I found the Crowne Plaza to be a great hotel. We traveled 600 miles to Knoxville for surgery for our kitten at the UT Small Animal Clinic. This hotel is pet friendly and offers a nice discount for clinic customers and that was much appreciated since we stayed 4 nights. I wanted a good fitness center and I was not disappointed. I counted 27 weight stations, not counting free weights, and 11 aerobic machines. The equipment is top-notch and the facility is spotless. There are lots of large flat-screen LG TV's, although the TV's are a little bit quirky to operate and there was one interruption of signal for a few minutes. Nonetheless, I've been to independent fitness gyms that were not as well equipped.
The room was large with a comfortable king and a recliner. I really liked the bathroom with tiled walk-in shower with a mirror for shaving in the shower. There was also an illuminated makeup mirror by the sink. The provided toiletries utilize pleasing aromatherapy. Maid service was excellent and timely.
The lobby is classy and there I always saw a bellman on duty and eager to help. Covered parking was $8/day. There are computers and printers available in the lobby and in the fully supplied business center on the 12th floor. I got friendly service in the cozy lobby bar.
There is an on-site restaurant, but we didn't use it - there are too many other great options close to the hotel. Market Square is one block away and offers a dozen trendy restaurants. We sampled 5 of them and loved each. The Old City section of town is 3 blocks away and includes restaurants, clubs, breweries, and a winery. Gay Street (I think they named it a long time ago) intersects the hotel and has 2 historic theaters, a multiplex, and lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. I gained 3 pounds on this trip. There is also a fire station 4 blocks from the hotel, but it didn't disturb my sleep. I suppose you trade a little noise for nearby security.
Every staff member seemed to make a sincere effort to please. Many times I found myself thinking, "What a nice experience!"
I've not stayed elsewhere in Knoxville. I would make an effort to return here before I tried another hotel in the area.