by Emily Stooks | Jun 29, 2022 | All Articles, Emilie Stooksbury, Holidays
FIRST THINGS FIRST: I now have multiple friends who think of me when they eat hot dogs. Y’all, I can’t stress this enough: I. Love. Hot. Dogs. And there’s not a holiday out there that celebrates the hot dog like the 4th of July. If you’re new to Knoxville or just looking for some fun ways to spend the holiday, here are a few fun ways to spend the Fourth of July in Knoxville, Tennessee! (And yes, some even include hot dogs, y’all. *drool*)
1.) FROM THE WATER:
If you’re new to the city and still on the hunt for a boat friend (because c’mon, everyone needs a boat friend), the Star of Knoxville has you covered. This riverboat is not only painted thematically, they serve up a meal, provide entertainment, and (most importantly) give you a rad view of the Scruffy City a la the Tennessee River. The boat will be back at the dock by 9pm BUT you can stay onboard to watch the fireworks show from the deck! Click here to snag tickets.
2.) TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD:
Another unique way to see the fireworks is by hikin’ up to the top of the world. And by “hiking” we mean taking an elevator and by “top of the world” we mean any of downtown Knoxville’s rooftop bars. Is the Five Thirty Lounge also serving up a flight of mini hot dogs? Yes, yes they are. (You have my heart, Five Thirty Lounge *wipes tear*)
3.) FROM THE SUN:
This is the first year we’ve heard about this. Our jaws are still on the floor so we figured it’d be easiest to write it down 😉
THIS YEAR, YOU CAN WATCH FIREWORKS FROM INSIDE THE SUNSPHERE. Yes, you read that right. AND you get to pick the floor that sounds best to you. The top floor ( 8th) will have drinks, appetizers, an ice cream bar, and a DJ. On the 6th floor, there will be live music, drinks, a slider and hot dog bar (!!!!!!) and another ice cream bar. The best part (besides, potentially, AC) is that the fireworks show will basically be right next to your face. Snag your tickets here!
4.) TO THE WORLD:
World’s Fair Park, that is. This is the main event, folks! If you’re lookin’ for a good ole fashioned (and free!) fireworks show and 4th of July festival in Knoxville, you need to get your cutie booty down to World’s Fair Park! There will be vendors, activities, and live music all evening. As the sun goes down, the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra will take the stage – paving the way for an amazing fireworks show at 9:35pm. Find details here!
by Emily Stooks | Jun 19, 2022 | All Articles, Blake Trent, East Knoxville, Lifestyle
Over in East Knoxville (at 2340 E. Magnolia Avenue to be specific) lies The Bottom – a magical place where you can listen to book talks, join in on discussions, celebrate community, or even find a book of your own. It was founded by Dr. Enkeshi El-Amin, a local sociologist studying race, place, and Black Communities. Speaking of those communities, The Bottom was named after a Black neighborhood in East Knoxville – a neighborhood that isn’t listed over at on our Neighborhoods page because it was completely demolished in the 1950s by urban renewal and institutionalized racism.
Rooted in community interviews and archival research, El-Amin’s work uncovered a resounding feeling of displacement and loss of space that spanned all the way from Knoxville’s black elders to the youth. She found that urban removal (while technically ended in 1974) was still very real for the people living in its remnants.
But Dr. El-Amin wanted to do more than just conduct a study. She wanted to make an impact. That desire became reality via an unassuming house on 2340 East Magnolia Avenue. It’s now the site of The Bottom Knox, a nonprofit community and organization space located right in the historic neighborhood it’s named after.
The Bottom Knox is a place where El-Amin, the founder, hopes Black people will feel comfortable in their own skin. It always included the healing stories of those who specifically lived and grew up in East Knoxville.
It’s open to any and all visitors who want to be part of an inspiring community-building effort (homegrown right here in Knoxville) though.There are plenty of events occurring every month that include volunteer opportunities, guest speakers, study groups, a merch shop (with one of the coolest shirts I’ve seen pictured below), and local art exhibitions. The space also includes an art studio offering workshops, quilting lessons, and the “Sew It Sell It” program, which teaches children how to sew and sell products. There’s even a brand new tea room! Patrons can sip on unique teas and discuss the various cultures that make up our great city of Knoxville. The profits go directly to the many endeavors The Bottom participates in to build community and help local Knoxvillians.
The bookstore is my personal favorite part of The Bottom. It has a curated selection of Black authors. It directly supports the impact that Dr. El-Amin is striving towards. It’s open for you to come and browse every Tuesday through Saturday from 11am-6pm. AND while the selection is curated, The Bottom will special order a book for you – just ask!
Find your new summer read, have a good conversation, and be a part of something bigger – starting at The Bottom.
by Emily Stooks | May 27, 2022 | All Articles, Emilie Stooksbury, Entertainment, North Knoxville, West Knoxville
You are very cool and fun. We can just tell. When someone (such as yourself) is very cool and fun, people will inevitably want to visit Knoxville to hang with you. When people inevitably visit, they will probably want to do more than watch Netflix and eat food (I mean, maybe not much more… but still.) We’re here to help! Here are some things to do in Knoxville when family comes to town (and for every kind of visitor!):
1. FOR THE ART APPRECIATOR
Have family visiting? Make sure you hit World’s Fair Park! Start off your excursion by browsing through all the displays at the art museum. The museum is free – which means no one can judge you for splurging at the gift shop!
In the warmer months, reward younger family members for sitting through an art museum by going to the splash pad and playing in the water! Then cap the whole experience off by taking the elevator up to the observation deck of the Sunsphere for a beautiful view of East Tennessee. If you ask us, that view is the best art yet.
2. FOR THE HISTORY BUFFS
Knoxville is full of rich history, and you don’t have to go far to find it! Book a Knoxville Walking Tour (like this haunted one!). Or head to the East Tennessee History Museum for an overview, and then enjoy tours of historic places like the Blount Mansion, James White Fort, and the Mabry Hazen House.
Are you entertaining a large crowd? Go on Sunday when admission to the history museum is free!
one of the views from House Mountain
3. FOR THE FIRST TIMER
There are certain things you simply have to do when visiting East Tennessee for the first time. It’s a bit of a drive, but if any new visitors come into town, you must take them up to the mountains at least once! The Smoky Mountain National Park is consistently the most visited national park for good reason. Enjoy a drive through the mountains, go for a hike, and snap some pictures. Then head into Gatlinburg for a moonshine tasting or hit up Dollywood for some roller coasters! If you’re a hair short on time but still want a solid hike with a killer view, House Mountain is the tallest peak in Knox County & just about a thirty minute drive from Downtown Knoxville!
Once you’re home, head to Market Square for dinner. Not to be dramatic, but our darling square is ✨always✨ a hit when people experience Knoxville for the first time.
4. FOR THE FOODIE
Knoxville is full of delicious eateries. If parents are only in town for a few days, there’s absolutely no way to hit all the best ones. BUT you know we’ll still do our best 😂 Book a Knoxville Food Tour to hit a bunch in one swoop!
5. FOR THE BEER LOVER
Have a beer drinker in your midst? Grab the 21+ visitors and head over to North Knoxville. Within an easy half mile walk of each other, you can hit Crafty Bastard Brewery, Xul Beer Co, Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus for some ciders, Next Level Brewing, Yee-Haw Brewing, and Schulz Brau Brewing with their dreeeamy German Biergarten. Each brewery brings something totally unique to the neighborhood so if you ask us, you gotta try ’em all! 😉
6. FOR THE SPORTY SPICE
Knoxville is known far and wide as the home of the UT Vols, but there’s more where that came from! Starting in 2025, you can head right to downtown Knoxville to catch three different minor league teams. The Smokies minor league baseball team is opening a brand new stadium on the east side of downtown. You’ll obvi be able to catch a baseball game there but rumor has it Knoxville’s minor league soccer team (One Knox SC) is setting up shop there as well! Last but not least, you can catch a minor league hockey game at the Coliseum a la the Ice Bears. Just past the Ice Bears stadium is the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame – open year round and great for all ages!
7. FOR THE SHOPPER
Money doesn’t count when you’re on vacation (right?😬😂) so we love to shop during our travels – and your visitors are probably no different!
Mast General has stuff for the whole family to enjoy (my mother does not come to Knoxville without hitting Mast), the old fashioned toys at Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain are definitely a hit (though it’s imperative you also stick around for a larger than life sundae), Glitterville is an actual sparkly wonderland, and places like Rala highlight local artists and makers. If you want to watch those makers in action, head to Pretentious Glass – they make their pieces on site, so you just might catch them in action if you stop by!
8. FOR THE MUSIC LOVER
It doesn’t matter what day it is – if you’re in Knoxville, TN you can treat your visitors to some live music. (Seriously. We have 7 Days of Live Music listed right here and a whole stinkin Live Music Page here!)
The WDVX Blue Plate Special is a live performance radio show held almost daily at the Knoxville Visitors’ Center. Bands from all over come to play a free live show at noon Monday – Thursdays. Once the weekend hits, there are even more options for live music! The Tennessee Theatre and the Bijou are both historic, beautiful venues. Spots like Scruffy City Hall, Jig & Reel, and Ale Rae Gastropub all boast consistent line-ups of acts on weekends and throughout the week as well.
9. FOR THE OUTDOORSMAN
During the warmer months, the options are endless for outdoor lovers. Ijams Nature Center has hiking trails, a quarry for swimming, and more – making it a great stop for people of all ages. Knoxville Adventure Collective will get you set up to paddle-board on the Tennessee River or help you explore all of Knoxville via e-bike. If you’re out west, the Cove at Concord Park has kayak rentals, a free swimming section, playgrounds, and trails, making it another gem for the whole fam.
If it’s winter weather, fear not! Your guests can enjoy ice skating on Market Square, indoor rock climbing at RiverSports Outfitters, try their hand at Craft Axe Throwing, or enjoy some basement bowling at Maple Hall!
10. FOR THE RETURNER
Have your visitors lived in Knoxville before? Well, trust us when we say – she’s changed! Let them enjoy their favorite spots, of course, but make sure to highlight some of Knoxville’s up and coming areas. Explore all Sevier Ave has to offer in South Knoxville or be reintroduced to Happy Holler in North Knoxville. With breweries, thrift stores, a movie theater, and more – your visitors may be surprised to see how their lil Scruffy City has transformed!
Finally, make sure you’re following us at New2Knox on Instagram. We keep you up-to-date on events around town and the coolest businesses to check out. Whatever you decide to do, we know you’ll have an amazing time with your people in East Tennessee! Honestly, how could you not?😉
Only have your visitors for the day?? DISCOVER WHAT TO DO WITH 24 HOURS IN KNOXVILLE HERE
by Emily Stooks | Apr 28, 2022 | All Articles, Emilie Stooksbury, Lifestyle
Knoxville, if you ask us, is the cutest lil city in the south and deserves all the days. We know you would definitely want to stay in Knoxville forever and ever amen. However, if other clearly less cool people are passing through for the day, your main goal is to absolutely *wow* them and make them regret staying for such a short time. Diabolical? Maybe. Worth it in the end because they’ll move to Knoxville and you can hang out with them always? Definitely 😉
Here is (what we would consider) the perfect itinerary for anyone who has one solitary day in Knoxville, Tennessee. Without further ado,
WHAT TO DO WITH ONE DAY IN KNOXVILLE:
A KNOXVILLE MORNING:
If this one day in Knoxville is a Saturday, you must start your morning at the Market Square Farmer’s Market. The market is vast and vibrant and involves local farmers and makers and buskers and brunchers. It is, quite frankly, glorious. Before strolling, pick up a coffee from Mahalo Coffee Roasters. Mahalo is owned by the youngest person to ever win the Daytona 500 (what’s more Knoxville than that??) but don’t expect NASCAR memorabilia on the walls. These vibes are Hawaii all day…
If it’s not a Saturday, just grab your coffee and take a walk around downtown anyway! Wind your way through Market Square, Gay St., and Main Street for a taste of the current local vibe with a dash of history.
In the off-chance that you come to Knoxville on a weekend without a Farmer’s Market (it’s rare, but it happens), there’s an excellent chance you’re in for a treat. No Farmer’s Market usually means there’s a major festival happening instead! (Want to know what events are happening on your one day in Knoxville? Click here!)
A KNOXVILLE MID-MORNING:
After your market experience, it is obviously time to brunch. You’ll be back downtown later – for now, we suggest heading over the river to South Knoxville. Whether you drive or scooter, make sure to appreciate the view of downtown from the bridge. (*insert all the heart eyes*) Snag brunch at Simpl on Sevier Ave and soak up the chill and laidback vibes SoKno is [so]known for.
After brunch, it’s time to hike. You didn’t think we’d let you be in East Tennessee for a day without spending some time in the great outdoors, did you? Head over to Mead’s Quarry inside Ijams Nature Center. You can hike the loop pretty easily (ie. as long as you’re in relatively comfy shoes, there’s no need to change clothes!) and enjoy some great overlooks of the quarry while you’re at it. After the quarry loop, sneak over to see the Keyhole as well or dip your toes in the quarry itself.
A KNOXVILLE AFTERNOON:
You’re probably well into the afternoon at this point. From here, we have two suggestions for you.
OPTION #1:
Continue the great outdoors theme by renting a kayak or paddleboard at Ijams Nature Center or Knoxville Adventure Collective. If you rent it from Ijams, you’ll be limited to the quarry. (That’s not a bad thing – she’s gorgeous.) However, if you pop over to Knoxville Adventure Collective, you have the entire Tennessee River at your disposal – including great views of downtown and Neyland Stadium. (They also rent out e-bikes which are an amazing way to get around the city if you want to make the most of your one day.) Either way, East Tennessee life is about to knock your socks off. It’s your classic knox-socks situation.
OPTION #2:
Escape the heat and head inside to enjoy a museum! There are plenty of historic homes to tour, the East Tennessee History Museum, or the ✨freeeee✨ Knoxville Art Museum. They have plenty of art to peruse and even some interactive elements for kiddos (or kids at heart, no judgement here). There’s also a great view of downtown and the Sunsphere from their second floor balcony. Speaking of which – take this opportunity to cross the street and head up to the viewing deck of the Sunsphere. Not to be dramatic but she’s an absolute icon.
A KNOXVILLE EARLY EVENING:
It’s time to head to North Knoxville and hit up the brewery scene! We’re not kidding – this part of town isn’t technically named the “Brewery District” but with six breweries within a half mile of each other, you tell us… 😏 When it comes to this area, we are usually paralyzed by indecision, so we’ll leave the decision-making up to you. Schulz Brau is a German brewery and has an incredible outdoor beirgarten. (They also have a great selection of non-alcoholic options if the brewery scene isn’t really your style.) Xul Beer Co. is already making waves in the greater beer community. Their vibes are immaculate and their fruited sours… well, we’re drooling just writing about them. Finally, Crafty Bastard Brewery is the quirky, down-to-earth brewery of our dreams. They are the quintessential “Scruffy City” brewery – highly experimental, dog-friendly, and dang welcoming. You’ll leave there with a friend – even if it does have four legs 😉 Next Level and Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus are also gems and the Yee-Haw Brewing is the literal best summer vibe. Good luck choosing, pal 😂
PRO-TIP: If you’re super into beer, a great place to get a handle on the local scene is Knox Brew Hub. Start there and your beer-lovin’ self will be fully prepared to make the most of the day.
A KNOXVILLE EVENING:
It’s time to eat! At this point, we suggest heading back downtown for endless delicious options. Babalu is smack dab on Gay Street and a Girl’s Night Out’s dream. Stock & Barrel on Market Square is widely regarded as one of the top two best burgers in the city. Kefi in the Old City has flaming cheese, the most delicious shrimp dish we’ve ever had, and cocktail flights. Case closed.
After dinner, cap it off with a drink. If you’re at JC Holdway, head straight to Knoxville’s only speak-easy: Peter Kern Library. (We’re not going to put their secrets on the Internet for everyone to see, but feel free to DM us for details on how to find it and get in easy-peasy.) If you’re at Stock & Barrel, pop over to the Five Thirty Lounge. This rooftop bar is classy and delicious and open rain or shine. Color us obsessed. If you’re at Kefi, pop over to Brother Wolf for a bomb espresso martini or Pour Taproom where you can be the bartender and choose your own adventure.
A KNOXVILLE LATE NIGHT:
Oh, we see you, party people 😉 Not quite ready to let the night end? Preservation Pub in Market Square is a great time with live music, eclectic dive bar vibes, and a rooftop patio to boot. (There’s a $5 cover to get in – but in their defense, it gets you into two other neighboring bars as well.) Knox Box Karaoke on Gay Street is truly party central as people belt their hearts out to every song in not-so-perfect-but-definitely-passionate unison. If you’re looking for Knoxville’s clubbing scene, head over to the Old City for plenty of options. Finally, if you’re exhausted, you’re our people 😂 Head home/to your hotel and enjoy watching a movie in your PJs. It’s been a long day, pal. You earned it.
We hope this lil guide helps you have a wonderful (albeit quick) time in the Scruffy City! Now that you know how great it is, you can come back for a more substantial amount of time and really explore 😉 Or do you just want to move here after all? We can help you with that as well! Either way, we’re so glad you stumbled onto our cute lil Scruffy City. We hope you have an absolutely wonderful time.
Need more suggestions? Shoot us a DM on Instagram! We’re more than happy to help 😊
by Emily Stooks | Apr 20, 2022 | All Articles, East Knoxville, Emilie Stooksbury, Food & Drink, South Knoxville
From coffee flights to beer flights to flights to exciting places, Knoxville is full of flights and we are fans of all of ’em. But as much as we love all those flights to vacations – it’s considerably cheaper (and much easier) to do the beverage kind on a whim. If you’re not familiar with flights, let me fill you in: a flight is a sampling of (typically) four beverages. It’s a simple enough concept, but flights save the day for those of us who struggle to make choices 😂 Without further ado, here are a few unique flights to try in Knoxville, TN!
COFFEE FLIGHTS:
SOUTH KNOX Believe it or not, “Does anyone in Knoxville do coffee flights?” is a question we get a lot over on the ‘gram. Up until recently, we were less than helpful – but all that changed when CommonPlace Coffee entered the scene. These guys are always happy to whip up a series of 4 oz latte samplings for you to taste to your heart’s content. The real magic, however, comes during the holidays. These guys will offer four 4oz pours including a hot drink, iced drink, even a frozen drink all perfectly themed to the upcoming celebrations. Our favorite from the Easter flight was a honey latte with lavender cold foam called “Don’t Worry Bee Hoppy.” 🐰
CIDER FLIGHTS:
NORTH KNOX: If you’re still looking for a beer you actually like, ciders may be a good stepping stone! It’s generally a bit sweeter, gluten-free, and you can find fruity and floral flavors to your heart’s content. Does this basically make cider a salad? YES. And the Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus has an almost overwhelming amount of salad cider options. Thankfully (and very convenient for this particular article)… they also offer cider flights! Due to the aforementioned crippling amount of options, my favorite way to order a flight is to choose one that looks interesting and then let the bartender pick the rest.
SOUR FLIGHTS:
HAPPY HOLLER While almost every local brewery around town will give you a flight, the Oak Room by Abridged takes it to the next level. Abridged Beer Co. pumps out delicious beers (along with one of the best burgers in town) out in West Hills, but their project in the Happy Holler neighborhood focuses primarily on barrel-aged sours with nuance and depth. If you want the full experience, you must try the “Oak Room Forty.” This flight boasts an entire spectrum of flavors – allowing you to try a five ounce pour of all eight barrel-aged sours on draft on any given day. Pucker up, pals.
WINE FLIGHTS:
DOWNTOWN: Did you know Knoxville has a winery right downtown? No, there’s not a whole vineyard to stroll through off Gay St. 😂 (Though if that can be worked into the city’s plans, we’re here for it.) The Historic Southern Railway Station, however, is home to a venue, a restaurant, and Blue Slip Winery! Just meander down to the lower level of the building to enjoy a wine flight made from local growers before heading out on your Old City excursions. These tastings are just $6 and include five 1oz pours of whatever wine your heart desires.
COCKTAIL FLIGHTS:
DOWNTOWN Speaking of the Old City, she’s also home to our final unique flight! We love Kefi for her flaming cheese and garides (trust us on that one) but they also concoct daily draft cocktails. These cocktails on draft are the very reason we’re able to enjoy cocktail flights at Kefi! They whip up four mini versions of whatever cocktails you want (we recommend the Fig Smash and Painkiller) complete with garnishes and everything. Never make a decision again! 😂
Speaking of cocktail flights… if you want personalized off-menu cocktail flights from spots besides Kefi, there’s only one way to do it. No, you don’t need to be a VIP Enneagram 8 millionaire. Yes, you dooo need to join a New2Knox Hop! In the “Cocktail Hop” specifically, you’re treated to five weeks of cocktail flights from around town as you make new friends and explore your city. Sign up for the email list here to make sure you get notified about future adventures!
