The million Margaritaville Resort in the Smokies will open in Gatlinburg, Tennessee in July 2018. Bob McManus, president of developers Margaritaburg LLC said the resort and adjacent LandShark Restaurant will create new 150 jobs. Affiliates of Margaritaburg LLC own and operate the Island in Pigeon Forge, including the Margaritaville Hotel.
McManus said, “On the heels of the devastating wildfires, the announcement of this project shows the strength of the tourism industry in Gatlinburg, and we believe Margaritaville Resort in the Smokies will play a key role in rebuilding the community’s economic health. The resort will repurpose and transform prime downtown Gatlinburg properties, expanding the city’s offerings to tourists and visitors. Just 1.5 miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the resort will serve as a destination for guests who want to enjoy everything Gatlinburg has to offer with the comfort and amenities of a four-star resort.”
The resort, to be built on a 5-acre natural island formed by the Pigeon River, will feature a 7-story, 174-room hotel with fireplaces, private balconies and wet bars, plus a fitness center, room service, concierge, bellhops and valet parking. A one-of-a-kind parrot-themed fountain will greet hotel visitors. Other amenities will include a 4,000 square foot outdoor pool with a large two-loop slide and kids’ area, hot tub and indoor heated pool, St. Somewhere Spa and shops. In addition to the on-site restaurant, a LandShark restaurant will be built at the former Hard Rock Café site, with walking access from the resort, opening next spring.
“Inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Resort in the Smokies will be the perfect setting to escape the everyday and ‘just chill’ in the picturesque mountains of East Tennessee,” McManus said.
The lead architects are Jay De Foe and Tom Trotter with Trotter & Associates Architects, LLC.
