Unearth The Voyage
Craving that sweet spot where retro sparkle meets modern comfort? The Wayback in Pigeon Forge brings 1970s magic to life with bright colors, playful prints, and a vibe that feels both fresh and familiar. You get Marriott polish and Tribute Portfolio personality without losing that motor court charm. Keep reading to see how this place turns a classic era into your new favorite getaway.
1. A Tribute Portfolio Time Machine
The Wayback opened in November 2023, but it leans hard into the 1970s in the best way. Think muted room tones with natural wood that chill you out, then step into bright, funky common spaces that wake up your senses. You get comfort without kitsch and cool without trying too hard.
It is part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, so standards stay high while the story stays personal. TIME named it one of the World’s Greatest Places in 2024, and you feel why the second you arrive. The nostalgia is intentional, but the experience is now.
2. Rooms That Know When To Chill
Step into one of the 134 rooms and the tempo shifts. The palette is calm, the wood is warm, and the furnishings feel curated, not crowded. You can drop your bags and instantly breathe easier.
Little touches matter, from robes to steamers to that quietly retro mini fridge look. Sound outside can peek through like any motel style property, but the beds and linens deliver proper rest. If you are picky about quiet, request a room away from traffic.
3. Paloma Swim Club Vibes
By day, Paloma Swim Club is a sun splashed hangout with music and cocktails poured from a gleaming Airstream. You can drift between the pool and hot tub, sip something bright, and people watch like it is a scene. It is equal parts playful and polished.
When night hits, the energy turns adults only with seasonal events. An Elvis impersonator on a Friday feels perfectly Pigeon Forge without the cheese. Plan your pool time early if traveling with kids and check the schedule in advance.
4. Comfort Food With A Mexican Twist
Paloma, the onsite restaurant and bar, does comfort with a bright twist. Breakfast shows up creative and satisfying, often better than nearby chains. If you have vouchers, know they cover a standard entree and drink, tip not included.
Later, the menu leans into shareables and upgraded classics with a Mexican influence. The bar keeps the vibe social but not rowdy. When the pool crowd flows in, the scene stays friendly and easy to enjoy.
5. Location Near The Island And Dollywood
The Wayback sits on the Parkway across from The Island, so you can walk to rides, shops, and nightly lights. Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are an easy hop by car. You are in the fun without being swallowed by it.
Parking can tighten up at peak times, and overflow may mean a short walk. For quieter nights, head out early and return after the crowds thin. Sunrise in the Smokies pairs perfectly with that second coffee.
6. Retro Style Without The Dust
The lobby hits you with bright hues, funky art, and playful prints that feel curated, not thrifted. Board games, a coffee bar, and a proper cocktail program make it linger friendly. You can settle in with fruited water and just watch the day roll by.
It is a reimagined motor court rather than a time capsule. That means design forward spaces plus practical comforts like Wi Fi and a fitness center. You get the nostalgia, but your standards do not have to travel back in time.
7. What To Know Before You Book
Expect lifestyle hotel energy, not a traditional resort. Breakfast may come as vouchers instead of a buffet, and service peaks can stretch waits. If you are noise sensitive, bring earplugs or request a quieter building side.
Some reviews call out cleanliness misses or staffing crunches during rush. Most guests praise the friendly team and value for the location. Read recent feedback, then book with clear expectations and you will likely love the vibe.
8. How To Make It Your Best Stay
Arrive mid afternoon to snag convenient parking and settle in before evening crowds. Ask about event nights at Paloma Swim Club so you can plan pool time and entertainment. For lighter sleepers, choose an upper floor away from the Parkway.
Walk to The Island for sunset, then return for a nightcap in the lobby. In the morning, hit the Smokies early and be back by lunch for the hot tub. Lean into the 70s spirit with a playful outfit and let the nostalgia do the rest.
