Most people don’t have a reason to visit Knoxville, Tennessee, but this college town has plenty to offer travelers looking for the state’s home to mountains, music, and culture.
Located between Chattanooga and Nashville, Knoxville is situated within a few hours from the Great Smoky Mountains and other cities like Asheville and Lexington.
Knoxville also turns orange during the University of Tennessee football and basketball games when fans cover both the land and the river.
What to Do in Knoxville
Frank H. McClung Museum– On a rainy day, head over to the McClung Museum on the UT campus, which has exhibits featuring mummies, dinosaurs, prehistoric skeletons, and Native Americans. Best of all, the museum is free but has a suggested donation of $4. 1327 Circle Park Drive
Ijams Nature Center– When you’re ready to head outside, this former quarry has miles of walking and mountain biking paths just a short drive from downtown. Be sure to take the Meads Quarry trail to see the Keyhole, dozens of expertly laid stones that create a magical-looking doorway. 2915 Island Home Avenue
Knoxville Museum of Art– For rainy days, head to this local art museum that focuses on the people and work of East Tennessee. Paintings and sculptures are on display and it’s free to visit. 1050 Worlds Fair Park Drive
Old Gray Cemetery– While it may seem odd to visit a cemetery while in Knoxville, this cemetery is home to Civil War graves as well as those of notable locals. The 13-acre historic site, built in 1851, is also a beautiful place to walk, as it’s covered in trees. 543 North Broadway NE
East Tennessee Historical Society– Visit this humble museum to discover what’s so unique about this part of the state, from the early settlers to the work of the Tennessee Valley Authority that continues today. 601 S Gay Street
Sunsphere– Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, the futuristic domed Sunsphere is a Knoxville icon that overlooks the city. Visitors can go to the observation deck, the full-service restaurant or the bar. It is free to take the elevator to the top. 810 Clinch Avenue
WDVX Blue Plate Special– Every day Monday through Saturday at 12 pm, this beloved local radio station records live performances from the Visit Knoxville Visitor’s Center. It’s free and open to the public. 301 South Gay Street
Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame– Visit the only museum in the world devoted to women’s sports. Exhibits cover the origins of the sport with interactive displays. 700 South Hall of Fame Drive
World’s Fair Park– Located beneath the Sunsphere, World’s Fair Park is a public park with playgrounds, water features, and an outdoor music venue where locals go during the summer to picnic and catch performances. 810 Clinch Avenue
Where to Eat in Knoxville
Cafe 4– Another favorite brunch spot is on Market Square, where you can get yourself a mimosa with your eggs benedict and chicken and waffles. They also serve sandwiches and salads throughout the day. 4 Market Square, (865) 544-4144
Central Filling Station– Set in a former gas station, this food truck park brings together all sorts of cuisines in one convenient (outdoor!) location. 900 North Central Street, (865) 333-4982
Emilia– Also owned by the folks behind Knox Mason, Emilia is ideal for Italian. Pasta is made in-house daily. They also have wine on tap along with craft cocktails. 16 Market Square, (865) 313-2472
Good Golly Tamale– For a quick bite, visit this Old City restaurant for traditional and quirky versions of the Mexican dish. 112 South Central Street, (865) 337-5771
J.C. Holdaway– As Tennessee’s first James Beard winner, this restaurant is a popular choice for a night out. The changing menu includes dishes like osso bucco and homemade gnocchi. 501 Union Avenue, (865) 312-9050
Kaizen– The pan-Asian eatery in the Old City has a little bit of everything, including buns, dumplings, noodles, and rice bowls. Pair with a local craft beer. 127 South Central Street, (865) 409-4444
K Brew– Fuel up at one of this coffee shop’s multiple locations. They have bagel sandwiches and a popular version of the pumpkin spice latte. 507 South Gay Street
Knox Mason– Upscale Southern fare is the draw at this downtown restaurant. They use as many local and regional ingredients as possible, including Benton’s bacon, Olive and Sinclair chocolate, and Cruze Farm buttermilk. The menu also features craft cocktails and brunch items. 507 South Gay Street, (865) 770-5988
OliBea– Start your day off right with breakfast in the Old City. Ingredients are all sourced locally so you know it’s good. Sit in the plant-lined window for prime people-watching. 211 South Central Street, (865) 200-5450
Sunspot Restaurant–This restaurant calls itself “where tie-dyes and neckties unite” and brings in all ranges of locals for their excellent draft beer selection and delicious health-conscious eats with a Southwestern flair. Enjoy their rooftop patio on a sunny day. 2200 Cumberland Avenue, (865) 637-4663
Sweet P’s Barbecue and Downtown Dive– The Old City barbecue restaurant is covered in artifacts from the 1982 World’s Fair. Try their smoked meats, decadent sides, and craft beer. 410 West Jackson Avenue, (865) 281-1738
The Tomato Head– One might not expect to find vegetarian or vegan fare in a Southern city, but The Tomato Head excels in dishes for every diet, including soy cheese pizzas, gluten-free sandwiches, and vegan baked goods. But don’t worry, you can get meat as well. 12 Market Square, (865) 637-4067
Yassin’s Falafel House– The downtown counter service restaurant serves authentic Middle Eastern fare, including gyros, falafel, and hummus. 706 Walnut Street, (865) 219-1462
Where to Stay in Knoxville
The Oliver Hotel Knoxville in Market Square was built in the 1800s and has been transformed into one of the city’s online boutique hotels. 407 Union Avenue
Graduate Knoxville is near campus. Your best bet is staying downtown, but there are plenty of options within a 20-minute drive. 1706 Cumberland Avenue
Cumberland House Knoxville– Set alongside World’s Fair Park, this Tapestry Collection property has skyline views, a restaurant and bar, a fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms. 1109 White Avenue
The Tennessean Hotel– The sleek modern property has king suites and The Drawing Room cocktail bar. It offers an elevated experience for alums and visiting fans. 531 Henley Street
Hyatt Place Knoxville– Conveniently located near Market Square, this hotel has large rooms, free daily breakfast, a bar and restaurant, and a rooftop lounge. 530 South Gay Street
Rentals– Groups can stay in one of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods in Airbnb rentals like in this light-filled loft or a charming cottage.
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