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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesTennesseeKnoxville

Knoxville

Tennessee, United States
City·Historic, Cultural, Nature Focused
Knoxville
Photo by Darien Johnson from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Vladimir Budilovskiy from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Richy Wittmer from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Steven M Koprowicz from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Lionel Frank from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Darien Johnson from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Vladimir Budilovskiy from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Richy Wittmer from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Steven M Koprowicz from Google Places
Knoxville
Photo by Lionel Frank from Google Places

Knoxville, located in Knox County, Tennessee, is a city steeped in history and culture, serving as the largest city in East Tennessee. It was the first capital of Tennessee and played a significant role during the American Civil War. Today, Knoxville is a bustling hub for Appalachian culture and outdoor activities, with the Tennessee River and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby. The city is home to the University of Tennessee, adding a vibrant university atmosphere to its cultural landscape. Visitors can explore its revitalized downtown, enjoy local cuisine, and delve into its rich historical sites.

Knoxville, located in Knox County, Tennessee, is a city steeped in history and culture, serving as the largest city in East Tennessee. It was the first capital of Tennessee and played a significant role during the American Civil War. Today, Knoxville is a bustling hub for Appalachian culture and outdoor activities, with the Tennessee River and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby. The city is home to the University of Tennessee, adding a vibrant university atmosphere to its cultural landscape. Visitors can explore its revitalized downtown, enjoy local cuisine, and delve into its rich historical sites.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

  • Home to the University of Tennessee's flagship campus.

  • Rich Appalachian cultural heritage.

  • Historical significance with Civil War history.

  • Revitalized downtown with vibrant community.

Before you go: Knoxville essentials

  • Close access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for nature lovers.

  • Rich cultural heritage with numerous museums and historical sites.

  • Vibrant university town atmosphere with diverse cultural events.

Getting Around

Knoxville has a reliable public transportation system with buses and trolleys.

Local Cuisine

Try regional specialties like barbecue and Southern comfort food.

Best For

Exploring Appalachian culture and outdoor adventures.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

English

Outdoor Activities

Don't miss the hiking and scenic views in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Cultural Events

Check out the city's vibrant arts scene, including theaters and galleries.

Historical Sites

Visit Civil War sites and museums to learn about Knoxville's past.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Buffs, Nature Enthusiasts, Students, Locals

Best time to visit Knoxville

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is ideal for visiting Knoxville with mild temperatures and blooming nature.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be hot, but it's a great time for outdoor festivals and events.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers beautiful foliage and is perfect for exploring the mountains.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time for indoor activities and museum visits.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
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Things to do in Knoxville

Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess
From $35

Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess

4.5(42)
Duration: 2h
Knoxville
Sounds of Knoxville Self Guided Audio GPS/APP Walking Tour
From $10

Sounds of Knoxville Self Guided Audio GPS/APP Walking Tour

Duration: 50 min
Knoxville
Great Smoky Mountains Rare Synchronous Firefly Waterfalls Walk
From $70

Great Smoky Mountains Rare Synchronous Firefly Waterfalls Walk

5.0(17)
Duration: 3h
Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville Hidden Tour w/ Ice Cream, Coffee & Tennessee River Gems
From $80

Downtown Knoxville Hidden Tour w/ Ice Cream, Coffee & Tennessee River Gems

4.9(24)
Duration: 2h
Knoxville
Knoxville After Dark Ghost Tours
From $26

Knoxville After Dark Ghost Tours

4.2(76)
Duration: 1h
Knoxville
Adventure Day Pass at Ancient Lore Village
From $35

Adventure Day Pass at Ancient Lore Village

4.1(7)
Duration: 1h
Knoxville
Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Knoxville by Crazy Dash
From $10

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Knoxville by Crazy Dash

5.0(1)
Duration: 2h
Knoxville
Knoxville Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
From $25

Knoxville Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

4.0(1)
Duration: 2h
Knoxville
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Knoxville

Place

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Tennessee
Protected Area · Rugged, Remote, Peaceful, Expansive
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tennessee
Protected Area · Majestic, Expansive, Natural, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site

Greeneville, Tennessee
Protected Area · Quiet, Reflective, Educational
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Middlesboro, Kentucky
Protected Area · Historic, Expansive, Natural, Educational
Place
Place

Obed Wild & Scenic River

Tennessee
Protected Area · Rugged, Quiet, Timeless