Motels became prominent in the United States after the advent of the interstate highway system simplified cross country travel. A motel, or motor hotel, is a lodging where visitors park outside their rooms and enter through a door leading to the parking lot. This is different from a hotel, where travelers enter through a lobby area and do not have as easy access to their automobiles. Motels can be more convenient for many travelers, especially families with lots of children. Motels are also usually less expensive than hotels.

Though motels are often more economical than hotels, they are not inferior. Many motels offer the same amenities as hotels, like Jacuzzis, on site swimming pools, and cable TV. One thing that motels usually dont offer is an on-site restaurant, but many visitors would prefer to eat away from their lodgings anyway.

Pigeon Forge is designed in a way similar to Las Vegas, with a central strip featuring a majority of the towns lodging. This setup means that each establishment must compete with its neighbors for business, providing better accommodations and amenities at less cost to the consumer. Another advantage is that all of the cities attractions are also close to the main strip, so nothing is too far away. Aside from the main strip, many Pigeon Forge lodgings are located closer to the Great Smoky Mountains and other private areas, providing more privacy for romantic getaways.

There is a vast array of available Pigeon Forge lodging like motels that can accommodate large families or travelers on a budget. Motels offer convenience and comfort for visitors at a lower cost than hotels.