Planning a trip to Knoxville? Start with the best downtown Knoxville hotels—they certainly put you right in the heart of all the action.
Whether it’s game day, concert night, or a weekend getaway, staying downtown means you’re steps from everything you came to enjoy. From sleek boutiques to trusted favorites, these hotels are as convenient as they are comfortable.
Here’s why downtown is the place to be:
- 🎶 Live music and buzzing events
- 🏈 Walkable access to UT games and local favorites
- ☕ Cozy cafés and brunch hotspots
- 🛍️ One-of-a-kind shops and also weekend markets
- 🍹 Rooftop views and evening cocktails
Looking for the perfect place to stay? If so, we’ve got ya covered. Let’s explore the top hotels in Knoxville where location, style, and comfort meet for one unforgettable stay.
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Start Your Trip Right—Book One of These Downtown Knoxville Hotels
To start, Knoxville is incredibly easy to get to—just 20 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport and a scenic drive from Nashville (about 3 hours) or Chattanooga (just 2).
Once you arrive, staying downtown puts you right where you want to be. During your stay, you’re close to the Smokies, the riverfront, and all the city’s best bites, shops, and sights—no car required.
Even better, here’s what you’ll enjoy when you stay downtown:
- 🥐 Free breakfast at many hotels
- 🏊 On-site pools and fitness centers
- 🚶 Walkable access to restaurants, museums, and also local attractions
- 🅿️ Convenient parking—then explore the city on foot
Ready to find your perfect stay? Let’s dive into the downtown Knoxville hotels you won’t want to miss.
👉 While you’re planning your stay, check out even more fun things to do in Knoxville HERE.
The Oliver Hotel: A Boutique Gem Among Downtown Knoxville Hotels
Tucked just off Market Square, The Oliver blends Southern style with boutique luxury inside the historic Peter Kern Building, which dates back to the 1870s. If you’re looking for downtown Knoxville hotels that feel one-of-a-kind, this one delivers.
- Boutique rooms with vintage touches and also modern comfort
- Home to the speakeasy-style Peter Kern Library bar (a hidden gem locals love)
- Steps from shops, art galleries, and some of Knoxville’s best restaurants
👉 Book your stay at The Oliver HERE and experience one of the most iconic downtown Knoxville hotels.
Embassy Suites: Spacious Style Among Downtown Knoxville Hotels
Right in the heart of downtown, Embassy Suites by Hilton offers roomy two-room suites, skyline views, and standout extras—perfect for families, couples, or girls’ getaways.
- All-suite layout with private bedrooms and separate living space
- Free cooked-to-order breakfast and also a nightly drink reception with snacks
- Radius Rooftop Lounge for cocktails and sweeping city views
Hotel Cleo: Stylish Simplicity in Downtown Knoxville
Nestled on the edge of Market Square, Hotel Cleo is a boutique dream—modern, minimal, and efforlessly chic. This newer property is small in size but big on design, perfect for couples, solo travelers, and also anyone who loves good coffee and clean lines.
- Beautifully designed rooms with high-end finishes and Parisian flair
- On-site restaurant French Market Creperie—hello, breakfast bliss
- A quiet, design-forward escape just steps from downtown energy
👉 Book your stay at Hotel Cleo HERE and enjoy one of the most stylish downtown Knoxville hotels.
Hyatt Place: Modern Comfort in the Middle of It All
Hyatt Place Knoxville/Downtown is where modern meets laid-back. With clean rooms, pet-friendly policies, and also one of the best rooftop bars in the city, this hotel is a solid pick for any kind of traveler—whether you’re here for work, fun, or both.
- Spacious, modern rooms with smart layouts and workspaces
- Rooftop bar with unbeatable views of downtown Knoxville
- Walkable to Gay Street, Market Square, and also tons of local dining
👉 Book your stay at Hyatt Place HERE and explore Knoxville from a spot that truly has it all.
The Tennessean: Where Luxury Meets Southern Hospitality
So, for something a little more upscale, The Tennessean Hotel brings elegance and exceptional service to downtown Knoxville. Overlooking World’s Fair Park, it’s an ideal pick for romantic getaways, special occasions, or simply traveling in style.
- Sophisticated rooms with plush beds and polished design
- Locally loved Tavern at the Tennessean for drinks and upscale bites
- Steps from the Sunsphere and also the Knoxville Museum of Art
Ready to Book Your Downtown Knoxville Stay
So, you’ve checked out some of the best downtown Knoxville hotels—now it’s time to book the one that fits your trip. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend, catching a concert, or heading to a Vols game, staying downtown keeps you close to everything.
✔️ Walkable to restaurants, bars, and attractions
✔️ A mix of boutique charm, comfort, and skyline views
✔️ The perfect home base for exploring Knoxville and beyond
👉 Book your stay and start planning your adventure HERE.
More Downtown Knoxville Hotel Options to Consider
We’ve shared our top picks, but if you’re still exploring, here are a few more downtown Knoxville hotels that offer great locations and solid amenities:
- Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown – Classic choice with an indoor pool and easy access to Market Square
- Hilton Knoxville – Convention Center access, outdoor pool, and Starbucks in the lobby
- Courtyard by Marriott Knoxville Downtown – Sleek, modern, and walkable for business or families
- Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Knoxville – Comfortable, reliable, and includes breakfast
- Residence Inn by Marriott Knoxville Downtown – Extended-stay suites with full kitchens and also spacious layouts
All of these hotels keep you close to Knoxville’s best food, shopping, and attractions—just steps from your door.
👉 Want even more options? Find more downtown Knoxville hotels HERE.
Bonus: Knoxville Eats Worth Walking To
During your stay, being downtown puts you just steps away from some of Knoxville’s most beloved local eats. Here are five can’t-miss spots to check out:
- Cruze Farm Ice Cream – Soft-serve with a local twist, served with retro charm
- Tupelo Honey – Southern-inspired comfort food with a modern twist
- Stock & Barrel – Local burgers, duck fat fries, and also plenty of bourbon
- Chivo Taqueria – Street-style tacos and a cool, downtown vibe
- Dazzo’s Pizzeria – Classic New York-style pizza, quick and casual
🍸 Looking for a great spot to grab a drink after dinner? Check out our favorite Knoxville bars HERE.
Share Your Adventures with Us
We’d love to hear where your trip takes you! Whether it’s a cozy cabin stay, rooftop cocktails, or ice cream after a long hike—we want to follow along.
- Snap a photo during your visit
- Tag us on Instagram: @TennesseeTrekkn
- Use the hashtag: #TennesseeTrekkn so we can see your adventures
👉 So, comment below and tell us your favorite Knoxville spot—we’d love to hear! 👇
Happy Trekkn’, friends! ❤️
One Last Thing Before You Go…
Whether you’re here for game day, a weekend escape, or just passing through, downtown Knoxville is full of places to stay, eat, and explore—all just steps away. We hope this guide helps you plan a stay that’s fun, relaxing, and worth repeating.
So, go ahead—book that room, grab a bite, and start making Knoxville memories.
When you book through our links, we may earn a small commission, which allows us to bring you more Tennessee adventures. Thank you so much for your support!