ABOUT THE PANELIST
Jeff Coy is president of JLC Consulting, a research and consulting firm based in Cave Creek, Ariz. Certified by the International Society of Hospitality Consultants, Coy has more than 30 years’ experience in the development, management and marketing of hotels and resorts. He has written for several publications, and in 2001 formed Hotel Waterpark Resort Research & Consulting with Bill Haralson.
Owner:Wilderness Development Corp.
Year opened:2008
Size:60,000 square feet
Staff:Approximately 500, peak season
Wilderness Resort is located in Sevierville, Tenn., known as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains. It now includes approximately 1,500 guest rooms and the Wild Waterdome, a 6-acre, indoor waterpark. There are also two outdoor waterparks — Salamander Springs and Lake Wilderness — and two arcades, as well as meeting space at the adjacent Sevierville Events Center. New this year is an outdoor minigolf course. Wilderness at the Smokies is part of Bridgemont, a 1,000-acre development that includes Eagle’s Ridge championship golf course. Planned additions include a 75-acre shopping, dining and entertainment complex.