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Knoxville

Knoxville, Tennessee, US

Knoxville, nestled in East Tennessee, offers a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Visitors can explore the Great Smoky Mountains, savor local cuisine, and enjoy vibrant arts and music scenes.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/New York

Local Time

08:46 AM

Population

187,500

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

66-88°F (19-31°C) - Hot and humid with occasional rain showers.

Best Time

Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

ATL

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Distance

Estimated 3 hours 12 minutes by car via I-75 S, approximately 215 miles.

Description

As one of the world's busiest airports, ATL offers extensive amenities including dining, shopping, and lounges. It's accessible via I-75 and I-85.

Knoxville, Tennessee, is a vibrant city rich in history and charm, offering visitors a diverse range of activities. Nestled near the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking trails and stunning landscapes. Downtown Knoxville teems with cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and live music venues. Not to be missed is the historic Market Square, with its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants serving Southern culinary delights. Visitors can also explore the iconic Sunsphere and the Knoxville Museum of Art. Whether enjoying nature, culture, or cuisine, Knoxville promises unforgettable experiences.

Knoxville Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Moderate Risk

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of local laws, including those related to alcohol consumption and public behavior.

Crime Rates

Knoxville experiences a moderate level of crime, with property crimes being more prevalent than violent crimes. Visitors should be cautious, especially in certain areas after dark.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities are readily available in Knoxville, with several hospitals and clinics. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

Knoxville is prone to occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes. Travelers should stay informed about weather conditions.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement is visible and generally effective in Knoxville. The Knoxville Police Department is active in community policing efforts.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Knoxville is generally safe, but travelers should remain vigilant, especially during late hours.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers should exercise caution, especially at night, and stay in well-populated areas.

Recent Developments

There have been efforts to improve safety in downtown Knoxville with increased police patrols and community engagement programs.

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Knoxville Monthly Weather Overview

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Best season to visit

Current Conditions ():

Best Time to Visit Knoxville

Summary: The best time to visit Knoxville is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. These months offer mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 24°C (50°F to 75°F) and showcase the city's scenic beauty.

❄️

January

January is cold with average temperatures ranging from 34°F to 50°F (1°C to 10°C). It’s a quieter time without major events.

💘

February

A bit warmer but still chilly, with temperatures between 2°C and 12°C (36°F to 54°F). Ideal for budget travelers.

🌱

March

Best

Spring starts, temperatures rise to 41°F to 61°F (5°C to 16°C) with blooming flowers. A great time for scenic beauty.

🌸

April

Best

Pleasantly warm, great for outdoor activities with temperatures from 48°F to 70°F (9°C to 21°C).

🌷

May

Best

Warm temperatures around 55°F to 79°F (13°C to 26°C). Ideal for festivals and exploring the city.

☀️

June

Hotter with average temperatures between 18°C and 30°C (64°F to 86°F). Start of the summer rush.

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July

The hottest month, with temperatures reaching 68°F to 90°F (20°C to 32°C). Ideal for water activities.

🌞

August

Similar to July, with high temperatures around 66°F to 90°F (19°C to 32°C).

🍂

September

Best

Cooling down with temperatures from 61°F to 82°F (16°C to 28°C). Fall colors start to appear.

🍁

October

Best

Beautiful fall foliage and mild temperatures between 10°C and 22°C (50°F to 72°F).

☔

November

Best

Crisp autumn air and temperatures ranging from 39°F to 61°F (4°C to 16°C).

🎄

December

Cooler winter month with temperatures from 32°F to 52°F (0°C to 11°C). Holiday lights and events in the city.

Seasonal Events in Knoxville

Annually in April

Dogwood Arts Festival

Celebrate spring with art shows, live music, and a parade.

Dogwood Arts

March

Big Ears Festival

A renowned music festival celebrating a global range of artists and genres.

Big Ears Festival

Annually in April

Knoxville Marathon

A scenic marathon through downtown and nearby historic neighborhoods.

Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon

October

Knoxville Brewers' Jam

A craft beer festival with samples from local and national breweries.

Knoxville Brewers' Jam

Popular Foods in Knoxville

Hot Fried Chicken

Spicy fried chicken, a Southern staple known for its crispy exterior and juicy inside.

Goo Goo Clusters

A popular Tennessee candy combining chocolate, caramel, peanuts, and marshmallow nougat.

Barbecue

Tennessee is famed for its smoked meats, with a variety of sauces ranging from tangy to sweet.

Pimento Cheese

Known as the caviar of the South, it's a creamy cheese spread with pimentos and spices.

Biscuits and Gravy

A breakfast favorite featuring flaky biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy.

Closest Airports to Knoxville

Regional Airport

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Located 12 miles from downtown Knoxville, TYS offers convenient parking, rental cars, and essential amenities. It’s easily accessible via Alcoa Highway.

Approximately 20 minutes by car, around 14 miles via US-129 S/Alcoa Hwy.

Arrive early for stress-free check-in. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and consider parking's proximity to terminals for smooth travel.

TYS Website

International Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

As one of the world's busiest airports, ATL offers extensive amenities including dining, shopping, and lounges. It's accessible via I-75 and I-85.

Estimated 3 hours 12 minutes by car via I-75 S, approximately 215 miles.

Plan for busy security lines and use the Plane Train for terminal transfers. Consider using MARTA for easy access to Atlanta city center.

ATL Website

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation

Knoxville is an excellent destination for a family vacation with its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The city also features attractions like the Knoxville Zoo and the Muse Knoxville, an interactive children's museum, making it perfect for families.

Couples Retreat

Knoxville provides a charming and romantic setting for couples looking to escape. Enjoy peaceful riverside strolls along the Tennessee River, romantic dinners in Market Square, and cozy accommodations in historic bed and breakfasts. The city’s blend of natural beauty and urban charm offers a perfect backdrop for a memorable couples retreat.

Cultural Exploration

With its rich history and cultural scene, Knoxville is ideal for cultural explorers. Visit the Museum of East Tennessee History, explore the vibrant arts at the Knoxville Museum of Art, and catch live performances at the historic Tennessee Theatre. The city’s unique blend of history, art, and music makes it a vibrant hub for cultural exploration.

Outdoor Adventure

Knoxville's location near the Great Smoky Mountains makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures. Beyond hiking and biking, visitors can enjoy water sports on the Tennessee River, zip-lining, and rock climbing in Ijams Nature Center. The area’s diverse landscapes cater to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Bachelor Party

Knoxville offers a lively scene perfect for bachelor parties, with its energetic nightlife, breweries on the Knoxville Ale Trail, and adventurous activities like whitewater rafting nearby. The city's combination of entertainment and adventure ensures a fun and unforgettable bachelor party experience.

Custom Language

Y'all

You all

A common Southern way to address a group of people.

Fixin' to

About to

Used to convey the intention to do something soon.

Bless your heart

Sympathy or critique

Expresses sympathy or can be used humorously or sarcastically.

Over yonder

Over there

Indicating a direction or location not close by.

Good ol' boy

Local man

Refers to a male who is friendly and well-liked.

Popular Sports & Teams in Knoxville

Tennessee Volunteers

The Tennessee Volunteers, often referred to as the Vols, represent the University of Tennessee in various sports. The football team, in particular, is very popular and plays its home games at Neyland Stadium.

University of Tennessee Athletics

Knoxville Ice Bears

The Knoxville Ice Bears are a professional ice hockey team based in Knoxville. They play in the Southern Professional Hockey League and have a strong local following.

Knoxville Ice Bears

Tennessee Lady Volunteers Basketball

The women's basketball team of the University of Tennessee, known as the Lady Vols, is one of the most successful in NCAA history with several national championships.

University of Tennessee Athletics

Knoxville Track Club

The Knoxville Track Club is one of the largest running clubs in the nation, promoting running and fitness activities in the Knoxville area.

Knoxville Track Club

Knoxville Rugby Football Club

The Knoxville Rugby Football Club is a local rugby team with a history of participation in regional and national competitions.

Knoxville Rugby Football Club

Unique customs/traditions

Dogwood Trails

In spring, streets and gardens are decorated with blooming dogwood trees.

Homecoming Week

Local schools and the University of Tennessee celebrate with a parade and events.

UT Orange Fridays

Residents show school spirit by wearing orange on Fridays before football games.

Knoxville Farmers Markets

Markets run throughout the week showcasing local produce and crafts.

Big Orange Memories

Sharing stories about past UT games and memorable moments among locals.

Recommended Activities by Group Type

Knoxville Museum of Art

Historical Learning

Museum (1-2 hours)

Families can enjoy exploring art exhibits together, making it a perfect educational outing.

Ijams Nature Center

Nature Walks

Outdoor (Half-day)

This nature center is ideal for families who like to explore the outdoors and learn about nature together.

Zoo Knoxville

Discovering Wildlife

Outdoor (2-3 hours)

A family-friendly outing to observe and learn about a variety of animals from around the world.

Adventure Action Park

Family Fun Center

Amusement Park (Half-day)

A fun-filled place for families that offers several outdoor activities like ziplining and mini-golf.

McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture

Fascinating Displays

Museum (1-2 hours)

Educational displays that cater to families, showcasing art and artifacts from different cultures.

Ticket to travel

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