New resort opens in Pigeon Forge after $80 million investment

by: Hannah Moore

Posted: Nov 21, 2025 / 08:39 AM EST

Updated: Nov 21, 2025 / 08:39 AM EST

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WATE) — A new resort has opened in Pigeon Forge, anticipated to create over 100 full-time jobs.

This dual-branded resort, situated on Jake Thomas Road minutes from Dollywood, includes an Embassy Suites by Hilton Pigeon Forge Resort and a Tempo by Hilton Pigeon Forge. It has been in the works for the past three years and represents an $80 million investment in the area.

“I think it’s really great because we bring a different scale of hotel to the area. We’ve got so many different amenities – we’re probably the biggest resort in the area. We just have so many things that our guests can take part in, as well as the locals,” said TJ Retallick, the assistant general manager.

“We’re one of the largest investments in the Pigeon Forge area and we’re behind it 100%,” added Grant Hutcheson, the general manager.

The hotel features 276 rooms. Some of the amenities at the property include a pool with a swim-up bar, a rooftop cafe and bar, and games, including a Top Golf swing suite. Hutcheson and Retallick also encouraged locals to visit the resort for dining and entertainment options.

Retallick went on to say that as a local to Sevier County, he has enjoyed seeing the area grow.

“I moved to Sevier County, Tennessee, about 20 years ago. And in 20 years, it has changed tremendously for the better. So it’s just really great to be able to have great people here that enjoy coming to work every day and just be happy here,” said Retallick.

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He added, “It’s an amazing feeling coming in here to the first day of work, while we were still under construction before we opened. And then being able to welcome our first guests and just watch everybody enjoy all of the spaces that we have and all the amenities we have to offer.”

This resort opens as Sevier County continues to bring in billions of dollars. Data from Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development found that county visitors spent $3,929,693,370 in 2024, which was an increase of 2.03% from 2023.