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

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

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to the Marbled City!

  • 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.
Day 2

A History Buff's Delight

  • 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.
Day 3

Nature's Playground Beckons

  • 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.
Day 4

Quirky Knoxville at Its Best

  • 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.

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

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 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.

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.

Knoxville on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Knoxville offers a mix of historical and outdoor tourist attractions that can be enjoyed on a tight budget. The city has several free museums, public parks, and hiking trails for visitors to explore. Additionally, staying in budget-friendly accommodation like a hostel or Airbnb and opting for affordable dining options can help keep the expenses under control.