
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
America's most visited national park offers scenic mountain views, diverse wildlife, and historic cabins. Enjoy hiking trails and tranquil camping.
- Nature Lovers Paradise: Abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes make it perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Historical Sites: Explore historic cabins dating back to the early settlers.
- Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in many areas, making it a great getaway for pet owners.
2. Chattanooga
A vibrant city nestled at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains. Offers a mix of outdoor adventures, art, and culinary experiences.
- Outdoor Adventures: Rock climbing, hiking, and kayaking are popular activities for adrenaline seekers.
- Art Scene: Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art or the Creative Discovery Museum to immerse yourself in local art.
- Foodie's Paradise: Savor delicious southern cuisine and craft breweries with a vibrant food scene.
3. Nashville
Music City offers live music venues, historic sites, and Southern cuisine. Visit the Grand Ole Opry or Ryman Auditorium.
- Live Music Capital: Over 180 live music venues ensure a nightly concert for every taste.
- Historic Sites: Step back in time with tours of the Belle Meade Plantation or Carnton Plantation.
- Food and Drink Tourism: Sample world-renowned BBQ, hot chicken, and local breweries.
4. Asheville
A bohemian haven in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its artsy vibe, craft breweries, and Biltmore Estate.
- Arts and Culture: Explore galleries, artist studios, and the River Arts District.
- Craft Beer Capital: Visit over 50 craft breweries in Asheville's Brewery District.
- Historic Mansion: Tour the Biltmore Estate, America's largest home.
5. Atlanta
A bustling city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Offers museums, parks, and sports attractions.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site or the World of Coca-Cola Museum.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park or explore Piedmont Park.
- Sports Attractions: Catch a game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium or visit the College Football Hall of Fame.
6. Memphis
The home of Elvis Presley and the Blues. Offers Graceland, Beale Street, and a vibrant culinary scene.
- Music History: Visit Graceland or Sun Studio where legends like Elvis Presley recorded.
- Foodie's Delight: Indulge in Memphis-style barbecue, famous ribs and catfish.
- Blues Music Scene: Experience live blues music on Beale Street or the Memphis Jazz & Heritage Museum.
7. Gatlinburg
A mountain town in the Smoky Mountains offering arts and crafts, outdoor activities, and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
- Arts & Crafts Community: Stroll through the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Loop to browse local craft shops.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, ziplining, and horseback riding in the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Take a spin on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.
8. Pigeon Forge
A popular tourist destination with Dollywood, dinner shows, and outlet shopping. Perfect for families and couples.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Visit Dollywood theme park or catch a show at the Smoky Mountain Opry.
- Shopping: Browse outlet malls like Tanger Outlets or The Island in Pigeon Forge.
- Dining and Entertainment: Experience dinner shows like Dolly Parton's Stampede or Pirates Voyage.
9. Greenville
A charming town in South Carolina with Falls Park on the Reedy, Swamp Rabbit Trail, and a vibrant food scene.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore Falls Park on the Reedy or bike the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
- Culinary Delights: Sample local favorites like Southern comfort food and craft breweries.
- Art Scene: Visit the Greenville County Museum of Art or the Hughes Main Library Gallery.
10. Birmingham
A historic city with vibrant culture, Birmingham offers the Birmingham Museum of Art, Vulcan Park and Museum, and a food scene to savor.
- Art and Culture: Visit the Birmingham Museum of Art or explore Vulcan Park and Museum.
- Foodie's Paradise: Indulge in Southern comfort food, barbecue, and James Beard award-winning restaurants.
- Historic Sites: Step back in time with tours of the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark.
11. Charlotte
A modern city offering the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Bank of America Stadium, and a vibrant food scene.
- Sports Attractions: Visit Bank of America Stadium or catch a race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
- Art and Culture: Explore the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art or the Mint Museum Uptown.
- Foodie's Paradise: Savor Southern cuisine, craft breweries, and upscale dining options.
12. Knoxville
A lively city with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art or hike at Ijams Nature Center.
- Art and Culture: Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art or explore the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike at Ijams Nature Center or enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Tennessee River.
- Foodie's Paradise: Savor Southern cuisine, farm-to-table restaurants, and local breweries.
13. Lexington
A historic city offering the Kentucky Horse Park, the Mary Todd Lincoln House, and a vibrant food scene.
- Horse Lovers Paradise: Visit the Kentucky Horse Park or watch a horse race at Keeneland.
- History and Culture: Tour the Mary Todd Lincoln House or the Hunt-Morgan House.
- Foodie's Delight: Savor Southern cuisine, bourbon-based dishes, and local breweries.
14. Natchez
A charming Mississippi River town with historic homes, antebellum mansions, and a vibrant food scene.
- History and Culture: Tour the historic homes and gardens or visit the Vidalia Pilot House.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge in Southern cuisine, Creole dishes, and local wineries.
- River Activities: Take a riverboat cruise or go fishing on the Mississippi River.
15. Hot Springs National Park
A historic spa town offering hot springs bathing, historic Bathhouse Row, and hiking trails.
- Relaxation and Wellness: Soak in the rejuvenating waters of the hot springs.
- History and Culture: Walk along historic Bathhouse Row or visit the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center.
- Nature Lovers Paradise: Hike at Hot Springs National Park or visit the North Mountain Trail.