Experience Knoxville, TN
Embark on a journey from BLV to Knoxville and discover a blend of urban charm and natural beauty, where scenic landscapes and rich history await to transform your getaway into an unforgettable adventure.
Allegiant’s nonstop service from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) transports you directly into the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee, making it effortlessly simple to discover the unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty that defines eastern Tennessee.
Good to Know
Natural Beauty
Knoxville serves as a vibrant gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a rich tapestry of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to scenic drives that reveal breathtaking vistas at every turn.
In the heart of the city lies Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness, an outdoor adventure area featuring 1,000 forested acres situated along Knoxville’s South Waterfront and 65 miles of greenways and various mountain paths that are perfect for all levels of bikers and hikers. These pathways connect to five parks, a 600-acre wildlife area, a beautiful nature center, adventure playgrounds, historic sites and more, and offer opportunities for ziplining, climbing, hiking, biking, running and playing. The city’s close proximity to the Tennessee River and nine area lakes – many of which are located in the Urban Wilderness – also means there is an abundance of aquatic activities. Whether you enjoy swimming or fishing or prefer paddling or kayaking, Knoxville’s waterways have something to offer everyone.
Downtown Knoxville
The city’s charm doesn’t stop with its natural surroundings. Knoxville’s lively downtown area brims with artistic venues, historical landmarks and a culinary scene that captures the spirit of Southern hospitality and innovation.
Located in the heart of Downtown Knoxville sits Market Square. Filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes, it’s the perfect place to eat, shop, relax, and pick up a few souvenirs. Looking for something livelier? Take a stroll down Knoxville’s historic Gay Street and explore the urban nightlife with numerous bars, taverns and lounges. As most Knoxvillians know, the city is also a premier destination for vibrant, live music – from rock, indie, bluegrass and country music to classical and jazz. Downtown Knoxville is also home to First Fridays, where on the first Friday of every month, local artists, restaurants, and musicians come together to celebrate the culture of Knoxville. Enjoy the creativity, live music and great food on your next visit!
The city is also a haven for history buffs and art lovers alike. Explore the history of Knoxville with a visit to the East Tennessee History Center and learn how the city came to be what it is today. Be sure to stop by the iconic Sunsphere, which is located in World’s Fair Park and was commissioned for the 1982 World’s Fair, to view the city of Knoxville from 26 stories up. Standing at 266 feet tall and home of the Knoxville New Years Eve ball drop, the Sunsphere is an iconic landmark that offers visitors a unique 360-degree view of the city. The University of Tennessee, home to the Tennessee Volunteers, also adds a youthful energy to the city, with sporting events and cultural happenings occurring year-round. Other attractions like the Zoo Knoxville, the historic Tennessee Theatre, the Knoxville Museum of Art, and the Blount Mansion make Knoxville the perfect blend of history and fun wrapped in Appalachian culture.
Just a Car Ride Away
The city’s ideal location in Knox County makes it the perfect starting point for an East Tennessee road trip. Renting a car and exploring the breathtaking mountains from the Knoxville area has never been easier!
Just an hour from West Knoxville sits the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Named after the iconic blue fog that rises from the trees, it’s the most visited national park in America and is free to visit. Experience a variety of nature-based activities, from hiking trails to scenic driving routes. Pack a lunch and picnic under a canopy of trees, but keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! On the drive to or from Great Smoky Mountain National Park, be sure to stop in the towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, must-visit locations for anyone looking to get a full Tennessee vacation experience.
Lenoir City, just a 45-minute drive east of Knoxville, is far enough away from Knoxville to get a taste of small-town charm but close enough to still feel the action of urban city life. The city is known as the Lake Capital of Tennessee and offers scenic lakes, dining, parks and history. For those looking for more Appalachian city fun, travel two hours south, and you’ll find Chattanooga, a beautiful mountain town known for its history and its location on the Tennessee River.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat into nature or a bustling urban adventure, Knoxville offers a multifaceted destination catering to all kinds of travelers that trumps other mountain destinations. Soar from BLV to the marble city and immerse yourself in the unique blend of experiences that Knoxville has to offer, from serene river walks along the Tennessee River to the vibrant squares teeming with live music and local festivals. In Knoxville, every visit is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.
*Information in this article was provided, in part, by Visit Knoxville.
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