
Neighborhood Guide in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
1. Market Square
Historic downtown square offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and events.
- Unique Shops: Find local artisans selling unique crafts and gifts.
- Live Music: Enjoy free concerts throughout the summer on Wednesday evenings.
- Historic Buildings: Explore historic buildings like the Tennessee State Museum and the Sunsphere.
2. Old City
Vibrant neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Street Art: Discover colorful murals and street art throughout the district.
- Local Breweries: Taste craft beers at local breweries like Pretentious Beer Co. and Crafty Bastard Brewery.
- Sundown Festivals: Experience lively events, like First Sundays Arts & Music, on the first Sunday of each month.
3. Volunteer Landing
Waterfront park with walking trails, boat tours, and river views.
- Boat Tours: Take a scenic tour of the Tennessee River or rent kayaks and canoes.
- Outdoor Events: Enjoy free concerts, movies, and other events during the summer.
- Walking Trails: Stroll along the riverfront on the 10-mile Tennessee Riverpark system.
4. World's Fair Park
Site of the 1982 World's Fair featuring museums, gardens, and events.
- Sun Sphere: Visit the iconic Sun Sphere for panoramic views of Knoxville.
- Museums: Explore museums like the Tennessee Aquarium and the Knoxville Museum of Art.
- Events: Attend events such as Dragons Burning Night during Dragon Boat Festival.
5. Five Points
Bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and music venues.
- Indie Music Venues: Check out live music at spots like The Square Room and Preservation Pub.
- Vintage Shops: Find unique clothing, accessories, and records at vintage shops like Redefine.
- Street Art: Discover murals by local and international artists on the walls of Five Points.
6. Bearden
Upscale neighborhood featuring high-end shopping, dining, and art galleries.
- Shopping: Indulge in upscale retail therapy at boutiques like Bella Fashion.
- Art Galleries: Visit galleries like the Johnston-Willis Gallery and Tennessean Art Company.
- Dining: Savor dishes from around the world at restaurants like The Melting Pot or Sushi Yama.
7. East Tennessee Children's Hospital
Pediatric hospital offering patient-friendly facilities and family resources.
- Family Resources: Find support services such as counseling, education, and play areas for siblings.
- Child-Friendly Facilities: Enjoy kid-friendly amenities like playrooms and child-life specialists.
- Community Engagement: Participate in community events and fundraisers to support the hospital.
8. Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
29-acre public garden featuring a variety of plant collections and educational programs.
- Wedding Venues: Host your wedding or event in the picturesque gardens.
- Educational Programs: Learn about plants and gardening through workshops, tours, and camps.
- Scenic Trails: Walk along the peaceful trails and enjoy the changing seasons.
9. Knoxville Zoo
Zoological park with over 800 animals representing 135 species.
- Animals from Around the World: See animals like kangaroos, penguins, and giraffes up close.
- Conservation Efforts: Support conservation efforts through the zoo's rehabilitation and breeding programs.
- Educational Programs: Learn about animals and their habitats through exhibits, animal encounters, and keeper talks.
10. Zoo Knoxville's Wilderness Wonders
Immersive exhibit featuring African wildlife, including lions, zebras, and giraffes.
- African Animals: View animals native to Africa such as African elephants, hippos, and meerkats.
- Immersive Experience: Walk through the open-air exhibit and come face-to-face with these incredible creatures.
- Conservation Efforts: Support conservation efforts for African wildlife by visiting this exhibit.
11. Knoxville Museum of Art
Modern and contemporary art museum with rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
- Rotating Exhibits: View a variety of artworks from regional, national, and international artists.
- Educational Programs: Engage with the art through workshops, tours, and lectures for all ages.
- Community Engagement: Participate in community events and activities at the museum.
12. Knoxville's Urban Wilderness
400-acre park system offering hiking trails, biking paths, and outdoor recreation.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the beautiful forests and mountains on over 75 miles of trails.
- Biking Paths: Cycle through diverse terrains, from flat urban paths to challenging mountain trails.
- Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy activities like rock climbing, fishing, and horseback riding in the park.
13. Knoxville's Maker City
Makerspace community offering workshops, classes, and resources for creators.
- Workshops and Classes: Learn new skills in woodworking, metalworking, and other crafts.
- Resources for Creators: Access tools, equipment, and materials to bring your creative ideas to life.
- Community Events: Participate in events like maker faires, open houses, and meetups.
14. Knoxville's Brewery Trail
Self-guided tour of over 25 craft breweries in Knoxville and surrounding areas.
- Craft Beer Tastings: Sample unique beers at each brewery on the trail.
- Self-Guided Experience: Plan your own itinerary based on your preferences and schedule.
- Brewery Events: Attend events like tap takeovers, beer releases, and concerts at participating breweries.
15. Cades Cove Loop Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Scenic 11-mile loop drive through a historic valley with wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Historic Buildings: Visit historic buildings like churches, barns, and cabins.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot black bears, white-tailed deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains from your car.