Located along the scenic banks of the calm Tennessee River, Knoxville is a beautiful city in the U.S. state of Tennessee, characterized by a ravishing landscape and a surprisingly warm climate annually. Also known as “ The Streaking Capital of the world,” Knoxville is considered a melting pot of fascinating cultures and vibrant traditions, which is profoundly evident in its finger-licking gastronomy and jaw-dropping architecture. Regarded as the perfect getaway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this beautiful destination presents endless opportunities for remarkable outdoor adventures. So, if you are planning on a visit here with your special someone and don’t know where to stay, take a look at the top cabin rentals in the city, and then read this article for a listing of the best romantic things to do in Knoxville, Tennessee, for a delightful discovery.
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1. Bond with the animals at Zoo Knoxville
If you’re a kid-at-heart and would like to make your upcoming date night as much fun as possible, why not make your way to Zoo Knoxville? This 53-acre (21-hectare) zoo houses approximately 800 animals and features exhibits such as Black Bear Falls, Chimp Ridge, The Williams Family Giraffe Encounter, and The Boyd Family Red Panda Village. Going to the zoo may be the last thing that comes to mind when talking romance, but Zoo Knoxville proves us otherwise, with offerings like wedding packages.
Zoo Knoxville
Address: 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr, Knoxville, TN 37914, United States
Website: Zoo Knoxville
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 9am - 2pm; Thu - Sun: 9am - 4pm
2. Check out the exhibit at Knoxville Museum of Art
An arts and culture trip in Knoxville is not going to be complete unless you also check out the featured works at Knoxville Museum of Art. The gallery focuses on the history and legacy of East Tennessee. Originally, the museum was named Dulin Gallery of Art and established in 1961. Some of the permanent exhibitions at the gallery are Higher Ground: A Century of the Visual Arts in East Tennessee and Currents: Recent Art from East Tennessee and Beyond. If you’d like to get acquainted with this side of vibrant Tennessee, you know the place to go.
Knoxville Museum of Art
Address: 1050 Worlds Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916, United States
Website: Knoxville Museum of Art
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
3. Bowl strikes at Maple Hall
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Maple Hall on Monday, August 10, 2020
Who do you think the better bowler is, you or your partner? Well, when you find yourselves in Knoxville, it’s time for some friendly competition. Head over to Maple Hill for some bowling fun and good food. This upscale 11-lane bowling alley is built in a historic building in downtown Knoxville. The ambiance is quite cozy and isn’t what most of us imagine a typical bowling alley is. Its uniqueness is one of the reasons why it’s become the local favorite in recent years. Adding to that is the delicious comfort food served at the in-house kitchen.
Maple Hall
Address: 414 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States
Website: Maple Hall
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 10pm
4. Sip on cocktails at The Double S Wine Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Live Jazz Thursdays!!
Posted by The Double S Wine Bar on Friday, January 11, 2019
Dying to go to one of the hippest hangout spots in Knoxville? If you haven’t heard of the Double S Wine Bar on Gay Street, you’re in for a tasty treat. This Napa Valley-inspired wine bar serves the most delicious desserts and gourmet cheese, besides fine wine, of course. The upscale but homey environment of the bar is one of the main reasons why locals frequent it so much. On Thursdays, there’s live jazz, and Wednesdays are for Argentina Tango!
The Double S Wine Bar
Address: 129 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States
Website: The Double S Wine Bar
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 5pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 12am; Sun: 12pm - 7pm (closed on Mon)
5. Walk amongst the flowerbeds at UT Gardens
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Our wetland boardwalk in mid summer 2019.
Posted by UT Gardens Knoxville on Monday, November 18, 2019
One of the most romantic spots in Knoxville and one that you should absolutely visit when in the city is the University of Tennessee Gardens, or simply UT Gardens. In 2013, the garden was regarded as the official botanical garden of Tennessee. If a picturesque walk is what you’re after, you really can never wrong at this garden. Flowerbeds and wooden walkways surrounded by lush greens are just some of the delightful features that await your arrival. Spend a slow, romantic walk with your partner and enjoy the scenery at UT Gardens.
UT Gardens
Address: 2518 Jacob Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States
Website: UT Gardens
Opening hours: 5am - 8pm (daily)
6. Go on a scenic train ride aboard the Three Rivers Rambler
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you and your beau consider yourselves outdoorsy couple and crave for exhilarating experiences, then a scenic ride aboard the Three Rivers Rambler may be worth your while. It is one of the best things to do in Knoxville for couples. Take in the gorgeous views of the mind-bending surroundings as your train chugs diligently, cutting across the spectacular course of the majestic Tennessee River. Commencing journey from the bustling ambiance of Downtown Knoxville, this exciting two-hour train excursion cruises past historical sites including Knoxville’s first settlement area and beautiful farmlands to the Three Rivers Trestle, where the majestic French Board and Holston Rivers meet to form the legendary Tennessee River.
Three Rivers Rambler
Address: 2560 University Commons Way, Knoxville, TN 37919, United States
Website: Three Rivers Rambler
7. Indulge in berry picking at Honeys Blueberry Farm
Are you searching for a funfilled activity that allows you to make a meaningful connection with your special someone? If such is your case, then bring your better half to engage in the joy of berry picking in the beautiful confines of Honeys Blueberry Farm. Located conveniently along Kingston Highway, this couples’ attraction in Knoxville offers you a magical place to enjoy the quiet respite nature provides while immersing yourselves in inspiring moments amidst the lush surroundings.
Honeys Blueberry Farm
Address: 4333 Kingston Hwy, Loudon, TN 37774, United States
Website: Honeys Blueberry Farm
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 6pm; Mon - Sat: 8am - 7pm
8. Enjoy a relaxing cruise aboard The Star of Knoxville
Another exciting date idea for keen outdoorsy couples looking to discover the alluring wonders of this bustling metropolis is a relaxing cruise aboard the Star of Knoxville. A quintessential whimsical gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this memorable cruise offers you a chance to soak up some of Knoxville rustic charms in the company of your special someone. Offering several cruises from lunch to dinner, and from sightseeing expeditions to moonlights sails, what you get here is an incredible opportunity to glide over the calm waters of the majestic Tennessee River as you take in a bit of its intriguing history.
The Star of Knoxville
Address: 300 Neyland Dr, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States
Website: The Star of Knoxville
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
9. Stroll around the historic Market Square
If you are looking for an affordable yet romantic activity to engage in with your partner and make a funfilled discovery of Knoxville, then consider taking her out for a rejuvenating stroll around one of Knoxville’s most iconic landmarks -the historic Market Square.
A beautiful space nesting in the heart of Knoxville, this captivating place dates back to 1854, when it was first established as a marketplace. It gradually developed over the decades to a multipurpose venue, hosting some of the most impressive festivals and cultural events Knoxville has ever seen. At this romantic place to visit in Knoxville, you get to feel the vibrant energy of the Southern hospitality as you get a chance to browse through several restaurants, bars, and even gift shops for antique souvenirs.
Market Square
, Address:18 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States
Website: Historic Market Square
10. Go on a romantic dinner at The Melting Pot
After a rejuvenating stroll around the historic Market Square, the next best thing to seal the deal is to enjoy a romantic dinner, and there’s no better way to do this than a grand meal at award-winning The Melting Pot. There might be plenty of Italian restaurants and other fancy dining options in the city, but this relaxing spot allows you to woo the love of your life as you treat them to an incredible dining experience. This establishment turns every occasion from birthdays to anniversaries into a lavish affair. With a leisurely appeal and an inviting ambiance, its no wonder why many dating couples in Tennessee make their way here to enjoy a three- to five-course meal.
The Melting Pot
Address: 111 N Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States
Website: The Melting Pot
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 4pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 11pm
11. Admire Knoxville at World's Fair Park
Nothing speaks romance like sharing a funfilled day of discovery and exploration with the love of your life. And in Knoxville, there is no better way to spice up some sense of adventure in your relationship like a visit to the iconic World’s Fair Park. Since 1982, when Knoxville held the first World’s Fair, this elating place has been home to an awe-inspiring park from where you can enjoy 360-degree views of alluring cityscape. This romantic place in Knoxville, TN also features a breathtaking amphitheater where you can soak up some culture through inspiring music and festivals.
World's Fair Park
Address: 963 Worlds Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916, United States
Website: World’s Fair Park
Opening hours: 6am - 12am (daily)
12. Relish a sunset paddle at Billy Lush Boards and Brew
If your partner is a watersport buff, Billy Lush Boards and Brew is where you should share your romantic moments whenever you are in Knoxville. Enjoying a convenient location, this comprehensive watersport company offers exciting watersport activities for you and your special one. From paddleboards to kayaks, canoes, and even Hydro-bikes, Billy Lush Boards and Brew offers you a marvelous chance to explore the Tennessee River, in a variety of ways. Besides the elating watersport adventures, you also get to enjoy an excellent array of craft beers at the new bar inside the shop.
Billy Lush Boards and Brew
Address: 900 Volunteer Landing Ln, Knoxville, TN 37915, United States
Website: Billy Lush Boards and Brew
13. Take an evening stroll in Downtown Knoxville
On the first Friday of every month, something unique happens in Downtown Knoxville, creating an ambiance that resembles Valentine’s Day. Join in the fun and go on a romantic walk. From the stunning marvels of the Emporium to the lively blare of the Art Market, this part of town presents endless opportunities to explore. You can also catch live music on the legendary WDX stage at Knoxville Visitors Center.
Website: Downtown Knoxville
14. Get creative at Knoxville Arts and Fine Craft Center
Nothing accentuates the feeling of creativity, quite like sharing an inspiring moment with your loved one. Knoxville Arts & Fine Crafts Center is the place you should consider visiting, especially if you and your significant other share a passion for visual art such as painting, glass blowing, or pottery making. Tucked away in Wright Place, this captivating art center offers you two love birds a chance to refine your skill together. Given the fact that this place also features a ballet class for young beginners, it makes a perfect spot for a fun-filled family weekend.
Knoxville Arts and Fine Craft Center
Address: 1127 N Broadway B, Knoxville, TN 37917, United States
Website: Knoxville Arts and Fine Craft Center
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 9am - 8pm; Wed: 9am - 6pm; Thu: 9am - 8pm; Fri: 9am - 1pm; Sat: 10am - 1pm (closed on Sun)
15. Catch an entertaining play at Calrence Brown Theatre
If your partner is crazy about plays and you’re looking for a place in Tennessee to witness scripted plays, poems, and other artistic performances, then Clarence Brown Theatre would be the perfect place to start. Nesting in the center of the University of Tenessee campus, this futuristic theatre is dedicated to a distinguished film director and university alumni - Clarence Brown. Being a 574-seat proscenium theatre, this inspiring building houses vast collections of priceless costumes, exhibitions, as well as light, sound, and scene shops. With access and seating for the physically challenged, not to mention listening systems for the deaf and hearing impaired, Clarence Brown Theatre offers an unbeatable atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Clarence Brown Theatre
Address: 1714 Andy Holt Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916, United States
Website: Clarence Brown Theatre
Explore Knoxville's hidden gems
If you are an outdoorsy couple, there is no better place you’ll enjoy visiting like Knoxville in Tennessee. If you’re in the mood for intoxicating fun and adventure this spectacular city offers you exciting venues, exhilarating attractions, and even more romantic destinations that will leave you spoilt for choice!
As for your accommodations, don’t forget to check out the best vacation rentals and hotels with in-room hot tub!
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