June 24, 2026

The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Knoxville, TN

If you are planning a trip to Knoxville, Tennessee, and can’t bear the thought of leaving your furry best friend behind, you’re in luck! Knoxville has long been recognized as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the Southeast, and that warm welcome extends well beyond its trails and parks. From downtown boutique properties to budget-friendly options with grassy pet-relief areas, Knoxville rolls out the welcome mat for four-legged travelers in a big way.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or you’re a local exploring the area with your pup, Knoxville rewards you at every turn. Be sure to check out our guides to Knoxville’s best:

Here is a guide to some of the top-rated, dog-friendly hotels in Knoxville, based on traveler favorites:

The “Truly Pet-Friendly” (No Extra Fees!)

Red Roof Inn PLUS+ & Suites Knoxville West – Cedar Bluff

If keeping costs low is a priority, this West Knoxville location is a standout. One pet up to 80 lbs stays free, and grassy areas on-site make pet relief easy. A free hot breakfast, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a hot tub round out the amenities, making it a solid value for a budget stay.

Red Roof Inn & Suites Knoxville East

East Knoxville travelers have a fee-free option here as well, with one pet up to 80 lbs welcome at no charge. Dogs and cats are both permitted, making this location a flexible and reliable base for exploring the eastern side of the city.

Best for Green Space and Dog Walking

Drury Inn & Suites Knoxville West

Among the most consistently praised pet-friendly hotels in West Knoxville, the Drury Inn earns its reputation with a dedicated grassy relief area and complimentary waste bags available throughout the property. A free buffet breakfast, indoor and outdoor pools, and a hot tub mean the humans are well taken care of, too.

Pet fees do apply, so expect to pay $65 per night for one pet, or $75 for two, both before tax. For the quality of amenities on offer, most guests find it a worthwhile trade.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Knoxville at Cedar Bluff

Tucked near Cedar Bluff, this hotel offers something few in its category can: a wooded area behind the property with a dedicated pet relief station, which is ideal if your dog prefers a little nature on their bathroom breaks. Well-behaved pets can even be left in the room unattended when a contact number is provided to the front desk, a rare and convenient perk for traveling pet parents. 

A nightly pet fee of $25 per pet applies.

Tru by Hilton Knoxville North I-75

Newer construction and strong reviews make this North Knoxville Hilton a smart pick for pet owners who want modern amenities alongside genuine dog-friendly infrastructure. Food and water bowls, a designated fenced exercise area, and a free breakfast are all part of the package. Pet fees run $50 for stays of 1–4 nights, or $75 for longer visits.

Downtown & Close to the Action

The Tennessean Hotel

For a truly special stay, The Tennessean is Knoxville’s premier downtown dog-friendly hotel. Sitting on Gay Street steps from Market Square, dog-friendly restaurant patios, and the Tennessee Riverwalk, it welcomes dogs up to 50 lbs with a dog bed provided at check-in. 

A non-refundable pet fee of $100 per stay applies, and dogs must be kenneled when left alone in the room. Call ahead to reserve one of the designated pet-friendly rooms.

The Oliver Hotel

Housed in a restored 19th-century building at the edge of Market Square, The Oliver is a charming, design-forward boutique hotel that welcomes dogs up to 85 lbs. Its intimate scale, curated interiors, and walkable downtown setting make it a strong choice for pet owners who want something with genuine personality. 

PetSafe Downtown Dog Park is a 10-minute walk away, most Market Square patios are dog-friendly, and a pet fee of $100 per dog, per stay applies. Cats are not permitted.

Graduate by Hilton Knoxville

Design-forward and brimming with University of Tennessee spirit, the Graduate sits right on The Strip and welcomes two dogs up to 75 lbs. Its central location near campus and the Tennessee River makes it easy to work great dog walks into your stay. UT fans will want to make time for Saloon 16, the on-site bar and restaurant built in partnership with Peyton Manning. 

A non-refundable pet fee of $75 per dog, per stay applies.

Most Unique Stay

Ancient Lore Village

For a stay unlike anything else in Knoxville, Ancient Lore Village is a fantasy-themed boutique resort nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, about 15 minutes from downtown. Pets are welcome in the two family dwellings, the Orc Family House and Fairy Family Cottage, with one pet up to 50 lbs permitted per unit. Dogs have plenty of room to explore the wooded, scenic grounds, and the magical atmosphere turns the whole trip into something the family will talk about for a while. 

A pet deposit and fee of $175 per stay applies. Call ahead to confirm the availability of a pet-friendly unit before booking.

Need Same-Day Vet Care in Knoxville, TN? Opening Fall 2026.

Even the best adventures can lead to unexpected bumps and scrapes. If your pet needs same-day veterinary care while you’re out exploring Knoxville, Truss Vet is here to help. We operate much like a human urgent care clinic, specializing in non-life-threatening conditions that need prompt attention, and we offer walk-in and same-day appointments so you can get back to the good times fast.

Find out more about Truss Vet Knoxville today!