Located in the east of Tennessee on the banks of the river of the same name, Knoxville is a medium-sized town famed for its contributions to the country music scene and proximity to the great outdoors. Although not exactly Tennessee’s foremost city, if you plan on a visit to the American southeast, a stop off in Knoxville is a must for the zoo alone.
The city itself sits amid some striking countryside on the meandering Tennessee River and is fairly spread out. The downtown area, however, is fairly compact with the bulk of the attractions lying between the river to the south and Interstate 40 half a mile to the north. The small, historic Market Square is ideal for a stroll, shopping and nightlife.
Also within downtown Knoxville are numerous country bars, museums, galleries and buildings of interest. Knoxville Zoo is the main attraction and lies outside town to the northeast on Interstate 40. The zoo is famous for its red panda; one of the only places outside China to have one. There is also a petting zoo and other interesting animals here.
Highlights
Knoxville Zoo: Knoxville’s premier attraction features one of the only red panda’s outside of China.
Fort Sanders neighborhood: a must-see historic neighborhood featuring many quaint Victorian-era houses.
Old City: come here for a look at Knoxville’s most pleasing architecture and for nightlife.
Tennessee Theater: located on Gay Street, downtown Knoxville, the Tennessee Theater has fine Moorish architecture and some great shows.
Around Knoxville: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies just to south and into North Carolina; it’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking and camping.