The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Knoxville, Tennessee Right Now
Knoxville, Tennessee offers a delightful blend of Southern charm, rich history, and stunning natural beauty that makes it a compelling destination for anyone. Situated at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville provides abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby national parks. Visitors enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene by visiting the historic Market Square, home to an array of eclectic shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Credit: Visit Knoxville
One of Knoxville's standout attractions is the iconic Sunsphere, a remnant of the 1982 World's Fair, offering panoramic views of the city and its picturesque surroundings. History buffs can delve into the past at sites like the East Tennessee History Center and the Blount Mansion, while sports fans can catch a University of Tennessee Volunteers game at Neyland Stadium. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse attractions, and scenic vistas, Knoxville is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the heart and soul of Tennessee.
1. Where to Eat and Drink in Knoxville
At Point B in Knoxville, Tennessee you can experience a unique combination of exceptional dining and a vibrant cocktail scene. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring modern American cuisine with a Southern twist, showcasing locally-sourced ingredients in each dish. Whether you're craving a perfectly seared steak or a flavorful vegetarian option, Point B's menu has something to satisfy every palate. Additionally, their expert mixologists craft inventive cocktails using premium spirits and fresh ingredients, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after a long day of exploring Knoxville. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying two of their signature cocktails, the Point B Sidecar — concocted with Courvoisier VSOP cognac, Cointreau and fresh-squeezed lemon, as well as the Strawberry Old Fashioned with puréed organic strawberry, Four Roses bourbon and mint.
The ambiance at Point B in Knoxville is sophisticated yet inviting, with a stylish dining room and a cozy outdoor patio where you can enjoy your meal al fresco in season. The attentive staff provides top-notch service, ensuring that you will have a memorable experience from start to finish. Be prepared to sit back and relax. Favorite dishes include Shrimp Ceviche with sea salt wontons and tostadas; Point B Brunch Board with scrambled cage-free eggs, Applewood bacon, sausage or chorizo, waffles, potato hash, pancakes, bagels, and toast; Wild Mushroom Bruschetta; Sea Board with both raw and baked oysters, fried oysters, shrimp ceviche, chilled shrimp, crab rangoon dip, housemade sauces, hand-made tortillas, and fried wontons; Wild-Caught Salmon Salad with organic greens, avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, pistachios, dried cranberries, housemade croutons, and a caper-dill vinaigrette; as well as Seasonal Sirloin with Mexican street corn and crushed potato.
Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two, a lively gathering with friends, Point B offers the ideal setting for any occasion. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious food and expertly crafted cocktails at Point B during your next visit to Knoxville, Tennessee. Hungry yet?
2. Festivals and Events in Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee is known for its diverse array of festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Big Ears Festival, a celebration of avant-garde music that draws musicians and fans from around the world. This four-day event features performances in various venues across the city, showcasing a mix of genres including jazz, experimental, and electronic music.
Credit: Visit Knoxville
Big Ears Festival also includes film screenings, workshops, and discussions with artists, making it a must-visit for music enthusiasts seeking a one-of-a-kind experience in Knoxville. Another highlight on Knoxville's event calendar is the Dogwood Arts Festival, a beloved springtime tradition that celebrates the region's natural beauty and artistic talent.
Credit: Neyla Photography for Visit Knoxville
This month-long festival features a variety of events, including art exhibitions, garden tours, live music performances, and culinary showcases. One of the festival's main attractions is the Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk, where local artists create intricate chalk drawings on the sidewalks of downtown Knoxville. With its colorful displays and festive atmosphere, the Dogwood Arts Festival captures the essence of Knoxville's vibrant arts and culture scene, attracting visitors of all ages to join in the celebration.
3. Downtown Charm in Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee is a vibrant destination offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One must-see location is the historic Market Square, a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. You can explore local boutiques, dine at delicious eateries, or catch live music performances in this energetic square. For those interested in history and culture, the East Tennessee History Center is a must-visit.
Credit: Lauren Holmes for Visit Knoxville
This museum showcases the rich heritage of the region through exhibits on topics such as the Civil War and Appalachian folklore. In addition to the cultural experiences downtown Knoxville has to offer, outdoor enthusiasts can also find plenty to do.
Credit: Steven Bearden Photography for Visit Knoxville
The Knoxville Riverfront provides a scenic setting for a riverboat cruise, leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Tennessee River. Outdoor concerts and festivals are often held in this picturesque area, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. For a more active adventure, visitors can take advantage of the numerous hiking trails in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you're interested in shopping, dining, history, or outdoor activities, downtown Knoxville has something for everyone to enjoy.
4. Arts and Culture in Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee is a vibrant city bursting with arts and culture. Visitors to Knoxville can immerse themselves in the thriving arts scene that the city has to offer. From the historic Bijou Theatre, a beloved venue hosting a variety of live performances ranging from concerts to plays, to the Knoxville Museum of Art, where one can explore an impressive collection of local and regional art, Knoxville provides a rich cultural experience for art enthusiasts.
Credit: Visit Knoxville
In addition to its traditional art institutions, Knoxville also boasts a dynamic music culture. The city is known for its annual Big Ears Festival, a celebration of avant-garde and experimental music that draws musicians and music lovers from around the world.
Credit: Visit Knoxville
Knoxville's historic Market Square is another focal point of the city's cultural scene, offering a lively mix of art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and historic entertainment venues such as the Tennessee Theatre. Whether exploring historic landmarks or attending a contemporary art exhibition, Knoxville has something to offer for every art and culture enthusiast.
5. Outdoor Adventures in Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee offers an abundance of outdoor recreational activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The city is surrounded by the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for various activities. Visitors can explore over 50 miles of trails in the Urban Wilderness, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running.
Credit: Visit Knoxville
Additionally, the Tennessee River running through Knoxville offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. For those seeking more adrenaline-pumping adventures, Knoxville is known for its world-class rock climbing spots such as the Tennessee Wall and the Obed Wild and Scenic River.
Credit: VML for Visit Knoxville
The city also boasts several parks for picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, including Ijams Nature Center and Seven Islands State Birding Park. With its diverse range of outdoor activities set against a picturesque natural landscape, Knoxville, Tennessee, is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors.
Where to Stay in Knoxville
Located in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee — Hotel Cleo is a luxurious hotel that promises a truly unforgettable stay. From the moment you step into the stylish lobby, you are greeted by a blend of modern design and Southern hospitality that sets the tone for your entire visit. Each room at Hotel Cleo is meticulously curated with upscale amenities, comfortable furnishings, and breathtaking views of the city skyline or nearby Smoky Mountains, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent experience for every guest.
One of the reasons to choose Hotel Cleo for your stay in Knoxville is its prime location within walking distance of the city's top attractions, including Market Square, World's Fair Park, and the University of Tennessee. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, you'll appreciate the convenience of being close to the best shopping, dining, and entertainment options that Knoxville has to offer. After a day of exploring, you can unwind at the Hotel Cleo, making it the perfect choice for a luxurious and memorable stay in Knoxville, Tennessee. Book below to reserve your stay for the lowest price, guaranteed.
