Downtown is clearly the finest area to stay if you want to take advantage of everything it has to offer without having to fight traffic. Knoxville, like many other cities, is undergoing urban revitalization, and its downtown is teeming with fresh energy as residents, businesses, and visitors return to the city to live, work, and play. Every day, it appears that a new hotel, shop, or restaurant is opening.
You’ll find an overwhelming number of good food options and activities within walking distance if you stay downtown, along with easily accessible parking garages within close distance of the hotel. The downtown area of Knoxville is quite compact, making it easy to walk around or take use of the free trolley system.
The Best Hotels in Knoxville
We recommend that you stay on Gay Street or as close to it as possible if you want to be in the thick of everything. Market Square, theaters, stores, taverns, and restaurants are all within walking distance. The Hyatt Place and Embassy Suites are both on Gay Street, while the Residence Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton, and Crowne Plaza are all within a block of this busy thoroughfare.
The Hyatt Place
The Hyatt Place, housed in the historic Farragut Hotel, has a great rooftop bar and an equally fantastic location. The newly renovated historical structure is really stunning. Self-parking is available at the State Street Garage, and valet parking is available for a cost.
The Embassy Suites
Apart from being a brand new hotel, the Embassy Suites is also home to Knox Mason, one of Knoxville’s greatest restaurants, and K Brew, one of the best coffee shops in town. The rooftop pool will be a hit with your entire family. Self-parking is available at the State Street Garage, and valet parking is available for a cost. Breakfast and an evening reception are also included (light snacks, house wine, and beer).
The Hilton
The Hilton Knoxville might be the most affordable option in the downtown region. On occasion, you may be able to locate fantastic weekend deals. It is about a 5-minute walk from Market Square and features an outdoor swimming pool for children. Warning: You may never want to leave its cosy, sunken outside patio with its ingenious fire pit.
The Courtyard by Marriott and the nearby Residence Inn are both new additions to the downtown hotel landscape. The location is fantastic, and because it is not directly on Gay Street, it is probably a little calmer. It is only a 6-minute walk from downtown’s Market Square and even closer to Gay Street’s attractions like the Tennessee Theater. Laundry facilities are available at Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness if you’re mountain biking there. An amazing perk!
The Crowne Plaza
The Crowne Plaza, an older hotel with high reviews, is located on Market Square’s north end, providing it a great location just steps away from everything. It is a good pick given the price and location, albeit it is not as posh as the hotels listed above. In addition, the indoor pool will be a hit with the kids.