Insider's Guide to Downtown

Best Downtown Knoxville Gift Shops

Shop local in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee!

The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Can you find Santa's magic elves throughout Downtown Knoxville?

The Peppermint Trail in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Discover holiday magic and delicious treats and get lost in holiday flavors!

A Holly Jolly Holiday in Downtown Knoxville (2024)

Holiday magic is swirling through Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee!

An October Weekend Itinerary (Halloween All Month Long)

Make some plans to hang out in Downtown Knoxville for Halloween—even the whole month of October!

Halloween Treats, Cocktails & Shopping in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville offers a treasure trove of Halloween treats and specials.

Wicked Cool Cats Scavenger Hunt

Cross Paths With Some Wicked Cool Cats in Downtown Knoxville!

Be a Little Wicked 🧟‍♀️

Downtown Knoxville will be wicked cool this Halloween!

Vintage Cal

Set to complete in 2027, Vintage Cal will be located at the current open lot between Marble Alley Lofts and the State Street Garage.

Fall Events 2024

Tons of festivals in Downtown Knoxville this Fall!

See the Fall Mural | 2024

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and we're FALLing in love! 🍂

Guide to the Old City in Knoxville, Tennessee

The Old City is a creative hub for artists, an entertainment hotbed, and boasts several new and thriving restaurants.

Spend Game Day in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville is keeping Big Orange traditions alive during UT football game days!

Your Ultimate Downtown Knoxville Mural Guide

Explore Knoxville, Tennessee’s captivating mural scene in this comprehensive guide.

Your Downtown Knoxville Adventure Guide: A One-Day Itinerary

An adventure that mixes city life with the great outdoors! Look no further than Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee.

Pet-Friendly Travel in Downtown Knoxville

Bring your dogs for a weekend getaway in Tennessee!

See the Summer Mural | 2024

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's bringing lots of cheer! 📢

Best Burgers in Downtown Knoxville

We've rounded up a smorgasbord of consistently delightful, never-disappointing burgers in Downtown Knoxville. Try them all!

10 Ultimate Comfort Food Dishes in Downtown Knoxville

We’ve created a guide to some of the best comfort foods in Downtown Knoxville.

The Waldo Hunt Is On!

The Downtown Knoxville Waldo scavenger hunt is back and bigger than ever for 2024!

Summer Events 2024

Tons of festivals in Downtown Knoxville this summer!

Lone Tree Pass

Lone Tree Pass is a new mixed-use development that looks to honor downtown Knoxville’s rich history while also anticipating the needs of the city’s future.

Shopping in Downtown Knoxville

A glimpse of what's in store across the walkable Downtown Knoxville district.

See the Spring Mural | 2024

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's a springtime beauty! 🌼

Hope Brothers Building

More than 125 years after its construction, the five-story building on Gay Street has been meticulously transformed into a five-star boutique hotel and upscale authentic French restaurant.

First Friday ArtWalk

On the first Friday of each month, the streets come alive for one of our favorite events!

Make. Art. Music. in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Downtown welcomes visitors and locals with free events throughout the Big Ears weekend. No pass needed!

Knoxville Named No. 2 ‘Best Arts District’

The city's arts district ranks among some of America's largest cities, according to USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice 2024 poll. 🎨 🎭

Guide to Market Square in Knoxville, Tennessee

Market Square is a hub for restaurants and retail shops, and home to the famous farmers' market!

Spring Events 2024

Tons of festivals in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee this spring!

Discover Art & History in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville boasts unique galleries and museums showcasing art and history.

Romantic Restaurants in Downtown Knoxville

Light a spark with these romantic restaurants in Downtown Knoxville.

Brunch Spots in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Join us for benedicts, mimosas, scratch-made biscuits, and huevos rancheros.

Proposals & Weddings in Downtown Knoxville

Fall in love with these sweet proposals and weddings in Downtown Knoxville!

We're Here for the Chocolate

Get lost in Downtown Knoxville's decadent chocolate desserts and treats.

10 Coffee Shops in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville offers lots of local coffee shops that hit the spot!

Reflecting on 2023 | New Businesses & Anniversaries

Downtown Knoxville looks back at the businesses that opened in 2023.

See the Winter Mural | 2023-2024

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's a winter wonder!

Peppermint Trail Treats | 2023

Cookies, coffees, ice creams and more holiday-flavored Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee treats!

Holiday Cocktails | 2023

Find the perfect holiday cocktail on the Peppermint Trail in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee!

Downtown Knoxville's Business Owners

Meet the friendly faces behind Downtown Knoxville's local shops!

Pumpkin Perfection in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville has committed to fall and ALL things pumpkin!

Fall Events 2023

Tons of festivals in Downtown Knoxville this Fall!

See the Fall Mural | 2023

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's an autumn wonder!

First Friday ArtWalk — Celebrating 20 Years

This monthly event has played a pivotal role in increasing awareness of downtown businesses and the rich artistic culture of the Knoxville community.

Beer Spots in Downtown Knoxville

Map your taproom tour through Downtown Knoxville.

Things To Do in Downtown Knoxville | Fall 2023

Autumn is here! See what's happening in Downtown Knoxville.

Apple Honey Muffins from Tomato Head

The owner of Tomato Head, and their bakery, Flour Head Bakery, shares an insider recipe!

Wedding Venues in Downtown Knoxville

Let's plan a wedding! 💕

Downtown Knoxville's Best Patios

Gorgeous patios in Downtown Knoxville, perfect for dining alfresco.

Top 12 Insta-Worthy Spots in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Elevate your Instagram game and photos shoots with these photogenic spots in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee.

See the Summer Mural | 2023

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's a summer farmers' market beauty! 🍅

We're Here for the Downtown Knoxville Sunsets

Knoxville, Tennessee sunsets are the best out there.

Knoxville's Arts District Receives National Recognition

Knoxville is the No. 4 “Best Arts District” nationwide, according to USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice 2023 poll. 🎨 🎭

Girl's Trip to Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Call the ladies, and come to Downtown Knoxville pronto!

Free Parking in Downtown Knoxville

Yes...free parking is available!

Things To Do in Downtown Knoxville | Summer 2023

Families, couples, friends – come celebrate the warm weather in Downtown Knoxville!

Guide to Gay Street in Knoxville, Tennessee

Gay Street is the heart of Downtown Knoxville with a buzz of activity day and night.

Top 12 Reasons to Live in Downtown Knoxville

Beautiful architecture, convenience, happy hour. This is what it's like to live Downtown.

Ways to Celebrate 20th Season of the Market Square Farmers' Market

Downtown Knoxville is celebrating 20 years of the famous farmers' market!

Spring & Summer Cocktails in Downtown Knoxville

Grab a seat on a patio and sip on a refreshing cocktail in Downtown Knoxville!

See the Spring Mural | 2023

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's a springtime beauty! 🌼

Things To Do in Downtown Knoxville | Spring 2023

Tons of festivals + the best patios in the south. Yeah, we said it!

Spring & Summer Coffees, Teas & Lemonades in Downtown Knoxville

The warmer weather in Downtown Knoxville has us craving iced coffee and other yummy beverages!

$20 A Day in Downtown Knoxville

Here's how you can spend a full day in Downtown Knox for just twenty bucks!

We're Here for the Brunch

Because nothing says "weekend" better than brunch.

Valentine's in Downtown Knoxville

Celebrate with your special someone in Downtown Knoxville.

We're Here for the Architecture

Look closely. You'll see that Downtown's buildings have many interesting stories to tell.

We're Here for Patios & Rooftops

A gallery of Downtown Knox's outdoor dining + rooftops.

See the Winter Mural | 2022-2023

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's a winter wonder!

Reflecting on 2022

Downtown Knoxville looks back at the businesses that opened in 2022.

We're Here for the Burgers

Juicy, tasty, and overflowing with toppings. Meet Downtown Knoxville's best burgers.

We're Here for the Cocktails

Craft cocktails that are even more delicious than beautiful.

We're Here for the Chicken

Fried, grilled, hot, bone-in, in between buns: anyway you like your chicken, Downtown Knoxville's got it.

Weeknight Games & Music in Downtown Knoxville

Trivia, poker, games – the fun continues all week in Downtown Knoxville.

Weekend Guide to Downtown Knoxville | 15 Local Favorites

The can't-miss foods and activities for a weekend in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee!

International Culinary Tour of Downtown Knoxville

Send your taste buds on an adventure!

6 Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knox restaurants bring big flavor to vegetarian and vegan dishes! 🌿

The Maker Exchange

The Maker Exchange is a public space designed to showcase and celebrate the city’s artistic community where visitors and locals alike can gather to shop, dine, celebrate and more.

Holiday Cards to Remember

Your Holiday Cards will stand out with a Downtown Knoxville background.

See the Fall Mural | 2022

Downtown Knoxville's newest mural is here, and it's an autumn wonder!

Always the Best Show in Town

Downtown Knoxville is 🔥 – see what makes this downtown unlike any other.

See the Summer Mural | 2022

This Downtown Knoxville seasonal mural reminds us that summer is in full bloom.

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Downtown Knoxville: A One-Day Itinerary

Bring smiles all around with a fun day of activities in Downtown Knoxville.

Weekday Lunch Options in Downtown Knoxville

You're in walking distance to almost 100 lunch spots!

Grab a Quick Downtown Knoxville Lunch

Downtown has quick (and delicious) lunch options with convenient counter service and grab-n-go coolers.

Summer Salads in Downtown Knoxville

Lunchtime sparkles with these fresh veggies!

1982 World's Fair 40th Anniversary Celebration

The 1982 World's Fair 40th Anniversary is here! Celebrate with Downtown Knoxville specials.

Guys' Weekend in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville just might surprise you!

Dog's Day Out in Downtown Knoxville

How one special good boy feels about a dog's day out in Downtown Knoxville.

Girls' Night In

Squad up around some of these delectable Downtown Knox treats!

Takeout | Comfort Food in Downtown Knoxville

Order up takeout that warms the soul from your favorite Downtown Knoxville restaurants!

Reflecting on 2021

Downtown Knoxville looks back at all the businesses that opened in 2021.

9 Above Average Stocking Stuffers

Round out your holiday shopping with these perfect stocking stuffers!

Find Your Inspiration

Need a break from the workday? Whatever inspires you, you'll find it Downtown.

See The Fall Mural | 2021

This seasonal mural radiates Fall beauty.

We're Here for the Shopping

These local retailers are just adorable!

Find Some Extra Time

Checking off your personal to-do list is easy & convenient when you work Downtown!

Downtown Marriott

Rebuilt from the inside out, the new Marriott is a state-of-the-art hotel campus with 300 rooms plus a 12,000-square-foot gathering area designed to cater to the city’s creative community.

We're Here for the Outdoor Art & Parks

Colorful murals and green spaces are around every corner!

Kress Building

The Kress Building, a landmark on Gay Street since the early 1900s, is finding new life as a multi-purpose development.

What Downtown Knoxville Summer Hang Out Spot Are You?

This personality quiz will tell you where we think you should hang out downtown in the summer!

Fireflies Light Up Market Square in Downtown Knoxville

Celebrate warmer weather and longer days with Firefly Nights.

Love Letters to Knoxville

Here's a peek into what you love most about the people, places, and things of our city.

State Supreme Court Site

The 1950s-era Supreme Court building, adjacent office tower and parking lot bring new life to an entire city block as flexible-term apartments and an eight-story multifamily development.

Valentine's Day Like Never Before | 2021

Celebrate love in the 💓 of Knoxville. #LoveDowntownKnox

Give Love for Love's Sake.

Say "I love you" in more ways than one. Give a special local gift from a special local business.

Smile for Valentine's Photo Ops in Downtown Knoxville

Downtown has outdoor experiences you're going to love.

Color Your Heart Out!

Download these Downtown Knox coloring pages created just for you for the month of LOVE!

Give Your Hometown a Hug

Share what you love most about the people, places, and things of Knoxville.

Stockyard Lofts

The six-story apartment building transforms a two-acre site that previously served as parking lots and adds hundreds of additional residents to the Old City.

Takeout | Lunch Break in Downtown Knoxville

Order up a quick bite for lunch!

Takeout in Downtown Knoxville | Surprise Me!

Ready to try something new? Click here for takeout ideas in Downtown Knoxville.

Takeout in Downtown Knoxville | Family Time

Feed your family with an easy-to-order takeout dinner.

Takeout | Healthy Eating in Downtown Knoxville

Beautiful farm-to-table options, mindfully-made snacks, and nourishing meals.

Reflecting on 2020

2020 wasn't all bad. Downtown Knoxville had some great, new beginnings!

A Magical Downtown Knoxville Holiday (2021)

Take a tour of Downtown Knoxville's holiday lights, awe-inspiring storefronts, and family adventures!

Things to Do This Holiday (2021)

Make it a Downtown Knoxville Christmas!

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday & Cyber Monday 2020

Check out the deals in Downtown Knoxville!

Love of Local: Gift Ideas Not to Miss | 2020

Locally-themed gifts that will bring a thoughtful touch to your Holiday gift-giving.

Corporate Gift Guide: Items for Clients & Employees

Holiday business gifts that break the cookie-cutter mold AND support local!

Downtown Knoxville's Top Gift Picks for Mom

Make Mom feel extra special this Holiday with thoughtful gifts, made with love.

Gift Guide for Your Gals

Shopping for a lady in your life? You've come to the right place!

Gift Guide for Your Guys

Shopping for a guy in your life? Check out these unique ideas!

Minimalist Gift Giving

Sometimes the best gifts aren't things at all, but experiences!

Take the Quiz! Where Should You Shop for Holiday Gifts?

Take the guessing out of gift-giving in 2020. This quiz will tell you where to shop for your loved ones - based on THEIR likes!

The Overlook

A true infill urban residence, the 10-unit condominium building creates a “vertical neighborhood” with flexible design and both indoor and outdoor living space.

10 Things to Spice Up Your Fall in Downtown Knoxville | 2020

Fall 2020 will be different than most. And we’ve rounded up fun things to do!

Thanks For Doing Your Part

Our businesses stay open because of you, so thank you.

Safely Enjoy Summer 2020 in Downtown Knoxville

It's not the usual festival or large gathering, but we've rounded up some things even more special.

Cal Johnson Building

With ground-floor commercial space and eight apartments, the State Street project is one of many renovations undertaken to safeguard downtown’s history and character.

What Downtown Knoxville Insta-Worthy Spot Are You?

Take this quiz to find out which downtown Instagram-worthy spot matches you best!

What Downtown Knoxville Music Venue Are You?

Take this personality quiz to find out what music venue you are!

5 Green Parks to Explore in Downtown Knoxville

The best of both worlds is waiting in Downtown Knoxville!

What Downtown Knoxville Dessert Are You?

Bite into this personality quiz, and we'll tell you what downtown dessert to order!

What Downtown Knoxville Cocktail Are You?

Take this quiz, and we'll tell you what downtown cocktail your personality matches!

City House

Seven luxury town homes provide amenities including two-car garages, elevators, and rooftop decks within easy walking distance of Market Square and the Old City.

Embassy Suites by Hilton

The 13-story Gay Street property, once headquarters to a national bank, is now an upscale hotel well suited for leisure, corporate and group stays.