Romantic Knoxville: A 3-Day Escape

Fall in love all over again in Knoxville, where Southern charm meets modern romance.

22 April 2023

Knoxville, United States offers a romantic atmosphere for couples seeking a getaway. Explore the scenic beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park or take a stroll through the botanical gardens at the University of Tennessee. Head to Market Square for an evening of dining, drinks, and live music.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Knoxville

  • Check into The Oliver Hotel, a romantic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Knoxville
  • Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, featuring works by local and regional artists
  • Enjoy a picnic in World's Fair Park, a scenic green space in the heart of the city
  • Shop at the Knoxville Farmers' Market for fresh produce and handmade goods
  • Have a romantic dinner at The Drawing Room, located in The Tennessean Hotel with stunning views of the city
Day 2

Discovering Natural Wonders

  • Visit Ijams Nature Center, a 300-acre nature preserve with hiking trails and stunning views of the Tennessee River
  • Go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the river with River Sports Outfitters
  • Have lunch at Sweet P's BBQ Downtown Dive, a local favorite for delicious barbecue
  • Visit the Knoxville Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis with curated gardens and nature trails
  • Have a romantic dinner at Bistro at the Bijou, featuring local and seasonal ingredients
Day 3

Exploring Knoxville's History

  • Visit the East Tennessee History Center, featuring exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history of Knoxville and the surrounding region
  • Take a tour of the historic James White's Fort, a settlement established in the late 1700s
  • Have lunch at OliBea, a cozy breakfast and lunch spot featuring homemade biscuits and locally sourced ingredients
  • Tour the Marble Springs State Historic Site, the former home of John Sevier, Tennessee's first governor
  • Have a romantic dinner at Emilia, a modern Italian restaurant featuring handmade pasta and local produce
  • Knoxville is a bustling city with a rich history and plenty to explore. Whether you're interested in art, nature, or history, there's something for everyone. And with a stay at The Oliver Hotel, you're sure to have a memorable and romantic trip.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Knoxville, United States by plane is to fly into McGhee Tyson Airport, which is located about 12 miles south of downtown Knoxville. Many major airlines offer flights to McGhee Tyson, including American, Delta, United, Southwest, and Allegiant.

Car

Driving to Knoxville is a great option if you're coming from nearby cities like Nashville or Atlanta. The city is easily accessible from both I-75 and I-40, so you can take your pick depending on your starting location.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no passenger train stations in Knoxville. The closest Amtrak train station is in Meridian, Mississippi, which is over 400 miles away from Knoxville.

Boat

While it's not possible to take a boat directly to Knoxville, you can take a river cruise along the Tennessee River that passes through the city. Several companies offer river tours, including the Volunteer Princess and the Star of Knoxville Riverboat.

Bus

Taking a bus to Knoxville is convenient and affordable. Greyhound offers daily trips to Knoxville from cities throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Nashville, and Asheville. The bus station in Knoxville is located at 100 E Magnolia Ave.

More travel plans

Knoxville Adventure: 5 Days of Fun, Food, and Flair

A trip to Knoxville, United States offers a perfect family-friendly vacation with a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Explore the scenic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and even spot wildlife. Discover interactive museums like the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Knoxville Zoo, ensuring both education and entertainment for the entire family.

Knoxville in 4 Days: Adventure on a Budget

Knoxville offers an array of free or low-cost activities for budget-conscious travelers, including the Knoxville Museum of Art, World's Fair Park, and Market Square Farmers' Market. For a cheap meal, explore the city's food truck scene or grab a sandwich from a local deli. To save on accommodation, consider staying at a hostel or budget hotel in the downtown area.

Budget-Friendly Fun: Exploring Knoxville in a Day

On a limited budget trip to Knoxville, United States, one can enjoy several free attractions like the Ijams Nature Center, World's Fair Park, and the Knoxville Museum of Art. To save money on accommodation, travelers can opt to stay in budget-friendly hotels or inns such as the Red Roof Inn Knoxville Central or the Quality Inn Knoxville. For food, one can explore the local street food scene or dine in low-cost restaurants like Nama Sushi Bar and The Tomato Head.

Knoxville on a Budget: Fun & Adventure in 2 Days

Knoxville is a picturesque city located in the eastern part of United States and is a perfect destination for budget travelers. Visit the East Tennessee History Center to get a glimpse of Knoxville's past, or enjoy a peaceful hike in Ijams Nature Center without spending a penny. To save money on food, head towards Market Square, where there are plenty of affordable dining options available.