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Explore local culture in Knoxville, TN, and Alcoa, TN, in the heart of the Tennessee Valley in a fuel-efficient Toyota Prius or spacious Camry. Stroll through historic downtown, admire the city’s many murals, cruise on a paddlewheel riverboat down the Tennessee River, and dine on authentic Tennessee-style cuisine.
1. Stroll through Historic Market Square
Start your cultural journey in downtown Knoxville’s historic Market Square, nestled between Union and Wall Avenue in the heart of the city. It’s here where local farmers, bakers, and makers gather for the Market Square Farmers’ Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and some of the city’s most popular events and concerts take place, including First Night Knoxville, Shakespeare on the Square, and the Dogwood Arts Festival.
Stroll down the historic streets, pop in at the many stores and unique shops, and order a cuppa Joe from one of the coffee shops to sip while you walk along the walkways through the beautiful gardens in Krutch Park.
2. Admire the Murals and Street Art
As you explore downtown on foot, you’ll notice an array of vibrant murals and street art created by Knoxville’s talented local artists. When you pop in at the Visitor’s Center at 301 South Gay Street, you’ll see Postcards from Knoxville on the side of the building. Look for the striking portrait of Dolly Parton, who hails from nearby down Strong Alley, also known as Graffiti Alley, sandwiched between Strong Street and Gay Street.
Many other murals are scattered throughout the city, including Fireflies alongside the pedestrian walkway on Clinch Avenue, Tennessee River Buddies, an 11-panel mural on Volunteer Landing Lane, and the Riverbank Mural along the Ten Mile Greenway.
3. Embark on a Paddlewheel Riverboat Cruise
Board the Star of Knoxville, an authentic paddle-wheeler at 300 Neyland Drive in Knoxville, for a sightseeing cruise down the Tennessee River with the Tennessee Riverboat Company. The elegant dinner cruise offers a delicious slow-roasted prime rib buffet and dancing to country music tunes played by the area’s best local musicians.
4. Enjoy a Taste of Tennessee
Experience genuine Tennessee cuisine on the deck overlooking the Tennessee River at Calhoun’s on the River, one of the city’s favorite barbecue gathering places since 1988, at 400 Neyland Drive on Knoxville’s historic waterfront. Drop by Sweet P’s Barbeque and Downtown Dive at 410 West Avenue, a popular joint known for its mouthwatering, smoky-sweet pulled pork and smoked meatloaf served with classics like cornbread and collard greens.
For a truly authentic soul food experience, head to Jackie’s Dream at 1008 East Woodland Avenue. Owner Jackie Griffin serves all the dishes she grew up with, from Nanny Mary’s Fried Green Tomatoes to Auntie Mamie’s Candied Yams, all made from family recipes.
Explore the rich culture of the Tennessee Valley sightseeing along Knoxville’s vibrant streets. While you’re in the area, stop at Rick McGill’s Airport Toyota to check out the great new models on display.
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