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Relaxing at Route 19 Inn in Maggie Valley, NC: A Pet-Friendly Stay Near the Smoky Mountains
During my recent trip to Maggie Valley, North Carolina, I had the chance to stay at Route 19 Inn, a charming, pet-friendly motel that turned out to be the perfect place to relax and unwind. Located just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this inn was exactly what I needed for a quiet, peaceful stay.
Why I Chose Route 19 Inn
One of the main reasons I booked Route 19 Inn was its convenient location. I was headed back to Florida after a fun time exploring the Smoky Mountains, and I wanted to stay on the other side of the mountains to shorten my drive the next day. Plus, Maggie Valley is a quiet, small town, offering a peaceful alternative to the more crowded Gatlinburg, where I had stayed the night before.
Another big bonus was that Route 19 Inn is pet-friendly, which was perfect since I was traveling with my dog, Kuma. I love staying at places that welcome pets, and this inn was known for being dog-friendly with affordable pet fees.
First Impressions
When we arrived, check-in was super smooth. Since it was a Monday on Labor Day weekend, there weren’t too many people around—most guests were either heading home or enjoying the holiday at home. I had already booked through Booking.com, so everything was paid for in advance, and I was given a key with a cute logo keychain.
I stayed in Room 10, which was on the corner and not far from the main office. I appreciated the location, and the staff was friendly and welcoming, giving Kuma lots of attention. They also made sure I had everything I needed for a comfortable stay.
The Room: A Cozy and Charming Stay
The room was adorable and had a vintage vibe, which I absolutely loved. The renovations to the motel gave it a charming, retro feel without sacrificing comfort.
I had a king-sized bed, a dining table with two chairs, a large TV, a microwave, a fridge, and a coffee machine—basically everything I needed for a comfy stay. There was even a rack with hangers and an extra blanket.
The bathroom had a cute set of original pink tiles, which added to the motel’s vintage charm. The sink was a little small, but it didn’t bother me much. They provided the usual toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and soap, and the packaging was modern and trendy. I also appreciated that they gave me a couple of makeup remover wipes, which came in handy.
Amenities: Enjoying the Outdoors and Pet-Friendly Perks
The property had a variety of amenities that made the stay even more enjoyable. There was a playground with a swing set and slide, a vintage car with an old gas pump, and a pool for a refreshing swim. For a peaceful moment, you could sit by the creek, where there were chairs set up for guests to relax. There was even a gazebo with a BBQ grill for those who wanted to cook outside.
Pet-friendliness is a big deal for me, and Route 19 Inn did not disappoint. The pet fee was only $25 per pet, and they allow up to two pets per room (each weighing up to 25 lbs). There was a designated pet relief area on the property, which made it super convenient for Kuma.
Location: Quiet, Yet Convenient
Maggie Valley is a small town, so there isn’t a lot of hustle and bustle, but that’s part of the charm. The inn is just 17 miles east of the Smoky Mountains National Park at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, so it’s a perfect base for exploring the area. If you’re an early riser or love wildlife, you’ll want to visit Cataloochee Valley, just 22 miles northeast of the inn. It’s one of the best places to spot elks during sunrise or sunset.
Although there aren’t many dining options around the inn, there are a few local restaurants nearby that offer takeout or delivery. Since I stayed on a Monday, many places were closed, but Cafe Italiano was open, so I grabbed a cheese pizza to-go. It was delicious!
Pros and Cons of Route 19 Inn
Pros:
- Affordable pet-friendly stay, especially for pet owners.
- Easy access to creeks and nature for outdoor relaxation.
- Unique vintage motel with character and charm.
- Friendly and accommodating staff who welcome pets with open arms.
Cons:
- Limited food choices nearby, especially on Mondays.
- Physical keys instead of key cards, which can be a bit old-school.
- Limited hours at the front desk, so be aware of the check-in/check-out process.
FAQs
1. Is Route 19 Inn pet-friendly?
Yes! Route 19 Inn is very pet-friendly, and the pet fee is just $25 per pet for the entire stay. They allow up to two pets, each weighing up to 25 lbs.
2. What amenities are available at Route 19 Inn?
The inn offers a playground, pool, BBQ area, creek access, and even a vintage car display. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
3. What’s the location like?
Route 19 Inn is in the peaceful town of Maggie Valley, about 17 miles from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in the Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a great base for exploring the park and nearby attractions like Cataloochee Valley.
4. Are there food options nearby?
There are a few local restaurants in the area, but many are closed on Mondays. Cafe Italiano was open during my stay, and I enjoyed a delicious pizza there. Other restaurants are available for takeout or delivery.
5. How was the check-out process?
The check-out process was simple. Since the inn doesn’t have 24/7 staff, you can drop your keys in a key drop box at the office. It was hassle-free and convenient!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quiet, affordable stay with your pet in the Smoky Mountains area, Route 19 Inn is a fantastic option. The charming, vintage motel offers everything you need for a comfortable stay, and the pet-friendly atmosphere makes it even more appealing. Whether you’re exploring the mountains or just relaxing by the creek, this inn provides the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure.