Knoxville

Knoxville

If you love the vibrance of a big city, but also treasure the “down-home” southern charm that is native to Tennessee, Knoxville is the city to visit. Knoxville prides itself on southern hospitality; offering a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and a plethora of cultural attractions. Tennessee’s third largest city is sure to offer something for everyone.

Stamp your passport:

Knoxville is home to not one but two distilleries and even though they are located close to each other, Knox Whiskey Works and Post Modern Spirits couldn’t be more different.

Knox Whiskey Works is a small batch craft distillery located in the heart of the city. They work with local farmers and artisans to create unique spirits representative of East Tennessee. They craft seasonal cocktails made with their spirits and combine them with fresh ingredients to create libations with a personality all their own!
Must try: A cocktail flight! Why try one cocktail when you can sample them all?

Just down the street from Knox Whiskey Works, you’ll find Post Modern Spirits in the heart of “Old City” located inside of an old freight terminal along the railroad tracks.

Post Modern Spirits is unlike any distillery you’ve ever visited. For one, the tasting room is reminiscent of a cocktail lounge. Additionally, the colors and flavors of the spirits themselves are derived from natural, real ingredients and botanicals. Where artistry and chemistry intersect – the mad scientists at Post Modern are always brewing something new. There’s no shortage of creativity and fresh takes on liquor here.
Must try: An Elder Gin Fizz: Elderberry Gin Liqueur, Giniferous Gin, Rosemary Syrup, Lime Juice, Soda Water

Stay Overnight:

Right in the heart of Downtown is the Hyatt Place Knoxville. This posh, pet friendly hotel boasts tons of local art, MCM aesthetic and is within walking distance of most anything in the city! Major perk – it even has a rooftop bar with stunning views of Knoxville, especially at sunset!

Eat & Drink:

Knoxville is filled with casual dining spots, local dives and fine dining experiences alike. Check out SoKno Tacos for cheese dip and the best margaritas around. In the mood for beerFlights and burgers? Check out Balter Beerworks. Mouth watering for some BBQ? You’ll want to visit Sweet P’s. However, be sure to save room for their banana pudding. In short, the culinary scene is unbeatable and one of the many things that makes this city such a fun place to explore.

Must Try:

Make dinner reservations at The Oliver Royale! When possible, the restaurant supports local, natural, sustainable and organic practices and their beautifully plated dishes are as full of flavor as they are colorful.

Go on an adventure:

Knoxville has no shortages of adventures. Literally, the “Urban Wilderness” can be found less than five miles outside of the city in. every. direction. Hike, bike, climb, paddle, or just wander in the woods with over 1k designated natural, green acreage. 

Fort Dickerson Park is a hidden gem for explorers. The area boasts tons of mountain bike and hiking trails along the sides of the beautiful Augusta Quarry. The surface of the water reflects the clouds and trees that hover above and the path leads you down to an inviting shoreline. Here you can paddle, swim and freedive in the old limestone quarry where it reaches depths of almost 300 feet!

Just across town, you’ll find Knoxville’s very own wildlife sanctuary, Ijams Nature Center. It’s filled with 10 parks, 40 miles of multi-use trails, four civil war sites, incredible views and Mead’s Quarry Lake where you can rent kayaks and swim in designated areas.

The Knox Adventure Collective is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Knoxville. It’s the perfect hub for those just visiting the city without gear. They. Have. It. All. The Knox Adventure Collective offers rentals, guided tours and classes for you or your entire family.

Art:

The city is splashed with colorful murals and art infused experiences, some notable stops in Knoxville include walking along the Sculpture Garden at Krutch Park, taking photos in “Strong (Graffiti) Alley” in Market Square and stopping to shop at RALA – a storefront filled with Regional and Local Art!

Don’t Miss: You know the saying, “selfie or it didn’t happen!” Well, selfie or group photo either one, a snapshot with the Patron Saint of East TN, Dolly Parton’s Mural by Megan Lingerfelt in Graffiti Alley, is a Knoxville must. Also be sure to visit the Kelsey Montagues #WhatLiftsYou mural of colorful birds and World’s Fair park!

For even more ideas about what to do, check out the Visit Knoxville website.

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