Hotels in Gray

Gray: Where Tranquil Lakes Meet Thrilling Adventures

Nestled in the heart of northeastern Tennessee, Gray is a charming blend of nature and adventure. Just a stone's throw from Johnson City, this hidden gem offers the scenic beauty of nearby Watauga Lake and expansive state parks, perfect for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the excitement of local racetracks and stadium events, while families will love the lush parks that invite leisurely strolls and outdoor fun. With its welcoming small-town vibe and proximity to natural wonders, Gray is an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure alike. For the best hotel rates in Gray and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Gray

Some of the best places to stay in Gray are Wolf Laurel, Bristol and Bristol. Gray, Tennessee, is a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions like Wolf Laurel and Bristol. Wolf Laurel offers stunning mountain views and outdoor activities, while Bristol is famous for its vibrant music scene and historic sites. For accommodations, you'll find a range of options from budget-friendly motels to midscale hotels, ensuring something for every traveler. For first-time visitors, Bristol is ideal, offering a lively atmosphere and plenty of attractions within walking distance. Here are some of the best hotels in Gray that our travelers love:

1. Wolf LaurelOpens in a new window: Known for its adventure-themed offerings, Wolf Laurel is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With attractions like Hatley Pointe Ski Resort for skiing, Sams Gap for hiking, and Big Bald for stunning views, this area is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities. Consider staying at Smithmore CastleOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star castle lodging that offers a variety of adventure sports, romantic packages, and spa services. Alternatively, Abbington Green Bed & Breakfast InnOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star bed and breakfast ideal for business or romantic travelers, featuring spa treatments and a city-center location. Another option is The Black Walnut B & B InnOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star bed and breakfast, which welcomes pets and offers business amenities.
2. BristolOpens in a new window: Bristol is a vibrant area with a strong sports theme, featuring attractions like Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway for racing fans, as well as The Pinnacle shopping center for family-friendly activities. For accommodations, Fairfield Inn & Suites BristolOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel suitable for adventure and business travelers, offering various outdoor activities nearby. Quality InnOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star option ideal for business travelers, providing essential amenities. Additionally, Hampton Inn BristolOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly 2.5-star hotel, allowing you to bring along your furry companions while enjoying your stay.
3. BristolOpens in a new window (Casino Area): This lively area is known for its entertainment options, including the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, making it a great choice for those looking for nightlife and dining. The Martha Washington Inn And SpaOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that offers a full spa and pool services, perfect for relaxation after a day of excitement. For business and pet-friendly options, The Bristol HotelOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel featuring multiple meeting rooms and amenities for furry guests. Hilton Garden Inn BristolOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that also welcomes pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your four-legged friends.

Things to do in Gray for first time

Gray offers a perfect three-day getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore serene lakes, lush forests, and scenic parks, ideal for hiking, boating, and picnicking. With opportunities for motor racing and local shopping, it’s a diverse destination that promises both relaxation and excitement. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Gray:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Gray Fossil Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on prehistoric life and see real fossils that tell the story of the region's ancient past. After you've had your fill of history, head to the Rocky Mount Museum, a beautifully restored historic site offering insights into early Tennessee life and culture. To wrap up your day, relax at Winged Deer Park, where you can enjoy scenic views, walking trails, and perhaps a picnic along Boone Lake.
• Day 2: Start your day at Boone Lake, perfect for some morning tranquility and scenic views. Afterward, make your way to Backyard Terror's Dinosaur Park for a fun and educational experience with life-sized dinosaur models that are sure to delight both kids and adults. Finish your day with an exploration of Worley's Cave, where you can take a guided tour to see stunning rock formations and learn about the cave's interesting history.
• Day 3: Kick off with a refreshing hike through Warriors' Path State Park, where you can enjoy picturesque trails and lush greenery. After your hike, visit the Allandale Mansion, a historic estate where you can take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and beautiful gardens. Conclude your trip with a visit to Netherland Inn, a charming historic site situated along the Holston River, where you can soak in the local heritage and perhaps catch a glimpse of the sunset over the water.

5 tips to find a great Gray hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Gray is during January, November, and December when hotel prices drop significantly. For a great value for money experience, it's best to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the main attractions, which include the scenic lake, the inviting park, and the national state park. This budget-friendly trip allows you to explore the natural beauty of Gray while keeping costs low.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Gray, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you may discover cheaper hotel options with refundable rates that fit your budget. You could find great opportunities to compare room rates and take advantage of price guarantees. To maximize your savings, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you snag the best discounts available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Gray.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Gray and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Gray

Gray experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 34.9°F (1.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.3°F (23.5°C). February tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Gray are June, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.