Knoxville Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and more in Knoxville with our complete travel guide.


Introduction to Knoxville

Welcome to Knoxville, a charming city located in the eastern part of Tennessee, United States. With its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and lively cultural scene, Knoxville offers plenty of things to see, do, and experience for travelers of all tastes and preferences.

Founded in 1791, Knoxville has served as an important center for business, education, and recreation for centuries. Today, it is home to around 190,000 residents and welcomes thousands of visitors each year, drawn by its unique blend of Southern charm, Appalachian beauty, and urban sophistication.

In this comprehensive tour guide for Knoxville, we’ll take you through all the must-visit attractions and activities in the city, as well as provide recommendations for where to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to make the most of your time here. So, let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Knoxville

To make the most of your trip to Knoxville, be sure to check out the following attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • East Tennessee Historical Society (ETHS)
  • Knoxville Museum of Art
  • Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame
  • Blount Mansion
  • Beck Cultural Exchange Center
  • Museum of East Tennessee History

Natural Attractions of Knoxville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • World’s Fair Park
  • Ijams Nature Center
  • Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Tennessee Riverboat Company
  • Sunsphere Tower

Hiking/Biking Routes of Knoxville

Knoxville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with many hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Third Creek Greenway
  • Will Skelton Greenway
  • Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
  • House Mountain State Natural Area
  • Concord Park Trails

Best Things to Do in Knoxville: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Knoxville Zoo
  • Go whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River
  • Catch a game at the University of Tennessee’s Neyland Stadium
  • Take a walking tour of Knoxville’s historic downtown
  • Attend a live performance at the Tennessee Theatre
  • See a concert at the Bijou Theatre

Week-Long Itinerary for Knoxville

If you’re planning on spending a week in Knoxville, here’s a sample itinerary you can follow:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the East Tennessee Historical Society (ETHS) and the Knoxville Museum of Art
Day 2 Spend the day hiking or biking in Ijams Nature Center
Day 3 Take a tour of the Blount Mansion and visit the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame
Day 4 Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Day 5 Enjoy a riverboat cruise with the Tennessee Riverboat Company
Day 6 Walk around the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
Day 7 Catch a game at Neyland Stadium or see a concert at the Bijou Theatre

Food and Drink Scene of Knoxville

Knoxville offers a diverse range of food and drink options, from classic Southern cuisine to international specialties and craft beers. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried chicken and waffles
  • Barbecue ribs
  • Hot chicken sandwiches
  • Pimento cheese
  • Biscuits and gravy

Local Beverages

  • Knoxville-brewed beers, such as those from Elst Brewing and Alliance Brewing Company
  • Tennessee whiskey, such as Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel
  • Sweet tea

Where to Stay in Knoxville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Knoxville offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top-rated hotels in the city include:

  • The Tennessean Hotel
  • Four Points by Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House Hotel
  • Hyatt Place Knoxville/Downtown
  • Knoxville Marriott
  • Hilton Knoxville

For budget-friendly options, check out the hostels and guesthouses in the area, including:

  • Hostel International Knoxville
  • Cook Loft Apartments
  • The Oliver Hotel

What to Buy in Knoxville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Knoxville, be sure to pick up some of these souvenirs and local products:

  • Moonpies
  • Jack Daniel’s whiskey
  • Local honey
  • BBQ sauce
  • Appalachian crafts and artwork

Local Culture and Customs of Knoxville

In Knoxville, as in the rest of the South, hospitality and manners are highly valued. It’s common to say “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir” to show respect, and greeting strangers on the street is expected. The city has a rich music scene, with many live shows and festivals throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Knoxville

The best time to visit Knoxville depends on your interests and preferences. Spring and fall offer mild weather and beautiful foliage, making them great for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer can be hot and humid, but it’s also the season for many festivals and events. Winter can be quite cold, but it’s a good time to enjoy indoor attractions and cultural activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Knoxville

Do:

  • Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Take a walk around Market Square
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Attend a live music show
  • Explore Knoxville’s charming neighborhoods

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack for the weather
  • Be rude or disrespectful
  • Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Trespass on private property
  • Litter or damage the natural environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Knoxville

Knoxville is generally a safe city, but it’s still important to take basic safety precautions while traveling. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, keep your valuables close to you, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Health in Knoxville

Knoxville has a modern healthcare system and several hospitals and clinics throughout the city. If you need medical attention, seek out the closest facility or call 911 in case of an emergency.

Getting to Knoxville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Knoxville

  • McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Bus Stations Near Knoxville

  • Greyhound Bus Lines

Other Options

  • Amtrak rail lines
  • Rental cars and taxis

How to Get Around in Knoxville

Knoxville is a walkable city, but for longer distances or if you want to explore beyond the downtown area, there are several transportation options available, including:

  • Bus system (KAT)
  • Trolley lines
  • Bike rentals
  • Rental cars and taxis

Where to Go Next from Knoxville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Tennessee and the surrounding areas, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Nashville, TN
  • Chattanooga, TN
  • Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
  • Asheville, NC

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive tour guide for Knoxville has given you a good idea of what this charming city has to offer, and that you’re inspired to plan your next trip here. From its rich history and natural beauty to its lively culture and cuisine scene, Knoxville is a destination worth visiting at any time of year.

World's Fair Park and Sunsphere World's Fair Park and Sunsphere