Gay Street in Knoxville is not only a historical place for the city but also for the state of Tennessee. It served as the site for the 1796 Constitutional Convention that led to the state’s founding. Today, it’s a thriving place for residents and visitors alike to enjoy. Here are five things to do on Gay Street in Knoxville. For more ideas on how to enjoy the city, check out our favorite downtown Knoxville places to visit today!
Attend a Performance
Gay Street is home to two historic theaters, the Bijou Theater and the Tennessee Theater. The Bijou opened in 1909 as the Lamar Hotel. It served as a traditional theater, vaudeville theater, and movie house. Since being renovated and reopening in 2006 as a performance venue, the Bijou hosts live music performances and theater events.
The Tennessee Theatre opened in 1928 as a movie theatre. It operated that way until the 1970s when multiplexes became fashionable. A 1996 restoration made the theatre a great place to go for live performances.
Find Unique Art
The 100 block of Gay Street features a series of art galleries including the Art Market Gallery. The gallery features regional artists who create pieces in a variety of mediums. Every piece is original and unique.
The Emporium Center for Arts & Culture is another place where art and performances happen. It offers people the opportunity to view art exhibitions and take a self-guided tour with free admission.
Go to a Live Radio Show
Gay Street is known for its history, including early live-audience radio. Country music stars like Roy Acuff, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers appeared on one of these shows. Live radio performances happen every Monday through Saturday on the popular Blue Plate Special, which is a free show featuring a variety of music from folk and country to international.
Try Your Hand at Bowling
Maple Hall Bowling is a popular stop with visitors to Gay Street. It’s located in the historic J.C. Penney building. The 11-lane alley has all the bowling fun anyone could ever want. It’s also an excellent place to hang out with friends. Maple Hall has a full-service bar and small plates. Places to lounge are available, and there’s also a stage for live performances. Maple Hall is a full-service bowling experience that is also available for any type of private party.
Experience History
The East Tennessee History Center is just across the street from the Tennessee Theatre. It features interactive exhibits designed to help teach people about Knoxville. Visitors not only see historical artifacts, but they also hear first-person accounts of historical events as they unfolded.
In addition to housing history in Knoxville, the East Tennessee History Center also holds a research library and genealogy magazine. Visitors who come here to experience history end up leaving with more information about their own.
Gay Street is full of eclectic experiences, performances, shopping, and of course places to eat. It is unique in that it is a place of historical significance with so many cultural things to do just within blocks of one another. It is worth taking the time to go to Gay Street on a trip to Knoxville to experience both fun and culture.
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