I am always looking for a fun weekend getaway from NYC, so when I had a chance to visit Knoxville, TN for a girls' weekend, I was pumped.
It was my first time in the city (and the state), and I quickly realized that it is a great place for a budget-friendly girls' weekend, especially since it is only a two-hour flight from NYC.
We ate, drank, walked around downtown, watched glassblowers with beer in hand, and spent an afternoon floating in a quarry. Yeah, our weekend was jam-packed with unique experiences that don't often make it to a girls' weekend itinerary.
If you're looking for things to do in Knoxville, I've included a list of everything we did (and a few others we didn't but were on the list), as well as a day and weekend itinerary to help you plan. Because we know you're short on time, I am here to help you just get out and experience Knoxville for yourself.
Special thanks to Visit Knoxville for hosting us on an epic girls' weekend. We had a great time getting to know Knoxville, and I can't wait for our next visit.
Key Takeaways
- Downtown Knoxville is easy to cover on foot, especially Gay Street, Market Square, and World's Fair Park.
- Ijams Nature Center and Mead's Quarry give you outdoor time without a long drive.
- Build your plans around neighborhoods so you aren't paying for rideshares all day.
- Book popular activities, shows, and dinner spots early on busy weekends.
- A two-night trip gives you timeThings to do Knoxville for food, drinks, art, and one outdoor adventure.
Things to Do in Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville is a solid pick when you want a city weekend without needing a huge budget or a packed itinerary. Downtown is very walkable and has restaurants, bars, theaters, murals, and historic buildings close together. Nature is also right there, which is not always the case with a city trip.
Even though this guide is geared more towards a girls' weekend, Knoxville is surprisingly very family-friendly. You have the Knoxville Zoo, sports events, the Knoxville Museum, and even the Maple Hall bowling alley (which welcomes kids during the day).
See Knoxville From the Sunsphere
The Sunsphere is the gold-topped landmark from the 1982 World's Fair. The Sunsphere Tower is 300 feet tall, so go up to the observation deck for views of downtown and the mountains, then walk around World's Fair Park.
During our visit, we got to go over to the 4th floor, which recently opened in 2022. The views are incredible from up there, and it was fun reading all about the history of the Sunsphere and the World's Fair. I also got a kick out of checking out some of the fun items that have been displayed from the 80s.
They are currently open daily from Monday-Sunday; however, hours vary, so you will want to check current hours and ticket details before you go.
Explore Knoxville's Urban Wilderness
Knoxville's Urban Wilderness is over 1000 acres and has trails, parks, waterways, and mountain biking areas close to downtown. Bring sneakers, water, and a charged phone. Pick a trail that fits your ability. They have over 60 miles of trails, which is incredible given it's less than 3 miles from Downtown Knoxville.
During our visit, we were short on time; however, we did get to check out some of the Mountain Biking Trails. What is cool about it is that at the entrance of the park, they have a map and guide that shows you the experience level of each trail. So if you are new to mountain biking, this is a great way to get started.
You can rent a bike from Bear Paw Bikes and jump right in. I definitely want to do this next time I visit.
Meet the Animals at Zoo Knoxville
You're probably wondering why a zoo is on a list of things to do in Knoxville for a girls' weekend, but here is what I love about Zoo Knoxville. It's the events. Yes, Zoo Knoxville is for the kids and makes for an excellent family outing, but what I really want to highlight are the events.
In June and July, on select Thursday evenings, they host a summer concert series where you can listen to live music and also get access to the Zoo.
They also have an event in October called Brew in the Zoo where you get to visit the Zoo after hours and sip on local brews, including craft beers and cocktails, while visiting all the exhibits.
I have done something similar in Chicago, and it was a lot of fun.
Spend Time at Ijams Nature Center
Ijams Nature Center is located within Knoxville's Urban Wilderness, and it is usually where people go when they need a break from the city. It's a great place to spend a morning just resetting. You can walk one of the many trails or stop at Mead's Quarry for a float or just to take in the beautiful views.
Eat a Reuben at Potchke
Potchke was our first stop in Knoxville. Potchke is a Michelin-recommended Jewish Deli located in the Old City in Downtown Knoxville. Who knew this New Yorker would find herself in a Jewish deli in Knoxville? How ironic?
Now, of course, I had to order the Reuben, because when in NY (I mean Knoxville), you just have to. And though I felt like I was cheating on my beloved Katz, as I placed my order, I quickly forgot where I was.
It was absolutely delicious. In addition to amazing food (they even have bialys), the restaurant itself is super cute. Very colorful, vibrant, and perfect for a girls' brunch.
Walk Down Gay Street
As someone who grew up in the city, I can appreciate a walkable destination. And that is one of the biggest reasons why I love Knoxville. As soon as you check in to your hotel and settle in, take a walk down Gay Street. There is a reason why it's been named one of the Great Streets in America.
You don't have to go far. In just 10 blocks (or half a mile), you will find theaters, public art, bars, restaurants, and phenomenal architecture. Not to mention the shopping. I needed at least two people to sit on my luggage to get it closed after this weekend.
We stayed at the Embassy Suites, which is located right on Gay Street, so we spent a lot of time going up and down Gay Street.
Visit Knoxville offers a wide variety of self-guided walking tours, which I highly recommend. We did a combination of a few, including the historic downtown walking tour.
Check Out a Speakeasy
Tennessee banned alcohol in 1909, making it one of the first places to do so during the Prohibition era. As a result, Tennessee is known for its bootlegging history and the network of tunnels and other underground networks they used to move moonshine and whiskey.
Today, you can see this culture embraced in all the speakeasies you will find in places like Chattanooga, Nashville, and right here in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Now I feel like I will be breaking some code if I give you too much, but one speakeasy that I recommend you check out is Peter Kern Library. Located in The Oliver Hotel (that is all I am telling you), this speakeasy has an incredible cocktail list as well as a nice selection of wines (if you are like me and don't care for cocktails).
To get access, I recommend following them on Instagram. Once you have figured out the entrance and the code, just share the code with the doorman, and you are in there.
Listen to Live Music in Downtown Knoxville
Knoxville is known as the birthplace of country music (you will see Dolly Parton everywhere), so of course there is plenty of opportunity to check out some live music during your visit.
During our visit, we got a chance to check out the Blue Plate Special at the Knoxville Visitors Center. Most days at Noon (Monday-Thursday and Saturday), the Visitor Center hosts a live radio show featuring live music that is open to the public. It is free to attend, and it is a great opportunity to see some of Knoxville's talents live.
Another great spot to check out for live music is the Preservation Bar. This bar is open late at night, and they have live music almost every day, featuring a variety of genres including country, bluegrass, and even rock.
Float in a Quarry During Summer
In the summertime, locals and visitors to Knoxville cool off by heading to the Quarry. Knoxville is actually home to over 35 quarries; however, the two most popular ones are Mead's Quarry and Fort Dickerson Quarry.
Mead's Quarry is popular for paddleboarding, while Fort Dickerson is popular for kayaking and floating.
We spent an afternoon floating in Fort Dickerson Quarry. They recently built a brand new swimming platform where plenty of people were lounging and sunning in between floats.
Both quarries have a snack bar as well as a place to rent kayaks and floats. This was one of my personal favorite things to do during my visit to Knoxville. And with that Tennessee heat, it was very refreshing. Floating in the Quarry was my personal highlight. We went during warm weather, got on the water, and stayed longer than planned because nobody wanted to leave.
PPP Tip: Bring a towel, dry clothes, sunscreen, and water shoes.
Watch Sunset at Radius Rooftop Lounge
Radius Rooftop Lounge is located on the 14th floor of the Embassy Suites hotel, and it has one of the best views in the city. It's a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the sunset over Knoxville.
They also serve food, so if you are looking for a bite before or after dinner, they have plenty of options. I am a wine girly, so of course I ordered a glass of Pinot Grigio while I was there, but some of my friends tried it too.
PPP Tip: If you stay at the Embassy Suites, they offer a complimentary happy hour to their guests each evening, which includes two complimentary drinks at the Radius Rooftop Lounge.
Take a Stroll Through Market Square
We spent quite a bit of time in Market Square during our weekend in Knoxville. Since our hotel was just a short walk away, we found ourselves stopping by between activities, whether it was for a meal, a little shopping, or just to walk around.
We happened to visit on a farmers market day, which made it even more fun. After grabbing a lavender iced latte from Coffee & Chocolate, we wandered through the market, browsing everything from fresh produce and baked goods to local artisans and handmade products.
Market Square also hosts free events throughout the year, including live music, outdoor movies, festivals, and seasonal celebrations. I recommend checking the events schedule before your trip.
Visit the Tennessee Theatre
We had the opportunity to tour the Tennessee Theatre and learn about its history. Originally built in 1928, the theatre has been carefully restored and is just as impressive inside as it is from the outside.
The Spanish Moorish architecture, crystal chandeliers, and intricate details throughout the theatre make it worth taking a look, even if you aren't planning to see a performance.
We didn't catch a show during our visit, but the theatre hosts Broadway productions, concerts, classic movies, and free community events throughout the year. If you're planning a trip to Knoxville, it's worth checking the schedule to see what's playing while you're in town.
Learn Local History at the East Tennessee History Center
Located directly across the street from the Tennessee Theatre, the East Tennessee History Center is worth adding to your itinerary if you have a little extra time downtown.
Inside, you'll find exhibits that tell the story of East Tennessee, from the people who shaped the region to the events that influenced its history. If you're like me and enjoy learning more about a destination while you're there, it's a great place to spend an hour or two.
Before your visit, check the museum's website for current exhibits, hours, and admission information.
Watch Glassblowers at Pretentious Glass Co.
This is such a cool experience and definitely one to add to your Knoxville itinerary. Here's how it works.
Start in the taproom with a tasting flight. I was happy to see they even had gluten-free and gluten-light beers. Once you've picked your favorite, head next door to the hot shop where you can watch the glassblowers at work. We watched a wine glass being made from start to finish, and it was fascinating to see the process up close.
Before you leave, take a look around the gallery, where you can shop for handmade glassware created on site. Then grab another pour of your favorite beer and settle in at the bar. It's a fun place to relax, chat with the locals, and end the afternoon.
Follow the Downtown Mural Walk
One of my favorite ways to explore a new city is by looking for street art, so I was excited to see murals throughout downtown Knoxville. We came across several as we explored, and of course, I had to stop and take a few photos.
If you want to see more, Visit Knoxville has a self-guided mural map that will take you to murals throughout downtown. It's a fun way to explore different parts of the city while discovering the work of local artists.
Have Drinks at the Tern Club
Before dinner, we stopped by the Tern Club for cocktails. I ordered the TC Carajillo, and I'd happily order it again.
The pink and green décor gives the bar a fun tropical feel, and it's such a cute place to meet friends before dinner. We ended up spending more time there than we expected because it was such a fun place to sit, relax, and catch up before heading to dinner.
If you're planning a girls' trip to Knoxville, I'd definitely add the Tern Club to your itinerary. Stop by for a cocktail before dinner, or settle in for a while and enjoy the atmosphere.
Visit Lilienthal Gallery and KnoxWalls at Emory Place
One of the highlights of our visit was meeting Ilana Lilienthal, the artist and owner behind Lilienthal Gallery. Listening to her talk about her vision for the gallery and Emory Place made me appreciate the space even more.
The gallery features contemporary works from local, national, and international artists, creating a collection you wouldn't expect to find in Knoxville. Ilana has made it her mission to bring artists from around the world together while also helping grow Knoxville's arts community.
Just outside the gallery, you'll find KnoxWalls at Emory Place. This public art project grew from Ilana's vision of turning the alley behind the gallery into an outdoor art destination. Working alongside Dogwood Arts, she brought mural artists from across the country to create large-scale works that are free for everyone to enjoy. It's worth taking a few extra minutes to walk through before heading to your next stop.
Shop at French Fried Vintage
I used to spend hours vintage shopping with one of my friends in high school, so every time I come across a vintage store while traveling, I have to go in. It always brings back a little nostalgia.
Walking through French Fried Vintage reminded me of just how many trends have come full circle. It was fun spotting pieces I remember wearing years ago that are somehow back in style again. Along with vintage clothing, you'll also find jewelry, home décor, artwork, and other unique finds throughout the store.
If you enjoy vintage shopping as much as I do, this is definitely a place to add to your Knoxville itinerary.
Have Drinks at Mother Bar
If you're looking for a good cocktail bar in downtown Knoxville, add Mother Bar to your list. I ordered a crisp white wine from their rotating wine list, while others in our group let the bartender create cocktails based on what they were in the mood for.
I loved that the experience felt a little more personal. Instead of ordering straight from the menu, you can tell the bartender what flavors you enjoy or the kind of drink you're in the mood for, and they'll create something just for you.
We visited before dinner, but I could easily see this being a fun place to end the night with friends after exploring downtown Knoxville.
Take a Day Trip to Dollywood
While Dollywood isn't located in Knoxville, it's close enough to make an easy day trip if you have an extra day in your itinerary. The theme park is about an hour from downtown Knoxville in nearby Pigeon Forge, so renting a car is the easiest way to get there.
Dollywood is known for its roller coasters, live entertainment, seasonal festivals, and Southern food, making it a popular stop for families and anyone visiting East Tennessee for the first time.
If you're planning to visit, buy your tickets in advance and arrive early, especially during weekends and festival seasons when crowds tend to be larger.
Where to Stay in Knoxville
If you're visiting Knoxville for the first time, I recommend staying downtown. Many of the restaurants, bars, and attractions on this list are within walking distance, making it easy to explore without constantly getting back in the car.
Stay at Embassy Suites Knoxville Downtown
We stayed at the Embassy Suites Knoxville Downtown, and I would absolutely stay there again. The location made it easy to walk to Market Square, Gay Street, the Tennessee Theatre, and many of the places we visited throughout the weekend.
The suites have separate living and sleeping areas, which gave us plenty of space to spread out after a full day of exploring. Every morning started with a complimentary made-to-order breakfast (don't skip the omelet station).
In the evenings, we stopped by the complimentary Evening Reception, where guests receive two free drinks along with light snacks before heading out to dinner.
If you're visiting during the warmer months, don't forget to pack a swimsuit. The rooftop pool is a great place to cool off, and the rooftop bar is the perfect spot to end the evening with views of downtown Knoxville.
Ready to stay at Embassy Suites? Check availability for your travel dates.
Stay at The Tennessean
If you're planning a couples getaway or celebrating a special occasion, take a look at The Tennessean. This luxury boutique hotel is known for its exceptional service, and the staff goes above and beyond to make every stay memorable. It's also within walking distance of World's Fair Park, the Sunsphere, and many downtown attractions.
Traveling as a couple? Check out availability at The Tennessean and see why it's one of Knoxville's most highly rated luxury hotels.
Stay at Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown
I've always been a fan of Hyatt hotels (I actually used to work at the Hyatt in Tampa), so Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown is another hotel I'd recommend.
It's a great budget-friendly option in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of Market Square, Gay Street, and many of Knoxville's top attractions. It also has a rooftop lounge, making it a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Looking for a great downtown location without the luxury price tag? Check availability at Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown.
Stay at The Oliver Hotel
If boutique hotels are more your style, check out The Oliver Hotel. Located just off Market Square, it's a great home base for exploring downtown on foot.
One of the highlights is Peter Kern Library, the hotel's hidden speakeasy. You can find it by looking for the red ball light outside. It's a fun place to end the evening with a cocktail before heading back to your room.
If you love boutique hotels, check availability at The Oliver Hotel before your trip. Rooms tend to book quickly during busy weekends.
Where to Eat in Knoxville
Knoxville surprised me with its food scene. We found great meals throughout the weekend, and I left with several places I would happily visit again. Here is where to eat and what I recommend ordering.
Start With Potchke
Potchke was our first stop in Knoxville. As a New Yorker, there was only one thing I was ordering: the Reuben. Hopefully I do not lose my New Yorker card, but it was absolutely delicious.
The sandwich was packed with corned beef and served on toasted rye. After the first bite, I quickly forgot that I was cheating on my beloved Katz.
Potchke is a Michelin-recommended Jewish deli that also serves bagels and bialys. Come for breakfast or lunch, but the Reuben has my vote.
Try the Barbecue at Humble Hog
We wanted to try as much as possible at Humble Hog, so we ordered The Works to share. It comes with brisket, pork ribs, pit beans, slaw, corn pone, and several other items from the menu.
This was a great choice for our group because no one had to settle on just one meat or side. We passed everything around the table and got a taste of what Humble Hog does best.
I also ordered the Chipotle Mac and Cheese. The barbecue was good, but that mac and cheese deserves its own mention.
Visit The Phoenix Pharmacy
The Phoenix Pharmacy brings back the look of an old-fashioned soda fountain, complete with counter seating and plenty of nostalgic details.
It is a fun place to stop during a day downtown, especially when you are ready for lunch or something sweet. Take a few minutes to look around while you are there because the setting is part of the experience.
Enjoy Breakfast at French Market
We had breakfast at French Market, where the menu includes both sweet and savory crêpes.
I ordered The Complete, a Parisian ham and Swiss crêpe topped with a fried egg and served with pomme frites. The combination of the savory crêpe, runny egg, and crispy fries made this a breakfast I would order again.
Those craving something sweet will also find plenty of choices on the menu, but I was very happy with my decision.
Mediterranean food at KoPita
We enjoyed a chef's tasting menu at KoPita, which gave us the chance to sample dishes from across the menu.
My favorites were the falafel, grilled steak, and pita. The pita arrived warm and fresh, and we kept ordering more for the table. Every time another basket arrived, it disappeared almost immediately.
KoPita is a great choice for a group because you can order several dishes, pass them around, and find your own favorites. Just make sure there is plenty of pita on the table.
Getting to and Around Knoxville
I flew into Knoxville from New York City, and the flight was just under two hours, making it an easy destination for a long weekend. If you're traveling from another part of the Southeast, driving is another great option.
We didn't rent a car during our stay, and for the most part, we didn't need one. Since we stayed downtown, we were able to walk to many of the restaurants, bars, and attractions on this list.
For places outside of downtown, like Ijams Nature Center or a day trip to Dollywood, you'll want a car or a rideshare. We used a driver service for a few activities just outside the city, and it worked out really well.
If you have an extra day or two, consider extending your trip beyond Knoxville. I recently explored Tennessee Overhill, where I spent a few days rafting, visiting waterfalls, touring wineries, and discovering some of East Tennessee's smaller towns. It's an easy addition if you're planning a longer road trip through the region.
My One Day Knoxville Itinerary
There's plenty to do in Knoxville, but if you only have one day, don't try to squeeze everything in. One of the things I loved most about the city was how walkable downtown is. Once you park the car (or check into your hotel), you can spend the day exploring on foot.
Here's how I'd spend one day in Knoxville.
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at French Market. I ordered The Complete, a Parisian ham and Swiss crêpe topped with a fried egg and served with pomme frites, and it was one of my favorite breakfasts of the trip.
From there, grab a coffee from Coffee & Chocolate before making your way to Market Square. If you're visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday during farmers market season, spend some time browsing the local vendors before exploring the surrounding shops.
When you're ready, take a walk down Gay Street. It's only about half a mile long, but there's plenty to see along the way, including public art, historic buildings, theaters, and local boutiques.
Lunch
Head to Potchke for lunch and order the Reuben. Hopefully I don't lose my New Yorker card for saying this, but it was one of my favorite meals in Knoxville. If you're still hungry, don't leave without picking up a bagel or bialy for later.
Afternoon
After lunch, tour the Tennessee Theatre, then walk across the street to the East Tennessee History Center if you're interested in learning more about the region.
Next, spend a little time exploring Knoxville's creative side. Browse French Fried Vintage, stop by Lilienthal Gallery, walk through KnoxWalls, and keep an eye out for the colorful murals throughout downtown.
If you have time, end your afternoon at Pretentious Glass Co. Start with a tasting flight in the taproom, then head next door to watch the glassblowers at work. Watching a wine glass being made while sipping a local beer was one of the most unique experiences of the trip.
Cocktails
Before dinner, stop by The Tern Club. I ordered the TC Carajillo, and the pink and green décor makes it such a fun place to meet friends before dinner.
Dinner
For dinner, I'd choose KoPita or Humble Hog.
If you're in the mood for Mediterranean, order the chef's tasting at KoPita so you can try a little bit of everything. My favorites were the warm pita, falafel, and grilled steak.
If barbecue sounds better, head to Humble Hog and order The Works. It comes with a little bit of everything, making it easy to sample several of the restaurant's specialties. Don't skip the Chipotle Mac and Cheese.
If you're still out exploring afterward, stop by Mother Bar for one last drink before calling it a night.
My Weekend Knoxville Itinerary
If you're spending a weekend in Knoxville, start with my one-day itinerary above. It covers many of Knoxville's highlights and gives you a great introduction to the city. With a second day, you can slow the pace and enjoy a few experiences you may not have had time for on day one.
Morning
Start your morning at Ijams Nature Center. Walk one of the trails, spend some time at Mead's Quarry, or simply enjoy a slower start before heading back downtown.
Lunch
Make a reservation at The Kennedy on Gay Street. Located inside one of Knoxville's oldest buildings, it's a beautiful place to enjoy a long lunch before continuing your day. Another great option is Stock and Barrel, which serves some of the best burgers in Knoxville.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon however you like. If you didn't make it to the Sunsphere on your first day, now is a great time to head up to the observation deck for views of the city. If you're visiting during the warmer months, grab a book and spend a few hours by the rooftop pool at the Embassy Suites.
If you are visiting on a Saturday, you can check out the Market Square Farmer's Market, which is open until 2pm, follow more of Knoxville's downtown mural walk, or stop into any of the local shops that caught your eye on day one.
Cocktails
Before dinner, head to Radius Rooftop Lounge for sunset. Order a cocktail, take in the views over downtown Knoxville, and enjoy a slower pace before the evening.
Dinner
For dinner, visit whichever restaurant you didn't have a chance to try on your first day. If you had barbecue at Humble Hog, make reservations at KoPita for the chef's tasting menu. If you started with KoPita, this is the perfect excuse to order The Works at Humble Hog.
Nightcap
End the weekend at Peter Kern Library, the hidden speakeasy inside The Oliver Hotel. It's the perfect final stop before heading back to your hotel.
Best Things to do in Knoxville: FAQs
What Is Knoxville's Best Kept Secret?
There isn't one official answer, but Quarry floating is a strong contender. Mead's Quarry gives you a water day close to the city, though access and rentals depend on the season.
What Can You Do With One Day in Knoxville?
Eat at Potchke, walk Gay Street and Market Square, then choose the Sunsphere, a museum, or Ijams. Finish with dinner and a drink. Keep your stops close together.
What Is Knoxville Most Famous For?
Knoxville is known for the Sunsphere and the 1982 World's Fair, the University of Tennessee, East Tennessee culture, music, outdoor access, and its proximity to the Smokies and Dollywood.
Is Knoxville, Tennessee Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially if you like food, cocktails, art, history, and outdoor time without a huge travel budget. Two nights is enough for a first visit. Mix free stops with one or two paid activities to keep costs under control.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Knoxville
Knoxville was the last stop on my two-week trip through Tennessee, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to end it.
We spent the weekend eating, drinking, shopping, and laughing our way around the city. I had an amazing Reuben at a Michelin-recommended Jewish deli.
Spent the afternoon watching glassblowers at work with a beer in hand, and cooled off on a float in a quarry. I definitely didn't see that one coming, but it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the trip.
Looking back, that's what I'll remember most about Knoxville. We did so much, but we still came back feeling happy and refreshed.
I'll definitely be back. There are still restaurants I want to try, trails I want to hike, and yes…I still need to make it to Dollywood.
