Welcome to Knoxville, Tennessee: The Heart of the Smokies
Nestled in the rolling green hills of East Tennessee, the city of Knoxville blends rich history and vibrant culture with stunning natural beauty. Known for its charming downtown, friendly locals, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers visitors a perfect mix of southern hospitality and adventurous spirit. The Great Smoky Mountains are renowned throughout the whole of the United States for their breath-taking beauty and rich biodiversity. This national park, part of the Appalachian range, offers visitors stunning views, lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. With over 19,000 documented species of living organisms, the forests are a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Hiking, camping, and breathtaking scenic drives are popular ways to explore the area, with trails like Alum Cave and Clingmans Dome offering memorable experiences. The Smokies' misty mountains, particularly in the morning, create a magical atmosphere, making it one of the most visited national parks in the United States. With McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) just a short drive from downtown Knoxville, the best way to experience Knoxville is by hire car. Once you’ve hauled your luggage from the carousel, you’ll be greeted with the signature warmth of Tennessee hospitality. This well-equipped airport is your gateway to the region, offering easy access to Knoxville’s downtown and surrounding attractions. From here, hire a car and start your journey through the beautiful Smoky Mountains, or cruise down scenic highways that will take you through charming small towns and lush, green hills.
McGhee Tyson Airport connects Knoxville with major cities across the U.S. and international destinations. Flights arrive daily from cities like Atlanta in the State of Georgia, the historic city of Charlotte in scenic North Carolina, the lake-side city of Chicago in the State of Illinois, and the buzzing east coast city New York City, with international flights connecting through hubs like UK capital city London and Toronto in central Canada. For a better range of international connections, consider Nashville International Airport (BNA) around 289 kilometres (180 miles) west of Knoxville. Nashville offers more international flight options, including destinations in Europe, Mexico, and the palm-scattered isles of the Caribbean region. Another option is Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) about 257 kilometres (160 miles) east of Knoxville, which serves numerous international routes, including to Europe, South America, and Asia. Once you pick up your hire car - wherever you fly in to - you’ll be ready to explore this quintessential southern city. Knoxville is easy to navigate, with picturesque streets and scenic drives that will lead you to some of the most stunning landscapes in the State of Tennessee and the whole of the south-eastern United States. Whether you’re here to explore the outdoors, dive into history, or just enjoy the charm of this Appalachian gem, Knoxville is a city that truly feels like home.
Driving Knoxville
Knoxville’s downtown district is a delightful mix of historic buildings, funky boutiques, local restaurants, and lively music venues. Driving into the heart of the city, you’ll pass by Market Square, the city’s iconic gathering spot, where locals and visitors alike shop, dine, and enjoy outdoor performances. Stop for a coffee at one of the many cozy cafés or browse the farmers' market for regional produce and handmade goods. Don’t miss the Tennessee Theatre, an elegant 1920s-era venue that hosts everything from Broadway shows to live concerts. A few blocks away, the Old City district offers a taste of Knoxville’s nightlife, with trendy bars, upscale dining, and art galleries. Your hire car gives you the flexibility to explore both the lively and laid-back sides of the city.
Keen to explore further afield? No visit to Knoxville is complete without a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, not far from the city. The park is a nature lover’s paradise, offering over 500,000 acres of trails, waterfalls, and breath-taking mountain views. With your hire car, you can head straight to one of the park’s popular entry points, such as the Cherokee Orchard Road entrance, where you’ll find scenic drives and easy access to hiking trails suitable for all levels. Drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a one-way loop road that offers views of historic log cabins, clear mountain streams, and vibrant wildflowers. For a truly awe-inspiring experience, head up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, where you can walk along a paved trail to an observation tower with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. While the Smoky Mountains may be the main attraction, Knoxville offers a wealth of hidden gems that are worth exploring with your hire car. Drive through the charming neighbourhoods of Sequoyah Hills and Fort Sanders, where you’ll find beautiful homes and tree-lined streets. Or, head to the University of Tennessee campus, where you can visit the Knoxville Museum of Art and stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk, a scenic path that offers picturesque views of the river and the city skyline. If you’re a history buff, make sure to check out the Blount Mansion, one of the oldest buildings in Knoxville, and the East Tennessee History Center, where you can learn about the region’s role in the Civil War and the founding of the city.
To experience the full beauty of East Tennessee, take a scenic drive through its countryside - head south from Knoxville to explore the charming town of Gatlinburg, or drive north to explore the serene waters of Norris Lake or the picturesque town of Oak Ridge. For a unique experience, take a drive to the historic town of Maryville, known for its Civil War-era buildings and nearby outdoor attractions like the Cades Cove Loop Road. Along the way, you’ll encounter lush forests, rolling hills, and sweeping vistas that make East Tennessee such a special destination. When you hire a car at McGhee Tyson Airport, you’ll find a range of vehicles to suit your needs. If you plan on sticking to downtown Knoxville or making shorter trips to nearby attractions, a compact or economy car is ideal for navigating the city streets and finding parking. For those venturing into the Great Smoky Mountains or embarking on scenic drives, consider renting an SUV or a 4x4.
Driving into the Great Smoky Mountains? Be prepared for winding mountain roads. While these routes are scenic, they can be narrow and steep in places, so take your time and enjoy the views. In Knoxville itself, check out the Rhythm N’ Blooms music festival in spring. For great local food, the Knoxville Food Truck Park serves everything from gourmet tacos to Southern barbecue. Soooo good!
Knoxville, Tennessee
Population: Approximately 190,000
Annual Visitor Figures: Over 12 million (international & domestic)
Average Summer Temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
Average Winter Temperatures: 5°C (41°F)
Time Zone: GMT -5 (EST), GMT -4 (Daylight Saving Time)
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