Hotel Cleo, Knoxville Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

I’d like to point out this hotels encompasses gorgeous accommodations. However, the hotel staff albeit a friendly group of folks, leave a lot to be desired when it comes to their billing department. If you choose to stay here, make sure you don’t leave until you read over your hotel bill- heed my warning. The surroundings and outdoor atmosphere: You are in the heart of downtown Knoxville, which are beautiful in itself. Downtown offers a lot of opportunity to sample various cuisine and see the sites. It’s incredibly noisy, especially inside the walls at the hotel. Not a lot of insulation in the older buildings. Like I said- hotel staff seem friendly but watch your bill closely. I believe there are other hotels nearby more suitable- This particular tribute property definitely misses a couple high-end marks.

From the moment we arrived, this hotel exceeded expectations. The property is beautiful and elegant, with a truly upscale feel while still being warm and welcoming. The staff was incredibly accommodating and attentive, always going out of their way to make sure our stay was perfect. The rooms were spotless, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed with a luxurious touch. The location was ideal—close to everything we wanted to see and do. Every detail, from the amenities to the service, made this stay feel special. If you’re looking for a hotel that offers comfort, sophistication, and an unbeatable location, this is the place. We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it

I love this gem of a boutique hotel right right in Gay St. in Knoxville. The design is unique and it feels like you are staying in a historic mansion with modern amenities. I want to recognize Jeremy (valet attendant) who went above and beyond the call of duty during our stay!!!

I checked in for my birthday. It’s a splurge for me to do this. I stayed here for my birthday two years ago and they had breakfast set out on my floor lobby. They had a blanket service. They had nice bath salts for the tub. They had flowers. The brought chocolates to the room in the evening. All of those things are GONE. It’s what made the Cleo unique and set apart. I’m really disappointed. I chose this hotel intentionally and had saved up to stay. I didn’t want to leave my room to go get breakfast but to have a slow morning where breakfast was just outside my door. I know it’s a first world problem but I’m just really bummed. The people that helped me check in and park the car were nothing but wonderful though.

What a gem. Beautiful boutique property in a historic building dating to 1897. The young lady who checked me in around midnight on 11/18/25 was so kind, gracious, welcoming and on top of it. The property is immaculate; the design, cleanliness and attention to detail do not go unnoticed. I stayed in what I believe is their standard room - well-appointed and incredibly charming while also impressively huge, including at least 12 foot ceilings. I personally found the old hardwood floors to be especially comforting. The bathroom is beautiful. I was more impressed upon than I have been by Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis properties. I hope I will never have to settle for any other hotel when I visit Knoxville.

If I could give this hotel 10 stars I would. Ask not to be on Gay street if you want quiet. We read the reviews and knew what to ask for so we got a perfectly quiet room and I got the best sleep I’ve ever had on a trip. The hotel itself is GORGEOUS. Feels like a historic mansion with beautiful furniture and fixtures. The staff are so friendly, attentive and kind… we felt thoroughly looked after. This hotel is elegant and charming and perfectly situated within walking distance to all the shops and restaurants. We will be back, and we will tell all our friends.

We enjoyed our stay at the Hotel Cleo. Our room was large and well appointed. My only note is that our bed was a bit too soft. The bathroom was spacious. The staff was friendly and attentive. We ate in the restaurant the first night of our stay. It was a bit pricey, but very convenient for us. I would definitely recommend.