Knoxville, Tennessee, is a charming mid-sized city nestled in the heart of the Appalachian region. Known for its rich history, vibrant downtown, and welcoming atmosphere, Knoxville offers the perfect blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and Southern charm. Whether you’re visiting to catch up with family or explore a new destination, Knoxville provides an ideal backdrop for a weekend getaway. Here’s a detailed guide to our recent trip to this vibrant city, packed with food, drinks, and hidden gems.

Where to Stay: The Oliver Hotel

One of Knoxville’s most unique accommodations, The Oliver Hotel, is a boutique gem located in the renovated 1876 Peter Kern Bakery building. Situated right in Market Square, this 28-room boutique hotel offers easy access to theaters, restaurants, bars, and museums. It’s a convenient and stylish choice for a weekend in Knoxville.

• Pro Tip: Check for special deals. During our stay, we enjoyed a $25 nightly credit per room, redeemable at the hotel’s restaurant or the hidden speakeasy, The Peter Kern Library.

Arrival: A Convenient Gateway

Knoxville is home to Downtown Island Airport, a small general aviation hub right on the Tennessee River. This hidden gem of an airport is just an eight-minute drive into downtown Knoxville, making it a stress-free entry point for visitors arriving by private plane.

Day 1: Sunshine, Cocktails, and Southern Cuisine

Strolling Through Downtown

After checking into The Oliver Hotel, we kicked off our weekend with a leisurely walk around downtown Knoxville. The city’s mix of public art, including the vibrant Charles Krutch Park, and historic architecture provided a picturesque setting to explore.

Hidden Speakeasy: The Peter Kern Library

Our first evening began at The Peter Kern Library, a speakeasy hidden behind a sliding door in The Oliver Hotel lobby. The ambiance was cozy and sophisticated, with dim lighting, plush furnishings, and an impressive cocktail menu.

Our Picks:

• Dora Flood 1945: A classic cocktail with a contemporary twist.

• Old Fashioned 1806: Timeless and expertly balanced.

• Mocktail: A creative non-alcoholic option packed with flavor.

Dinner at Oliver Royale

Next, we dined at the Oliver Royale, the hotel’s onsite restaurant. The menu combined Southern classics with modern twists, offering a variety of standout dishes.

Don’t Miss:

• Short Rib over Mac and Cheese

• Fresh House-Made Biscuits with Whipped Butter and Jam

Day 2: Coffee, Culture, and Culinary Adventures

Morning Fuel: Coffee & Chocolate

We started the day with coffee and sweet treats at Coffee & Chocolate, a locally owned cafe offering handcrafted truffles and expertly brewed espresso drinks.

History and Culture: East Tennessee Historical Society

Our next stop was the East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum, a fascinating destination filled with artifacts and stories from Tennessee’s past, including Davy Crockett’s rifle and exhibits on Dolly Parton.

A Culinary Journey: Flavors of Downtown Food Tour

Food tours are a staple of our travels, and Knoxville’s Flavors of Downtown did not disappoint. Starting at the historic Mast General Store, we visited a variety of local spots to sample Knoxville’s vibrant food scene.

Highlights:

1. Chivo Taqueria: Nachos and street tacos paired with a tequila tasting.

2. Oliver Royale: K-Town Hot Chicken and Grits.

3. Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain: Old-fashioned floats and sundaes in a retro soda fountain.

Afternoon Exploration: Art and Hidden Gems

After the food tour, we explored more of Knoxville’s art scene, including street murals and sculptures scattered throughout the city. We even discovered an underground bowling alley, adding a quirky touch to our day.

Evening Drinks: The Vault

We ended our weekend at The Vault, a cocktail bar located in a former bank. While not a speakeasy, the sophisticated atmosphere and innovative cocktails made it a memorable stop.

Top Picks

• Sun in a Box: An intriguing mix of American single malt, umami orange honey, and turmeric.

• Dirty Martini: Served with house-made brine and poured in front of us for a dramatic presentation.

Why Visit Knoxville?

Knoxville is more than just a stop along I-40. It’s a city with character, charm, and plenty of activities for a weekend getaway. From its boutique accommodations and hidden speakeasies to its rich history and dynamic food scene, Knoxville continues to impress visitors with its welcoming vibe and vibrant culture.

Here are a couple of tours that show a little of what Knoxville has to offer:

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Get your Guide has a great little Knoxville Hidden Secrets and Ice Cream Tours at https://www.getyourguide.com/knoxville-l2778/knoxville-hidden-tour-wice-cream-coffee-secrets-t669400/?partner_id=Z2GUB8L&utm_medium=online_publisher

Viator has a similar tour here: https://www.viator.com/tours/Knoxville/Downtown-Knoxville-Hidden-Tour-w-Ice-Cream-Coffee-and-Tennessee-River-Gems/d32982-356230P1?pid=P00158413&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector