As a lifelong Tennessee Volunteers supporter and devoted Peyton Manning fan, staying at Graduate Knoxville felt like checking an item off my bucket list. Located just steps from the University of Tennessee campus, this spirited boutique hotel perfectly captures the pride, traditions, and charm that make Knoxville such a special destination.
Whether you’re visiting for football season, exploring downtown Knoxville, or simply looking for a uniquely local hotel experience, Graduate Knoxville delivers a stay that is equal parts stylish, nostalgic, and unmistakably Tennessee.
Location, Location, Location
Situated right on Cumberland Avenue—better known to locals as “The Strip”—Graduate Knoxville places guests in the heart of the action. The hotel is just minutes from Neyland Stadium and within walking distance of the University of Tennessee campus, making it an ideal choice for Vols fans and visitors alike.
With downtown Knoxville’s restaurants, shops, and entertainment nearby, the property offers easy access to everything the city has to offer.
Rooms Inspired by Tennessee Tradition
The Graduate brand is known for creating hotels that celebrate the personality of each college town, and Knoxville is no exception.
The guest rooms and suites feature playful nods to local history and the University of Tennessee, blending vintage-inspired décor with modern comforts. The hotel offers nine different room styles, ranging from cozy king rooms to larger accommodations and family-friendly bunk bed options.
Each room includes:
- Malin + Goetz bath amenities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Thoughtful Tennessee-inspired décor
- Comfortable bedding and modern conveniences
The result is a space that feels both upscale and welcoming—like spending the weekend in a stylish Southern home.
Stay Active During Your Visit
Guests looking to maintain their fitness routine can take advantage of the hotel’s 24-hour fitness center, which includes Peloton bikes and a variety of workout equipment. For those wanting to explore Knoxville at a slower pace, bicycles are available to rent from the front desk, providing an easy way to discover the university campus and surrounding neighborhoods.
And if you’re planning a football weekend, make your reservations early. Rooms during Tennessee home games are in extremely high demand and often sell out months in advance.
Grab Coffee at Poindexter
Located on the lobby level, Poindexter Coffee serves as the hotel’s casual gathering space. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., the café offers breakfast, lunch, pastries, grab-and-go snacks, and specialty beverages. The name “Poindexter” playfully celebrates academic curiosity, fitting perfectly with the college-town atmosphere.
Whether you’re fueling up before a day of sightseeing or grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up, the coffee menu and specialty teas provide the perfect excuse to slow down and relax.
Peyton Manning’s Saloon 16 Is a Must-Visit
One of the highlights of Graduate Knoxville is undoubtedly Saloon 16, the western-inspired restaurant and bar created in partnership with Tennessee legend Peyton Manning. From the outside, the venue resembles an old-fashioned saloon. Inside, guests are greeted by warm lighting, comfortable seating, vintage touches, dart boards, and an impressive collection of University of Tennessee memorabilia from Manning’s personal archives.
A vintage jukebox adds even more personality to the space, making it feel like a cozy Tennessee gathering spot.
Saloon 16 Hours
Monday–Thursday: 5 p.m. – Midnight
Friday: 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Sunday Brunch: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Sunday Dinner: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
The menu features a variety of appetizers, cocktails, and entrées, many of which were personally inspired and named by Peyton Manning in honor of people and moments that have influenced his life and career.
One standout is Peyton’s Chicken Parm Sandwich, a playful reference to Manning’s memorable Nationwide commercials.
The Perfect Home Base for Vols Fans
Graduate Knoxville perfectly embodies the spirit of Big Orange Country. From the Tennessee-inspired guest rooms to Peyton Manning’s Saloon 16 and its unbeatable location near campus, the hotel offers an experience that feels authentically Knoxville.
For Tennessee fans, it’s more than just a hotel—it’s part of the game day tradition.
And for this lifelong Vols fan, it felt like home.