotel. Job well done and very reasonably priced for everything you receive.