A Modern Appalacian City
Just an hour drive from much of the Smokies, Knoxville is an exciting city in the center of a unique Southern region.
To learn more about the town’s history, take one of the popular walking tours or carriage rides to historical homes and estates. Or trace your own family history at the East Tennessee History Center, which houses the Southeast’s largest resource for genealogical research.
Home to more than 20 museums and seven historical houses, Knoxville is rich in culture and arts. The University of Tennessee provides a great stimulus for growth and a youthful energy that is felt throughout the city. With its own symphony, opera and ballet companies, alongside many theaters and live music venues, the arts are alive and well in Knoxville. In fact, the local music scene is often compared to that of Austin, Texas.
A vibrant nightlife, dozens of festivals and performances throughout the year, and a wide selection of spectator sports means there is never a dull moment in Knoxville..
Sports are a major draw in Knoxville. The University of Tennessee’s renowned basketball program is complemented by the laid-back environment at the Tennessee Smokies baseball games. Hockey, semi-pro and professional sports round out the mix, making this a top-notch area in the eyes of any sports enthusiast.
If shopping is more your speed, Knoxville won’t disappoint. From eclectic boutiques to spacious malls, there’s an extremely wide range of options when it comes to browsing and buying. Art collectors can meander about several intimate galleries, and fashionistas will love the designer stores and boutiques, while antiques aficionados could spend hours browsing the many elegant antique stores. Knoxville also has that big-city feel when it comes to dining. Whether you’re craving classic Southern cooking or some international flair, you’ll find it here. There are more than 600 restaurants in Knoxville, from totally casual family favorites to upscale romantic eateries.
Whatever you want to explore, from the basketball court to the boutiques and beyond, Knoxville is the place to go.