Top 12 Insta-Worthy Spots in Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee
Everywhere you turn, Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee provides a picture-perfect background – and we're not just saying that. Historic architecture in the Old City, neon signs decorating Gay Street, Strong Alley murals, bistro lights hanging in Market Square. Photo ops are all around. Here are our Top 12 local picks to elevate your Instagram game and photo shoots.
#LoveDowntownKnox
Strong Alley
The artistic gem of Downtown Knoxville, Strong Alley is filled with murals ranging from bold and colorful to weird and unique. Travel through the alley, located between Market Square and Gay Street to discover dozens of designs and backdrops, including Dolly Parton and the Downtown Knoxville seasonal mural. Strong Alley transforms from bright and happy in the daytime to dark and mysterious at night, with equally stunning photos.
The Tennessee Theatre
Of course The South's Most Beautiful Theatre – The Tennessee Theatre – is on the list! No trip to Downtown Knoxville would be complete without snapping a shot in front of the famous blade. We've seen so many great images, from graduation shoots to families and friends, and proposals!
World's Fair Park
World's Fair Park has a variety of places you can capture beautiful shots that will keep your feed full for days – the Sunsphere, the colorful bridge, the 15 acres of green space, even the Knoxville Convention Center is a nice urban backdrop. To achieve the look in this colorful picture by Instagram influencer Ashley Renne, go to the south side of the park where you'll find boulders, a creek, pond and trees. It's a mix of nature and city all in one snap!
Oliver Royale
The Oliver Royale is known for fresh dishes and innovative cocktails in a romantic setting. We're making it known for the gorgeously designed bar that's the perfect backdrop for your next photo. And with a delicious cocktail in hand, you'll leave your followers wondering if you just traveled to New York City. Nope, Downtown Knoxville has got it all.
Home of the SEC
Calling all college football fans! Sitting quietly on the corner of Gay St and Clinch Ave is the birthplace of the Southeastern Conference. In December 1932 at a meeting at what is now the Hyatt Place Hotel, 13 members of the Southern Conference left to form the SEC. Any day of the year—and regardless of your team colors—a photo at this little spot will surely excite the football fans in your feed.
Cassiopeia
One of Knoxville's largest murals, the colorful "Cassiopeia" is located on the east side of Market Square Garage (in the alley facing the Square). Stretching along the entire alley are the faces of six East Tennesseans that artist Addison Karl picked to be part of the mural. In between each portrait are brightly painted blocks, which provided a rainbow backdrop for your creative photos.
Bicycle Arch
If you know Knoxville, you know we love our bikes! And that includes this unique sculpture welcoming pedestrians – and cyclists – to the cross bridge at the Outdoor Knoxville Adventure Center near Volunteer Landing. It’s an insta-worthy backdrop for any outdoor enthusiast, and we’ve seen some spectacular captures with the city skyline both day and night!
Market Square Farmers' Market
Every Wednesday and Saturday, May through November, Market Square is filled with fresh flowers, fruit and vegetable vendors, and a variety of local makers, plus food trucks on Saturdays. The Market Square Farmers' Market is a fun experience in Downtown Knoxville, plus you can support local and have lots of props for your shot!
Hyatt Place Hotel
The Hyatt Place's interior is a work of art. With eclectic style, tall windows, and a dash of historic architecture both inside and out, taking a picture here will make people think you took a trip to Europe. Both the rooftop and interior bars are good places to snap photos, but our favorite spot is right here in the lobby with that velvet green couch contrasted against the ceiling height curtains.
The Standard's Yellow Door
The Standard is a popular event venue and a photographer's dream, both inside and out. But you don't have to be a wedding guest to take advantage of its charming character. The yellow door outside is a pop of color your feed needs!
Radius Rooftop Lounge
With arguably one of the best 360º aerial view of Downtown Knox, the Smoky Mountains, and the Tennessee River, Radius Rooftop Lounge is an Insta-worthy spot for all the right reasons. The downtown skyline, the sleek and modern pool, the trendy libations, the cozy lounge corners and the overall vibe. It's a one-stop spot to capture a week's worth of gorgeous photos!
Henley Street Pedestrian Bridge
The long, narrow bridge that hovers over Henley Street is not only practical to walk across, but it's a great spot for Instagram too. If you're looking for an urban setting, look no further than snapping a carousel of pictures on this bridge.
Tag us on Instagram!
We just scratched the surface on the amount of Instagram-worthy spots in Downtown Knoxville. We guarantee you'll have loads of fun exploring them. Tag us and use #LoveDowntownKnox or upload your epic photos here.