Hotels in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville: Where Vibrant Culture Meets Scenic Serenity

Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee, is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and innovation. Nestled along the Tennessee River, this lively city center boasts attractions like the Knoxville Museum of Art and the bustling Market Square, brimming with local shops and eateries. The University of Tennessee adds a youthful energy, while the Knoxville Convention Center hosts a variety of events year-round. Enjoy scenic riverside parks and explore the rich heritage of East Knoxville. With its charming streets, artistic flair, and warm Southern hospitality, Downtown Knoxville invites travelers to experience a unique slice of Tennessee life. For our best hotel rates in Downtown Knoxville and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville offers a variety of hotel accommodations, ranging from boutique inns to well-known chains. You’ll find friendly service, modern amenities, and convenient access to local attractions, dining, and entertainment. Whether you prefer a cozy atmosphere or a vibrant hotel experience, downtown has options to suit your needs. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Downtown Knoxville:

1. Graduate by Hilton KnoxvilleOpens in a new window: This vibrant 4-star hotel is a unique destination for leisure travelers looking for a memorable experience in Downtown Knoxville. With an impressive collection of University of Tennessee memorabilia, the hotel provides an engaging atmosphere. It features comfortable accommodations with stunning room aesthetics, ensuring a relaxing stay. The property stands out with its distinctive character, making it a favorite among travelers who appreciate uniqueness. Many reviews highlight the hotel's charming ambiance and beautiful rooms, creating a delightful backdrop for exploration of the local area.
2. Marriott Knoxville DowntownOpens in a new window: This exceptional 4-star hotel caters to leisure travelers with a penchant for comfort and accessibility. Located close to popular attractions, it offers well-appointed rooms with high-quality linens and modern amenities. The property is designed for relaxation with a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by efficient service. Guests frequently commend the hotel's outstanding location, which is ideal for those attending events or exploring the vibrant culinary scene nearby. The combination of attention to detail and a friendly ambiance ensures a wonderful stay for all visitors.
3. THE TENNESSEAN HotelOpens in a new window: This luxurious 4-star hotel is an ideal choice for discerning leisure travelers seeking a high-end experience in Downtown Knoxville. Renowned for its architectural charm and upscale amenities, the property offers beautifully designed rooms and a range of premium services. Guests can indulge in delightful local chocolates and sparkling wine upon arrival, enhancing their stay from the very beginning. The hotel’s proximity to dining and entertainment options, combined with its commitment to exceptional customer service, creates a sophisticated retreat that travelers rave about. Visitors appreciate the attention to detail and personalized touches, making it an unforgettable getaway.

Top locations to stay in Downtown Knoxville

Staying near the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum, Thompson–Boling Arena, and Market Square offers diverse experiences in Downtown Knoxville. The Knoxville Civic Auditorium hosts various performances, while Thompson–Boling Arena features exciting sports events. Market Square is vibrant with shops and dining. For first-time visitors, Market Square is best suited due to its bustling atmosphere and central location.

1. Near Market SquareOpens in a new window: Staying near Market Square puts you right in the heart of Knoxville's vibrant social scene. This area offers a lively atmosphere with a mix of shops and cultural attractions. You can easily explore the area's unique boutiques and enjoy the outdoor performances and events that frequently take place here. Plus, you’ll be just a short stroll away from beautiful spots like Ijams Nature Center and the scenic World's Fair Park, making it a perfect base for your adventures.
2. Near Thompson–Boling ArenaOpens in a new window: If you want to experience Knoxville's dynamic event scene, staying near Thompson–Boling Arena is a great choice. This venue hosts a variety of cultural events and concerts, ensuring there's always something happening. The nearby attractions include the tranquil Ijams Nature Center, where you can immerse yourself in nature, and the vibrant Market Square, perfect for shopping and entertainment.
3. Near Knoxville Civic Auditorium and ColiseumOpens in a new window: Choosing to stay near the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum means you're close to a range of cultural attractions and events. This historic venue hosts concerts and performances, making it a cultural hotspot. The nearby river offers a charming backdrop for leisurely walks, while the bustling Market Square is just a short distance away, providing plenty of shopping and dining options to enjoy.

Things to do in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville buzzes with energy, blending the vibrancy of live music and art with a backdrop of scenic parks and rolling hills. Enjoy shopping in lively districts, explore local galleries, or catch a game for some thrilling sports action. With its inviting atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for any traveler.

• Market SquareOpens in a new window – Experience the vibrant heart of Downtown Knoxville at Market Square, a lively piazza filled with shops, restaurants, and local events. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the atmosphere, or grab a bite to eat from one of the many eateries surrounding the square. This bustling hub is perfect for people-watching and enjoying street performances.
• World's Fair ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the legacy of the 1982 World's Fair at this expansive park. Enjoy a leisurely walk through beautifully landscaped gardens and fountains, or take a moment to relax by the serene water features. The park is a great spot for a picnic or simply unwinding amidst nature, all while being close to the university and museums.
• Sunsphere TowerOpens in a new window – Climb up to the Sunsphere Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Knoxville and the surrounding landscape. This iconic structure, built for the World's Fair, offers an observation deck where you can capture stunning photos and appreciate the city from a unique perspective.
• Women's Basketball Hall of FameOpens in a new window – Celebrate the achievements of women in sports at this dedicated hall of fame. Explore exhibits showcasing historical milestones, memorabilia, and inspiring stories that highlight the contributions of female athletes. It’s an exciting destination for sports enthusiasts and those interested in women's history.
• Knoxville Museum of ArtOpens in a new window – Delve into the world of visual creativity at the Knoxville Museum of Art. Featuring a diverse collection of regional artwork and rotating exhibitions, the museum provides insight into local artists and the art scene. Attend a workshop or special event to engage with the art community and discover new talents.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Downtown Knoxville

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Downtown Knoxville is from January to March, when hotel prices are typically lower. To fully immerse yourself in the area's rich history and culture, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, you can explore various landmarks and cultural attractions, including museums that showcase the city's heritage. This offers a great value for money, allowing you to enjoy an enriching experience while staying on a budget. Additionally, prices may drop even further during this off-peak season, making it an even more affordable choice for travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals in Downtown Knoxville, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, so you’re more likely to see opportunities to save. Additionally, you can utilize the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool via the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you stay updated on availability and potential price drops for your favorite hotels, making it easier to book that spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a Downtown Knoxville hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could lead to better deals.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit further out, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to see. Independent hotels in these areas usually tend to be more affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Downtown Knoxville. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

What to eat in Downtown Knoxville

Here are a few popular dining spots in Downtown Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America:

• J.C. Holdway: This acclaimed restaurant offers a creative take on Southern cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that reflect the region's culinary traditions. The menu changes seasonally, allowing for a unique dining experience that highlights the flavors of Knoxville.
• Nama Sushi Bar - Downtown Knoxville: Renowned for its fresh and imaginative sushi offerings, this restaurant seamlessly blends traditional Japanese techniques with local ingredients, creating a menu that excites the palate and showcases Knoxville's diverse food scene.
• Tupelo Honey: Celebrated for its modern Southern comfort food, Tupelo Honey emphasizes farm-to-table principles, bringing bold flavors and innovative twists on classic dishes, all while honoring the culinary heritage of East Tennessee.

Best time to go to Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.4°F (3.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.2°F (25.1°C). July is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Downtown Knoxville, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.