A Day In Knoxville: Best Things To Do From Locals In 2023
A Day In Knoxville Introduction
Knoxville, Tennessee, is a beautiful city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Green hills, dense forests, and rushing streams surround it. A day in Knoxville would be well spent, as it has plenty to offer in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Within about a day’s drive of most of the eastern United States, Knoxville is a place worth visiting, whether you’re interested in the city’s history, want to commune with nature, or kick back and relax.
If you’re in the Knoxville area for a vacation on your next trip, our recommendation would be to also spend time in the following cities with plenty of things to do and great scenery near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
- Pigeon Forge; Home of the Dollywood theme park, shopping, go-karts, and mountain coasters.
- Townsend; The Peaceful side of the Smokies. This quiet small town sits on the Little Pigeon River and offers great summer river tubing.
- Gatlinburg; Great scenery in the small but busy, mountain town with plenty of things to do including skiing and snow tubing.
As you get to know the city of Knoxville, you’ll begin to appreciate the significant role the Tennessee River has played in shaping its culture and history. Over the years, the river has provided Knoxvillians with jobs and entertainment and has become a major tourist draw. There are many ways to enjoy the river and learn about its history and importance, such as by boating, fishing, or taking a walk along its banks.
Gather your belongings and come along as we spend a day exploring the best things that Knoxville has to offer.
Where To Stay?
Before spending the day in Knoxville, here are some ideas for where to stay. Knoxville isn’t a huge city, and most of it is close to the interstate for easy access to hotels, including downtown.
Consider staying downtown if you want to be in the middle of all the fun while visiting Knoxville. In this area, you can discover a wide selection of hotels, as well as some of the city’s best restaurants and nightlife.
One of our favorite hotels is the Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown, which is one of the nicest Hyatt Places we have stayed at. It has a reasonable price, and a great location on South Gay Street, close to restaurants. Another great local option and one of our favorites is The Tennessean Personal Luxury Hotel.
Here are some other great downtown area hotels and VRBOs (for longer-term stays). Our suggestion would be to spend a night or two in Knoxville and more time in the scenic areas of Gatlinburg, Townsend, or Pigeon Forge.
Other Places To Stay
If you’re not attached to staying downtown Knoxville, there are some unique and amazing places to stay within a short drive of Knoxville.
RT Lodge: Formerly owned by the Ruby Tuesday family, this hotel and restaurant hidden away in the woods near Maryville college is a great place to stay or eat.
Dancing Bear Lodge this lodge in peaceful Townsend is located on the scenic drive between Knoxville and Gatlinburg. It features individual villas and cottages, and a great restaurant. Click here to learn more.
VRBOs in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Featuring amazing views and amenities, like 51 amazing cabins with indoor pools in the mountains.
Starting The Day in Downtown
Start your day out right in the middle of all the action that is Knoxville’s downtown. There’s something for everyone in this vibrant community, which has everything from renowned cultural institutions to hip eateries and microbreweries. Take a stroll down Union Avenue, the main drag, and you’ll be treated to performances by talented locals. If you want to pick up some souvenirs, there are a lot of boutiques and speciality shops where you can buy unique, handcrafted items made by local artists.
The site of the 1982 World’s Fair, World’s Fair Park, is a great place to visit and learn about the fair’s significance. Spectacular fountains, verdant gardens, and a viewing platform with cityscape vistas may all be found in this park. The park is also home to special events like 5Ks and the Wing Festival . Knoxville also features a number of museums, including the Knoxville Museum of Art, which features the works of regional and local artists.
If you want to see all that Knoxville has to offer, you should begin your adventure at the Knoxville Visitor Center. The Visitors Center in the center of downtown Knoxville is staffed by ambassadors who are happy to answer any questions you may have about your trip.
Next, explore the Old City, a quaint area that is home to many historical landmarks as well as modern restaurants and shops. If you’re hungry and curious about the city’s best art and craftsmanship, here is the spot to go.
Top Downtown Knoxville Lunch Spots
Taking a lunch break is a requirement when you are in Knoxville for the day. We recommend these restaurants as some of the best in Knoxville’s central business district:
- Tomato Head is a Knoxville institution known for its relaxed environment and delicious selection of salads, pizzas, and sandwiches. You can’t go wrong with this Knoxville staple, which has not one but two locations in the city center.
- Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen, located just north of downtown, has some of the best German food around.
- Downtown Grill & Brewery. Traditional bar fares like burgers and wings sit alongside more creative dishes like the avocado-stuffed chicken sandwich.
- You can get a more refined dining experience at Lonesome Dove Western Bistro. This restaurant serves up modern interpretations of traditional Western fare in a stylish setting.
- The Plaid Apron is a quaint eatery serving you everything from breakfast pastries to salads and sandwiches. The Plaid Apron is committed to providing a sustainable dining experience by using only the freshest foods available.
If your visit takes you to other areas around Knoxville, here are some of our local favorites
- Foothills Milling Company. This old Studebaker dealership has been converted into a restaurant and is a great spot for fine dining and special occasions. Features takeaway for lunch and a great dinner menu. Located 20-30 minutes from Knoxville in Maryville.
- RT Lodge: Formerly owned by the Ruby Tuesday family, this hotel and restaurant hidden away in the woods near Maryville college is a great place to stay or eat.
- Local Goat: If your trip takes you to Pigeon Forge this is one of our favorite spots for lunch. American food featuring locally sourced ingredients, this local favorite often has long lunch lines and a reservation is recommended.
Other Knoxville Downtown Attractions & Fun Things To Do
Spend the rest of the day checking out one of these other Knoxville attractions. All of these are excellent options for sightseeing in Knoxville. This attractive and lively city has everything you might want, whether that’s educational experiences, cultural activities, outdoor adventures, or just a good time.
Neyland Stadium and Volunteer Landing
Sports aficionados should definitely check out Neyland Stadium, the home of the University of Tennessee Volunteers football team. If you happen to be in town on a game day, the tailgating and game excitement in this packed, loud stadium is something you don’t want to miss.
A lot of people visit Volunteer Landing when they’re in downtown Knoxville. A marina, a park, and a number of restaurants can all be found at this great spot, which is located on a picturesque riverbank. In addition to its beautiful setting on the Tennessee River, Volunteer Landing is also a fantastic spot for a variety of water sports. The park’s huge open space makes it ideal for hosting large crowds for outdoor events and concerts.
Ijams Nature Center
If you’re in need of some quiet time, look no further than Ijams Nature Center. This 300-acre nature preserve is a great place to get away from the city and enjoy the outdoors, since it has a variety of activities available, including hiking paths, bird-watching spots, and scenic vistas.
Local Farmers Market
Visit one of Knoxville’s many farmer’s markets for a one-of-a-kind shopping adventure and a taste of authentic regional cuisine. Local farmers, artists, and craftspeople gather at these thriving outdoor markets to sell and buy their wares directly from customers.
Farmers’ markets are great places to get a taste of the local harvest, sample artisanal cheese and bread, and stock up on homegrown necessities like soaps, candles, and jams. The farmers, artists, and business owners you encounter will be happy to tell you all about their work and share the inspiration behind the goods they offer.
A visit to the Knoxville farmers market is a great idea for anyone searching for a pleasant way to spend a morning or afternoon. Grab some pals and a few reusable bags, and make your way to one of the city’s farmers’ markets; you won’t be disappointed.
Top Golf & Indoor Family Entertainment
Now Open! Top Golf is a state-of-the-art driving range that also features arcade-style games and a cafeteria serving up tasty treats.
Visit Defy Knoxville or Urban Air, the best indoor trampoline park in the region. Freestyle jumping, basketball, and dodgeball are just a few of the fun games available. Challenge yourself on obstacle courses, climb walls, or just have some good old-fashioned trampoline fun to get your blood pumping.
Main Event Entertainment is the place to go for a good time and some participation. This place is great for families because it provides activities like bowling, arcade games, and laser tag.
History Center
The East Tennessee History Center is an excellent place to visit if you have an interest in history or simply want to learn more about East Tennessee’s rich history. This museum in downtown Knoxville gives an interesting look at the long and eventful history of the area, from the time when it was first settled by Native Americans to the present day.
The rich history and culture of the area are shown through exhibits and hands-on displays at the East Tennessee History Center. You’ll get a sense of the past in East Tennessee by viewing items and images from that era, as well as learning about significant historical personalities and events.
Visit the East Tennessee History Center for a fun afternoon, whether you’re a native Tennessean or just passing through town. This museum is both entertaining and informative; if you’re visiting Knoxville, don’t miss it! We guarantee you will not be disappointed!
Zoo Knoxville
The Knoxville Zoo is home to more than 800 types of animals from throughout the world, making it a must-see attraction for animal enthusiasts. This world-class zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, from African elephants to red pandas. The zoo also has state-of-the-art exhibits where visitors can see some of the world’s most exotic animals in places that look like where they would live in the wild.
Pick Up Some Knoxville Craft Beer
For parents or adults, Knoxville’s craft beer culture is robust, and the city is home to numerous excellent watering holes where you may try some of the region’s finest creations. It doesn’t matter if you like IPAs, stouts, or sours; you’ll find a beer you adore in Knoxville. Stop by some of the area’s best breweries, like Blackberry Farm, Alliance, and Pretentious.
One of the best places to experience the vibrant nightlife of Knoxville is Union Avenue, the main thoroughfare that runs through the heart of the city. This famous thoroughfare features a wide variety of entertainment options, from busy bars featuring free live music and nightclubs to more intimate music venues.
Botantical Gardens
In order to get away from the noise and bustle of the city, a trip to the Knoxville Botanical Garden is in order. From the hustle and bustle of downtown Knoxville, you may escape to this beautiful green spot on the banks of the Tennessee River.
There is a diverse ecosystem in the Knoxville Botanical Garden, from tranquil ponds and streams to well-kept gardens and lush woodlands. Here you can take a leisurely stroll along winding roads while taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
The Knoxville Botanical Garden is a must-see for anyone who has an interest in gardening, appreciates the beauty of nature, or is simply searching for a peaceful place to unwind. Put together a picnic, call up some friends and family, and make the trip to this lovely park; you won’t be sorry.
Muse Art Musueum
Muse Knoxville is an absolute must-see for any art lover passing through town. Located in the center of downtown Knoxville, this modern art museum features a wide variety of exhibitions and events that highlight the work of artists from all over the world.
You may find anything from digital media and installations to modern paintings and sculptures at Muse Knoxville. There is always something fresh to see and learn about at the museum because the displays rotate frequently. There is something for everyone at Muse Knoxville, whether you’re an art connoisseur or just seeking for a good time.
Muse Knoxville hosts a wide range of informative activities and programs in addition to its exhibitions, such as artist talks, workshops, and more. Visiting Muse should be a priority if you’re searching for a cultural experience in Knoxville. We guarantee you won’t be let down!
History Museum
The McClung Museum of Natural History is a fantastic place to visit if you have any interest in the natural world. Located on the grounds of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, this museum showcases and interprets the planet’s natural history.
From prehistoric fossils and minerals to modern fauna and ecosystems, the McClung Museum displays the whole gamut of Earth’s biological diversity. You may visit some of the museum’s outstanding exhibits, such as dinosaur bones and meteorites, and hear about the latest findings in the field of natural history.
The McClung Museum of Natural History is a fantastic destination for anyone, whether they are science or history buffs or simply seeking something new and informative to learn.
Peter Kern Library
The Peter Kern Library, in the center of Knoxville, is a mecca for bookworms and history aficionados. This one-of-a-kind library is located in a lovingly renovated 19th-century structure and is committed to protecting and showcasing East Tennessee’s diverse cultural legacy.
The Peter Kern Library is notable for its wide collection of materials relating to the local history and culture. There is a plethora of resources and relics to unearth here, including first-edition books, old postcards, and photographs.
The Peter Kern Library is not only home to a remarkable collection, but also to a stunning and historic structure. It’s not hard to understand why this building is so revered in Knoxville’s downtown—it has lofty ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and detailed woodwork.
Opera in Knoxville
The Knoxville Opera is a must-see for any culture vulture or music lover visiting the city. The Knoxville Opera, established in 1981, is a professional opera company that performs operas for East Tennessee and beyond.
The Knoxville Opera has established itself as an industry pioneer via its dedication to producing groundbreaking new works. The company performs works ranging from the traditional (Puccini’s “La Bohème”) to the contemporary (Philip Glass’s “Akhnaten”).
The beautiful Tennessee Theatre, widely recognized as one of the best theaters in the South, is where the shows take place. The Tennessee Theatre is an elegant venue that boasts cutting-edge lighting and sound technology in addition to superb acoustics, making it ideal for a night at the opera.
No matter how familiar or unfamiliar you are with opera, a trip to the Knoxville Opera will leave you with wonderful memories. If you’re looking for something entertaining and educational to do in Knoxville, I highly recommend checking out one of the company’s future performances.
Worlds Fair Park
Visit the observation deck at World’s Fair Park to get sweeping vistas of the city and the surrounding area. Downtown Knoxville, the Tennessee River, and the surrounding hills are all visible from this tower’s vantage point. You may get a feel for the city’s layout and enjoy the city’s natural beauty from this vantage point.
The tower at this park even made it into an episode of The Simpsons.
Blount Mansion
If you’re interested in Knoxville’s past, you should definitely check out the Blount Mansion, a historic home in the heart of the city. In addition to being one of the oldest buildings in Tennessee, this 1792 mansion is also historically significant. The mansion and its stunning grounds are open to the public for tours.
Blount Museum
Many of Knoxville’s historical landmarks and structures have been recognized by the National Park Service and are included on the National Register of Historic Places. There is a wide variety of architectural styles and eras represented in the city’s historic dwellings, public buildings, factories, and cultural icons.
Knoxville is home to a flourishing arts community, and its many brilliant local artists deserve more exposure. There is a great deal of artistic energy and inspiration in this city, from painters and sculptors to singers and actors.
These are but a few of the many interesting places you can see in Knoxville. This intriguing and dynamic city has something for everyone, whether they’re interested in history, culture, or just a one-of-a-kind experience.
Other Things To Do A Short Drive Away
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Visitors to Knoxville often take a short trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park’s 520,000 acres contain some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery and are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a must-see for ecotourists.
Hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching are just some of the many enjoyable outdoor pursuits that can be enjoyed in this park, which is known for its beautiful landscape of rolling mountains, virgin woods, and sparkling streams. The park’s roughly 800 miles of trails ensure that visitors will never run out of ways to experience its natural splendor.
The Clingmans Dome walk is a favorite because it ascends to the park’s highest point, where visitors may take in panoramic vistas of the Smoky Mountains and beyond. Cades Cove, a gorgeous mountain valley teeming with animals like black bears, deer, and turkeys, is another must-see.
The park features a number of historical landmarks and buildings, such as the Mingus Mill, a water-powered grain mill from the 18th century, and the Cable Mill, a museum dedicated to the technology and equipment utilized by the area’s first settlers.
When visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can do it at any time of the year and have a unique experience. The summer’s verdant terrain is stunning, while the fall’s vibrant foliage is a photographer’s dream. Snow-capped mountains and rushing brooks create a picturesque winter scene in the park during the colder months.
Pigeon Forge
Click here to read our full guide to Pigeon Forge.
Not far from Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is known as the “Center of Fun in the Smokies” because of its many tourist attractions. The fact that Pigeon Forge is in the middle of the area, close to the Smoky Mountains, and has a busy downtown makes it a great place to start exploring the area.
Attractions in Pigeon Forge benefit greatly from its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where visitors may go hiking, camping, and fishing, among other things. The Dollywood theme park is a major tourist destination in the area, and Pigeon Forge has its own share of activities as well.
Pigeon Forge is also well-regarded as a fantastic place to go shopping and eat. Pigeon Forge features a wide variety of retail establishments, from quaint boutiques to massive malls. In town, there are many different kinds of restaurants, from small, locally owned cafes to more upscale dining experiences, where you can get real Southern food.
The Smoky Mountain Opry, the Titanic Museum Attraction, and the Hollywood Wax Museum are just a few of the exciting and engaging attractions that call Pigeon Forge home.
Pigeon Forge is one of the most frequented sites in the Knoxville area, and it’s easy to see why. The town and its surroundings are both picturesque and rich in attractions. Whether you’re in Pigeon Forge for the day or planning a longer trip, you won’t be able to get enough of East Tennessee’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Gatlinburg
Click here to read our full guide to Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular tourist destination. Gatlinburg is an ideal home base for exploring the surrounding area thanks to its scenic beauty, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Gatlinburg visitors really must check out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park covers more than 800 square miles, and it is rich in wildlife and beautiful scenery. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in nearby Gatlinburg, is an absolute must-see for any nature lover.
Gatlinburg itself is a big tourist hub because of all the lodging options, dining establishments, and entertainment options it provides. Whether you’re looking for authentic souvenirs, handcrafted crafts, or a satisfying meal, Gatlinburg has you covered.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Mystical Mirrors Maze, and the thrilling SkyBridge, which is the largest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, are some of the more unusual things to see in Gatlinburg.
Visitors vacationing in Knoxville often take day trips to Gatlinburg to see the many activities there. Gatlinburg is a great place to stay whether you’re in town for the day or planning a longer trip to East Tennessee so that you may experience all the region’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Townsend Tubing
Click here to read our guide to tubing and other things to do in Townsend.
When visiting East Tennessee, a fun and relaxing activity is tubing down the Little River in Townsend. This beautiful body of water is a welcome respite from the bustle of the city, thanks to the verdant forests and hills that frame it on all sides.
Townsend businesses like River Rat Tubing provide tube rentals and transport services to the Little River so that visitors may enjoy this popular pastime. During the approximately two-hour journey, you may relax in the soothing current and take in the stunning vistas.
Picnic sites and sandy beaches dot the Little River, providing welcome rest stops and swimming opportunities for those wishing to make a day of it. Hiking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits abound in the immediate area, and visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can reach those pursuits in a matter of minutes.
Overall, tubing in Townsend is one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful East Tennessee scenery with friends or family. Whether you’re an area resident or just traveling through, a trip down the Little River on a tube is a must.
Check out our full guide to Tubing in Townsend with kids.
Asheville, North Carolina
If you’re looking for your next stop traveling to or from, or a day trip from Knoxville, Asheville, North Carolina, is a fantastic option. Asheville is just a two-hour drive away, and its natural beauty and cultural offers are well-known. Some of the highlights of your trip are as follows:
Location of the Biltmore House: The Biltmore Estate, a mansion that is now a museum, is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in the past or in buildings. This spectacular estate, which has more than 250 rooms, provides a look into the luxurious lifestyle of the Vanderbilt family, who once called it home.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a great road to experience nature and take in stunning scenery. An unforgettable journey up the Blue Ridge Mountains’ crest awaits you on this route.
Asheville’s downtown is a wonderful spot to spend the day, with its thriving arts community, excellent dining options, and eclectic assortment of independent retailers. You may find everything from street entertainers to local brews and specialty coffees.
Over two hundred artists call this redeveloped industrial area home, making it a must-see for anybody interested in experiencing the city’s creative energy firsthand. You may discover every kind of artist in the River Arts District, from painters to sculptors to glassblowers.
Getting to Knoxville
Knoxville, a bustling metropolis in eastern Tennessee, can be reached by a number of different methods. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the primary airport serving the Knoxville area and is the most popular means of air
When flying into Knoxville a rental car is almost always needed if you’re doing much exploring. Especially if you are traveling to the Smoky Mountains or Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, which are approximately an hour away.
Click here for some of the best car rental deals in Knoxville
If you choose to drive to Knoxville, the city’s location at the crossroads of Interstates 40 and 75 makes it a useful transit hub for travelers heading elsewhere in the southeast. Traveling to Knoxville by automobile is a quick and easy alternative for those going from far away or nearby cities like Atlanta and Nashville.
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter if you’re just passing through or if you’re staying for a while, Knoxville, Tennessee, has plenty of exciting activities and cool things to keep you entertained. This city has something for everyone because to its extensive cultural offerings, breathtaking scenery, and storied past. You’ll never run out of intriguing and interesting things to do in Knoxville, from exploring the Tennessee River and Neyland Stadium to going to the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Ijams Nature Center.
A road trip to Knoxville is ideal for individuals who want to see more of the surrounding area. The city is a great jumping-off place for a road trip in the Southeast because of the beautiful scenery of the mountains, hills, and valleys that surround it. There is so much to do and see in the area that taking a road trip to Knoxville is an exciting and memorable way to explore the area.
