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

Knoxville Family Fun: 2 Days of Adventure & Delight

Knoxville, located in the heart of Tennessee, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and good food. Explore the lush greenery of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where hiking trails and breathtaking scenery await. Immerse yourself in history at the East Tennessee History Center, and don't forget to indulge in mouthwatering southern cuisine at local family-owned eateries like the iconic Litton's Market and Restaurant.

5-Day Adventure Guide to Knoxville, Tennessee

Located in eastern Tennessee, Knoxville offers a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, take in breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, and indulge in delicious southern cuisine. Top attractions include the Knoxville Zoo, World's Fair Park, and Market Square, making Knoxville a great destination for any traveler.

The Ultimate Family Adventure: Unleash the Fun in Knoxville!

Knoxville is a vibrant city in the United States that offers a perfect family-friendly getaway. With its diverse range of attractions, there is something for everyone. Families can explore the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains, visit interactive museums like the Knoxville Zoo or the Science Museum, and enjoy thrilling adventure sports like river rafting or hiking.

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.