Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee, is a vibrant and historic area that serves as the central business district and cultural hub of the city. The definition of downtown Knoxville can vary depending on the context, but it generally refers to the area bounded by the Tennessee River to the south, the railroad tracks to the north, and the James White Parkway to the east and west. In this article, we will explore the different neighborhoods and districts that make up downtown Knoxville, as well as the attractions, amenities, and activities that can be found in the area.
Neighborhoods and Districts of Downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville is comprised of several distinct neighborhoods and districts, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most notable neighborhoods and districts in downtown Knoxville include:
The Central Business District
The Central Business District is the heart of downtown Knoxville, and is home to many of the city’s major office buildings, banks, and government institutions. This area is also where you will find the Knoxville City County Building, the Knox County Courthouse, and the Tennessee Theatre.
The Old City
The Old City is a historic neighborhood located just north of the Central Business District. This area is known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and restaurants, as well as its vibrant nightlife scene. The Old City is also home to the Knoxville Museum of Art and the East Tennessee History Center.
The World’s Fair Park
The World’s Fair Park is a 186-acre park located on the south side of downtown Knoxville. This park was built for the 1982 World’s Fair, and features several attractions, including the Sunsphere, the Tennessee Amphitheater, and the Knoxville Convention Center.
The South Waterfront
The South Waterfront is a rapidly developing area located along the Tennessee River. This area is home to several new residential developments, as well as a number of restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the Tennessee Riverwalk and the Volunteer Landing Marina.
Attractions and Amenities in Downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville is home to a wide range of attractions and amenities, including:
Arts and Culture
Downtown Knoxville is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues. Some of the most notable attractions include:
- The Knoxville Museum of Art
- The East Tennessee History Center
- The Tennessee Theatre
- The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
Restaurants and Nightlife
Downtown Knoxville is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include:
- The Old City
- Market Square
- Gay Street
- The World’s Fair Park
Shopping
Downtown Knoxville is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques, including:
- The Old City
- Market Square
- Gay Street
- The Knoxville Convention Center
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Downtown Knoxville is surrounded by several parks and outdoor spaces, including:
- The World’s Fair Park
- The Tennessee Riverwalk
- Volunteer Landing Marina
- Krutch Park
Things to Do in Downtown Knoxville
There are plenty of things to do in downtown Knoxville, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Take a Walking Tour
Downtown Knoxville is a great place to explore on foot, with numerous historic buildings, landmarks, and public art installations to discover. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the area, or join a guided tour to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
Visit the Market Square
Market Square is a vibrant public space located in the heart of downtown Knoxville. This area is home to numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, farmers’ markets, and holiday celebrations.
Explore the World’s Fair Park
The World’s Fair Park is a must-visit attraction in downtown Knoxville, with its stunning views of the Tennessee River and the Sunsphere. You can also explore the Tennessee Amphitheater, the Knoxville Convention Center, and the numerous public art installations throughout the park.
Take a Stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk
The Tennessee Riverwalk is a 13-mile walking and biking path that runs along the Tennessee River. This path offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape, as well as access to several parks and public spaces.
Getting Around Downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville is relatively easy to get around, with numerous transportation options available. Here are a few ways to get around the area:
Walking
Downtown Knoxville is a great place to explore on foot, with numerous sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Driving
There are several parking garages and lots located throughout downtown Knoxville, making it easy to drive and park in the area.
Public Transportation
The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system offers several bus routes that serve downtown Knoxville, making it easy to get around the area without a car.
Biking
Downtown Knoxville is also bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and bike-share programs available.
Living in Downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville is a great place to live, with numerous residential developments and neighborhoods to choose from. Here are a few things to consider when thinking about living in downtown Knoxville:
Neighborhoods
Downtown Knoxville is home to several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include:
- The Old City
- The Central Business District
- The South Waterfront
Housing Options
There are numerous housing options available in downtown Knoxville, ranging from apartments and condos to single-family homes and townhouses.
Amenities
Downtown Knoxville is home to numerous amenities, including restaurants, shops, parks, and cultural attractions.
Conclusion
Downtown Knoxville is a vibrant and historic area that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its numerous attractions and amenities, downtown Knoxville is a great place to visit, live, and work. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s many neighborhoods and districts, visiting its numerous attractions, or simply enjoying the area’s vibrant nightlife scene, downtown Knoxville is a must-see destination in eastern Tennessee.
What is considered Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville is generally defined as the central business district of Knoxville, Tennessee. It is the area where the city’s main streets, Gay Street and Market Square, intersect. This area is home to many of the city’s major attractions, including the Tennessee Theatre, the Knoxville Museum of Art, and the World’s Fair Park.
The boundaries of Downtown Knoxville are not strictly defined, but it is generally considered to be the area bounded by the Tennessee River to the south, the railroad tracks to the north, and the James White Parkway to the east and west. However, some definitions may include surrounding neighborhoods, such as the Old City and the Fort Sanders neighborhood.
What are the main attractions in Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville is home to many popular attractions, including the Tennessee Theatre, a historic theater that hosts a variety of performances and events. The Knoxville Museum of Art is also located in the downtown area, and features a collection of American art from the 19th century to the present. Additionally, the World’s Fair Park, which was built for the 1982 World’s Fair, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Other popular attractions in Downtown Knoxville include the Market Square, a public square that hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, and the Gay Street Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that offers stunning views of the Tennessee River. The downtown area is also home to many shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to spend an evening out.
What is the history of Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville has a rich and varied history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was first settled in the 1790s, and quickly grew into a thriving commercial center. During the Civil War, Knoxville was a key location for the Union army, and many of the city’s historic buildings date back to this time period.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Downtown Knoxville underwent significant development, with the construction of many of the city’s iconic buildings, including the Tennessee Theatre and the Knoxville Post Office. However, like many downtown areas, Knoxville’s suffered from decline in the mid-20th century, as many businesses and residents moved to the suburbs. In recent years, however, the area has undergone significant revitalization efforts, and is once again a thriving and vibrant part of the city.
How do I get to Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the area. The city is also served by a public transportation system, including buses and a downtown trolley. Additionally, the city has a number of parking garages and lots, making it easy to find a place to park.
For those who prefer not to drive, Downtown Knoxville is also highly walkable, with many of the city’s main attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city also has a number of bike lanes and pedestrian paths, making it easy to get around without a car. Additionally, the city offers a number of alternative transportation options, including ride-sharing services and taxis.
What are the best restaurants in Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville is home to a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from fine dining establishments to casual eateries. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include The Orangery, a fine dining restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine, and The Tomato Head, a casual restaurant that serves creative sandwiches and salads.
Other popular restaurants in Downtown Knoxville include Old City Java, a coffee shop that serves a variety of coffee drinks and light bites, and Lonesome Dove Knoxville, a restaurant that serves creative American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The downtown area is also home to a number of bars and pubs, including the Peter Kern Library, a speakeasy-style bar that serves craft cocktails.
What are the best hotels in Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville is home to a number of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. Some of the most popular hotels in the area include the Tennessean Hotel, a luxury hotel that offers stunning views of the city, and the Hilton Knoxville, a modern hotel that features a rooftop bar and restaurant.
Other popular hotels in Downtown Knoxville include the Hyatt Place Knoxville/Downtown, a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a free breakfast buffet, and the Residence Inn Knoxville Downtown, a hotel that offers spacious suites with kitchenettes. The downtown area is also home to a number of bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals, offering a range of options for visitors.
What events are held in Downtown Knoxville?
Downtown Knoxville hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, ranging from festivals and concerts to sporting events and cultural celebrations. Some of the most popular events in the area include the Knoxville Jazz & Blues Festival, a festival that features live music performances, and the Knoxville Film Festival, a festival that showcases independent films.
Other popular events in Downtown Knoxville include the Tennessee Valley Fair, a fair that features live music, food vendors, and carnival rides, and the Knoxville Christmas Parade, a parade that features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. The downtown area is also home to a number of cultural events, including the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the Tennessee Theatre’s Broadway series.