You know that feeling when you're driving down I-40, the sun is setting over the Smoky Mountains, and your eyes are starting to feel like they’re filled with sand? We’ve all been there. You just need a bed. But you don't want a bed that feels like a cardboard box, and you definitely don't want to pay downtown Knoxville prices if you can avoid it. That’s usually when people start looking at the Days Inn by Wyndham Knoxville East. It’s one of those spots that pops up immediately on every booking app because of the price point. But honestly, "cheap" can be a trap or a total win depending on what you're actually looking for.
Location matters more than most people realize when they're booking in East Tennessee. This specific hotel is tucked right off Exit 398. If you aren't familiar with the area, that puts you about 10 or 15 minutes away from the University of Tennessee and the bright lights of Gay Street. It’s far enough to be quiet-ish, but close enough that you aren't stranded in the middle of nowhere.
The Real Vibe of the Place
Look, let’s be real for a second. This isn’t the Ritz-Carlton. If you walk in expecting marble floors and a concierge who knows your name, you're going to be disappointed. It’s a budget-friendly Wyndham property. It’s built for travelers, truckers, and families on their way to Dollywood who need to save a few bucks on the lodging so they can spend $15 on a giant loaf of cinnamon bread in Pigeon Forge.
The rooms at the Days Inn by Wyndham Knoxville East are pretty much what you’d expect from a modernized classic motel layout. They’ve done some updates over the years—new carpets here, some fresh paint there. It’s got that standard hotel smell. You know the one. A mix of industrial laundry detergent and a hint of air freshener. It’s clean, though. That’s the big thing. Most travelers who leave reviews for this spot mention that the housekeeping staff actually puts in the work, which isn't always a guarantee at this price tier.
What You Get (and What You Don't)
Free breakfast is a staple here, but don't expect a full omelet station. It’s the "Daybreak" breakfast. Think cereal, maybe some yogurt, those little muffins that are surprisingly addictive, and the legendary DIY waffle maker. If you want a massive Southern breakfast with biscuits and gravy that will put you in a food coma, you’re better off driving five minutes down the road to a local diner. But for a quick hit of carbs and caffeine before hitting the road? It works.
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The Wi-Fi is surprisingly decent. I’ve seen people try to run Zoom calls in the lobby and it mostly holds up. It’s free, which is basically a human right at this point in 2026.
- The Pool: There is an outdoor pool. It’s seasonal. If you’re here in January, it’s just a blue rectangle of sadness, but in July? It’s a lifesaver.
- Pet Policy: They are pet-friendly, but you should always call ahead because they have specific rooms set aside for furry friends. Don't just show up with a Great Dane and expect it to go smoothly.
- Parking: Plenty of it. Even if you’re hauling a trailer or driving a massive SUV, you won't be struggling to find a spot.
Why the Location at Exit 398 is a Secret Weapon
Most people try to stay right in the heart of Knoxville. Big mistake. The traffic near Neyland Stadium on a game day is a literal nightmare. Staying at the Days Inn by Wyndham Knoxville East gives you a buffer. You’re sitting on the east side of the city, which means you have a straight shot toward the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
If you jump on Highway 66 from here, you’re in Sevierville in about 25 minutes.
That’s the move. Stay here, pay half the price of a Pigeon Forge "theme" hotel, and just drive in for the day. You save enough money on the room to basically pay for your gas and a few souvenirs. Plus, you’re right near the Knoxville Zoo and the Botanical Gardens. People forget how cool the East Knoxville area is—it’s a bit more rugged and less polished than the West side, but it’s got character.
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Let’s Talk About the "Wyndham" Factor
The fact that this is a Wyndham property actually means something for your wallet. If you’re a Wyndham Rewards member, staying at this Days Inn is an easy way to stack points. Because the base rate is low, the "value" of the points you earn or spend here can be better than at the high-end resorts.
Sometimes, people get frustrated with budget hotels because they expect "boutique" service. At a place like the Days Inn by Wyndham Knoxville East, the staff is usually small. You might see the same person at the front desk at 10 PM and again at 6 AM. They’re hardworking folks. If you’re nice to them, they’ll usually go out of their way to find you an extra pillow or the "good" remote that actually works.
Addressing the Concerns
Is it perfect? No. Some guests have pointed out that the walls are a bit thin. If your neighbor decides to watch an action movie at 2 AM, you might hear the explosions. It’s an older building. That’s just the physics of it. Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Also, the area immediately around the exit is very "highway-centric." You’ve got gas stations and fast food. It’s convenient, but it’s not exactly a scenic walking neighborhood. You are here for the utility of it. You’re here because you want a reliable place to crash that won’t break the bank.
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How to Get the Best Experience Here
If you decide to book the Days Inn by Wyndham Knoxville East, do yourself a favor and request a room on the top floor. It cuts down on the overhead foot traffic noise significantly. Also, check your AC unit as soon as you walk in. These wall units are workhorses, but they can be finicky. If it’s making a weird clunking sound, just ask to swap rooms right away—the staff is usually pretty cool about it if they have the vacancy.
Don't forget that Knoxville's weather is notoriously bipolar. One day it's 70 degrees, the next it's snowing. The heating/cooling units in these rooms are powerful, which is a blessing.
Final Practical Advice
To make the most of your stay at the Days Inn by Wyndham Knoxville East, keep these few things in mind. First, book directly through the Wyndham site or app if you can—third-party sites sometimes mess up the reservation details, and it’s a headache to fix. Second, if you're headed to a UT game, leave at least an hour earlier than you think you need to. I-40 can turn into a parking lot in seconds.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Verify your check-in time: If you're arriving late, call the front desk to ensure they hold your room.
- Download the Wyndham app: It allows for digital check-in sometimes and keeps your rewards points tracked.
- Map your route to the Smokies: Take the backroads through Sevierville to avoid the main Parkway traffic if you're heading to the National Park.
- Check the local event calendar: If there’s a massive concert at Thompson-Boling Arena or a home game, prices in the whole region spike, so lock in your rate early.