7 HIGHLY-rated, Southern boutique hotels to add to your bucket list
Here’s your Friday getaway:
7 Southern boutique hotels
in:
Chattanooga, TN
Memphis, TN
Knoxville, TN
Nashville, TN
Versailles, KY
Louisville. KY
Florence, AL
This trip is perfect for travelers:
who want unique hotel experiences whenever they explore
1. The Edwin Hotel, Chattanooga
Swank and chic are words that don’t even capture the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this Autograph Collection hotel in Chattanooga, which was ranked #10 Best City Hotel in the Continental US. Situated in the heart of downtown, you won’t need to use your car when you stay here. Plan on walking to all your downtown Chattanooga hot spots, for example, the Tennessee Aquarium is a 4-minute walk and the Creative Discovery Museum is an 8-minute walk. Or relaxing is all that is on your agenda, just sip cocktails and take in the sights on the rooftop bar, Whiskey Thief, overlooking the Tennessee River and Cumberland Plateau.
Book here: https://www.theedwinhotel.com/
Source: The Edwin Hotel
Source: The Edwin Hotel
Source: The Edwin Hotel
One review from a traveler:
We were looking for a nice hotel in the heart of downtown Chattanooga and we came across this gem. The Edwin Hotel is a great boutique hotel with a lot of character. Rooms are very nice and beds are very comfortable. The hotel looks very new with a lot of artistic features and decor. It is very conveniently located within walking distance of the Riverfront and the Walnut Street Walking Bridge. There also is a great ice cream shop called The Ice Cream Show across the street. The best part of the hotel is their rooftop whiskey bar The Whiskey Thief. Very cool rooftop bar overlooking the Tennessee River with a great selection of whiskeys.
We would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone looking to stay in Chattanooga.
2. River Inn of Harbor Town, Memphis
Two miles from popular Beale Street in Memphis, most of this hotel’s rooms have stunning views of the Mississippi River. Known for its high-end European ambiance, it’s a treat to stay here when exploring Memphis and its surrounding areas.
Book here: https://riverinnmemphis.com/
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
One traveler’s review of the River Inn of Harbor Town:
The River Inn is a small hotel located just outside Downtown Memphis on Mud Island next to the Mississippi River.
We had a large clean airy room with all the necessary facilities. The hotel has a quality restaurant on the ground floor, which also serves breakfast, a bar/casual grill across the road and a terrace bar on the 4th floor overlooking the river.
Staff were all terrific, from the front desk to housekeeping, with one of the waiters even arranging us a taxi.......... whilst at the same time serving our breakfast (have to admit to struggling with the Uber app).
The surrounding area is a delight with a wonderful riverside walk just across the street.
Finally, the turn-down service on an evening with a glass of port and a truffle, a delightful finishing touch.
Excellent stay - thank you.
3. Oliver Hotel, Knoxville
This tiny, boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown Knoxville. Close to restaurants, famous Market Square, and even a secret speakeasy, there is so much to do when booking a stay here. If you come during the holidays, try to reserve a room that overlooks holiday ice skating in Market Square.
Book here: https://www.theoliverhotel.com/
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
One traveler’s review of the Oliver Hotel:
The must-stay hotel in Knoxville
We had one night to stay in downtown Knoxville, and asked a local where to stay. Hotel Oliver was the recommendation, and we can validate it is true! Amazing location, great staff and extremely comfortable beds. The decor is hip and light - as are the restaurants and the must-drink speakeasy library bar.
Go for the location, decor and beds. Stay for the chill-hip vibe. THE place to stay in Knoxville!
4. Bobby Hotel, Nashville
One of the most popular boutique hotels in the South, the Bobby Hotel is consistently nominated for Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Lavishly decorated interiors and a roof-top bar (with a full bus—stories above the downtown skyline), this hotel is a chic spot for Nashville instagram pics.
Book here: https://bobbyhotel.com/
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
One traveler’s review of the Bobby Hotel.
I don't even know where to begin. Bobby Hotel left me speechless. I'll keep it short and sweet. The Bobby hotel, is without a doubt, my best hotel stay to date!!! When you walk in you're immediately greeted by happy faces who are excited to have you. Every time you enter the hotel, it feels like being home. The employees will know your name, and ask how your day was, etc.
It was my birthday while we were visiting and we were also celebrating our Anniversary, and they had a complimentary bottle of Rose' waiting for us in our room. Later in the day they delivered a sweet note on beautiful hotel stationary, and a plate of fresh fruit and truffles wishing me happy birthday, as well as anniversary. The hotel staff went above and beyond to assure we had the most memorable trip possible...and they certainly succeeded.
The hotel was so clean and beautifully decorated with a little edge (which I loved). The employees were all so kind and each dressed to reflect not only the hotel style, but also their own individual personalities (which I also loved). The location is easy walking distance to so many things, especially Printers Alley. The drinks, coffee, and food were all amazing. The rooms were so fun! The huge mirrors were perfect for getting dressed. I could go on and on. Do yourself a favor, and check in to Bobby the next time you're in Nashville!! I promise you will not be disappointed!! I'll definitely be looking for reasons to visit Nashville again just so I can stay here again!!, Facebook
5. Kentucky Castle Hotel, Versailles
Want a truly unique experience? Book a getaway here. Complete with a farm-to-table restaurant, Bourbon bar, and gardens, this boutique hotel is probably one of the most memorable on the list. (Pssst…If castles are your thing, here are a few more within driving distance to check out!)
Book here: https://www.thekentuckycastle.com/
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: Realtor
One traveler’s review of the Kentucky Castle.
My husband and I had already planned a trip to Lexington when we found out about the castle. We took their only two nights available. We had a wonderful stay! The decor is breathtaking. The room was so comfortable. But the crowning touch is their staff. They truly made us feel like royalty. Everyone we encountered was friendly, knowledgeable, and so helpful. If at all possible, we will definitely stay at the castle again!
6. Vu Guesthouse, Louisville
A quirky hotel with 34 guestrooms, the Vu Guesthouse in Louisville, KY, used to be an old tobacco warehouse. Now revitalized and fairly new to the market, the hotel is on the outskirts of downtown, so you’ll definitely need a car. Check out the ambiance online before booking a stay here, so you aren’t taken off guard. The decor is luxurious and comfortable, but also meant to be dark and unconventional; stay here for an eccentric and offbeat experience.
Book here: https://www.vuguesthouselouisville.com/
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
Source: TripAdvisor
One traveler’s review of the Vu Guesthouse.
If you’re looking for something different but excellent quality this is it. So cool
This hotel is located outside of Downtown area in an old business area that seems to be on the up. At check the receptionist was friendly and helpful and process very quick. This is not your conventional hotel though. It is about 2 years old and based in a French 'boutique' theme. The reception and bar area are very different and colourful. There are rooms in the converted building but we stayed in the Guesthouse rooms, a separate new building at the rear of the building. (From reading other reviews choose the Guesthouse if you want a quieter and larger room, although there is some noise from the highway) The rooms are tastefully furnished with mainly leather (even the bedside tables) and all quality fittings. Greeted with a box of 4 quality chocolates on the bed, which again was of good quality although a little soft for my liking. Free parking. There were no coffee making facilities in the room but there as coffee available in the morning at the entrance.
7. GunRunner Boutique Hotel, Florence
This boutique hotel offers 10 themed suites that celebrate the music, art, fashion and history of the Alabama Shoals area. Featured in Southern Living, this hotel offers a hands-off approach to the hotel industry. Translation: there is no front-desk. All guests are emailed key codes prior to arrival.
Book here: https://gunrunnerhotel.com/
Source: Booking.com
Source: Booking.com
Source: Booking.com
One traveler’s review of the GunRunner Boutique Hotel.
I recently visited Florence, AL and booked my room, for the second time, at the Gunrunner Boutique Hotel. The Gunrunner Hotel has extremely upscale & trendy suites with a warm, welcoming feel. The beds are by far the finest; very plush & comfy! The complimentary toiletries are organic with a subtle/pleasing fragrance. Should you prefer eats on the go or a quiet, relaxing meal, you are only minutes away from a plethora of restaurants. And, don't forget to visit the Gunrunner's fully, stocked bar located in the hotel lobby. Nothing like a relaxing cocktail before bedtime! Looking forward to my next stay at the Gunrunner. This Hotel is definitely on the top of my list!
Know of any others we should add to the list? Tell us below!
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