Insider's Guide to Downtown
Experience the best Downtown Knoxville has to offer by exploring our Insider's Guide. Whether you're in Knoxville for a day, a weekend, or a lifetime, dive into our helpful itineraries, top restaurants to eat and hang, and so much more.
See Downtown Knoxville like never before!
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!
Best Downtown Knoxville Gift Shops
Shop local 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.