Knoxville surprised me in the best way. It is easy to think of it as a stop on the way to the Smoky Mountains, but its walkable downtown, beautiful hotels, great food and creative local shops make it a getaway all its own. Whether you are planning a couples weekend, a girls trip or a few extra days before heading into the mountains, here is where I would stay, eat and explore in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Where to Stay in Knoxville
The Tennessean Hotel
For a stay that makes the trip feel special, book The Tennessean Hotel. It sits beside World’s Fair Park, close to the Sunsphere and downtown. You can spend the day exploring, then come back to your room to relax before dinner. It is a wonderful choice for a romantic weekend or any trip where the hotel is part of the experience.
The hotel’s Drawing Room serves breakfast, and in-room dining makes a slow morning even more tempting. If your visit falls on a Sunday, look into its afternoon tea. It is offered by reservation and would be such a lovely way to finish a weekend away.
Where to Eat in Knoxville
Breakfast and Coffee
Start with breakfast at The Drawing Room if you are staying at The Tennessean, then head out for coffee while you explore. Wild Love Bakehouse is a pretty stop for coffee and seasonal pastries. If you eat gluten-free like I do, check what is available and ask about preparation before ordering.
For a dedicated gluten-free bakery and café, add Benefit Your Life to your list. The French Market Crêperie is another breakfast or lunch idea; ask about its gluten-free crêpe options when you order.
Lunch and Dinner
Around Market Square, The Tomato Head is an easy lunch choice before an afternoon of sightseeing. For dinner, consider Emilia for Italian food on Market Square or Kefi for a date-night meal in the Old City. If gluten is a concern, let your server know and ask about ingredients and cross-contact, since menus and kitchen practices can change.
Save room for a sweet stop, too. Cruze Farm is a fun place to get soft-serve ice cream after an evening downtown.
Things to Do in Knoxville
See the City from the Sunsphere
The Sunsphere is Knoxville’s most recognizable landmark and one of the first places I would send a visitor. Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, its observation deck gives you a view of downtown, the Tennessee River, the University of Tennessee and the surrounding landscape. Check ticket availability and visiting hours before you go, then leave time to walk through World’s Fair Park afterward.
Wander Market Square and Gay Street
Give yourself time to explore Market Square without a strict schedule. Browse the shops, stop for lunch and then walk over to Gay Street to see more of downtown’s historic buildings. If there is a performance during your stay, an evening at the Tennessee Theatre would be a beautiful addition to your trip.
Explore the Old City and Watch Glassblowing
Knoxville’s Old City is worth an afternoon of its own. Its historic buildings are home to restaurants, coffee shops and local businesses. Stop by Pretentious Glass Co. to browse handmade glassware and check its current schedule if you would like to watch glassblowing or book an experience.
Slow Down at Sauna House
After a day of walking around the city, reserve some time at Sauna House Knoxville. You can move between the sauna, cold plunge and places to rest, or book a massage for a little more downtime. It is an especially nice addition to a couples trip or girls weekend. Book ahead if you have a particular time in mind.
Get Outside at Ijams Nature Center
If you want a change of scenery, head to Ijams Nature Center for time on the trails. That is one of the things I love about a Knoxville getaway: you can enjoy the restaurants and shops downtown, then make room for an afternoon outdoors without turning it into a completely different trip.
A Simple Knoxville Weekend Itinerary
Arrive Friday, check into The Tennessean and head downtown for dinner. On Saturday, start with breakfast, visit the Sunsphere and spend the afternoon browsing Market Square, Gay Street and the Old City. Stop at Pretentious Glass Co., then make dinner reservations somewhere you can linger.
Leave Sunday morning open for a slower breakfast, a Sauna House appointment or a walk at Ijams before heading home. Knoxville has plenty to fill a weekend, but you do not have to rush to enjoy it. Give yourself time to explore and you may find yourself planning your next visit before this one is over.
Do you have a Knoxville trip planned soon?
