The Gillette
History

Yesterday

In 1957, Carl Gillette started the Gillette Motel with just six rooms alongside his home at the corner of Cloverleaf and Reagan Drive, one block from the center of Gatlinburg. Raising his family on-site while running two businesses – Gillette Motel and Gillette Plumbing and Heating/Air Conditioning – meant the extended family played a role and they still do today.

The Gillette Motel's original design in 1957
Gillette Motel as it appeared in early 1960’s.

Today

exterior shot of The Gillette motel in Gatlinburg. American flag banners hang from the railings

As Gatlinburg grew into a popular vacation and conference destination, the property continued to expand until the last addition in 1974 brought it to its current size fronting Historic Nature Trail.

The Gillette now spans a full block with 80 rooms and suites with a prime location just steps away from Gatlinburg’s best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment and directly across the street from the Gatlinburg Convention Center and W.L. Mills Auditorium.

We are proud to be one of the few properties in town still managed and owned by the family of the original owner. Generations of guests return year after year, making it their tradition. We invite you to make it yours!