Photo:  Knoxville Hampton Inn Downtown

The Hotel: Knoxville Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, 618 West Main Street, 865-522-5400

The Skinny: Located in downtown Knoxville, the Hampton Inn has 55 rooms and suites, an indoor pool, a hot / cold breakfast bar (included), workout facility and business center.

Loved: I have to say all of my Hampton Inn stays lately have been fantastic – and at this hotel, especially so. With black and white photos featuring area landmarks, the upgraded rooms – including lots of pillows, lush bedding, stone in the bathroom and a more boutique-y feel, the hotel was comfortable and even somewhat coddling. The indoor parking was free and especially welcomed given all the rain we had that weekend; the staff was incredibly helpful and friendly, and the pool area was clean and well maintained. And, there was complimentary Internet – love it.

But: No buts this week.

Rating: 4 suitcases. Great value, upscale experience for the price, close to a lot of Knoxville’s attractions.

Our rating system:One suitecase  Don’t bother

Two suitcases       Paging the GM! You’ve got some serious work to do!

Three suitacses    An issue or two, but overall a good experience

Four suitcases      Worthy of your dollars

Five suitacses       Book it at any cost