Holiday Inn Express & Suites Knoxville-Clinton by IHG

I thought I’d be there for one night after a huge snowstorm left my squatted, straight-piped pickup unable to run in the snow. I was worried about my decal stickers and LED tire rim lights, so I parked at the hotel. The blizzard kept me there for a whole week. I got to know the staff, played board games with them, and got engaged to the woman at the front desk. We’re planning to get married at the Holiday Inn soon. Can’t wait, I’ll update.

We slept really well, thanks to the high, soft mattresses, comfy sheets and blankets, and four big pillows. The rooms also seem well insulated, since we didn’t hear guests or hallway noise. The bathroom was large, with lots of counter space, and the big TV was placed well for both beds. There were also three large luggage carts that rolled smoothly and had room for everything from the car. The room was spotless, and the whole hotel felt clean and welcoming, with a fresh-baked-cookie smell. Check-in and checkout were easy, and the tap-and-enter key cards avoided the usual card-reader trouble. There’s a small business center and a generous breakfast buffet. My mom made an omelet sandwich. The room also had a larger-than-usual mini-fridge that kept our perishable food cold, a microwave, and a Keurig with regular and decaf pods. The desk staff on both shifts were helpful and friendly. They even have step stools at the front desk to help seniors and guests with mobility issues get in and out of bed. A great place to stay while traveling on I-75. Five stars.

I first ended up here because the Holiday Inn I usually stayed at was full, but now I’ll keep coming back when I’m in town for work. Mike at the night desk is courteous, funny, and goes above and beyond with customer service. The rooms are clean, and the property is beautiful, a step above the other IHG hotels I’ve stayed at.

I got an unexpected upgrade to a king suite, which I really appreciated, and my room was clean, comfortable, and so quiet I didn’t hear a peep. The whole hotel was very clean, and check-in and checkout were easy. Everyone was friendly, including the cleaning crew and the breakfast prep staff. It’s handy for groceries, food, gas, and direct access to the Interstate. I may have missed the afternoon cookies, since I’ve had them at other Holiday Inn locations. If they don’t offer them here, they should. I love those cookies and the cucumber-lemon water. The fitness room was small, but I was glad to have it as someone who works out. My only little gripe was that one dumbbell from the 10-pound pair was missing, and I’d planned to use that set for my arm warm-up. I didn’t get to try the indoor/outdoor pool, but it looked clean and I barely saw anyone using it. Maybe next time.