The park is 30 minutes away and is free to drive through! If you plan to hike or stop for longer than 15 minutes, a parking pass is required. You can purchase one online or onsite. https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm
If you are up for a hike, here is an easy 4-mile out-and-back trail along the river with many waterfalls along the way. This hike is within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is a 32-minute drive from the Hampton Inn Newport.
Gatlinburg is a scenic 48-minute drive from the Hampton Inn Newport. This small mountain town features many restaurants, wineries, and distilleries, along with fun activities like mountain coasters and aerial cable cars.