The Best of Downtown Knoxville , Tennessee
I have driven through Knoxville countless times. After moving from my home state of Kentucky to Atlanta, Georgia, in my twenties, I had never taken the time to stop and check it out. Almost two decades later and living in Kentucky again, my family and I made the stop in Knoxville to break up a drive home from the beach. I am so happy we did! We had about 24 hours in Knoxville, and we found so many hidden gems that now we can’t wait to go back! Here are some of our Knoxville favorites…
Peter Kern Library Speakeasy
This speakeasy has to be one of the coolest spots in Knoxville. It is literally a hidden gem and can be easily missed without a hint of it being there. My GPS kept telling me I had arrived, but I was unable to find it at first. It is situated inside an alleyway (off Union Street, in the back of the Oliver Hotel) and only identifiable by a red light and an unassuming door. Hint, you might be asked a password or solve a riddle to get in (I believe it’s on their Instagram page). I was lucky enough to sneak in behind a group of people and got off easy. Once you have found your way in, cozy up on a leather couch in this warm and sophisticated setting and enjoy a well-crafted cocktail named after a literary figure, such as the “Holly Golightly” (pictured above).
Knock down some pins at Maple Hall
Maple Hall is not your average bowling alley. Not only does this stylish and chic lounge have 11 lanes, but they also have an upstairs cocktail lounge, full bar, patio, and menu. It’s fun for kids and adults alike. It was one of our favorite things to do in Knoxville. Rates for bowling are per lane, per hour (not person). Come 9 pm, only 21 and older!
Market Square
Situated in the middle of downtown, Market Square is a lively spot filled with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and boutiques and on weekends hosts a farmers market, festivals, and live music. Grab lunch or dinner or head out for a night on the town with its variety of bars and music venues. Stock and Barrel is a stylish restaurant and bar featuring thoughtfully sourced burgers with an extensive bourbon and beer selection. If you’re in the mood for sushi, check out Kabuki Sushi and Hibachi.
Myrtle’s Chicken and Beer is a local favorite offering southern comfort food with a twist, craft beer, and imaginative cocktails. One of my favorites, Tupelo Honey, has southern inspired dishes, serving brunch, lunch and dinner, and happy hour! Their menu is made from scratch and responsibly sourced. I did not know they had a location other than Asheville and was surprised to find it in Knoxville. You must try the sweet potato pancakes!
If nightlife is what you’re looking for, check out Knox Brew Hub. They have an extensive craft beer selection and special events that change weekly. Preservation Pub music venue has live music seven nights a week, if you want to check out Knoxville’s music scene. They also have a rooftop bar!
Discover Knoxville’s street art
Knoxville has a lot of incredible murals and street art scattered around downtown. Check out Strong Alley, located just off Market Square, between Union Avenue and Wall Avenue. The alley has an evolving gallery of murals created in collaboration between artists and business owners. Visit in the evening when the lights are twinkling overhead.
For a sweet treat visit Cruze Farm Dairy
A family-run farm since 1980, they started selling hand-dipped ice cream in 1992. It has been a local favorite ever since. Some favorites include old-fashioned milkshakes, fresh churned ice cream, sundaes, and fizzy floats. They offer unique flavors and even have Girl Scout Cookie toppings!
Tennessee Theatre
This beautiful Spanish-Moorish-styled theatre opened in 1928 as a “movie palace.” It was hailed the most beautiful theatre in the south. Today it is on the National Register of Historic Places and offers a little something for everyone, including vintage films, Broadway performances, dance, and orchestra.
Check out the views from the Sunsphere
Built in 1982 as part of the World’s Fair Park, it now serves as an observation deck. The 4th-floor observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the city, nearby Smoky Mountains, The Tennessee River, and the University of Tennessee, and it is free!
Check out the Knoxville Museum of Art
Situated near the Sunsphere on World’s Fair Park Drive, the Knoxville Museum of Art offers a beautiful gallery on three levels, and entry is free! Unfortunately, the museum was not open when we had planned to go, but it will be on the agenda for next time.
I hope you found this guide helpful in finding things to do if you are planning a stay in Knoxville! What are your favorite things to do in Knoxville? Drop a comment!
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