A Scouted Weekend Getaway to Knoxville, Tennessee
Nestled at the source of the Tennessee River and serving as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is a haven for those who love the outdoors and crave adventure. However, there’s much more to The Marble City than its proximity to national parks, picturesque lakes, and the thrill of SEC football. Brimming with culture and history, it also boasts a thriving craft beer scene and a culinary landscape bursting with flavor. Join us as we unveil all the insider tips and must-know details for an unforgettable weekend getaway to Knoxville, Tennessee.
When to Visit
East Tennessee’s fall foliage is legendary, drawing visitors from far and wide as early as September, with peak beauty arriving in late-October. But autumn’s vibrant colors are just a bonus; the real energy comes when the University of Tennessee’s game day takes center stage. Witnessing a game at Neyland Stadium is a must-do—Knoxville’s unwavering passion for the Volunteers is truly something to behold.
Best Season to Visit
Autumn
Stay
Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain. Located in Walland, a half-hour drive from downtown Knoxville, these acclaimed Relais & Chateaux properties are destinations unto themselves. Named as the number one resort in the South in the 2024 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, Blackberry Farm infuses wellness, culinary experiences, outdoor adventure, and hospitality into every visit.
Also consider: The Oliver Hotel, Graduate Knoxville, The Tennessean, RT Lodge
BREAKFAST
The Plaid Apron. Chef-owned and operated, this Sequoyah Hills neighborhood institution serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but it’s the lemon ricotta pancakes that brings us back again and again.
Also consider: Wild Love Bakehouse, Paysan, Scrambled Jakes
Coffee
Old City Java. This is the perfect spot to get a latte and a Wild Love croissant before heading off to explore the city on foot.
Also consider: Gourmet’s Market & Cafe, Vienna Coffee
LUNCH
Potchke. Named one of the best Jewish delis in the U.S., Potchke is located in the Regas Building downtown. Offerings include not-your-average Babka (think rose and pistachio), grandma’s matzoh ball soup, and exceptional sandwiches, all of which have earned this establishment a cult following among locals. *Breakfast and lunch only
Also consider: The Tomato Head, Gourmet’s Market & Cafe, The Shrimp Dock
Afternoon Drink
Five Thirty Lounge. Located at the top of the Hyatt Place is a rooftop bar with cozy seating and exceptional views of downtown Knoxville and the Smokies. It’s the perfect perch to rest and recharge after shopping on Gay Street or to grab a pre-theater drink.
Also consider: Alchemy Cigar Lounge, Tern Club
Dinner
A Dopo Pizza. Owned and operated by husband and wife duo, Brian and Jessica Strutz, A Dopo is a nationally recognized pizza institution serving wood-fired sourdough pizza and small-batch gelato. Reservations recommended. *Dinner only
Bistro By The Tracks. Located in nearby Bearden, this local fine dining favorite for intimate dinners is helmed by restaurateur Randy Burleson. From the white tablecloths to the extensive wine list, no detail goes unnoticed at Bistro. *Dinner only
Also consider: J.C. Holdway
What to Do
Knoxville offers an abundance of outdoor activities. Check The Scout Guide Knoxville’s Outdoorsman Guide for where to go and who to contact. If you don’t have time to venture to the national park but still want to get in a hike, there are numerous city trails and hikes that don’t require park access. For where to go and what to do when you get there, consult The Scout Guide Knoxville’s Hikes and Trails Guide.
If exploring the great outdoors isn’t your thing, Knoxville offers lots of culture and great museums to take in while visiting. For a full list of the town’s art offerings, review The Scout Guide Knoxville’s Art Lover’s Guide. If you aren’t here for the outdoors, you must be a Vol fan. Whether in town for a game or scoping out the campus, be sure to check The Scout Guide Knoxville’s Tailgate Like A Local recommendations.
Where to shop
There are three great shopping areas in and around Knoxville. First up, some of Knoxville’s best boutiques line Kingston Pike in Bearden, just west of Downtown. Home to Scouted shops M.S. McClellan, Est8te, Monkee’s of Knoxville, Sweet Pea, and The Happy Envelope. Gay Street in Downtown Knoxville is a hub of East Tennessee culture. Downtown has everything from art galleries to locally owned book shops. Be sure to browse Scouted OP Jenkins, the landmark family-run furniture and design studio encompassing four floors of accessories and furniture. A short drive from downtown, Maryville is a charming town with some of the best local shopping around and a great day trip from Knoxville. Don’t miss a pop into J. Danforth Mercantile and Roost Home, Maryville is a great day trip from Knoxville.
What to pack
Cara Cara Marissa Jacket
M.S.McClellan & Co.
A lightweight jacket is a travel essential. This quilted, cropped number adds the perfect amount of panache to any outfit.
Paige Anessa Pant
Est8te
Casual, comfortable and universally flattering, a pair of relaxed fit pants in succulent green fit the outdoorsy vibes to a tee.
Back 70 Pink Cloud Sneaker
Monkee’s of Knoxville
A fashion-forward sneaker can take you seamlessly from a UT football game to a night out on the town.
Knoxville is definitely a casual outdoorsy town, so you can leave your stilettos at home. If you’re cheering on the Volunteers, you can’t go wrong flaunting the school colors, white and orange.
Know Before You Go
For up-to-date happenings and local events be sure to check the events on The Scout Guide Knoxville website. And it’s usually a good idea to know the Volunteers football schedule, as it impacts lodging and dining significantly.
Insider Guides
Eager for more guidance for your Knoxville Getaway? Peruse the Insider Guides for The Scout Guide Knoxville: The Best Places to Stay in Knoxville, The Best Places to Shop in Knoxville, The Best Places to Eat in Knoxville, and The Best Knoxville Sips. Traveling with kiddos? Check out A Kid-Friendly Cheat Sheet to Knoxville. Fido in tow? Review The Dog Friendly Guide to Knoxville before you go. Love an outdoor patio? Get the scoop for the best spots to enjoy al fresco sips and bites in Knoxville’s Patio Guide.
Follow The Scout Guide Knoxville editor/owner Frances King at thescoutguide.com/knoxville to discover what to do and where to stay, shop, and dine while on your weekend getaway in Knoxville, Tennessee. Businesses in bold are members of The Scout Guide Knoxville.
Feature photo: Blackberry Farm. Photography by Ben Finch.
