02/17/2022
Knoxville in a nut shell:
Knoxville is a fun little college town in Eastern Tennessee. It’s the perfect place to stop if you’re heading towards the Smokies, Gatlinburg, or anywhere down south. I’d encourage you to stop for a night or two! I went down for a night with the purpose being UK’s basketball game against UT. However, I was able to check out some other great aspects of Knoxville:
-Market Square: located downtown. Tons of little shops and places to grub. Tuesday was absolutely gorgeous to walk around, sunny and 60. Parking is nearby on street or parking garage. I arrived in Knoxville and headed straight here. I ate lunch at the Downtown Grill & Brewery. Had a Pork BBQ sandwich and downed some local beers! Nice start to the afternoon.
After eating and walking around Market Square, I drove about 10 miles west to my hotel. Just outside of downtown, Country Inn & Suites is a fairly cheap place to stay and met all my expectations. There’s a heated pool and hot tub (of which was closed). I didn’t use either but if I stayed longer, I would’ve taken a dip! The room was comfy and a good place to crash for the night. Continental breakfast hit the spot with everything you’d expect and more: Biscuits, sausage, waffles, muffins, cereal, juice, coffee, etc. A reasonable place to stay at a good price ($70).
Once checked in, I headed back out to do some hiking! I did some research beforehand and found a place called House Mountain State Park. It’s about 20 miles East of Knoxville. They have tons of trails with lots of scenic routes. I didn’t have much time, so I did a short 1 mile trail up the mountain that led to some gorgeous views. The trails were pretty strenuous so be sure to have some water! If I had more time, I would’ve packed a bag and spent half a day hiking among the numerous trails. Nonetheless, I’ll be back here again.
I was a bit sweaty and tired afterwards so I headed back to the hotel and showered. Grabbed a quick bite at Arby’s and headed towards Thompson-Boiling Arena for the Tuesday night showdown between UK and UT. While I believe UT has the softest fan-base, the atmosphere was phenomenal! A great campus and arena! Kentucky got handled, but it was still a great game to be at. The $13 24 oz beers were a bit pricey, but still worth it. I highly encourage you park away from campus across the bridge. They have free parking and shuttles transport you to the game. Saved me from a headache! I got upper level tickets, priced at $26 for the game. Upper level but still great seats!
Because I had to leave early the following morning, I headed back the hotel and went to sleep! Grabbed breakfast, got gas, and headed back to Louisville. Roughly a 3 and a half hour getaway.
I’ll definitely be back to K-town in the future. Perhaps, I’ll plan a longer trip in accordance with a trip to the Smokies! If you’ve been to Knoxville or want to go, comment below some places you’ve been to or areas one should check out!
