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!
by Emily Stooks | Apr 6, 2022 | All Articles, Emilie Stooksbury, Outdoors
Fort Dickerson Park (home of Augusta Quarry, formerly known as Fort Dickerson Quarry) is a pleasant, easy hike just barely south of downtown Knoxville. You’ve got plenty of scenic overlooks, but also a lil bit of that ✨scruff✨ Knoxville holds so dear. It’s also only 3-ish miles, so you can feel like you got a work out in – while still having plenty left in you for beers and hangs at Alliance Brewing Co. afterward. Best part – this hike loops right by the quarry for easy viewin’, swimmin’, and general summertime hangin’.
Disclaimer: I am not a hiker. In fact, I am not outdoorsy at all (unless you’re referring to patio hangs.). What I am is someone who recently got lost on this oh-so-“easy” hike about 3-4 times the other day, and so I am ripe and ready to give you step-by-step, fool-proof, even-a-non-hiker-could-do-it instructions. Are there other ways to do this loop? Probably. But I promise these instructions will work. Alright. Let’s become urban hikers, besties.
FIRST THINGS FIRST:
Let’s start at the very beginning: Parking. Come through the main entrance off Chapman Highway and park in the very first lot to your left. Take a little look-see and find the sign that says “Harold Lambert Overlook.” That, my friend, is your sign.
The sidewalk right there will lead you to a gorgeous overlook. We suggest starting your adventure with a few photos and selfies with that beaut behind ya. When you’re done with your photoshoot, go back down that same sidewalk just a smidge. Right before the overlook, you’ll see a faint trail. (If you’re coming from the sign, it will be on your right.) That, my friend, is your trail.
NOW, WE WALK:
This trail will take you by a few oh-so-picturesque power lines. Soon, near one of those power lines, you will come to a fork in the trail. You can take either fork! One trail will lead you straight down, basically to the quarry. (When we say straight down, we mean straight down. That sucker is steep.) The other trail, the one leading to the right, is the one we’d suggest.
Follow this trail a hot minute. Keep an eye out for views of Neyland Stadium and the Sunsphere while you walk. Perhaps more importantly, you should also keep an eye out for bikers as this is one of Knoxville’s many multi-use trails. Eventually, you’ll hit a couple switchbacks. (Ah, yes, switchbacks. Are you impressed I know the term “switchback”? Very hiker of me, I know.) After the switchbacks, you’ll walk parallel to a gravel road for a little bit. This will lead you to the parking lot for Augusta Quarry.
NOW, WE APPRECIATE:
Pop off the trail for a bit here and enjoy the quarry! There are lots of trails to explore around here, along with the gorgeous quarry itself. PRO-TIP: During the summer, especially on weekends, it can get a little packed with people swimming and hanging and partying. We suggest coming on a weekday if you can, or coming early to experience the quarry at its most serene 😌
NOW, WE KEEP WALKING:
When you’re done swimmin’ and ‘splorin’, come back to the parking lot. In the corner of said lot, you’ll see some loops where people can park bikes. Here’s a visual:
Hop onto the higher of the two trails right there (I’m pretty sure they connect, but why risk it? This is the fool proof guide.). This trail has the super reassuring name of “Pit Viper” (though there was not a solitary sign with that name on in to be found). Everything is fine 🙃 Pit Viper will lead you all the way back around to the original overlook and parking lot! You’ll pass some scenic chainlink fences – but also a sweeping view of South Knoxville and Chapman Highway.
As you come up to the Chapman Highway overlook, you’ll see a trail leading up, up, up. That, my friend, is your trail! This trail will lead you to an even better view of South Knox. You’re almost there, pals. That trail is going to take you all the way back to that first overlook and your car! WELL👏DONE👏 Without stopping for views or swims (or, you know, getting lost four times), this loop should take you about 45 minutes, give or take.
Like we said at the beginning, you’ve definitely earned yourself a pint from a South Knox brewery or a slice from South Coast Pizza. You are a hiker, an outdoorsman, a grand adventurer! If you’re ready to push yourself a little more (you’re a freaking pro now, after all), learn all about hiking our favorite area balds right here!
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!)
