Discover Knoxville: 4 Days of Family Fun on a Budget!
Experience Knoxville: A family-friendly adventure awaits in the heart of the United States.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
A FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRIP TO KNOXVILLE, UNITED STATES: Bring your loved ones to Knoxville, where excitement and adventure await amidst the beautiful landscape of Tennessee. Explore the Knoxville Zoo, home to over 800 animals, and enjoy interactive exhibits that will captivate both kids and adults. Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant downtown area, filled with charming shops, delicious restaurants, and entertainment venues offering live music and theatrical performances suitable for the whole family.
Travel plan
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- Check-in at The Tennessean Hotel, where Southern charm meets modern luxury.
- Stop by Market Square, a vibrant hub with boutiques, live music, and friendly squirrels!
- Take a stroll along the Tennessee River at Volunteer Landing and enjoy stunning views.
- Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, a treasure trove of contemporary and local masterpieces.
- Indulge in street tacos at Babalu Tacos & Tapas, where flavors from around the world collide.
- Explore the fascinating East Tennessee History Center, showcasing the region's rich heritage.
- Step into the past at the Ramsey House, an 18th-century beauty frozen in time.
- Take a scenic drive to the Museum of Appalachia and immerse yourself in mountain culture.
- Savor classic Southern comfort food at Litton's Market & Restaurant – their burgers are legendary!
- Experience the Old City, a historic neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and live music scene.
- Discover the immense beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short drive away.
- Embark on a scenic hike to Abrams Falls and be rewarded by the stunning cascades.
- Have a picnic at Ijams Nature Center, where you can kayak, paddleboard, or hike to your heart's content.
- Try the famous fried chicken at Sweet P's Barbeque & Soul House – finger-lickin' goodness!
- Catch a show at the historic Tennessee Theatre, an architectural marvel that hosts concerts and plays.
- Get lost in history at the Mabry-Hazen House, a time capsule of the Civil War era.
- Stroll through the charming Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, a hidden gem of nature.
- Visit the unique 1982 World's Fair Sunsphere and enjoy panoramic views from its observation deck.
- Try Foothills Milling Company for a farm-to-table dining experience filled with local flavors.
- End your adventure with a visit to Cruze Farm Ice Cream, where handmade frozen delights await!
- Note: Enjoy your time in Knoxville, where the KNOX locals will make you feel at home and the quirky charm will leave a smile on your face.
Length of stay
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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.