Downtown Knoxville
Vibrant downtown with a lively Market Square, diverse dining, and a walkable, budget-friendly atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free parking & lively atmosphere
Downtown Knoxville
Best Time
Free parking & lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant downtown with a lively Market Square, diverse dining, and a walkable, budget-friendly atmosphere.
"Downtown Knoxville is a surprisingly walkable and affordable gem with a fantastic food scene."
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Downtown Knoxville is very walkable. Explore shops, restaurants, and campus easily on foot. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Under $20 Day
Experience a full day of fun for less than $20! Look for free parking on weekends. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Market Square
Heart of Downtown Knoxville
A vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and events. Always something happening here!

Tennessee Riverfront
Along the Tennessee River
Enjoy scenic walks and relaxing views by the water. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

Unique Boutiques & Shops
Various streets downtown
Discover local treasures and unique finds in the charming downtown shops.

Vibrant Dining Scene
Throughout Downtown
From hidden gems to trendy spots, Knoxville's food scene is a must-try.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Budget-Friendly Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Downtown Knoxville is very walkable. Explore shops, restaurants, and campus easily on foot. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Under $20 Day
Experience a full day of fun for less than $20! Look for free parking on weekends. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Don't miss the spots perfect for your next photo-op, especially the murals! :camerawithflash:
🍸 Bar Hopping Hotspots
Discover great bars for a fun night out. Save this list for your next adventure! :cocktail:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Downtown Knoxville is very walkable. Explore shops, restaurants, and campus easily on foot. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Under $20 Day
Experience a full day of fun for less than $20! Look for free parking on weekends. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Don't miss the spots perfect for your next photo-op, especially the murals! :camerawithflash:
🍸 Bar Hopping Hotspots
Discover great bars for a fun night out. Save this list for your next adventure! :cocktail:
🍽️ Trendy Eats
Explore the expanding dining scene with many trendy and delicious spots. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Downtown Knoxville for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent walkability, and diverse dining options. The affordability of many activities and the charm of Market Square are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find parking can be a minor inconvenience during peak times, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Downtown Knoxville is accessible by car via major highways like I-40 and I-75. Public transportation options are available, and many visitors find it easy to walk around once they arrive. Parking is available in city garages, with free parking offered after 6 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends. :car:
Yes, Downtown Knoxville is very walkable. You can easily explore Market Square, shops, restaurants, and even walk to the University of Tennessee campus and arena from most downtown hotels. :athletic_shoe:
There are several city-owned parking garages available. A great tip is that parking is free in these garages after 6 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends, making evening and weekend visits more budget-friendly. :parking:
While walking is highly recommended, there are public transportation options available within Knoxville. Check with local transit authorities for routes and schedules that serve the downtown area. :bus:
Generally, Downtown Knoxville is considered safe for walking, especially in well-lit areas like Market Square. As with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-trafficked streets. :flashlight:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Market Square itself is a public space and does not require tickets to enter. It's a lively area with shops and restaurants, and many events held there are also free to attend. :ticket:
There are no general entrance fees to visit Downtown Knoxville. You can explore the streets, parks, and public areas for free. Individual attractions, shops, and restaurants will have their own pricing. :dollar:
Operating hours vary widely depending on the specific establishment. Most shops and restaurants in areas like Market Square are open daily, with extended hours on weekends. It's best to check the individual business's website or social media for their current hours. :clock:
Absolutely! Downtown Knoxville offers many free activities, including walking along the riverfront, exploring murals, and enjoying the atmosphere of Market Square. Some events are also free. :gift:
Downtown Knoxville frequently hosts events, from farmers' markets to festivals and holiday celebrations. Checking the Downtown Knoxville Alliance website or local event listings is the best way to find out what's happening today or tonight. :calendar:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Knoxville boasts a diverse and expanding dining scene. Popular spots include Kaizen for Asian cuisine, The Kennedy for elevated bar food, and various options around Market Square. Don't forget to try local favorites! :foodie:
For lunch downtown, consider spots like Matt Robb's Biscuits for a Southern start, or explore the many cafes and restaurants around Market Square. Many places offer great lunch specials. :sandwich:
For dinner, Kefi is highly recommended for its amazing food. Other great choices include Chimoso for Mexican and The Kennedy for gastropub fare. Explore the variety for a perfect evening meal. :steak:
Yes, Tesoro Gelato Knox offers delicious gelato, perfect for a sweet treat after a meal or while exploring. :ice_cream:
You can expect a wide range of cuisines, including Asian, Southern, Italian, Mexican, and elevated American bar food. The dining scene is constantly evolving with new and exciting options. :world_map:
📸 📸 Photography
Downtown Knoxville has several spots perfect for photos, including the murals in Strong Alley and the general vibrant atmosphere of Market Square. The Tennessee Riverfront also offers scenic backdrops. :camerawithflash:
Radius Rooftop Lounge, located above the Embassy Suites, offers amazing views of the city, making it a great spot for photography, especially during sunset or at night. :cityscape:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also be great for capturing the architecture without crowds. :sunrise:
Yes, the University of Tennessee campus is a popular spot for photos, especially with its iconic landmarks. It's easily accessible from downtown. :university:
Keep an eye out for various art installations and murals scattered throughout downtown, particularly in areas like Strong Alley, which are popular for unique photo opportunities. :art:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for opportunities to enjoy ice cream at places like Tesoro Gelato Knox or find casual dining options that cater to younger palates. Many of the outdoor spaces, like the Tennessee Riverfront, provide room for kids to move and explore. Keep an eye out for any family-friendly events or festivals that might be happening during your visit. :ice_cream:
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on free activities like exploring the murals in Strong Alley, enjoying a stroll along the Tennessee Riverfront, and soaking in the atmosphere of Market Square. Many of the dining options offer affordable lunch specials, and you can find great value by exploring beyond the most tourist-heavy spots.
🥂 Couples & Date Nights
Consider a night out exploring the bar hopping scene, with spots like Tern Club offering a unique vibe. For stunning views and a sophisticated atmosphere, Radius Rooftop Lounge is an ideal choice for cocktails and conversation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Downtown Knoxville on a Budget
Key strategies include taking advantage of free parking in city-owned garages after 6 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends. This makes evening dining and weekend exploration much more affordable. Beyond parking, many attractions are free or low-cost. Enjoying a walk along the Tennessee Riverfront, exploring the vibrant Market Square, and discovering the numerous murals are all excellent ways to experience the city's charm without spending a dime.
For those looking for affordable eats, keep an eye out for lunch specials or consider grabbing a casual bite from a local cafe. The emphasis on walkability also saves on transportation costs, allowing you to immerse yourself in the downtown atmosphere on foot.
A Culinary Journey Through Downtown Knoxville
For a taste of modern Asian cuisine, Kaizen is a highly recommended spot, known for its delicious dishes like drunken noodles. If you're craving elevated bar food and creative cocktails, The Kennedy is a new gastropub that's quickly become a favorite. Kefi is another standout, consistently receiving rave reviews for its amazing food, making it a must-try for many visitors.
Beyond these, explore Chimoso for Mexican flavors, New Haven Pizza Pi for a slice, and Tesoro Gelato Knox for a sweet treat. Whether you're looking for the best lunch downtown Knoxville or a memorable dinner downtown Knoxville, the options are plentiful and exciting.
Capturing Knoxville's Charm: Photography Hotspots
A must-visit for photographers is Strong Alley, known for its colorful and dynamic murals that create unique visual narratives. Market Square itself, with its bustling atmosphere and charming buildings, offers endless opportunities for street photography. For a different perspective, head to the Tennessee Riverfront for scenic views and a more tranquil setting.
For elevated cityscapes, Radius Rooftop Lounge provides stunning panoramic views, especially during sunset or at night. The University of Tennessee campus also presents iconic architectural shots and a classic collegiate feel, making it another popular photography destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit