As the gateway to the Smoky Mountains—with its own airport and within a day’s drive for 70 percent of the U.S. population—Knoxville is notable for its Appalachian location and preserved green spaces, all infused with a warm Southern drawl. Here, the outdoors has always been integral to culture and community.
Centuries ago, the Tennessee River, formed at the confluence of the Holston and French Broad rivers east of downtown, was used to transport lumber and textiles that helped build the nation’s metropolises. With the river part of its scenic surroundings, Knoxville evolved as a walking city.
You’ll find 60 miles of trails, rock climbing, and playgrounds in the Urban Wilderness. On the water, Knoxville serves as the trailhead of the Tennessee River Line, 652 miles of connected outdoor experiences, including kayaking in the city center.
Plus, patio dining across Knoxville offers even more time outdoors. At many spots, this includes dinner with a show to enjoy the local culture of a warm smile and welcoming hello alongside live music.
Hike and bike Urban Wilderness trails
Urban Wilderness is a haven for nature lovers. The outdoor enthusiast’s playground and wildlife sanctuary is minutes from downtown’s shops, bars, and arts scene, and more than a center for outdoor recreation.
Hiking here is like stepping back in time to discover culture and history. Fort Dickerson, now a park, played an important role in defending Knoxville from Confederate attacks during the Civil War. Today, hikers exploring the 60 miles of natural trails that wind their way through the forests can check out an earthen fort from the 1860s or take a dip in the quarry to cool off in the summer.
Knoxville is home to two different quarries open for public swimming—which also help immerse travelers in the city’s rich history. Knoxville began producing its distinctive pink-hued marble (technically limestone) in the mid-1800s, giving it the nickname “Marble City.”
The Baker Creek Bike Park hosts wheels of all sorts, from scooters and skateboards to dirt jumpers and BMX bikes.
Courtesy of Steven Bearden Photography/Visit Knoxville
Trails and greenways, like Baker Creek Preserve, are waiting to be explored. Shaded by giant sycamores, with mourning doves and woodpeckers lacing the creek, the ropes courses and slides call to children at the Play Forest. Nearby, mountain biking trails for beginners and thrilling downhill trails like the Devil’s Racetrack beckon the brave.
Zip-line at Ijams Nature Center
Stop by Navitat Knoxville at Ijams Nature Center to test your moxie among six different tree-based zipline “adventure trails” high above hikers—30 to 60 feet up, to be exact. Think heart-pounding balancing challenges, rolling barrels, and soaring nets and bridges, where instructors also share knowledge about the flora and fauna. The Ijams crags’ 33 climbing routes carved into limestone welcome climbers of all levels.
Knoxville is also skateboard- and BMX-friendly. Catch some air at Fountain City Skatepark, Powell Station Park and at the Tony Hawk Foundation-supported Knoxville Skatepark, which is also illuminated for nighttime use.
The Fort Dickerson Quarry
Courtesy of Visit Knoxville
Kayak, paddleboard, and cruise downtown
Water recreation on Knoxville’s lakes and rivers is as plentiful as the catfish and smallmouth bass that kayak anglers catch. Fifty river miles on the French Broad, Holston, and Tennessee waterways carve a path through the heart of the city, with easy dock access for kayakers from downtown. For those who’d rather kick back on the water as opposed to grabbing a paddle, a leisurely cruise on the Tennessee Riverboat Company awaits.
Dine outdoors and listen to live music
Mild winters and long summers mean patio and rooftop season is in full swing much of the year in Knoxville. Market Square is an ideal jumping-off point. Enjoy a cool breeze with Mexican food and margaritas at Soccer Taco; sushi and Japanese specialties at Kabuki (locals swear by the lava roll); or fried chicken at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen. Then, grab Italian tiramisu and a cappuccino at Emilia.
The live tunes carry on into the wee hours at Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria, Boyd’s Jig & Reel, and Clancy’s Tavern. Or, check out Scruffy City Hall, a self-described “Cathedral of Entertainment and Libations.” The second-floor Loggia Balcony Bar overlooking Market Square features 50 local brews on tap and inside, the soaring Main Hall has live entertainment seven nights a week.
