by Emily Stooks | Feb 7, 2022 | Emilie Stooksbury, Kids2Knox, Outdoors
Knoxville is home to miles upon miles of greenways connecting all over the city. This city is essentially a biker, hiker, and runner’s dream – or, in our case, extreme amateur bikers, hikers, and runners 😆
Before we get too far into this, two things are helpful to know:
1.) Greenways are wide trails (often paved) free to use for full-on adventures, pleasant strolls, or – at their most functional – getting from one part of Knoxville to another. (We’re not kidding. You can find them in the north, south, east, west, downtown, and everywhere in between.)
2.) Any greenway that doesn’t technically connect to another greenway uses sidewalks and bike lanes to supplement.
Now for the fun stuff: one of our favorite routes starts on the Third Creek Greenway.
We like to access the Third Creek Greenway in the Bearden neighborhood initially. You can start your greenway experience by parking in the shopping center near El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant, where Kingston Pike crosses Forest Park Blvd. You’ll see the paved trail running right beside the parking lot on the El Mezcal side. From here, you can run down Third Creek Greenway for a mile or so, experience the beautiful trees, hop over a cute bridge, and then run back – feeling quite good about yourself and ending your excursion with some chips and queso at El Mezcal (or go crazy and continue your run just a bit longer to end up across Kingston Pike at the Bearden Beer Market. Because you earned it, gosh darn it!).
Want to push yourself further, though? Keep going!
Third Creek Greenway will take you from Bearden to Fort Sanders, passing through Tyson Park and the UT veterinary campus. From there, you’ll hit Neyland Greenway. Neyland Greenway will lead you past the Thompson-Boling Arena and the famed Neyland Stadium before landing at Calhoun’s on The River. You’ve made it downtown, friends! You’ve specifically made it to the skinny but beautiful Volunteer Landing Park. Enjoy the Tennessee River views, or cool off from your run by heading out onto the river itself! You can do so by checking out the Knoxville Adventure Collective. Not only is that the one-stop shop for tons of information about Knoxville’s outdoor scene – you can also rent a paddle board or kayak on the spot. (We highly recommend renting a paddle board here because Tennessee River views of downtown just don’t quit.)
Want to push yourself further though? Keep going!
If you want to keep going, head to the big ole shoulder of James White Parkway to get to South Knoxville. From there, follow the signs to lead you to Ijams Nature Center. There are plenty of trails to explore from Ijams, or you can – you guessed it – keep going! 😆 Will Skelton Greenway can take you from Ijams all the way over to the Forks of the River Wildlife Management area. For a few weeks in the summer, a field of sunflowers makes its gorgeous debut – but if you miss it, don’t worry! This trail is full of beautiful nature and views of the river all year round.
If you are one of the expert athletes who’s explored all the way from El Mezcal in Bearden to the sunflowers in South Knoxville, we applaud you. Maybe hit up Trailhead Beer Market or Alliance Brewing in SoKno before starting the trek back west. But for us extreme amateurs there’s, you know, Uber 😉
Want to learn more? OutdoorKnoxville.com is a great resource to learn about the over 100 miles of greenways and Urban Wilderness in Knoxville!
by Emily Stooks | Feb 7, 2022 | All Articles, Emilie Stooksbury, Food & Drink
We at New2Knox believe it is always a good time to brunch. Similarly, we believe it’s always a good time for self-reflection. Just in time for Galentines Day, we married these two beliefs and figured out the best local places to brunch in Knoxville based on your enneagram type.
(If you’re not into the enneagram, fear not. This article is full of delicious places to grab breakfast, period. Not into breakfast foods? Okay, move along, buddy.) Grab your besties, biscuits, and Bloody Mary’s and get to brunchin’!
The Perfect Brunch Spot for Your Enneagram Type
Ones (The Reformer): Tomato Head
With plenty of healthy options and opportunities to be in charge (you can build your own waffle or omelet) the Tomato Head is a one’s paradise. Bonus: You can see into the kitchen to make sure everything’s up to your standards.
Twos (The Helper): Pete’s Coffee Shop
Pete’s is all about the comfort food. When you twos inevitably feel inclined to take someone out for breakfast and cheer them up – head to Pete’s, order some biscuits and gravy, and work your helping magic. Sitting at the bar and getting to know the employees is another perk for a two’s sweet heart!
Pro-Tip: Not close to downtown? Pete’s, Rami’s Cafe, and Sami’s Cafe are all owned by brothers and have similar hearty breakfasts and homey vibes.
Threes (The Achiever): Babalu
We know you threes dress to impress and if you’re here to impress your friends (or, y’know, IG followers), there’s no better place than Babalu. Every single corner of the space is camera ready and every single item on the menu is tastebud ready. We suggest brunching in a pink power blazer to really set the tone and slay the hollan[day]ise.
Fours (The Individualist): French Market
The French Market is a perfect brunch spot for you romantics. You’ll feel like you transported to France (where four is the national number, we assume) as you enjoy a dainty crepe. Sit in a windowed corner for extra day-dreaming opportunity and begin penning that great American novel we’ve all been waiting for.
Fives (The Investigator): Wild Love Bakehouse
Wild Love Bakehouse is a great place for fives to brunch. You can easily spy on all the creations being made through the big windows (which should satisfy your Investigator’s curiosity); and the setup is basically an introvert’s dream. (ie. there are no hosts greeting you or waiters checking up on you.) You can be in and out with some delicious, made-from-scratch baked goods in a jiffy!
Sixes (The Loyalist): The Plaid Apron
The Plaid Apron has been pouring the same delicious cinnamon hazelnut coffee for years and years. We get it every time we go. We’re so thankful for their… loyalty. *wink* But seriously, The Plaid Apron serves farm-to-table brunch – delicious, local, and healthy – and the atmosphere fits both a rowdy brunch with friends or a table for two (“two” meaning you and your book, of course) depending on your wing. The Plaid Apron is brunch you can count on.
Sevens (The Enthusiast): Simpl
Simpl’s delicious food would be enough to satisfy anyone, but add a patio looking directly onto the quirky and lively Sevier Ave? We’ve got a winner. You sevens can people watch all morning and not feel one ounce of FOMO. In addition to that, the close proximity to the South Knox outdoors, being quite literally next to the party that is Alliance Brewing Co., and an Anthony Bourdain quote on the wall all solidify Simpl as the brunch spot for adventurers. Better yet, their specials make it possible to try something new every time!
(Honorable Mention: Want to look out on a dog park instead? Check out OliBea – but we can’t promise you won’t experience some series FOMO 😂)
Nines (The Peacemaker): The Front Porch
We know you’d rather be sleeping in than meeting for brunch, but the Front Porch in Powell will make you feel like you’re still right at home. Located in a big, beautiful southern house, The Front Porch is a must-try for every brunch-loving homebody.
Y’all, we didn’t even hit all the great brunches and breakfasts in Knoxville! There’s Holly’s Gourmet Market, Scrambled Jake’s, and Knox Farmacy for anyone with taste buds – because we can’t let enneagram types put you in a box. Eat all the brunch at all the places all the time because they’re all wonderful. Cheers to the best Galentines Day ever!
(If you really want the best Galentine’s Day ever, click here for info on Galentines Day with New2Knox feat. brunch by Simpl!)
by Emily Stooks | Feb 1, 2022 | All Articles, Holidays, Lifestyle
Whether it’s your honey, your bestie, your puppy, or, you know, the cutest lil city in the south, we’ve all got somethin’ to love. If you want to 🎉celebrate🎉 all that love, check out one of these fun Valentine’s Day events happening all around our valentine: sweet ole Knoxville, Tennessee! 💛
💕 CLICK HERE FOR OUR 2024 ROUND UP OF VALENTINES DAY IDEAS 💕
And don’t worry – if you don’t see somethin’ you love, we’ll be updating this list until the big day! Without further ado:
Valentines Day in Knoxville, Tennessee:
Got a soft spot for the South Side? Check these out!
⭐️ For all you magnificent ladies, we’re throwing a Galentine’s Day Party at Hi-Wire on Sunday, February 13th! Simpl will be servin’ up brunch; Hi-Wire will be slingin’ bottomless mimosas; there will be DIY card makin’ and yoga posin’ and all that good, gal stuff. Learn more and snag your ticket here!
🌟 Speaking of Simpl, Chef Kendale is serving up a four course ticketed dinner on Valentines Day and Galentine’s specials all weekend long. Grab your ticket for Valentine’s Day on the south side right here!
⭐️ South Press Coffee is hosting the Spring Fling Market on Sunday, February 13th! This inclusive market will have all things love for all kinds of love – and great coffee to boot. Learn more here!
Nothin’ like North Knox? We agree😍 Check these out!
⭐️ If this Valentine’s Day finds you an unattached gem, look no further! We’re throwing a Singles Happy Hour on Saturday, February 12th at the Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus to prequel their “Valentines Sucks” comedy show. Best part? It’s freeeee. Learn more here!
🌟 What’s the opposite of laughter? Screams of terror. And don’t worry, friends. We’re here to help with the whole spectrum😂 Central Cinema is hosting a “holiday horror event” with a double feature of the original My Bloody Valentine (1981) and Valentine (2001) and plenty of treats and tricks to enjoy between films. Learn more here!
If you’ve got heart eyes for West Knox, these are for you!
⭐️ The Plaid Apron is hosting a three-course dinner on Valentine’s Day. This local farm-to-table restaurant is the perfect way to treat your sweetie, your city, and your tastebuds all in one sitting 😂🙌 To cap off date night, we suggest a stroll through Sequoyah Park, ooh la la.
🌟 If you’re looking to get creative this year, head to Blue Ridge Yoga! They’re offering a two-hour partner yoga workshop on February 12th. Both laughter and connection are being promised, so we say try it out. (And we’re also not mad about the fact it’s right next to Water into Wine…) You can book your class here!
Hopelessly devoted to Downtown Knox? We got you!😉
⭐️ If you would like to feel like Mia Thermopolis this Galentine’s Day, we are on the same page, my friend. Might we suggest The Tennesseean Hotel? They’re offering a high tea experience on February 12th including tea, champagne cocktails, and all the scones, cookies, and fancy treats your Galentine’s lovin’ heart could want. Snag your ticket here!
🌟 Sugar Coated on the 100 Block is having a Galentines Pop Up with ACF Jewelry on February 12th! There will be sips, snacks, and saaales on all things self-care. Even more adorably, ACF Jewelry will be offering half off their endless chains if you bring your bestie 😭💛 Learn more here!
⭐️ If you’re a classic downtown Valentine’s Day dinner guy, the Scruffy City has got you covered. Both Kefi and Vida are hosting five course prix fixe dinners. (Vida is notably stinkin’ conveniently located to The Vault for romantic post-dinner cocktails.) JC Holdway is *chef’s kiss* when it comes to date night – and their Valentines Day menu is lookin’ extra delish.
🌟 Finally, if Knoxville really is your Valentine, there’s no better place to fall in love with her than on the Star of Knoxville 😍 This authentic paddlewheel riverboat will take you up and down the Tennessee River with unique views of downtown Knoxville, Neyland Stadium, and Sequoyah Hills (with a meal to boot!). Snag your ticket here!
Whatever activity you choose, you’ve already made the best choice: makin’ Knoxville, Tennessee the city where you’re celebratin’. Good job, you 😉 Need more ideas? Discover 7 Date Night Ideas here!
by Emily Stooks | Jan 29, 2022 | All Articles
After six years of growth, New2Knox (also owners of the real estate brand, Move2Knox) will be opening a brick-and-mortar on February 4th. The facility will be located in downtown Knoxville at 323 Union Avenue, around the corner from Market Square.
New2Knox aims to build community by connecting people with the businesses and organizations that make Knoxville special. Move2Knox was developed out of New2Knox and aims to help both locals and those new to the area buy, sell, and invest in real
estate.
The establishment, a hybrid of offices for both businesses, will be a community space for them to host more intimate ticketed events and open houses. The organization plans to be involved in Knoxville’s First Friday event, each month selecting an artist who will have the opportunity to feature their work in the facility’s front window.
Bailey Rose, one of the founders, said, “This space will offer our team a home base, so we can help people better discover all that downtown Knoxville has to offer. We are excited for it to take on a life of its own!”
by Emily Stooks | Jan 7, 2022 | All Articles, Emilie Stooksbury, Food & Drink
If you went into this new year wanting to eat a few more whole foods (or it’s simply time to address the smidge of lactose intolerance you’ve been ignoring for twenty years #guilty), we’ve compiled five health-conscious restaurants in Knoxville you should definitely check out! (Don’t worry, y’all – it’s us. Bread will still be involved.)
1.) Blossom Bowls
Blossom Bowls (formally known as “Java Juice” or “Juice Box”) just feels fresh when you step through the doors. With delicious smoothie bowls and toasts, it’s a great local spot to start – whether you’re looking to go vegan, dairy-free or you simply want to eat more fruits and veggies. Even if you couldn’t care less about those things, ask whoever is working about the best smoothies, juices, etc. to boost your immunity because let’s face it, coughing is officially embarrassing.
2.) KoPita Authentic Mediterranean
If you are looking to move to a vegan diet, KoPita has got you covered. They offer an extensive vegan menu including classics like falafel pitas and babaganoush bowls. Everything is fresh, fresh, fresh, everyone who works there is eager to educate, and they serve flavorful and free Turkish coffee I would happily spend plenty of money on (shhhh that stays between us).
3.) The Donut Theory
Looking to cut down on gluten? Enter: The Donut Theory. Everything they make is prepared with celiac-disease and actual deliciousness in mind. The Donut Theory doesn’t want to be “surprisingly good for gluten-free.” Their aim is to be, well, just dang good! (And spoiler-alert, they are – *drool*) They churn out delish donuts on the daily, including classics and specialty flavors – and with their new space inside Marble City Market, they also whip up hearty meals like fried chicken and mac ‘n’ cheese. We’re not even gluten-free but if we’re bein’ real, you’ll probably see us there. 😂
4.) Cook to Be Well / Vid’l
Tucked inside the effortlessly cool Glowing Body Yoga Studio, are tasty meals from Cook to Be Well. However, coming very soon, the bright mind behind Cook to Be Well will be opening her own brick and mortar in the Old City – Vid’l. Thankfully, at the heart of both concepts is delicious plant-based food. You’ll be able to grab and go, or sit and stay – either way, you’ll say hooray (because the food will be really good and legitimately really good for you. Sorry, we just really wanted that last sentence to rhyme.)!
5.) Free Reign Bakery & Cafe
(What does it say about us that 2 of the 5 spots on this list feature baked goods? Not important.) Moving right along, Free Reign Bakery & Cafe can get you set up with baked goods (and more!) free of the most common allergens, ie: gluten, dairy, soy, egg, peanut, tree nut, fish/shellfish, and corn. They’ve got locations in Bearden, Powell, and off Alcoa Hwy, so go get your bread on! It’s basically salad anyway, right? Right? 😬
Whatever your goals are for this year, we hope this helps you reach them with a whole lotta local love! Have other goals for this year? Discover Ten Things to Do Sans-Alcohol here. Discover 5 Ways to Live Sustainably in Knoxville here!
MUST-FOLLOWS:
@knoxvegan
@glutenfreeknoxville
