Knoxville on a Budget: Adventure, History & Charm

Experience Southern charm without breaking the bank in Knoxville, Tennessee.

21 June 2023

Knoxville, United States is a perfect destination for budget travelers, offering many free attractions, such as Market Square, World's Fair Park, and Knoxville Greenway. To save even more money, visitors can opt for affordable accommodations, like hostels or budget hotels, and enjoy local cuisine at inexpensive eateries or cook for themselves. With its charm, history, and stunning natural surroundings, Knoxville promises an unforgettable experience that won't break the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Hello Knoxville!

  • Check-in at the Red Roof Inn Knoxville Central. Great rooms and amenities for a low price.
  • Take a walk around the Market Square District, with its vibrant street art and eclectic shops.
  • Head to the Knoxville Museum of Art and admire the beautiful exhibitions.
  • Grab a beer at the Casual Pint, a cozy craft beer bar with a lovely patio.
  • For dinner, go to Chandler's Deli, a soul food restaurant that serves delicious fried chicken.
Day 2

Discover Knoxville's History

  • Start the day with a Southern-style breakfast at Olibea. Try the biscuits and gravy!
  • Visit the James White Fort, a historic house museum that tells the story of Knoxville's early settlers.
  • Explore the East Tennessee Historical Society Museum and learn about the region's rich culture and heritage.
  • Have lunch at Tomato Head, a popular pizza joint that also serves amazing vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Visit the Knoxville Zoo, home to over 800 animals from different parts of the world.
Day 3

Adventure Awaits

  • Hike the House Mountain State Natural Area for stunning views of the Tennessee Valley. Don't forget to bring water and sunscreen!
  • Head to the Ijams Nature Center and rent a kayak or paddle board to explore the Tennessee River. They also have amazing trails and gardens.
  • For lunch, try the tasty burgers at Stock and Barrel, a cozy bar with a great beer selection.
  • Spend the afternoon at the World's Fair Park, site of the 1982 World's Fair. Admire the iconic Sunsphere and go for a ride on the Sky Lift.
  • Finish the day with a relaxing dinner at the Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, a unique restaurant that serves gourmet meat dishes and exotic meats like elk and wild boar.

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

Love in the Air: A Knoxville Day Trip

Knoxville, located in Tennessee, is a charming destination for a romantic getaway in the United States. Take a stroll through the charming Market Square, enjoy picturesque views of the Smoky Mountains, and indulge in delicious southern cuisine at cozy restaurants. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, Knoxville is sure to make for a memorable trip for couples.

Knoxville: 3 Days of Fun, Adventure, and History

Knoxville, located in the eastern part of the United States, is an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages, including the impressive Knoxville Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with various species. The World's Fair Park is another must-visit spot, featuring beautiful gardens, interactive fountains, and a unique Sunsphere observation deck for panoramic city views.

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.

Discover Knoxville's Outdoor Fun and Local Flair

Knoxville, located in the state of Tennessee in the United States, offers tourists a range of attractions to explore. The city boasts great outdoor activities such as hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains and paddling down the Tennessee River. Visitors can enjoy the city's rich history by exploring landmarks such as the East Tennessee History Center and the Knoxville Museum of Art.