Things To Do
in Knoxville
Knoxville is a vibrant city located in the eastern part of the state of Tennessee, United States. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby. The city also boasts a rich cultural scene, with various museums, galleries, and music venues to explore.
Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee and offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Knoxville Museum of Art to appreciate local artworks. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café for a fuel-up.
Head over to the Historic Market Square for lunch and explore local shops. Consider stopping by the Tennessee Theatre for a guided tour of this historic venue.
Dinner at a downtown restaurant is a must to savor regional cuisine. Wrap up the day with a stroll along the Tennessee River to soak in the sunset views.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic Knoxville Greenways. Take in the natural beauty while riding along the riverbanks.
After biking, grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants. Spend the rest of the afternoon at Ijams Nature Center, where you can hike or kayak.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner. Enjoy a casual evening at a local brewery, with games and live music to cap off the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages
- Access to beautiful natural scenery, including the Great Smoky Mountains
- Rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene
- Growing job market with opportunities in various industries
- Mild climate with four distinct seasons
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents
- Higher humidity levels in the summer can be uncomfortable
- Limited public transportation options
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours
- Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Education system varies significantly between districts
Best Activities in Knoxville
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore numerous trails and enjoy breathtaking views in the nearby national park.
Experience the beauty of Knoxville from the water while engaging in a fun and refreshing activity.
Discover Knoxville's diverse natural landscapes and urban areas by cycling the designated trails.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and paddle sports in a beautiful natural setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Knoxville with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Knoxville
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides panoramic views of Knoxville and the surrounding area, including the Great Smoky Mountains.
Offers scenic views of the Tennessee River and diverse natural landscapes, perfect for nature photography.
Provides a unique perspective of Knoxville and the iconic University of Tennessee football stadium for sports photography enthusiasts.
Food in Knoxville
Knoxville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and crispy fried chicken dish that's a local favorite. Don't miss out on trying it at places like Chandler's Deli, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, or Hattie B's Hot Chicken.
Must-Try!
A classic Southern breakfast dish consisting of fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy. Pete's Coffee Shop and Hollingsworth Meat Market offer fantastic versions of this dish.
A beloved Southern spread made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. Sample exceptional pimento cheese at spots like Tupelo Honey and Bearden Hill Fieldhouse.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Knoxville better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and food trucks serving up delicious street food. It's a great place to savor local flavors and mingle with the community.
A lively hub of food stalls, gourmet food shops, and street vendors. From BBQ to tacos, there's an array of street food options to delight your taste buds.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to be mindful of personal space and not stand too close to others when engaging in conversations.
Using 'please' and 'thank you' is customary in Knoxville, and being polite in interactions is highly valued.
Knoxville embraces diversity, so showing respect for people of different backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures is encouraged.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Knoxville with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Knoxville
Ensure a smooth experience
In Knoxville, United States, it is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel staff. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping.
Payment in Knoxville, United States is commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Mobile payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted. It's essential to have a valid form of identification when using a credit card for payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Knoxville.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Knoxville, as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor events. It's a popular time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby Great Smoky Mountains.
Summer brings hot and humid weather to Knoxville, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities such as water sports on the Tennessee River or attending music and cultural festivals. However, heavy rainfall is also common during this season.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Knoxville, with the leaves changing colors and the weather cooling down. The city hosts various fall festivals, and it's a great time for hiking and scenic drives to enjoy the autumn foliage.
Winter in Knoxville is relatively mild, with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains. The city gets into the holiday spirit with festive events and decorations, and it's a good time for indoor activities like visiting museums and historic sites.
Knoxville at Night
Hiking in Knoxville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful 315-acre park offering hiking trails, rock formations, and scenic views along the Tennessee River.
Features several miles of trails that provide stunning panoramic views of Knoxville and the surrounding natural area.
A short drive from Knoxville, this national park offers a plethora of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Located northeast of Knoxville, this park offers several hiking trails that wind through forests and along the TVA lake.
Offers easy hiking trails and peaceful lakeside views, great for family outings and nature walks.
Aiports
How to reach Knoxville by plane.
The main airport serving Knoxville, Tennessee, located about 12 miles south of the city center.
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, approximately 180 miles west of Knoxville, this is the closest major international airport.
Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, about 200 miles southeast of Knoxville, serving numerous domestic and international flights.
Situated in Atlanta, Georgia, roughly 250 miles south of Knoxville, it is one of the busiest airports in the world.
Located in Memphis, Tennessee, about 380 miles west of Knoxville, servicing both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Knoxville, primarily consisting of individuals of European descent.
The second largest demographic group, consisting of individuals with African ancestry.
A growing demographic group in Knoxville, encompassing individuals of Spanish-speaking origin.
A smaller demographic group composed of individuals of Asian descent, including Chinese, Indian, and other Asian nationalities.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds, reflecting a diverse population.
A very small demographic group representing the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Includes individuals who do not identify with the major racial groups listed above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, particularly college football, is immensely popular in Knoxville, primarily due to the presence of the University of Tennessee Volunteers. The team's games attract large crowds and foster a strong community spirit.
Basketball is another major sport in Knoxville, with both men's and women's teams at the University of Tennessee having successful histories. The women's team, in particular, has a storied legacy and attracts significant local support.
Baseball enjoys popularity in Knoxville, especially among local youth leagues and high school teams. The Knoxville Smokies, a minor league baseball team, also contributes to the local sports culture.
Soccer is growing in popularity in Knoxville, with various youth leagues and adult leagues becoming more prevalent. The community enjoys both playing and watching soccer.
Ice hockey has a dedicated following in Knoxville, with local teams and leagues providing opportunities for both players and fans to engage with the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Knoxville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Knoxville is accommodating with numerous restaurants and cafes offering diverse vegetarian and vegan menus. The Flower Pot, Bistro at the Bijou, and Sunspot are fantastic choices for plant-based fare.
Many eateries in Knoxville provide gluten-free alternatives. Notable mentions include The Plaid Apron, Kaizen, and Hard Knox Pizzeria.