11 Best Places to Stay in Knoxville, TN: Top Hotels Near Neyland Stadium

Introduction: The Spirit of Rocky Top

Knoxville is a city defined by its dualities: it is a sophisticated urban center and a gritty college town; a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and a historic river port. But more than anything, it is a city that breathes orange. When you consider the scale of the local hospitality scene, you must account for the sheer gravitational pull of Neyland Stadium. As the 6th largest stadium in the United States, it hosts up to 101,915 attendees on game days, transforming a mid-sized city into a pulsating metropolis of "Big Orange" energy.

For the discerning traveler, choosing where to stay in Knoxville requires balancing the desire for proximity to the action with the need for refined comfort. Whether you are here to sing "Rocky Top" at the top of your lungs or to explore the burgeoning culinary scene on Gay Street, the best area to stay is undeniably Downtown. Here, you are within a 15-to-20-minute walk of the stadium, World’s Fair Park, and the city’s best independent boutiques.

In this guide, I have analyzed Knoxville’s accommodation landscape through the lens of a critic who values character, data-backed reliability, and location. From 28-key boutique gems to luxury "sailgates" on the river, these are the 11 best places to stay in Knoxville, TN.

Comparison of Top Picks

Hotel Category	Recommendation	Best For	Key Highlight
Luxury	The Tennessean	Sophisticated Travelers	Custom "Tuck-in" rituals
Game Day	Graduate by Hilton	UT Football Fans	Peyton Manning’s Saloon 16
Boutique	The Oliver Hotel	Literary & Art Lovers	Secret Speakeasy (Peter Kern Library)
Unique	Ancient Lore Village	Families & Fantasy Fans	Hobbit-style dwellings

Quick Guide: Knoxville Neighborhoods at a Glance

Understanding Knoxville’s layout is essential for a seamless trip. While the city is expansive, the most relevant areas for visitors are clustered near the urban core.

• Downtown & Market Square: This is the heart of the city. Staying here places you on Gay Street, the historic spine of Knoxville, and Market Square, a pedestrian hub of farmers' markets and cafes.
• Fort Sanders/UT Campus: Ground zero for the University of Tennessee. If you are here for a game or visiting the campus, this is where you want to be. It is high-energy and student-centric.
• The Old City: Located just north of downtown, this historic district features 19th-century warehouses now occupied by coffee roasters, whiskey bars, and art galleries.
• South Knoxville (SoKno): Just across the Gay Street Bridge, this area offers a "scruffy city" charm with direct access to the Urban Wilderness—over 50 miles of trails and the Tennessee River.

The Top Picks: Where to Stay in Knoxville

1. The Graduate by Hilton Knoxville (Best for Football Experience)

If you are in town for a Saturday at Neyland Stadium, there is no more immersive choice than the Graduate. Located in the Fort Sanders neighborhood, this hotel is a technicolor love letter to the University of Tennessee. The lobby features orange-and-white herringbone floors and a collection of local art that celebrates the region’s history.

The true highlight, however, is Saloon 16, a "high-end watering hole" created in partnership with UT legend Peyton Manning. The bar is filled with Manning’s personal memorabilia, making it the ultimate spot for a pre-game bourbon. The rooms are equally themed, with custom "Rocky Top" headboards and nostalgic touches that recall 1980s campus life.

• Distance to Stadium: 0.4 miles (roughly an 8-minute walk).
• Top Amenities: Saloon 16, pet-friendly rooms, complimentary bike rentals.

Check Availability at The Graduate →

2. The Oliver Hotel (Best Boutique Vibe)

For those who prefer intimacy over scale, The Oliver Hotel is Knoxville’s most exclusive boutique experience. With an intimate 28-key capacity, this historic building—originally a bakery in 1876—sits directly on Market Square. The design is "Southern Literary," featuring dark woods, curated bookshelves, and brass accents.

While the rooms are exquisitely appointed with local furniture, the hotel’s "secret weapon" is the Peter Kern Library. Hidden behind a sliding bookshelf in the lobby, this speakeasy serves some of the finest craft cocktails in the Southeast. It feels worlds away from the roar of the stadium, even though you are just a short walk from the campus.

• Vibe: Moody, historic, and incredibly romantic.
• Pro Tip: Book one of the rooms overlooking Market Square to watch the morning bustle of the Farmers' Market.

3. The Tennessean (The Luxury Standard)

If your travel style leans toward white-glove service and plush linens, The Tennessean is the only true luxury option in the city. Located on the edge of World's Fair Park, this 82-room hotel offers a level of refinement that stands apart from the typical college-town offerings.

The attention to detail here is remarkable. Guests can experience "tuck-in rituals" involving herbal teas and luxury chocolates, and the Drawing Room serves high-end cocktails and small plates in an environment that feels like a private British club. It is a favorite for visiting dignitaries and those seeking a quiet retreat after a loud game day.

• Location: Adjacent to the Sunsphere and World's Fair Park.
• Amenities: Personalized concierge service, fine dining, and views of the park.

Book The Tennessean Luxury Experience →

4. Hotel Cleo (European Refinement)

A recent and welcome addition to the downtown scene, Hotel Cleo brings European refinement to Gay Street. Located in the historic Hope Brothers Building, this boutique hotel leans into a French-inflected aesthetic. The rooms feature exposed brick walls, velvet furnishings, and deeply saturated colors.

Downstairs, Lilou Brasserie serves impeccable French cuisine, providing a sophisticated alternative to the more casual fare found elsewhere downtown. It is the perfect choice for the traveler who wants to be in the center of the action but feels like they’ve stepped into a Parisian pied-à-terre.

5. Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown (The Reliable Choice)

Occupying the historic Farragut Hotel building, the Hyatt Place is the gold standard for travelers who want modern reliability without sacrificing local character. It retains many of the building's original 1917 features, including the soaring lobby ceilings and marble accents.

The standout feature here is the 530 Lounge, a rooftop bar that offers panoramic views of the downtown skyline and the distant Smokies. It is one of the best spots in the city for a sunset drink before heading out to a show at the Tennessee Theatre, which is just half a block away.

6. Courtyard & Residence Inn Downtown (Walkable Convenience)

These two Marriott properties share a modern building on Church Avenue, offering a highly strategic location between Market Square and the UT campus. For families or groups staying longer, the Residence Inn side offers suites with full kitchens and separate living areas.

The shared lobby is spacious and functional, designed for the "bleisure" traveler who needs to catch up on emails before heading out to the stadium. It is a pragmatist's choice: clean, modern, and perfectly situated for a car-free weekend.

7. Hilton Knoxville (The Crowd-Pleaser)

If you are traveling for a convention or a large wedding, the Hilton Knoxville is a seasoned pro. It is connected to the Convention Center by a skybridge and offers a wide range of amenities that boutique hotels often lack, such as a large outdoor pool and several fire pits on the terrace.

The location is stellar for game day walkability, and the rooms have been recently refreshed to feel contemporary and bright. It lacks the idiosyncratic charm of The Oliver or The Graduate, but it makes up for it in efficiency and space.

8. Ancient Lore Village (The Most Unique Stay)

Located about 15 minutes south of downtown in the "SoKno" area, Ancient Lore Village is a complete departure from traditional hotel architecture. This is a fantasy-themed resort inspired by the "The Hobbit" and other lore. Guests stay in earth-roofed dwellings like the "Boffin" or the "Gremlin," complete with rounded doors and whimsical decor.

It is more of an experience than just a room. The property offers archery, axe throwing, and communal bonfires. While it isn't walkable to the stadium, it provides an unforgettable escape for families or travelers looking for something truly out of the ordinary.

9. The Hexagon Suite (Best Campus Airbnb)

For those who prefer the independence of a short-term rental, The Hexagon Suite is a design-forward choice located in the heart of the Fort Sanders neighborhood. This UT-themed apartment features a striking mural, geometric tiling, and high-end finishes. It is literally steps from the UT Quad, making it an ideal base for university-related visits.

10. The Tailor Loft Studio (Aspirational Downtown Chill)

Located in the Old City, the Tailor Loft is a masterclass in urban restoration. This luxury loft features warm wood beams, olive green cabinetry, and massive windows that flood the space with natural light. It offers a "local-only" feel, allowing you to wake up in the historic district and walk downstairs to some of the best coffee shops and bakeries in the state.

11. Cozy Houseboat near UTK (The 'Sailgate' Choice)

Knoxville is one of the few places in the world where "sailgating" is a legitimate tradition. Fans arrive at the stadium by boat via the Tennessee River. Staying on this cozy houseboat allows you to participate in this culture firsthand. This pet-friendly rental features a private hot tub on the deck and views of the river. You can literally walk from your boat to the stadium entrance in about 15 minutes.

Essential Knoxville Travel Tips

To make the most of your stay in the "Marble City," keep these logistical tips in mind:

• Parking Secret: Downtown parking can be a headache, especially during events. However, the State Street Garage and several other municipal garages are free after 6 PM on weekdays and entirely free on weekends (excluding special event pricing).
• The Sunsphere: You cannot miss the gold-paned tower in World's Fair Park. For just $5, you can take the elevator to the observation deck for a 360-degree view of the city, the river, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Transportation: While the core is walkable, consider using the Free Trolley. It has three routes (Orange, Blue, and Green) that connect the Old City, Downtown, and the University area.
• Dining: For breakfast, join the line at OliBea in the Old City. For dinner, make a reservation at J.C. Holdway, where James Beard Award-winning chef Joseph Lenn cooks over a wood-fired grill.

FAQ: Navigating Your Knoxville Stay

What is the best hotel for UT games? The Graduate by Hilton Knoxville is the best hotel for game days. It is located in the Fort Sanders neighborhood, less than a 10-minute walk from Neyland Stadium, and offers a festive, football-centric atmosphere.

Is Knoxville walkable without a car? Yes, if you stay in Downtown or the Old City. You can easily walk between Market Square, Gay Street, World’s Fair Park, and the University of Tennessee campus. For longer distances, the free city trolley is highly effective.

Are there pet-friendly hotels in Knoxville? Absolutely. Knoxville is a very dog-friendly city. The Graduate, The Oliver, and the Hyatt Place all offer pet-friendly accommodations. Additionally, the city has several dog parks and many restaurants with outdoor seating allow pets.

Final Thoughts from James Wright

Knoxville has moved far beyond its reputation as a simple pit stop on the way to the Smokies. It is a city of high-caliber hospitality that punches well above its weight class. Whether you are choosing the refined luxury of The Tennessean or the immersive orange-and-white nostalgia of The Graduate, you are stepping into a community that takes its "Big Orange" identity seriously.

My final piece of advice? Book early. When 100,000 people descend upon a stadium, the 28 rooms at The Oliver or the boutique suites at Hotel Cleo disappear months in advance. Secure your spot, grab a cocktail at the Peter Kern Library, and get ready for a weekend of true Southern hospitality.

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