3 Day Outdoor Adventure in Knoxville, Tennessee

Discover southern charm in Knoxville, where history meets adventure.

22 April 2023

Knoxville, located in the eastern region of Tennessee, offers visitors a mix of natural beauty and urban culture. Some of the city's top attractions include the World's Fair Park, Knoxville Museum of Art, and the historic Old City. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the nearby Smoky Mountains for hiking and scenic drives.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Knoxville Adventures

  • Check in at the luxurious Westin Knoxville hotel, nestled in the heart of the city
  • Visit the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum to appreciate the green beauty of the city
  • Take a guided Knoxville History Tour, covering the eccentric stories and hidden gems of the city’s past
  • Explore Market Square, a vibrant and bustling hub of local businesses, art, and music
  • Dine at Tupelo Honey, a southern staple with unique twists on classic comfort food
Day 2

Outdoor Oasis

  • Drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for hiking, scenic views, and wildlife encounters
  • Visit Ijams Nature Center for outdoor activities like kayaking, ziplining, or bike riding
  • Take a peaceful walk through the World's Fair Park, admiring the stunning Sunsphere
  • Grab lunch at The Plaid Apron, a cozy farm-to-table café with delicious homemade dishes
  • Sip on some local brews at Crafty Bastard Brewery, known for their inventive and flavorful beers
Day 3

Arts & Culture

  • Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, showcasing stunning regional and contemporary art
  • Tour the historic Tennessee Theatre, featuring stunning artwork and performances by top artists
  • Stroll along the Knoxville Greenway, a series of trails and parks crossing throughout the city
  • Dine at Calhoun's on the River, a waterfront restaurant known for their barbecue and scenic views
  • End the night at Preservation Pub, a lively bar with live music and over 300 varieties of beer.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Knoxville

Nestled in the heart of the South lies a sweet little city with a big personality. From moonshine to music, Knoxville has it all.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

Romantic Getaway: 4 Days in Knoxville

Enjoy a romantic trip with your partner in Knoxville, United States - a charming city nestled in the picturesque Tennessee River Valley! Take a stroll through the historic Market Square, explore the stunning gardens at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, and catch a show at the Tennessee Theatre. Indulge in some delicious Southern cuisine, relax in a luxurious hotel, and create some unforgettable memories together.

Romantic Knoxville: A 3-Day Escape

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.

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.