Sidney James Mountain Lodge

Gatlinburg 35.70366000, -83.51648000 , 610 Historic Nature Trail (Show on Map)
7.6
Good


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Summary of reviewsSidney James Mountain Lodge is highly regarded for its prime location in Gatlinburg, offering guests easy access to the city's vibrant downtown, shops, restaurants and entertainment options. Nestled near the main strip yet maintaining a peaceful and scenic environment, guests can enjoy picturesque views, particularly of a nearby creek. The lodge is an excellent base for exploring the Smoky Mountains National Park and the convenience of a nearby trolley stop adds to its appeal.

The hotel's breakfast service receives mixed reviews. While some guests were disappointed by the lack of a complimentary breakfast and its limited hours, the on-site poolside café received praise for its delicious, freshly cooked-to-order meals and reasonable prices. Similarly, the dining options at the lodge are generally well-reviewed with many guests enjoying the quality of the food and the friendly service, although some noted the café's inconsistent hours and slightly high prices.

Rooms at Sidney James Mountain Lodge vary in guest satisfaction. Many found the rooms spacious, clean and comfortable, enjoying amenities like fireplaces and jet tubs, as well as beautiful balcony views. However, several guests commented on the outdated condition of the room furniture, worn-out carpets and old fixtures. Issues with cleanliness and maintenance were noted, including unpleasant odors and sightings of insects, though many found the rooms adequate for the price.

Cleanliness across the lodge receives both commendations and criticisms. Some guests noted their rooms as clean and well-maintained, praising the spotless common facilities and pools. However, specific issues such as stained towels, mold and mildew in bathrooms and reports of pests were also mentioned. The inconsistency of housekeeping services further highlighted a need for improved cleanliness and maintenance.

The staff at Sidney James Mountain Lodge consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, professionalism and attentiveness, significantly enhancing the overall guest experience. Check-in and check-out processes are smooth and the staff's willingness to help and accommodate guests' needs stands out. Even so, a few isolated complaints about certain staff members were noted, but they were outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The lodge's WiFi service gathers mixed reactions. Some guests found it fast and accessible, while others experienced slow and unreliable connections. The lack of clear instructions on accessing the WiFi added to some guests' frustration.

The pool facilities at Sidney James Mountain Lodge are a hit among guests. The three clean and well-maintained pools, including an indoor heated pool and a kiddie area, are popular with both children and adults. The poolside café adds to the pleasant experience, despite minor issues like overcrowding or occasional maintenance problems.

Parking at the lodge receives mixed reviews. While some guests found the parking convenient and easy to access, others faced challenges with limited, scarce and cramped spaces, particularly during busy times. Construction work and inadequate handicap parking exacerbated these issues.

The lodge is highly recommended for families, offering spacious family suites, various pool options and activities such as a kids' club. The prime location and natural surroundings, including the opportunity to see local wildlife, add to its family-friendly appeal. Guests appreciate the safe environment and numerous activities for children, making it a beloved destination for family gatherings.

The experiences with beds at Sidney James Mountain Lodge vary. Some guests found them comfortable, while others reported them as hard or uncomfortable, leading to back pain. The need for updated mattresses and better-quality bedding was a common request.

In summary, Sidney James Mountain Lodge is a conveniently located, family-friendly destination with a strong emphasis on friendly service, enjoyable dining options and well-maintained pool facilities, although areas like room updates, cleanliness and parking could benefit from improvements.
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Hotel with Indoor Pool
The hotel's indoor pool is located in the main lodge, adjacent to the café. Open year-round and heated, it's the perfect place for everyone to relax and spend some time. Younger guests can enjoy their own children's pool. located in the same area.

Hotel with Rooms With Jacuzzi / Hot-tub

Hotel near Golf Courses

Hotel near Ski Resorts

Hotel for Honeymoon

Family Friendly Hotel

Hotel with Swimming Pool

  Heated Pool    Indoor Pool    Outdoor Pool  


Business Hotel

Hotel with Parking

Cheap Hotel

Accessible Hotel

3-Star Hotel

Hotel with Outdoor Pool

Hotel with Heated Pool

Room Types
Double Room with Balcony - No Pets This creek-side room features a private balcony, a flat-screen cable TV, and small refrigerator.

King Suite with Spa Bath - No Pets This suite offers a fireplace, small refrigerator, and a spa bath.

Queen Room - No Pets This room features a small refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Queen Room with Two Queen Beds - No pets This room features a small refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Deluxe King Room - No pets Featuring a fireplace, this room offers a small refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Double Queen Room with Balcony No Pets Featuring a balcony with scenic views, this room offers a small refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Queen Suite with Spa Bath - No Pets Featuring a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite consists of 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and a hairdryer. The suite provides a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, tumble dryer as well as an inner courtyard view. The unit offers 1 bed.

Double Queen Room - Pet Friendly Featuring free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a private entrance, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area as well as an inner courtyard view. The unit has 2 beds.

King Room with Balcony This double room's standout feature is the fireplace. The spacious double room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a balcony with river views as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath. The unit offers 1 bed.

Guest Reviews
7.6
Good
Location
The Sidney James Mountain Lodge enjoys acclaim for its prime location in Gatlinburg, making it an ideal choice for visitors wanting convenient access to the area's attractions. Nestled near the heart of the city, the lodge places guests within walking distance to the bustling downtown area with its abundance of shops, restaurants and entertainment options. The proximity to the main strip of Gatlinburg allows for easy exploration without the need for driving, while still maintaining a peaceful environment away from the noise.

The location is particularly favored for its scenic surroundings, including a delightful creek nearby, offering picturesque views and tranquil settings. The hotel's position is also advantageous for those wishing to explore the Smoky Mountains National Park, providing quick access for outdoor adventures.

Additionally, the lodge benefits from a nearby trolley stop, which offers a free and convenient mode of transportation around Gatlinburg. Many guests appreciate the easy accessibility to key attractions while also enjoying the quiet and serene ambiance the location provides.

Furthermore, guests have praised the overall convenience and comfort the location affords, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and exploration.

Breakfast
Visitors to Sidney James Mountain Lodge have shared mixed experiences regarding the hotel's breakfast offerings. Many guests expressed disappointment at the lack of a complimentary breakfast, noting that it was not included despite being advertised on various platforms. Several reviews mentioned having to pay for breakfast, which some found surprisingly expensive. There were also comments about the limited operating hours of the breakfast service with some guests suggesting an extension of breakfast hours.

However, the on-site poolside cafe received positive feedback. Guests enjoyed freshly cooked-to-order breakfasts and appreciated the convenient location of the cafe. Remarks included praise for the great-tasting food, reasonably priced meals and delicious breakfast options. Some guests highlighted the ease of access to breakfast and the overall convenience of having a cafe on the premises. Despite the absence of free breakfast, the quality and taste of meals at the poolside cafe were generally well-received.

Dinner
The Sidney James Mountain Lodge offers various on-site dining options that have generally received positive feedback from guests. The poolside cafe stands out with many praising its delicious and fresh food, complemented by excellent and friendly staff. Guests have also enjoyed the home-style meals served at the on-location café, appreciating the convenience it offers.

The main restaurant has received accolades for its high-quality meals and has been described as amazing, particularly for both dinner and breakfast. Despite a limited menu, the food quality and overall dining experience have been rated well by most visitors.

However, some guests have noted a few drawbacks. The cafe hours were inconsistent with the bar-grill closing early every evening, disappointing those who wished to have dinner later. Additionally, there are mentions of the menu being slightly overpriced, especially for breakfast. Instances of less satisfactory meals were noted, advising potential diners to consider nearby restaurant recommendations from the staff for a wider variety of dining experiences.

In summary, while there are areas for improvement, the dining options at the Sidney James Mountain Lodge generally provide tasty and satisfying meals that enhance the overall stay. The convenience of an on-site restaurant serving good quality food adds significant value, even though external dining options may sometimes offer a better experience.

Rooms
The guest reviews of Sidney James Mountain Lodge reveal a mix of positive experiences and areas that need improvement, particularly concerning the rooms. While many guests found the rooms spacious and clean, indicating that they were comfortable and well-kept, there are recurring comments about the rooms' outdated condition. Some guests appreciated the cozy and clean environment with notable mentions of room amenities like fireplaces and jet tubs. The location by the creek and the beautiful balcony views were other highlights that guests enjoyed.

However, the lodging faces criticism for dated furniture, worn-out carpets and old fixtures. Some guests reported issues with cleanliness, such as mold, unpleasant odors and sightings of insects. The lack of modern amenities like microwaves in certain rooms and inconsistent room maintenance were also common concerns. Despite these drawbacks, many found the rooms adequate for the price, appreciating the general comfort and cleanliness.

Overall, while the Sidney James Mountain Lodge offers a comfortable stay with spacious rooms and scenic views, it is evident that updates and improved maintenance are necessary to enhance the guest experience.

Beds
At Sidney James Mountain Lodge, the experiences with the beds varied widely among guests. While some guests found the beds comfortable or even super comfortable, others reported them to be hard or uncomfortable with several mentioning waking up with back pain. There were also comments about the beds being too firm or too soft for individual preferences. The need for updated mattresses was a recurring theme, alongside mentions of bedding requiring replacement and pillows being flat or too firm. Despite these varied experiences, a consistent point was that the beds were clean. Comfortable moments were highlighted by those who enjoyed a good night's sleep, while the less favorable reviews pointed towards discomfort and the need for improvement in bedding quality. The cozy indoor pool was a positive highlight for some amidst the mixed reviews of bed comfort. Overall, while some guests had restful nights, others found the beds in need of significant upgrades to meet varied comfort levels.

Cleanliness
Sidney James Mountain Lodge has received mixed reviews concerning its cleanliness. On the positive side, many guests noted that their rooms were clean, very clean, spotless and smelled good upon arrival. The overall property and specific areas like the pools were also frequently mentioned as clean and well-maintained. Guests appreciated the cleanliness of common facilities, describing them as clean and peaceful and highlighting the friendliness and accommodation of the staff.

However, there were numerous negative remarks about cleanliness as well. Many reviews pointed out specific issues such as stained towels and carpets, mildew and mold in bathrooms and an overall musty or foul smell in rooms. Some rooms were described as having long black hairs, dirt and even blood on the sheets. Housekeeping services were reported as inconsistent with some guests indicating their rooms were not cleaned during their stay.

The age and condition of the rooms and facilities were also noted with many guests mentioning outdated decor, broken tiles and chipped bathtubs. Reports of pests, including dead bugs and roaches, were not uncommon. Additionally, some reviews detailed specific maintenance issues like broken fixtures and non-functional amenities.

In conclusion, while there are many instances where Sidney James Mountain Lodge is praised for cleanliness and maintenance, these positive aspects are significantly overshadowed by numerous reports of unclean conditions, outdated facilities and inconsistent housekeeping services.

Staff
Sidney James Mountain Lodge boasts a remarkably friendly and helpful staff, consistently leaving guests pleased with their service experience. Reviewers repeatedly praised the staff for their friendliness, professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile. The check-in process is described as quick and easy and many guests noted that staff members were not only welcoming but also polite and accommodating. The night staff received special mentions for making guests feel safe, while the front desk personnel were commended for being particularly informative and sympathetic to guests' needs.

A notable point of interest is that several guests appreciated how the staff shared the history of the building, adding a personal touch to their stay. The lodge also benefits from having a diligent reception team and an efficient check-in and check-out procedure.

Despite a few isolated complaints about unfriendliness or inadequate responses from some staff members, the overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights an environment where staff are consistently super friendly, attentive and exceptionally helpful. Housekeeping and room service staff were similarly appreciated for their thoroughness and promptness in responding to requests.

In summary, the hospitality at Sidney James Mountain Lodge significantly enhances the overall guest experience, making it a recommended stay for those who value excellent customer service.

Wi-Fi
Sidney James Mountain Lodge offers WiFi that has drawn mixed feedback from guests. There have been instances of fast and accessible internet service and some guests found the WiFi to be sufficiently good for their needs. The lodge provides free WiFi, which is always a bonus for travelers looking to stay connected. However, many guests have noted issues with the WiFi, mentioning that it can be slow, spotty or unreliable. Some reported that the internet sometimes cuts out or fails to connect altogether. Additionally, there seems to be a lack of clear instructions and materials regarding the WiFi, which has added to the frustration for some guests. While one positive aspect is the opportunity to unplug for a few days, those relying on stable internet for work or staying connected might find the service underwhelming. The staff is aware of these issues, though resolving them has proven challenging on occasion. Overall, while you might encounter solid WiFi, be prepared for the possibility of a less consistent internet experience during your stay.

Pool
Sidney James Mountain Lodge features a variety of pool options that have garnered largely positive reviews from guests. Visitors frequently mention the three well-maintained, clean pools, including an indoor heated pool and a designated kiddie area, making the lodge a family-friendly destination. The indoor pool is particularly appreciated for its warmth and cleanliness, often described as "amazing" and "awesome." Guests also enjoy the adjacent hot tub and find the overall pool area to be well-kept and inviting.

The poolside café receives commendations for its convenience and good food, adding to the pleasant poolside experience. Although the pool area can become overcrowded at times, particularly during peak hours and there are occasional maintenance issues like dirty towels or minor tile damage, guests generally appreciate the large, refreshing pools. Many note that both children and adults enjoy the facilities with some guests being delighted to spot local wildlife, such as a bear, near the outdoor pool.

Despite some minor drawbacks, including occasional cleanliness issues and the outdoor pool sometimes being closed, the overall sentiment remains positive, highlighting the pool area as a key feature and offering great value for the stay.

Parking
Guest reviews of Sidney James Mountain Lodge reveal mixed feelings about parking. Many guests found the parking conveniently located, easy to access and in some cases, near their rooms. Some appreciated the ground-level parking and felt there was ample parking, describing it as fine and easy. However, numerous reviews highlight significant issues. Parking is often described as limited, scarce and tight, particularly at night or during busy times. There was frustration over not finding parking spots even with a pass and being forced to park off-site or on the street. The parking lot is generally too small and at times it was overcrowded and congested, making it difficult to find a spot. Some mentioned the need for more handicap parking and better enforcement of parking policies. Construction work also disrupted parking availability and parking spaces were sometimes criticized for being cramped and difficult to navigate. On the whole, while some guests had a smooth experience, many faced challenges with the lodge's parking situation.

Family
Sidney James Mountain Lodge offers a great family-friendly experience with an atmosphere that makes it perfect for family gatherings. The spacious family suites are a hit, providing plenty of room for everyone to spread out comfortably. Kids particularly enjoy the variety of pools, including the family pool and kids pool, which many rave about as being a fun and exciting feature of the hotel.

The lodge is an excellent spot for young families with activities such as a kids club that keeps the little ones entertained. It's also set in a prime location for nature enthusiasts with guests frequently reporting seeing bears in the mornings and enjoying the sound of the river as they wake up.

The hotel staff are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, especially during check-in and at the poolside café. Cleanliness is also a frequently mentioned positive aspect.

For those who love outdoor activities, the creek is a favorite spot. Families enjoy fishing and exploring the area. Overall, the lodge is highly recommended for family stays, offering a safe environment and numerous activities for children, making it a cherished destination for family moments.

3 Star
Sidney James Mountain Lodge is consistently noted as a solid three-star hotel that lives up to its rating. While the rooms and overall facilities are somewhat outdated and in need of updating, guests appreciate the basic but clean amenities provided. The budget-friendly prices are highlighted as a significant plus, making it a worthwhile option for travelers looking for economical accommodation without excessively high expectations.

The cleanliness of the rooms is repeatedly praised with many reviewers mentioning very clean rooms and no presence of bugs. For those seeking a little extra comfort, some rooms even come with a suite and whirlpool tub, adding a bit of luxury to the otherwise standard offerings.

The hotel's location and amenities like the hot tub, on-site cafe and convenient trolley stop add to its appeal. Despite minor issues such as street noise and the absence of a fridge in the rooms, the friendly and helpful staff contribute to a satisfactory stay for many visitors. The breakfast provided is also positively mentioned, further enhancing the overall experience.

In summary, Sidney James Mountain Lodge presents itself as a reliable choice for budget-conscious travelers, fitting well within the three-star category and offering a clean, friendly environment. The hotel may not offer high-end luxury, but it is considered good value for its price point and worth recommending for those with realistic expectations of a three-star stay.

Rooms with Jacuzzi / Hot-Tub
The reviews for the Sidney James Mountain Lodge highlight a generally positive experience with the jacuzzi and hot tub amenities. Guests frequently mentioned enjoying the hot tubs, often describing them as nice, perfect and relaxing. Several reviews specifically praised the hot tub in the room for being wonderful and amazing, emphasizing the added relaxation it provided during their stay. The large jet tubs and private jacuzzis garnered appreciation for their spaciousness and comfort.

However, some guests noted occasional issues with the jacuzzis, such as them needing updates, not being warm enough or the jets not working properly. Despite these few drawbacks, the majority of the feedback stressed the cleanliness and relaxing nature of the hot tubs. The indoor pool and jacuzzi areas were also well-received with guests enjoying both indoor and outdoor facilities.

Overall, the hot tubs and jacuzzis at Sidney James Mountain Lodge seem to contribute significantly to a pleasant and relaxing stay with their clean and soothing nature standing out in the reviews.

Accessible
Sidney James Mountain Lodge has received both praise and criticism regarding its accessibility for guests with disabilities. Highlighted by guests as easily accessible, the property has been noted for its accommodating nature. However, there are concerns regarding the lack of specific handicap rooms and bathrooms, along with certain activities and services not being fully accessible. While the pool area is described as oversized, other amenities like WiFi may need improvement. Overall, the lodge provides a generally accessible environment but has areas that could benefit from further enhancements to better cater to disabled guests.

Heated Pool
The heated pools at Sidney James Mountain Lodge consistently receive praise for their warm and inviting temperatures. Guests appreciate both the indoor and outdoor heated pools with several mentioning the added delight of a heated kids' pool and a jacuzzi. The pools are noted for their cleanliness with warm towels provided, enhancing the overall experience. Many reviewed the pools as a standout feature, perfect for a relaxing swim, regardless of the weather outside. The poolside café also garnered positive feedback for serving delicious, freshly cooked breakfasts. While some guests experienced issues such as construction noise behind the pool and occasional heating problems, the majority of reviews speak highly of the consistently warm and delightful experience at the heated pools.

Outdoor Pool
Sidney James Mountain Lodge boasts a commendable outdoor pool that garners praise for its cleanliness, comfort and overall pleasant experience. Many guests have enjoyed the warm temperature, making it an inviting spot for relaxation. The pool is well-maintained and often cited as a larger and spacious area that is fun for kids and families. Although some guests noted occasional issues with temperature control and maintenance, the majority found it a delightful facility. Despite a few critiques about size and periodic closures, the outdoor pool remains a highlight that many visitors appreciate and enjoy during their stay, contributing to an enjoyable and memorable lodging experience.

Indoor Pool
Reviews of Sidney James Mountain Lodge's indoor pool highlight numerous positive attributes. The indoor pool area is frequently noted for its cleanliness and well-maintained condition. Many guests found the heated indoor pool to be enjoyable and a hit, especially with kids who found the pool and accompanying kiddie area to be quite fun. Several reviews commend the pool's temperature, describing it as warm and suitable, adding to the overall pleasant experience. The size of the pool is another recurring positive point with guests appreciating the spacious swimming area.

Moreover, the indoor pool is visually appealing, featuring a waterfall and a cave that swimmers can explore, enhancing its attractiveness and the fun factor. Numerous guests also enjoyed the added features such as the hot tub and the sauna, describing these amenities as nice and relaxing. The indoor pool's environment, including the nearby café and the surrounding nice clean areas, receives praise. Overall, guests consistently enjoyed their time at the indoor pool, often mentioning it as a highlight of their stay at the lodge.


Yes, Sidney James Mountain Lodge has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Sidney James Mountain Lodge.

No, Sidney James Mountain Lodge doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Sidney James Mountain Lodge.

No, Sidney James Mountain Lodge doesn't have a gym.

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