Knoxville: a nature-loving-adventure-seeking-artsy-kinda-town
Sometimes the best way to hit reset is by stepping away from the familiar and embracing the new. A visit to Knoxville, Tennessee offers the perfect opportunity to do just that! It’s a stunning place to spend the spring season, and this guide will take you from pondering to planned for an easy getaway that’s sure to inspire!
nature-loving
Welcome to an accessible southern city that provides “something for everyone” vibes, where the outdoor opportunities are boundless! Take it easy and stroll the UT Gardens on the University of Tennessee’s campus or the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum to marvel at over 20 varieties of delightful dogwood trees. Find feathered friends at Seven Islands State Birding Park (the only birding park in the state of Tennessee) or hike a historic quarry at Ijams Nature Center. Explore Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness and see how easy it is to relax and recharge in scenic beauty just minutes from downtown. Amp up the energy (and heart rate!) with blood-pumping mountain biking trails or slow the flow and enjoy the Tennessee River by paddle or cruise.
adventure-seeking
What’s a visit to a new city without adventure? But first, define what adventure means to you, and rest assured Knoxville offers every definition! Knoxville’s dining scene allows for everything from that first cup of coffee as the sun comes up to a flight of local beer on Knoxville’s Ale Trail or a smooth sample on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail as a toast to a memorable day. Explore unique neighborhoods by driving or biking the Dogwood Trails in April, a network of over 90 miles that celebrate the city’s natural beauty in the spring. Bring your pup with you and make friends in a city so dog friendly, some know it as “Barxville.” Pop in and out of museums to learn something new, admire historic architecture, and make time for serendipitous surprises. Don’t forget a visit to the Sunsphere, the beloved icon of the city’s skyline that was built for the 1982 World’s Fair, to experience a stunning 360-degree view of it all.
artsy-kinda-town
The blend of Appalachian traditions and modern ingenuity has positioned Knoxville as a hub for creatives, giving rise to another moniker, “The Maker City.” Knoxville’s artistic soul is evident everywhere from large-scale murals and public art installations to live performances and rotating exhibits in galleries and art markets showcasing local talent. The Knoxville Museum of Art celebrates artists from (and inspired by) the region, while the historic Tennessee Theatre and Bijou Theatre host music, plays, and cultural events. Plan a visit during one of several spring events and festivals for a taste of culture, food, art, and fun.
A spring visit to Knoxville is more than just a getaway – it’s a chance to recharge, gain fresh perspective, and create memories that remind you how beautiful life can be!