Hotels in Knoxville

Knoxville: Where Southern Charm Meets Scenic Serenity

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Knoxville is a charming and vibrant town that seamlessly blends rich history with modern allure. Known for its annual Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum, this destination is a must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts. Stroll through picturesque parks or explore the scenic beauty of Lake Red Rock, offering endless outdoor adventures. The town's welcoming atmosphere and local eateries invite travelers to savor authentic Midwestern hospitality. With its off-the-beaten-path charm, Knoxville promises a unique blend of culture, recreation, and community spirit that captivates every visitor. Discover Knoxville—where tradition meets adventure! For the best hotel rates in Knoxville and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Knoxville

Some of the best places to stay in Knoxville are Altoona, Pella and Newton. Altoona, Pella, and Newton each offer unique attractions for travelers. Altoona is known for its entertainment options, including amusement parks. Pella boasts Dutch heritage and beautiful tulip gardens, making it picturesque. Newton is rich in history and scenic parks. For accommodations, expect a range of options from cozy inns to modern suites. For first-time visitors, Pella is ideal due to its charming atmosphere and cultural experiences. Enjoy your stay in Knoxville, where you’ll find comfortable hotels nearby! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Knoxville:

1. AltoonaOpens in a new window: Known for its family-friendly attractions, Altoona is a perfect destination for those seeking entertainment and outdoor fun. You can visit Adventureland, a popular theme park, or enjoy some excitement at the Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino. For accommodations, consider Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel ideal for business and casino enthusiasts, featuring a business center and conference facilities. Another option is Best Western Premier Ankeny HotelOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, which offers adventure sports activities and amenities for families, including a 24-hour business center. If you're traveling with pets, Hyatt Place Altoona/Des MoinesOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that allows pets and offers essential business amenities.
2. PellaOpens in a new window: Pella is a charming town that boasts rich cultural history and outdoor beauty, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. Lake Red Rock offers scenic views and recreational opportunities, while the Historical Village and Vermeer Windmill showcase the area's heritage. In Pella, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Pella, IAOpens in a new window provides a 2.5-star stay with business amenities and meeting spaces. Another option, AmericInn by Wyndham PellaOpens in a new window, features similar business facilities and is perfect for corporate travelers. Families can choose Super 8 by Wyndham PellaOpens in a new window, which offers child-friendly amenities alongside business services.
3. NewtonOpens in a new window: If you're a sports enthusiast, Newton is a fantastic destination with attractions like the Iowa Speedway and Rock Creek State Park for adventure seekers. The town also features family-friendly entertainment at the Valle Drive-In cinema. For a comfortable stay, Best Western Holiday ManorOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that caters to families and pet owners, offering free cribs and essential business services. Alternatively, Tremont Inn on MainOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, includes dining options and entertainment amenities. Lastly, Hotel GrinnellOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that also welcomes pets and features business facilities, perfect for traveling professionals.

Things to do in Knoxville for first time

Three days in Knoxville is ideal for exploring its vibrant outdoor scene, with activities like hiking, biking, and walking along scenic trails. Discover local parks, enjoy leisurely boating, and immerse yourself in the rich culture, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure and charm. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Knoxville:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lake Red Rock, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and partake in activities like kayaking or fishing. After soaking in the serene views, head over to VanderWilt Park, which offers lovely walking trails and picnic spots perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Next, visit the Historical Village to immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, exploring restored buildings and artifacts. Finally, conclude your day with a visit to the Vermeer Windmill & Scholte House, where you can learn about the local culture and enjoy the picturesque setting.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, where you can hike through beautiful landscapes while observing diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. After your nature excursion, make your way to Adventureland for some thrills and fun rides that will surely get your adrenaline pumping. To unwind, take a stroll at the Altoona Dog Park, where you can relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, perhaps even engaging with friendly locals and their furry companions.
• Day 3: Start your day at Carmack Nature Center, where you can explore nature trails and learn about local flora and fauna. Afterward, head over to the Southern Iowa Fair, which offers a lively atmosphere with various attractions, games, and delicious fair food. Finally, wrap up your journey with a visit to Red Haw State Park, where you can hike, fish, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, making it the perfect end to your exciting itinerary in Knoxville.

5 tips to find a great Knoxville hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Knoxville is during January, November, and December when hotel rates drop significantly. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure lower fares. To truly experience the city's highlights, plan for at least a 2-3 day stay. Knoxville offers great value for money with attractions such as its beautiful lakes, vibrant stadium, and scenic national park, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Knoxville, Hotels.com is a great resource. To uncover potential savings, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you might find reduced rates on various hotels. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, increasing your chances of snagging a cheaper hotel in Knoxville.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Knoxville.
4. Consider your location: Keep your location in mind when booking on Hotels.com for your vacation. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Knoxville and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Knoxville

Knoxville experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 22.1°F (-5.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.8°F (23.8°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Knoxville are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, February, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.