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The Graduate Hotels always have a delightful design aesthetic that makes any stay there fun! But in Knoxville, the surrounding university area is small, and aside from a few restaurants not that interesting. The outrageous parking fee was very disappointing.

The Oliver Hotel in Knoxville is right on the square in downtown. It is advertised as a 'boutique' hotel and that is a perfect description of the hotel. I was allowed to check in early, and upon my request for an upgrade to my room booking at a nominal cost, I was upgraded at no charge. The hotel seems to be a renovated property, and the rooms are outfitted in a 70's motif, with brass dome lights and decor. The bed was very comfortable, and the bathroom classically stylish. The water pressure in the shower left something to be desired, and that is often a result of an older structure renovation. The rooms are not exactly soundproof, other guests can occasionally be heard. The only criticism of the room are the bath linens; an upgrade would put this hotel another notch up, There is no swimming pool nor fitness center, again indicative of a boutique hotel. The staff was accommodating, and stretched thin; the front desk staff seem to perform numerous functions such as typical front desk activities, to running the valet, to accommodating guest requests. Often there is a sign on the desk explaining this and a promise to 'be right back'. In all instances this was the case, the desk is not unmanned for long. There are bicycles guests can check out for free. The room attendants did a great job, my room was cleaned daily. Great stay, accommodating snd friendly staff, and hidden behind a slide door is the Peter Kern Library, a speakeasy bar where you will share booths.