Go There: How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Knoxville, TN
Welcome to “Go There,” a Livability.com series about travel and how to maximize your time in some of our favorite cities. Today, we’re headed to good old Rocky Top, Knoxville, Tennessee.
Beyond the excitement of a college gameday, Knoxville, Tennessee, offers the perfect blend of vibrant city life and breathtaking outdoor adventures. Whether you’re heading to a sporting event or seeking an ideal weekend escape, Knoxville has it all. Get ready to uncover Marble City through a local’s guide, ensuring you experience the best of what Knoxville has to offer.
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is truly one of a kind. Knoxville reflects the style of a hip younger sister and the feeling of a warm, welcoming hug from America’s Sweetheart, Dolly Parton. Rich with character and flair from the bustling Old City, Knoxville bears a walkable riverfront overlooking the Tennessee River, an eclectic downtown and endless outdoor activities waiting for you to discover and explore. Plus, with countless food and drink spots at your fingertips, the fun never stops.
Here’s your guide on where to stay, what to do and where to eat for the perfect weekend getaway in Knoxville.
In This Article
Where to Stay in Knoxville, TN:
Tucked away in an 1876 renovated building, The Oliver Hotel is a Knoxville gem. A 28-room boutique hotel where southern charm meets modern chic, The Oliver is just steps away from Market Square in the heart of downtown. It is also home to Tupelo Honey, another Knoxville favorite known for its delicious brunch, and the Peter Kern Library, one of the best-hidden bars in the country. The speakeasy-style bar is located within the hotel and is the perfect place for a nightcap.
Other than The Oliver, you have plenty of options within the downtown area to choose from that can still be cost-effective and walkable to the areas you would want to discover. Knoxville also has a couple of can’t-miss boutique and luxury hotels, including the Graduate Hotel and The Tennessean. If you are looking for Airbnb to get more of a home-style feel to the area, check out the Old City. Close enough to downtown but separated enough to have its own unique feel, this Knoxville neighborhood is where history meets new, quirky and edgy. Many choose to stay here because of the lively bars and breweries, funky boutiques, delicious food and beautiful galleries.
What to Do in Knoxville, TN:
Whether you are enjoying family time with the little ones or exploring Knoxville alone or with a friend, here are the best ways to spend your weekend in this city. If you are looking for a more outdoorsy weekend, check out Ijams River Trail Loop in South Knoxville, which has over twenty different trails and a quarry to take a dip in. Only an hour outside of Knoxville lies the Great Smoky Mountains. For a little more advanced hiking, try out Chimney Tops Trailhead, Charlie’s Bunion or The Horseshoe. These hikes are worth the drive alone through the beautiful mountain ranges and valleys of East Tennessee.
Outside of hikes, Knoxville offers entertainment dispersed throughout the city. Start downtown window shopping through Gay Street, pass through Market Square during a Saturday farmer’s market, head towards Old City and stop at Xul for a PB&J beer (trust me, it is delicious), then hit up some quirky vintage stores like Retrospect or French Fried Vintage for nostalgic merchandise. Be sure to check out the city’s events calendar before you head to town — Knoxville is home to dozens of fun festivals you won’t want to miss. Knoxville is filled with something or somewhere on every corner, ready to be explored!
Where to Eat in Knoxville, TN:
If you were to ask anyone in Knoxville where you should grab a quick bite or something that would make your tastebuds go, “Wow!” 99% of people would say Potchkes. USA Today deemed Potchke’s a 2024 best in the U.S. This Jewish deli is known for its mouthwatering babkas, delectable matzo ball soup (make sure to fuss it up) and show-stopping sandwiches.
When looking for dinner spots within the city, you can’t go wrong with anywhere on Market Square; however, here are a few noteworthy restaurants that will leave you wanting to come back every weekend. Just outside of Market Square sits J.C. Holdway. With a seasonal menu that walks you through farm-to-table fresh ingredients, J.C. Holdway provides excellent service, delicious cocktails and cornbread that will make you not stop talking about it for weeks. A few blocks from J.C. Holdway, on Gay Street, lies Chivo Taqueria, a gourmet taco restaurant. Try the queso dip to start with a choice of a few tacos or brisket quesadilla. Finally, over in the Old City is A Dopo Sourdough Pizza. Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizzas and wine on tap, A Dopo is delicious for all ages, but if going on a date night, try the Trust Fall for Two. Your waiter will bring out two pizzas of their choice with a pairing of alcohol for a fun way to not overthink the menu! To finish the night, grab a few beverages from Brother Wolf, sister bar to Osteria Stella in the Old City, for fun vibes and even better drinks. If you are craving something a little more sweet, enjoy a delicious soft serve at Cruze Farms off of Gay Street in downtown.
Local Obsession in Knoxville, TN:
Knoxville runs on coffee. With over thirty coffee shops to choose from, here is the ultimate caffeine lovers guide to the best coffee in the city. If you are looking for the perfect morning treat, wake up a little earlier and head down to Wildlove Bakehouse for a pastry and coffee combo while enjoying the outdoor patio. You can’t go wrong with K Brew, Honeybee, Golden Roast or Remedy, but a standout would be Awaken Coffee over in the heart of the Old City. Whether you are going through the farmers market, strolling down Jackson Avenue or in desperate need of a delicious cold brew, Awaken is a must-try. Enjoy a coffee flight with your choice of four specialty coffees to ensure you get the full experience!
As you sip your coffee and reflect on your weekend adventures, you’ll understand why Knoxville is a place that captures hearts and beckons you to return.