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3-Day Cultural and Outdoor Adventure in Knoxville, Tennessee

Viewed by 108 travelers

Day 1: Downtown Discovery

Knoxville, Tennessee, USA on July 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pete's Coffee Shop

Start your day with a hearty Southern-style breakfast at this beloved local diner, famous for its biscuits and strong coffee.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Knoxville Museum of Art

Experience a mix of contemporary and regional art exhibitions showcasing East Tennessee’s cultural heritage. Opens at 10:00am, perfect for a morning visit.
USD10, 1h30m

11:15am

Stroll Market Square

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Market Square with its boutiques, street performers, and cafes. Great spot to enjoy the city vibe.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Tomato Head

Delight in fresh, creative pizzas and sandwiches with vegetarian options, located conveniently in Market Square.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Tennessee Theatre

Tour this historic 1928 movie palace and catch a matinee showing or simply admire the stunning architecture.
USD15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore the Sunsphere & World's Fair Park

Walk around the iconic Sunsphere from the 1982 World's Fair and enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck. Park closes at 8:00pm.
USD5, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Calhoun’s on the River

Dine on delicious BBQ and southern cuisine with a beautiful view of the Tennessee River, ideal for an authentic Knoxville evening.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Riverfront and Historic Sites

Knoxville, Tennessee, USA on July 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Good Golly Miss Holly

Enjoy a comforting breakfast with southern staples and homemade biscuits to fuel up for the day.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Guided Walking Tour of Historic Old City

Discover Knoxville’s historic district, known for its 19th-century architecture and vibrant past with local guides providing fascinating stories. Tours start at 10:00am.
USD12, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Blount Mansion

Explore the home of William Blount, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, for insight into early American history. Open 10:00am - 4:00pm.
USD7, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Stock & Barrel

Savor gourmet burgers and craft cocktails at this popular downtown spot with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Kayaking on the Tennessee River

Rent a kayak and enjoy 2 hours paddling down the scenic Tennessee River, experiencing nature right in the city’s backyard. Rentals open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
USD30, 2h0m

4:30pm

Relax at World's Fair Park

Unwind by the fountains and green spaces at World's Fair Park, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Plaid Apron

Indulge in upscale Southern-inspired cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients in a cozy setting.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Nature and Arts

Knoxville, Tennessee, USA on July 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at First Watch

Enjoy fresh, healthy breakfast options and specialty coffee to start your morning in South Knoxville.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Ijams Nature Center

Discover hiking trails, wildlife, and beautiful nature exhibits at this 300-acre urban nature park, open 8:00am - 7:00pm.
Donation Suggested, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Becky's Lunchbox

Savor inventive sandwiches and salads using local ingredients at this creative eatery near Ijams Nature Center.
USD18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum

Stroll through peaceful gardens featuring a variety of plants and themed areas, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Open until 5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore the Museum of Appalachia

Learn about Appalachian history and culture through folk art and exhibits in this immersive museum, open 10:00am - 5:00pm.
USD12, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Tupelo Honey

Enjoy creative Southern dishes with a modern twist at this popular restaurant in South Knoxville, known for its warm ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m
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