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Emilie Stooksbury

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7 Reasons to Call Knoxville Home

Knoxville, Tennessee is clearly a fantastic place. We know this. You know this. But perhaps you need to convince your pal to move here. Perhaps you’re trying to win an argument on Facebook (maybe stop though). Perhaps you’re considering a move here and just need that one extra nudge. Whatever the reason, we’re here to tell ya seven (of the literally countless reasons) you should be moving to Knox and ultimately calling East Tennessee home.

1.) The Downtown!

We absolutely adore our sweet little downtown. Her old buildings drip with charm while new businesses supply the hip vibes inside. Though compact and walkable, Knoxville is actually chock full of great eateries, creative makers (did you know one of her nicknames is the Maker City?), and fun festivals and events. Some of our favorite ways to enjoy downtown are:

  • meandering – through Market Square (Farmer’s Market, anyone?) or down the heart of Gay St.
  • sipping – a literary-themed cocktail at Peter Kern Library or a tropical cocktail at Tern Club
  • playing – arcade games at Suttrees Tavern or bowling in a hip basement a la Maple Hall
  • marveling – at the magic being made at Glitterville or Pretentious Glass

The north side of Market Square in Knoxville

2.) The Outdoors!

Downtown is a gem, but Knoxville really shines where the sun does too – outside. Over 100 miles of greenways stretch across the city, making the whole place incredibly accessible to runners, bikers, and adventurers of all kinds. Speaking of adventurers, the Urban Wilderness has acres upon acres of land for you to explore – whether you’re mountain biking, paddle-boarding, or hiking! In the midst of that expanse is Ijams Nature Center in South Knoxville – home of Meads Quarry, canopy adventures, and a helpful Visitor Center to kick off your journey. Not satisfied? There are over 80 other parks to choose from within city limits – not including the Great Smoky Mountains just a skip and a hop away!

3.) The Views!

Speaking of the Great Smoky Mountains, they may have the good stuff (c’mon, who can compete?), but another reason to be excited about moving to Knox are the quality views of her own. Whether you’re taking in the far-off skyline from Sharp’s Ridge, the Tennessee River from the Bluffs in SoKno, or enjoying Knox County’s highest peak after a hike up House Mountain, you’ll quickly appreciate this definite perk of living near mountains. Just remember those Insta-worthy sunrise views are best experienced with good, strong (we’re talkin’ the strongest) coffee.

A group of students view Knoxville from the Bluffs in South Knoxville

FREE Craft Coffee Tasting at Five & Hoek EVERY First Friday from 1-2 PM!

Taste coffees from around the world with Five & Hoek owner, Tyler, every first Friday of the month from 1-2 pm. Learn what you like about certain coffees, how coffees are selected & how quality is maintained from roast to roast & cup to cup.

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