A curated collection of the most charming things to do in Knoxville—from peaceful nature escapes to cozy cafés, local treasures, and little moments that make this city feel like magic. ✨
Every visit is an immersive experience at this quaint, whimsical Village, all paired with events and happenings, such as dining, entertainment, fun activities, or all of the above. Whether you are part of a group or need to disconnect on your own ret...
Ancient Lore Village
A popular scenic tourist train in Knoxville, TN. It offers a 2-hour, 11-mile round trip along the Tennessee River, featuring historic steam and diesel locomotives through farmland and Knoxville's first settlement areas
Three Rivers Rambler
The Knoxville Ghosts tour is a spine-chilling experience that takes you through the haunted streets of Knoxville, delving into the eerie and unsettling history that has left its mark on the city. As you embark on this haunting adventure, you will dis...
Knoxville Ghost Tour
Opened in 1928, the Tennessee Theatre in downtown Knoxville is the "Official State Theatre of Tennessee," known for its opulent Spanish-Moorish style architecture. Restored in 2005, this historic former movie palace now hosts over 150 events annually...
Tennessee Theatre
Explore Downtown Knoxville on a guided walking tour and discover some of the hidden gems of the city. Enjoy some local ice cream and coffee as you gain a local perspective on the city. Begin the tour in the Old City and hear the stories of the foundi...
Knoxville: Hidden Gems Walking Tour with Ice Cream & Coffee
Embark on a delightful 90-minute lunch cruise along the scenic riverfront of Knoxville. As you relax in the comfort of an air-conditioned and heated vessel, you'll be treated to stunning views of the downtown skyline and the picturesque Sequoyah Hill...
Lunch Cruises - Tennessee Riverboat Company
Step onto the streets of Civil War-era Knoxville, a city bitterly divided by conflict, with the immersive Civil War Walking Tour. More than 150 years ago Knoxville served as a hotbed of wartime drama—occupied by both Union and Confederate forces, wit...
The Civil War in Knoxville
An authentic German-style brewery founded in 2016 by the Schulz family to bring Bavarian culture to East Tennessee. Known as "The Beer Castle," it offers a large indoor taproom and an outdoor beer garden featuring imported Munich furniture, serving t...
Schulz Brau Brewing Company – Local Craft Import
Looking for murder mystery dinner shows in Knoxville, TN? Look no further! The Dinner Detective is an experience unlike any other murder mystery dinner show. They offer an amazing murder mystery experience paired with a fantastic dinner. From the ver...
The Dinner Detective
This bookshoppe focuses on fantasy literature, offering a wide selection of fiction, curated gifts, and a full-service coffee bar with specialty drinks. The shop serves as a community space with book clubs and,, of course, a warm atmosphere.
Fable Hollow Coffee & Bookshoppe
Coffee & Chocolate is a beloved locally owned Knoxville destination featuring handcrafted, small-batch chocolates and specialty coffee. Known for a cozy atmosphere with downtown, West Hills, and Powell locations, they offer artisanal truffles, ma...
Knoxville's Favorite Coffee & Chocolate Shop - Order Now - Knoxville
Rent a kayak for a full day and explore the waterways of Knoxville at your own pace. Pick up your kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device at the meeting point and set off on your adventure. Paddle along the river, taking in the scenic views and ...
All Day Rentals - The Knoxville Adventure Collective
10-acre public park located on the former 1982 World's Fair site, featuring iconic structures like the 266-foot Sunsphere and the Tennessee Amphitheater. It serves as a downtown green space with a performance lawn, interactive water fountains, and wa...
World's Fair Park
Don't let the 20-foot height fool you—Abrams Falls isn't about height; it’s about volume. Located in the heart of Cades Cove, this is one of the most iconic waterfalls near Knoxville. The water thunders into a deep-blue pool that’s as photogenic as i...
Hike to Abrams Falls (U.S. National Park Service)
Sharp's Ridge Veterans Memorial Park offers one of the best views in the City to see the Smoky Mountains. The park features a scenic overlook platform with signage identifying each mountain peak and is only a short ten minute drive from Downtown Knox...
Sharp's Ridge Veterans Memorial Park - City of Knoxville
Over 14 miles of natural-surface trails and 4 miles of paved trails (including the Will Skelton Greenway) offer hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Mead’s Quarry: Features a swimming lake (no lifeguards) and the popular boardwalk. A dedicated, ...
Ijams Nature Center | Nonprofit educational nature center | 2915 ...
Fort Loudoun Lake is a 14,600-acre Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) reservoir on the Tennessee River near Knoxville, offering 379 miles of shoreline popular for boating, fishing (bass, catfish), and recreation.
Fort Loudon Lake
From a rough frontier settlement to a grand state capital to the attractive city you see today, the history of Knoxville is a vivid tale of the trials and triumphs of a growing town and a growing nation. It’s a wild and often surprising tale marvelou...
Historic House Museums of Knoxville
Alice in Wonderland-themed cocktail bar and boutique located on Market Square
Alice In Appalachia – Welcome to Scruffy City
“Bernadette’s” is three levels of Crystal Barrooms in Downtown Knoxville (The Quartz House, The Amethyst Lounge and a stunning rooftop Citrine Chapel
Bernadette's Crystal Gardens
Begin your East Tennessee Adventure by enjoying a complete Knoxville Experience in just a few hours - a Fantastic Value!
Knoxville Food Tours
Located inside of the Hilton of Knoxville. Casual dining venues with a rustic touch. Cocktails are served in Mason jars, utensils are in galvanized silverware caddies, and the menu can best be described as upscale Southern comfort.
Marble City Kitchen
Ruth's Chris Steak House specializes in serving USDA Prime steaks, each seared to perfection. Their signature 500° sizzling plates and award-winning wine list are the perfect pairing for any occasion. Whether joining them for a romantic dinner, a bus...
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Among the tranquil woods, you will enjoy all of the amenities, such as a swimming pool, playground and club house. They are just a short drive away from Knoxville and other area attractions.
Volunteer Park Family Campground
Candlelight concerts in Knoxville are intimate, multi-sensory live music experiences featuring classical tributes to popular artists, illuminated by thousands of candles.
Candlelight Concerts in Knoxville Tickets 2026 - Fever