Fontana Village Resort has completely reimagined mountain magic! Boasting a massive refresh under new leadership, this Smoky Mountain paradise features gourmet Appalachian dining, a metropolitan-style coffee shop, fully renovated cabins, and a revamped marina. Throw in glow-in-the-dark mini-golf curated by hospitality pros, and your ultimate 2026 adventure awaits!
Fontana Village, NC
June, 2026
Why Your Next Summer Getaway Should Be At Fontana Village
Under the leadership of new General Manager, Andrew Stanfield, Fontana Village Resort has spent the past year transforming itself from a beloved mountain getaway into a revitalized destination that feels both brand new and deeply rooted in the spirit of the Smokies. Tucked beside the historic Fontana Dam and the iconic Tail of the Dragon roadway, and surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, the resort has embraced a full-scale refresh – elevating its culinary scene, accommodations, recreation, and guest experiences while also honoring its legacy as a gathering place for hikers, families, lake lovers, and anyone seeking the quiet magic of the mountains.
One of the resort’s most exciting changes comes from the kitchen. Renowned chefs Brian McGackin and Abigail Padgett have joined the team, bringing a fresh, ambitious vision to Hazel’s Restaurant & Lounge, Quill’s Canteen, and Dam Garage. Their menus now blend Appalachian comfort with modern technique, introducing elevated yet casual dining that still feels at home in the mountains.
Food and drink culture got another boost thanks to Brooke Lerew, a Starbucks trained coffee expert who has consulted, managed, and trained baristas across the country. She has developed Fontana Village’s first full service coffee shop, complete with a full lineup of specialty drinks crafted to the standards of major metropolitan cafés – now nestled right at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Nearly all lodge hotel rooms and most cabins have been fully renovated, offering updated comfort without sacrificing the warm, woodsy charm that long-time guests love. The remaining cabins and patio rooms are steadily undergoing improvements, reflecting the resort’s commitment to keeping the Village fresh and welcoming year round.
With Appalachian Trail hikers passing through daily, the newly opened Hazel Creek Outfitters has quickly become an essential stop. Stocked with trail food, gear, and camping supplies, the shop is tailored to the real needs of trekkers who rely on Fontana Village as a rest-and-resupply point.
For families and lakegoers, the recreation upgrades are expansive. The pool area has been completely renovated with new cabanas, reserved seating, and a lively pool bar serving pizzas, wings, nachos, hot dogs, soft drinks and, of course, adult beverages – turning a pool day into a full experience.
Fontana Village has reached new heights of adventure thanks to recreation leaders Simone Cantal (formerly of Disney) and Zac Candelas (formerly of Club Med), who have introduced a dynamic, resort-caliber activity schedule for all ages. Guests can dive into a mix of daytime thrills and evening magic, including sunset paddle nights, firefly events, and glow-in-the-dark mini golf. The fun continues with daily poolside activities, beer tastings, and a brand-new fleet of electric and mountain bikes perfect for exploring the trails. As the sun sets, Quill’s comes alive with themed karaoke, music bingo, and trivia nights, ensuring that every moment of your mountain escape is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Their expertise has given Fontana Village a resort-caliber activity schedule that feels dynamic, imaginative, and fun for all ages.
With his background as a designer and merchandiser at Macy’s, Robert Germaine elevates each special event with his signature flair, transforming them into can’t miss experiences with the help of Fontana’s extraordinary culinary team.
Rachael Aldridge, formerly the Director of Retail at Nantahala Outdoor Center, is revitalizing Fontana’s retail experience with fresh, thoughtfully curated merchandise across all shops. At The Overlook Gift Shop, she’ll be showcasing locally made artisan pieces from jewelry to pottery and more – bringing regional craftsmanship to the heart of the Village.
The marina has added four new Bentley pontoon boats to its fleet, offering guests a smooth, scenic way to explore the deep blue waters of Fontana Lake. The marina store has also undergone renovations and now carries expanded lake supplies, apparel, snacks, soft drinks, and adult beverages – everything you need for a day on the water.
The General Store has been fully refreshed with new merchandise, a true grocery section, and a renovated ice cream parlor filled with candies, toys, and nostalgic treats.
Dam Garage now offers daily hot food specials, new merchandise, and even a cold draft beer bar – an updated, welcoming hub near the iconic Fontana Dam and Tail of the Dragon.
And the dam itself remains one of the region’s top draws. As the largest dam in the Eastern United States, it stands as a monument to engineering ingenuity and a tangible piece of American history.
The Overlook Pavilion at Fontana Dam also continues to be one of the most sought after ceremony locations in the region. Couples are drawn to its sweeping views of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains, creating an unforgettable natural backdrop for weddings and vow renewals. The combination of wide open vistas, mountain breezes, and the grandeur of the dam makes it a place where celebrations feel both intimate and awe inspiring.
With so many changes, 2026 has become a remarkable moment for both longtime guests and first time explorers to experience the new Fontana Village Resort. The blend of history and modern hospitality feels thoughtful and energizing – pairing the nostalgia of a storied mountain retreat with the excitement of something freshly re imagined.
And this year’s Fourth of July celebration promises to be especially memorable as the resort gears up to honor America’s 250th birthday with festivities set against the stunning backdrop of the Smokies.
Whether you come for the lake, the trails, the food, the history, or the serenity of mountain mornings, Fontana Village is ready to welcome you back with open arms for a whole new experience waiting to be discovered
Weekly Dinner Specials In Hazel’s Restaurant & Lounge:
Thursdays: All-You-Can-Eat Pasta
Fridays: All-You-Can-Eat Seafood
Saturdays: Smoked Prime Rib
