What to pack for Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
Pack basics for a family stay: clothes for mountain weather, swim gear and pool shoes for Wild Bear Falls Water Park (tickets sold separately), plus ID/credit card for check-in. Bring toiletries and any special items for villa-style rooms (kitchen basics if you plan to cook) and a small first-aid/snack kit for hikes and outings.
In this guide
What to bring for check-in and travel
Bring the reservation holder’s matching, valid government-issued photo ID and the credit card used to book — the reservation holder must be at least 21 to check in. Check-in begins at 4:00 P.M. and check-out is 10:00 A.M.
Carry printed or mobile reservation confirmation and a phone number you can call for help: BookResorts agents (24/7) +1 (888) 605-1350. If you plan to drive, note that self-parking is free at the resort.
- Valid government-issued photo ID (for the person checking in)
- Credit card used for booking
- Reservation confirmation (paper or mobile)
- Directions or GPS address: 915 Westgate Resort Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| ID & credit card | Required at check-in; reservation holder must be 21+ |
| Reservation confirmation | Speeds arrival and any special requests |
| Car keys / parking info | Resort offers free self-parking |
Swimwear and Wild Bear Falls Water Park essentials
Wild Bear Falls Water Park is on-site but requires a separate ticket for most guests; check operating hours before you go (typical water park hours are 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.). Appropriate swimwear is required at all times in the water park and life vests are available on request.
There are rules about rider height (guests must be at least 48 inches to ride slides; children’s pool slides are excluded) and general conduct (no running, horseplay, sharp objects, spitting). An adult must accompany children under 10 in the water park at all times.
- Swimsuits (required in the water park)
- Quick-dry towel (resort towels may be available — bring one if you prefer)
- Water shoes or pool sandals for wet surfaces
- Rash guard for sun/slide protection
- Small waterproof bag for phone/cash
| Tip | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Buy water park tickets early | Admission is sold separately for most guests |
| Measure children’s height | 48" minimum for slides is enforced |
| Pack a supervising adult’s ID | An adult must accompany kids under 10 |
Clothing and seasonal layers
Gatlinburg weather changes across seasons: summers are hot and humid, while spring mornings and fall evenings can be cool. Pack layers so you can add or remove warmth during hikes or when walking downtown.
If you plan national-park hiking or mountain excursions, bring moisture-wicking shirts, a light waterproof jacket, and a pair of comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy walking sneakers.
- T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts for layering
- Light waterproof jacket or windbreaker
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes
- Socks suitable for trails
- Hat and sunglasses
| Season | Simple packing note |
|---|---|
| Spring | Bring layers — cool mornings, warm afternoons |
| Summer | Light clothing but pack a rain layer for sudden showers |
| Fall/Winter | Warm jacket and closed-toe shoes; nights get cold |
What to bring for the villa kitchen and family rooms
Many villa types at the property have kitchenettes or kitchens; if you’ll prepare meals, bring basic pantry items you prefer (coffee, spices, snacks). The Marketplace on-site sells groceries and Starbucks beverages if you want to pick up supplies after arrival.
Room types include villa-style layouts that may be helpful to note when packing for sleeping arrangements — bring bedding needs for children who will use sofa beds if you prefer extra linens or comfort items.
- Dish soap and sponge (if you prefer a favorite brand)
- Extra paper towels, snacks and coffee if you want self-catering
- Nightlight or small travel lamp for kids
| Room type | Typical beds (pack accordingly) |
|---|---|
| Villa, 1 Bedroom | 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed |
| Villa, 2 Bedrooms | 1 King Bed, 1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Sofa Beds |
| Deluxe Villa, 1 Bedroom (King) | 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed |
Toiletries, health and spa considerations
Standard toiletries are a safe assumption to pack even though the resort provides basic in-room amenities. If you have preferred products (sunscreen, insect repellent, a particular shampoo) bring them — spa treatments at Serenity Spa by Westgate are available by reservation if you plan a treatment.
Also include a small first-aid kit for outdoor activities and any prescription medications in original packaging. Serenity Spa hours are typically 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; reservations are recommended for massage and other services.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Prescription meds and a small first-aid kit
- Flip-flops or sandals for locker/locker-room areas
- Any personal spa or facial products you prefer
| Facility | Note |
|---|---|
| Serenity Spa by Westgate | Open roughly 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; reservations recommended |
| Fitness Center | Hours listed on property site; check-in desk can confirm |
Kids, extras and practical items
Bring entertainment for downtime: small toys, portable games or a tablet with downloaded shows for the drive or evenings. The resort offers mini golf, a playground and a game room, but familiar items help younger children settle.
If you travel with pets, Westgate accepts dogs in certain rooms for a fee and restrictions apply (maximum two dogs, weight limits and certain breeds excluded). Service animals are exempt from pet fees. If you’re relying on public transport, the free Gatlinburg Trolley stops nearby and can get you to many Parkway attractions.
- Portable charger and extra cables
- Child life jacket if you prefer a personal vest (life vests available at the water park)
- Pet supplies if traveling with an approved dog (confirm pet policy and room availability)
- Foldable daypack for hikes and trolley trips
| Practical tip | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Confirm pet allowance before arrival | Only certain rooms accept dogs; fees and rules apply |
| Download maps and confirmations | Cell signal can vary in mountain areas |
| Use the Gatlinburg Trolley | Free and convenient for Parkway attractions |
