Knoxville Travel Guide

By the Tennessee River sits the third largest city in the state of Tennessee. Knoxville has evolved over time. It started out as "The Marble City" because it once supplied the rest of the country with pink marble. It then earned the distinction of being the "Underwear Capital of the World" with the rise of textile mills in the 1930s. While those monikers are now simply part of the city's historic past, modern Knoxville continues to experience an economic revival. Even better, the charm of old Knoxville remains -- quiet, unassuming but with undercurrents of pulsating energy.

Sights

There's no hype in the tourist attractions in Knoxville, merely history. Take an easy stroll around James White's Fort and learn about the life of Knoxville's founder in the seven log houses and personal effects of the pioneers. The Marble Springs Historic Farmstead and the Blount Mansion, a National Historical Landmark, should be in your sightseeing itinerary. Don't miss World's Fair Park, site of the 1982 World Fair that drew millions of visitors, and the Sunsphere monument, built specially for that event. If this trip through American history becomes just a tad too much, reenergize in the fold of nature at he Ijams Nature Center where you can go hiking and wildlife viewing. Or, you can simply revel in the wonder of the University of Tennessee Gardens with its collection of 1,000 woody plants and 2,000 herbaceous plants. The Zoological Gardens with its crowd-pleasing zoo is sure to be a hit with the kids. The 4-acre underground lake known as The Lost Sea is also another nature experience you won't soon forget. Don't forget to check out the shows and presentations at The Bijou Theatre and The Tennessee Theatre.  

Food and Drinks

Because of its large student population, dining spots tend to be numerous along Cumberland Avenue close to the university. In the Old City, you can also find good restaurants along Central Street and Jackson Avenue. Of course, the Downtown area also has its share of gastronomic offerings. Bars can also be found along the university area, in Market Square and in the Old City

Shopping

West Town Mall, Knoxville Center and Turkey Creek are the city's main shopping complexes. But if you want to take home something local, head to the shops in Market Square. Gay Street and the Old City also have their own unique offerings that tempt you to break out the plastic. 

Where to Go in Knoxville