5-Day Adventure Guide to Knoxville, Tennessee

Discover the charm and beauty of Knoxville.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Introduction to Knoxville

  • Check in at The Tennessean Hotel, Knoxville's premier luxury hotel
  • Stroll through Market Square, a bustling pedestrian area with street performers and artisanal shops
  • Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art to see works by local artists
  • Take a tour of the historic Tennessee Theatre, an atmospheric venue for concerts and shows
  • Stop by Bernadette's Crystal Gardens, a quirky shop with crystals, tarot cards, and metaphysical supplies
Day 2

History and Adventure

  • Explore the Knoxville World's Fair Park, home of the iconic Sunsphere
  • Visit the East Tennessee History Center for an in-depth look at the region's past
  • Take a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Go whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River with Rapid Expeditions
  • Relax with a beer and live music at Crafty Bastard Brewery
Day 3

Local Flavor

  • Start with brunch at OliBea, a farm-to-table restaurant with Southern specialties
  • Take a scenic hike on the Ijams Nature Center trails
  • Visit the Knoxville Zoo, home to over 900 animals from around the world
  • Take a brewery tour and sample locally brewed beer at Alliance Brewing Company
  • Indulge in a scoop (or three) of ice cream at Cruze Farm Dairy
Day 4

Art and Music

  • Browse the galleries at the Emporium Center for Arts & Culture
  • Attend a concert or show at the iconic Bijou Theatre
  • Visit the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum for a serene outdoor experience
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in the downtown area
  • Dance the night away at The Concourse, a popular music venue
Day 5

Outdoor Adventure

  • Rent bikes from River Sports Outfitters and ride along the scenic Neyland Greenway
  • Take a leisurely kayak trip down the Tennessee River with Knoxville Adventure Collective
  • Hike the trails at Fort Dickerson Park, a historic Civil War site
  • Visit the Knoxville Urban Wilderness, a vast network of trails and parks for hiking, biking, and more
  • Finish the trip with dinner at JC Holdway, a contemporary Southern restaurant with an acclaimed chef at the helm.

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 on a Budget: Adventure, History & Charm

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.

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 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: 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.