Just outside the Smoky Mountains and a short drive from Pigeon Forge, this city in East Tennessee is often the first place visitors see when flying into the region. Knoxville makes a great starting point for a trip full of adventure, but this college town also offers plenty of reasons to stick around. Some of the best things to do include visiting historic homes, checking out the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, and taking in the views from the observation deck of the 26-story, gold-plated Sunsphere.
Knoxville is loads of fun in the summer, with warm weather and plenty of activities. Popular events include the Shakespeare on the Square theater festival in July and August. If you want to miss the crowds, spring and fall are great times to visit. Winters can get cold, but the season is generally festive, with lots of holiday activities between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Many visitors come in their own vehicles or rent a car at the airport. The downtown area is compact and walkable with ample parking—and much of it is free after 6pm and on weekends. It is possible to get around town without driving. Three free trolley routes go through downtown, and scooter and bike rentals are widely available, especially near the University of Tennessee campus.
Situated right on the Knoxville Strip (Cumberland Avenue), the Sunspot restaurant is a favorite among locals looking for a hearty, tasty meal. Most people associate Kentucky with fried chicken, and they’re not wrong. But Sunspot’s menu is eclectic, with a mix of soups, salads, tacos, sandwiches, and entrees inspired by the cuisines of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the American Southwest. There's plenty for vegetarians and meat lovers, and you'll find wines, spirits, and more than 40 beers on tap.
