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Knoxville, United States
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Knoxville, United States
1. Market Square
Historic downtown plaza buzzing with food, shops and live street performances. Expect alfresco dining, weekend farmers markets, and frequent live music under the square's lights.
2. Knoxville Museum of Art
Experience Southern and contemporary art in a bright riverside setting. Discover rotating exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and a free permanent collection.
3. Ijams Nature Center
Quick nature escape near downtown Knoxville, with trails, river access, and dramatic quarry views. Hike shaded paths, birdwatch along Mead's Quarry, or rent a paddleboard.
Book a FREE walking tour in Knoxville, United States
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Zoo Knoxville
Engaging habitats and active conservation programs make Zoo Knoxville worth visiting. Walk compact trails to spot elephants, red pandas, and catch lively keeper talks.
5. Tennessee Theatre
Ornate 1928 theater with a celebrated Wurlitzer organ, stunning ceilings, and lively programming. Experience concerts, Broadway tours, classic films, and organ shows up close.
6. Neyland Stadium (University of Tennessee)
University of Tennessee
High-energy college football in Knoxville, full-throttle Volunteer spirit. Feel the roar of a sea of orange, marching band, and classic game-day traditions.
7. Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
Peaceful plant collections and winding trails offer a refreshing escape near downtown Knoxville. Stroll themed gardens, spot hummingbirds, and enjoy changing seasonal displays.
8. James White's Fort
Explore a 1786 frontier fort that shaped early Knoxville. Walk timber palisades, peek into period cabins and meet costumed interpreters.
Things to Do in Knoxville, United States
Popular activities and local experiences recommended by travelers
Additional popular things to do in Knoxville, United States
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Banana pudding
A Southern staple and a favorite at University of Tennessee tailgates and family potlucks in Knoxville, banana pudding is typically layered with vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and whipped cream for a nostalgic, creamy dessert.
Appalachian stack cake
This multi-layered spiced cake, filled with apple butter or preserves, is a traditional Appalachian celebration cake that shows up at East Tennessee weddings and local festivals, reflecting Knoxville's mountain-region roots.
Peach cobbler
Made from locally grown Tennessee peaches, peach cobbler is a classic summer dessert served warm with ice cream at Knoxville fairs and neighborhood restaurants, celebrating the region's fruit harvests.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Pulled pork barbecue and ribs
Knoxville's barbecue scene centers on slow-smoked pork, often pulled or served as ribs, with regional rubs and wood-fired smoke that give a distinct, savory Southern flavor.
Biscuits and gravy
A breakfast cornerstone in Knoxville, flaky buttermilk biscuits smothered in peppery sausage gravy reflect the city's deep Southern breakfast traditions and hospitality.
Country ham with red-eye gravy
Salt-cured country ham served with coffee-based red-eye gravy is a long-standing Appalachian favorite in East Tennessee, commonly found on breakfast and brunch tables around Knoxville.
Traditional Beverages
Sweet tea
Sweet tea is the quintessential Southern refreshment, poured at restaurants and homes across Knoxville and typically served ice cold and generously sweetened.
Moonshine
Moonshine and legal small-batch 'white whiskey' are part of East Tennessee's Appalachian heritage, with local distillers preserving traditional clear spirits and high-proof recipes.
Tennessee whiskey
Tennessee whiskey, famed for its charcoal-mellowing process, is a statewide icon and a common feature on Knoxville bar lists, connecting the city to Tennessee's long whiskey-making tradition.
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Day trips
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg)
Gateway to the Smokies, scenic drives, abundant hiking trails.
Google MapsOak Ridge
Manhattan Project National Historical Park, science exhibits.
Google MapsChattanooga
Lookout Mountain, Tennessee Aquarium, riverfront attractions.
Google MapsCumberland Gap National Historical Park
Historic pass with scenic hikes and panoramic views.
Google MapsComments (30)
Charming downtown with river views and solid craft beer. Friendly vibe, clean streets. Two full days felt right to see highlights.
Food scene surprised me, barbecue and tacos both strong, local breweries are fun. Midrange prices, not super cheap.
Ijams Nature Center tip: arrive before 9am on weekends, trails fill up fast and bring a little cash for parking or donations.
Park at the Knoxville Museum of Art lot after 4pm to snag cheaper street parking, then walk over to Market Square for dinner.
Park by the Sunsphere and stroll west, meters drop after 6pm and several restaurants validate if you ask, saves a lot on downtown fees.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Amtrak Crescent; nearest long-distance rail access
Amtrak Crescent; major hub with Thruway connections toward Knoxville
From McGhee Tyson, take the airport shuttle, taxi, or rideshare; downtown is about 20 minutes.
Click to get eSim for Knoxville, United States
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