Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city surrounded by natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there are plenty of ways to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and have some fun. From outdoor adventures to unique attractions, here are five ways to escape in Knoxville.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Knoxville is surrounded by the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Go hiking, camping, fishing, or simply take a scenic drive through the park's stunning landscapes. If you're looking for something more relaxing, visit the World's Fair Park, which features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a stunning view of the Tennessee River.
Visit the Tennessee River
The Tennessee River runs right through the heart of Knoxville, offering stunning views, waterfront restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the river, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Discover Unique Attractions
Knoxville is home to a variety of unique attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. The World of Energy, a interactive science museum, is a great place to learn about energy production and conservation. The Knoxville Museum of Art features a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present. If you're looking for something a little more unusual, visit the East Tennessee History Center, which showcases the region's rich history and culture.
Visit the Market Square
Market Square is a vibrant public space in the heart of downtown Knoxville. The square is surrounded by unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, and hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. Visit on a Saturday morning to explore the Knoxville Farmers' Market, which features fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
Escape to a Brewery or Winery
Knoxville is home to a thriving craft beer and wine scene. Visit the Knoxville Brewing Company, which offers a variety of beers and delicious pub fare. The Old Mill Winery, located just outside of town, features wine tastings and tours of the vineyard.
Take a Tour
There are plenty of guided tours available in Knoxville, from haunted history tours to food tours. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and learn about the city's rich history, or visit the Tennessee Theatre, a stunning example of 1920s architecture.
Visit the Zoo
The Knoxville Zoo is home to over 800 animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, and penguins. The zoo offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including a petting zoo and a zip line.
Attend a Festival or Event
Knoxville hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year, from the Knoxville Jazz & Blues Festival to the Tennessee Valley Fair. Visit in the spring to attend the Dogwood Arts Festival, which features live music, food, and art exhibits.
Get Creative
Knoxville is a city that celebrates creativity and self-expression. Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, which offers a variety of art classes and workshops for adults and children. The Tennessee Theatre also hosts a range of performances, from concerts to musicals.
Visit a Local Coffee Shop
Knoxville is home to a thriving coffee culture, with a variety of unique coffee shops throughout the city. Visit the Old City Java, which features a wide range of specialty coffee drinks and delicious pastries.
Take a Day Trip
Knoxville is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. Take a day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers stunning scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities. Visit the nearby town of Gatlinburg, which features a range of attractions, including the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort.
Visit the Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a historic valley located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take a scenic drive through the cove and explore the historic buildings, including the Cades Cove Methodist Church and the Dan Lawson Place.
We hope you've enjoyed this article about escaping in Knoxville! Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, unique attractions, or simply a relaxing day out, there's something for everyone in this beautiful Tennessee city.
What are some outdoor activities to do in Knoxville?
+Knoxville is surrounded by the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives.
What are some unique attractions to visit in Knoxville?
+Knoxville is home to a variety of unique attractions, including the World of Energy, the Knoxville Museum of Art, and the East Tennessee History Center.
What are some day trip ideas from Knoxville?
+Knoxville is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. Take a day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, or Cades Cove.