Knoxville, Tennessee, is a vibrant city with a unique blend of Southern charm and modern energy. From its bustling downtown area to its impressive historic sites, there's no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city.
Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee, which is known for its top-notch academic programs and vibrant student life. The downtown area is alive with art galleries, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also explore the city's many parks and greenways, including the Ijams Nature Center, the Tennessee Riverwalk, and the Knoxville Botanical Garden.
The city also has an impressive selection of museums, including the Tennessee Valley Museum of Natural History, the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture, and the East Tennessee History Center. The area's many historic sites provide insight into the city's rich history, including the Blount Mansion, the James White Fort, and the Marble Springs State Historic Site.
Beyond the city's attractions, Knoxville is renowned for its delicious local cuisine. From down-home Southern cooking to modern farm-to-table eateries, there's something to satisfy every palate. Music lovers will not be disappointed, as the city is home to many live music venues, from intimate bars to larger concert venues.
No visit to Knoxville would be complete without a visit to the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park offers stunning views, an abundance of wildlife, and plenty of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or just a relaxing getaway, Knoxville has something for everyone.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown: Located in the center of Knoxville, Downtown offers a wide variety of entertainment and dining options, as well as plenty of nightlife. It's close to the University of Tennessee campus and Market Square, and is home to the city's historic art and music venues.
2. North Knoxville: North Knoxville is home to the city's historic Fourth and Gill neighborhood, as well as the University of Tennessee's agricultural campus. It has a variety of retail establishments, restaurants, and parks.
3. Bearden: Bearden is a lively area near the University of Tennessee with an abundance of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It is also home to the Knoxville Zoo, the Knoxville Museum of Art, and the Knoxville Botanical Gardens.
4. Sequoyah Hills: This affluent neighborhood is located in the western part of Knoxville and is home to a variety of upscale restaurants and shops. It is a popular spot for families and is known for its tree-lined streets and beautiful homes.
5. West Knoxville: West Knoxville is a rapidly growing area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is home to West Town Mall, which is the largest mall in the Knoxville area. It is also conveniently located near Interstate 40.
1. Tennessee Theatre: This beautiful theatre is a National Historic Landmark located in downtown Knoxville and has been entertaining audiences since 1928. Its interior is a stunning mix of 1920s art deco style and Spanish Baroque, with a grand Wurlitzer organ.
2. Market Square: Located in the heart of downtown Knoxville, Market Square is a vibrant public space with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. It's also home to weekly events like live music, art markets, and farmers markets.
3. Sunsphere: This iconic structure is a 266-foot tower with an observation deck. The tower was built for the 1982 World's Fair and offers stunning views of the city and nearby mountains.
4. Ijams Nature Center: This 300-acre urban oasis is located on the banks of the Tennessee River and is home to a variety of wildlife and wildflowers. The center also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
5. Knoxville Zoo: This 55-acre zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including gorillas, elephants, tigers, and kangaroos. It also features a variety of interactive exhibits, a petting zoo, and a carousel.
1. Calhoun’s BBQ: Calhoun’s BBQ is a local favorite and has been around since the 1970s. It is known for its slow-cooked pork shoulder and ribs, along with traditional sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad.
2. Tomato Head: This Knoxville Pizza staple is known for its unique and creative pizza toppings, and its signature ‘Mellow’ pizza, featuring pesto, feta, artichoke hearts, and mozzarella.
3. The Bistro at the Bijou: The Bistro at the Bijou is a cozy spot in downtown Knoxville that serves upscale Southern cuisine. The menu features dishes like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and braised beef.
4. Holly’s Gourmet Market: Holly’s Gourmet Market is a local institution that serves up sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Its signature item is the “Holly burger”, which is made with fresh local beef, cheddar cheese, and caramelized onions.
5. Suttree’s High Gravity Tavern: Suttree’s High Gravity Tavern is a beer lover’s paradise, featuring an extensive selection of craft beers from all over the world. The menu also features wings, burgers, and pretzels.