Knoxville in 4 Days: Adventure on a Budget

Experience Knoxville's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival in Knoxville

Check in at Cook Loft, downtown's most affordable chic hotel.
Take a leisurely walk around the Old City, the liveliest neighbourhood in town.
Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art for a glimpse of the city's vibrant cultural scene.
Climb up to the Sunsphere observation deck for panoramic views of Knoxville.
Indulge in southern comfort food at J.C. Holdway, run by a James Beard Award-winning chef.

Day 2

History and Nature

Explore the rich history of East Tennessee at the East Tennessee History Center.
Stroll through 47-acre Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, featuring walking trails, sculptures, and plants.
Take a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just 30 miles away.
Have a picnic lunch at Cades Cove, an idyllic countryside setting with stunning views.
Tuck into a hearty dinner at Calhoun's on the River, located along the Tennessee River.

Day 3

Adventure and Fun

Go for a spin on the Three Rivers Rambler, a steam train that takes you through Knoxville's scenic countryside.
Get your hands on eclectic books and records at McKay Used Books and CDs.
Visit Ijams Nature Center and try rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking to get your adrenaline pumping.
Go to Market Square, located in the heart of downtown, for live music and street performers.
Satisfy your hunger pangs at Sweet P's BBQ and Soul House, a local favourite.

Day 4

Urban Highlights

Visit the Tennessee Theatre, an ornate 1920s movie palace restored to its former glory.
Take a stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk, a 10-mile paved trail running alongside the river.
Learn about the city's railroad heritage and technology at the Knoxville Locomotive Works museum.
Marvel at the World's Fair Park, built for the 1982 World's Fair, which features a 266-foot Sunsphere.
Finish off the trip with a rooftop cocktail at Sapphire, a trendy downtown bar with panoramic views.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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