livingitup

Knoxville, Tennessee is the 3rd largest city in Tennessee.  As the 3rd largest, it has been able to maintain a small town feel.  Knoxville is currently in a revitalization period–and I am proud of it.  If you live (or find yourself) anywhere near the area, you should check out some of Knoxville, TN’s current offerings.

1. Visit the Sunsphere.  Built for the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville, the huge golden globe in the sky, dubbed the Sunsphere, has recently been updated.  The observation deck not only offers a great view of Knoxville, but also serves as a museum (no charge).  The 5th floor is home to the Skybox, a romantic cocktail lounge.
2. Enjoy Market Square.  Great restaurants and shops abound in the Old Market Area of downtown.  Special concerts and festivals are held here through-out the year, too.
3. Drop by the Knoxville Museum of Art.  With traveling exhibits and it’s own collection, including a kids area, the KMA has plenty to offer.  With free admission, it’s accessible to all.
4. Explore the history. Knoxville, TN is loaded with history.  There are so many sites, ranging from before Tennessee was a state to the Civil Rights Movement.  Did you know that the first desegregation of a Southern school happened just miles from Knoxville’s center in Clinton, TN?  Or that a secret city was created just outside of Knoxville to ensure that America and her allies won World War II?  The Green MacAdoo Cultural Center , Bleak House , James White Fort , Mabry-Hazen House , Armstrong-Lockett House , and American Museum of Science and Energy are only a few sites of great historical interest within a few miles of Knoxville’s downtown.
5. Go for a hike.  Knoxville is located in a small valley (known as the TennesseeValley) that is surrounded with mountains.  There are many trails to walk, some relatively easy, some moderate, and others challenging.  Knoxville is alsoa very caustic are, which means that there are many caves and caverns in to explore.  The land is full of lakes (thanks to TVA–another historical event surrounding Knoxville), and rivers, like the Tennessee River.  Spend some time outside and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.  Don’t forget the Great Smokey Mountain National Park–created largely because of Knoxville, TN.

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