“So it’s a choice between Disney World and Knoxville”. “Knoxville, Knoxville, Knoxville!” Bart Simpson and his friends all cheer in a 1996 episode of The Simpsons. An old guidebook found in their car’s glove compartment promised a spectacular World’s Fair; the group unfortunately showed up 14 years too late. Instead, what they find is a desolate city where the once impressive 75-foot gold sphere, the Sunsphere, has turned into storage for wigs. Though you sadly cannot purchase wigs in our Sunsphere, I hope I can provide you with a few alternatives that may suffice.
Like in the episode, Knoxville, Tennessee, is not what it was 15 years ago. As of 2026, the city is predicted to be America’s top city for relocation. And with that, the culture is completely transforming. In some ways, this has been exciting as it broadens progressiveness and options; on the other hand, prices are rising, and pushing out local businesses and longtime residents essential to the city’s charm and character. The general consensus of Knoxville from outsiders always seems to be positive; my reservations are likely a result of hometown syndrome. I’ve gone through periods of loving and hating this city, seen its controversial transformations, and trash-talked it every which way but loose; but I’ve lived here for nearly 19 years of my life, so I feel pretty confident to act as your tour guide to the everchanging and growing Scruffy City.
Despite being home to almost a million residents, Knoxville’s downtown is relatively quaint. This is where I suggest you start to delve into the city’s charm. Take a stroll through Market Square and Gay Street to see iconic sites such as the Tennessee Theatre, and peruse shops like Earth to Old City and Mast General Store. While they can be a bit camp and Southern, you might just find some quirky souvenirs to bring home. If you can swing it, stop by on the first Friday of any month to experience the abundant local art scene. Almost every gallery, restaurant, and shop has an art show in the evening where you will be able to score one-of-a-kind pieces. I’d also recommend making a quick stop at the East Tennessee Historical Society to see artefacts from the Civil War to country music. The museum is a perfect place to learn about this unique part of the South with its pro-Union and women’s suffrage stances. There are also a few fabulous dining options around the area. Bistro at the Bijou has been around since the 1980s and is next to a theatre that’s been around since the 1900s, making its ambiance unmatched. Get the fried Brussels sprouts, and thank me later.
As for pizza that rivals Italy, Adopo is an absolute must. In the back, you’ll find a massive wood-fired oven and a ten-year-old sourdough starter. Combined with fresh ingredients, you are in for some of the best pizza of your life. On the other side of the Tennessee River, you’ll find Angry Dumplings Tea, a relatively new addition to the area. The kind and passionate owner serves tasty dumplings, boba tea, and chilli oil all at a reasonable price.
Journeying west is imperative to explore the city’s massive thrift stores and noteworthy restaurants. If you are into hunting for second-hand treasure, Ladies of Charity, McKays, AMVETS, and any Goodwill or KARM store are the best places to start. All are giant and are almost guaranteed to have something for everyone; my closet at this point is just a composite of my finds from these stores. However, for new treasures, check out the family-owned Aimee’s Bohemian for friendly smiles and beautiful hippie-ish jewelry and clothing. The real reason I propose going west is truthfully all about the food. Almost any local would recommend Sticky Rice Cafe, which serves insanely good Laotian cuisine. Over my almost 10 years as a patron, I have never left without ordering the Kow Poon. It’s Grandma’s recipe, and the spice will probably make you cry, but tears of happiness, don’t worry. As of last year, the Jewish deli, Potchke, received a Michelin Recommendation and opened a second location specifically for bagels. Potchke Bagel is genuinely phenomenal and I argue it’s a must visit. However, it is THE spot in K-Town right now, so be prepared to wait for your warm and delectable bagel sandwich. No trip is complete without a visit to Calhoun’s, a place that is nostalgic for all who grew up here. It’s your classic Southern, American, and BBQ joint, but it’s iconic and has a bread basket that features biscuits, apple muffins, and garlic rolls; so what more could you ask for?
The Great Smoky Mountains, one of the most visited spots in the United States, is about 45 minutes from Knoxville’s Downtown. The Smokies are no doubt gorgeous, with their magnificent nature and wildlife, making it well worth the trek. On your way, you’re likely to pass Buc-ee’s, which has become an international phenomenon due to its colossal size and inherent “Americanness”. While it is silly and always packed, it’s quite an interesting cultural experience. Make sure you don’t leave without purchasing insufferable beaver merch and a brisket sandwich. While the towns surrounding the Smokies, like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, boast loads of tourism, I’d advise skipping them unless you are into gimmicky mini golf and a $30 rip-off Jurassic Park ride that, yes, is only four minutes. Although some might label Dolly Parton’s Dollywood as gimmicky as well, I’ll be honest, it’s a fun time with the perk of world-renowned warm cinnamon bread. I always try to explain Dollywood to my friends as a “hillbilly-themed amusement park” – but in a good way, I promise. The truth is, the best part of the Smokies is the mountains; there is something truly special about being completely immersed in the landscape. My favourite hikes within its ancient landscape are Mount Le Conte and Gregory Bald, which are both tough but incredibly rewarding. At the top of Le Conte is a 100-year-old lodge that is only accessible by foot. If you book in advance, you might be able to secure a spot to stay the night. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays on the Trillium Gap Trail, you can catch a glimpse of the hardworking llamas who carry up supplies to the lodge.
The hike up to Gregory Bald will also definitely knock the wind out of you, but once you summit, you forget about your struggles. At the top, there is a large grassy meadow, and if you are hiking in June or July, the azaleas will be blooming bright orange. Being up there at the top is quite the magical experience for its tranquillity and serene views of both Tennessee and North Carolina.
In 1972, the Grateful Dead first sang, “Tennessee, Tennessee. There ain’t no place I’d rather be. Baby, won’t you carry me? Back to Tennessee?” The lyrics ring true to any homesick Tennessean or Deadhead. Even though I spent most of my life trying to leave, these words still call out to me; moving away has opened a newfound appreciation for the state’s mysticism, beauty, and quirks. It’s a weird spot, no doubt. However, with so much change happening, I’d advocate to “Keep Knoxville Weird!” So be like Bart, go on, choose us over a $10,000 Disney World trip. Let’s just hope you leave with more enjoyment and fewer wigs than he did.
