Children’s Playground at World’s Fair Park in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville's "Living Room" has new playground equipment for kids.

by Martha Woodward | July 26, 2010

World's Fair Park in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee is often called "Knoxville's Living Room" because of the numerous city-wide activities that often occur at the site. Most recently, a kids' playground was installed and it is getting rave reviews from kids and parents, too. 

The City of Knoxville held a ribbon cutting for the new playground in World’s Fair Park on Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 10 a.m.

According to a City …

Harby’s Pizza & Deli, Knoxville, TN

One bite and you're hooked on the best pizza in Knoxville.

by Martha Woodward | July 26, 2010

Harby's Pizza & Deli is a family-owned shop in a cozy mall on the North side of Knoxville just off Broadway at 3718 Walker Boulevard--Knoxville, TN 37917-3110--(865) 688-565.

It has been voted the best pizza in town for many years and is the kind of place locals go when they want something other than the fast-food-big-chain kind of meal.

Look for fresh-baked hand-tossed crust, large foldable slices, a rich and zesty tomato sauce and …

Rita’s Ice, Knoxville, TN

Custard equals happiness at Rita's Ice in Market Square

by Martha Woodward | July 19, 2010

Ice, Custard and Happiness = Rita's  

At Rita's Ice on Market Square in downtown Knoxville, TN, the tag line of "Ice Custard Happiness" is more than a saying.  It’s a way of life – and a steadfast promise to all valued guests.

Rita’s Ice promises happiness, and it’s a promise that you are going to enjoy.  At Rita's, each person who visits will find something delicious, cold, smooth, and …

East Tennessee Discovery Center, Knoxville, TN

East Tennessee Discovery Center in Knoxville, TN is a museum that emphasizes hands-on science instruction for children.

by Martha Woodward | July 19, 2010

Make your vacation a learning experience by taking your children to the East Tennessee Discovery Center located in Chilhowee Park near the Knoxville Zoo. Children will find “hands-on” learning experiences in a variety of scientific topics. Fossils, rocks and minerals, arthropods, saltwater and freshwater aquaria, light, sound, simple machines, insects, space and more are waiting for your family.

Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Saturdays …

Latitude 35, Knoxville, TN

A hot place to cool down in downtown Market Square, Knoxville, TN.

by Martha Woodward | July 12, 2010

Located in Market Square in the middle of downtown Knoxville, Latitude 35 is a hot place to cool down. Latitude 35 has, “An urban outlook on comfort food, innovative sports viewing, and a premier nightclub – Latitude 35 is Knoxville’s haven for everything in an avant-garde venue.  Over 30 wines and 20 beers give something for every taste”. 

This three-part concept boasts of  “private banquet areas, three full service bars, an extensive …

Cotton Eyed Joe, Knoxville, TN

Live country music, line dancing, contests, poker night, moderately priced food, cold beer, and more!

by Martha Woodward | July 09, 2010

Boots, cowboy hats, blue jeans, line dancing, nachos, hamburgers, cold beer, dancing to the latest country music tunes---all ingredients that make Cotton Eyed Joe one of the favorite clubs for locals in Knoxville, Tennessee.  Located on the west side of town just one turn off Interstate 40, Cotton Eyed Joe was voted the best night club in Knoxville in an annual contest held by a local news organization in 2009.  As the name indicates, …

The Sunsphere, Knoxville, TN

Knoxville's Sunsphere was built 28 years ago and is the 2nd most photographed building in Tennessee

by Martha Woodward | July 02, 2010

"If you are asking for help and you keep hearing the word no, you are talking to the wrong people.”  William Denton, lead architect for the Sunsphere.

The Sunsphere can be defined as a tower-like building which consists of a 192 ft. steel tower which serves as the base for the 74 ft. spherical shaped ball. The ball has 360 windows sprinkled with 24 carat golden flakes to provide a twinkle and …

Elvis Murder Mystery Theatre, Star of Knoxville, Knoxville, TN

Cruise the Tennessee River while listening to Elvis Tribute Artist Ronnie Miller as you dine on authenic Southern-style BBQ.

by Martha Woodward | July 02, 2010

The Tennessee Riverboat Company provides a variety of cruises on the Star of Knoxville, a Memphis-style paddle boat. Cruises  include lunch, sight-seeing, deluxe dinner, special event dining, late night, breakfast, and more.                                                

On Wednesdays throughout the summer, there is a special Elvis Murder Mystery Cruise starring Elvis Tribute Artist, Ronnie Miller, and various members of the staff.

In order to take advantage of this fun venue, check out the Star of Knoxville’s …

Time Warp Tea Room, Knoxville, TN

Vintage Motorcycles, Tamales

by Brad Williams | May 28, 2010

Several large vintage motorcycles, motorcycle memorabilia, and an assortment of antiques and retro-designed products meet the eye as one enter the Time Warp Tea Room, on North Central St.  It's big for a coffee shop.  Huge tables and a long row of booths, unlike any other coffee place in the city.  Wait.  Wasn't this a tea room?  Well, think of it more as a coffee bar that does serve tea.  But it is a …

Victor Ashe Park, Knoxville, TN

Disc Golf and More

by Brad Williams | May 28, 2010

I recently took some out-of-town friends to Victor Ashe Park for an afternoon outing and some disc golf.  Their reaction was like that of all those I've taken before.  They were impressed by the sheer size (115 acres), beauty, and fun offered by Knoxville's premier park.

The disc golf course is one of three in the area, and my personal favorite.  It has a full 18 holes, or baskets, that take you across …

The Bluffs, Knoxville, TN

Extreme High Cliff Jumping

by Brad Williams | May 21, 2010

This destination is not for the faint of heart.  Nor the scared of heights.  Nor the hydrophobic.  If you're looking for an extreme thrill in Knoxville that's absolutely free, I have just the thing for you.

You'll need a bathing suit and shoes you don't mind getting wet.  Then it's just a matter of driving about 20 minutes south of Knoxville to Lenoir City.  Head across Tellico Dam and look for a white church …

Leaf & Ale, Knoxville, TN

Premium Tobacconist, Lounge, and More

by Brad Williams | May 21, 2010

Walking into Leaf & Ale, one might think they're in a gentlemen's social club from a bygone era.  Leather armchairs and cigar holders for all.  Sherlock style pipes and newspapers.  It is clear from the beginning that Leaf & Ale is more than a store, it is a comfortable hang-out for smoking, conversation, or just reading a book.

This establishment is the only tobacconist in the region I know of that keeps a …

Lakeshore Park, Knoxville, TN

Runner's Sanctuary

by Brad Williams | May 13, 2010

Why do people run here? Well, it's close to everything. It's long enough that you don't have to make lap after lap to get your miles in, but it's not so long that only experienced marathoners can enjoy it. And Lakeshore Park boasts some of the best views you're likely to catch of both mountains and waterways.

Lakeshore Park can be like going to the mall on summer evenings and weekends. Knoxville has …

Green Earth Emporium, Knoxville, TN

Beautiful Gifts, Spirituality, and Home Accents

by Brad Williams | May 13, 2010

Green Earth Emporium is kind of a garden for the eyes.  There are so many little interesting things to look at, the store can take a lot longer to browse than you would expect.  Prayer flags, candles, necklaces, pendants, rings, charms, incense cones, incense burners, incense sticks, essential oils, wind chimes, bells, Buddhas, stones, crystals, wands, cards, books, journals, posters, dragons, fairies, mermaids, gnomes, a meditating squirrel, bumper stickers, bed spreads, bags, clothes, musical …

Knoxville Skate Park, Knoxville, TN

Ride the Concrete Wave

by Brad Williams | May 07, 2010

This stuff looks a lot easier on TV.  It's a sea of smooth, silvery concrete being ridden by BMX trick bikes, skateboards, and rollerblades.  Stare from the top of a ramp down into a deep drop that starts perfectly vertical, and you will appreciate how much nerve it takes to drop down into one of the many pool-like bowls. 

Adults and kids alike get a rush from the new Knoxville Skate Park.  I …

Bennett Galleries, Knoxville, TN

Art and Design from Around the World

by Brad Williams | May 07, 2010

Bearden's Bennett Galleries first drew me in when Christmas shopping for my relatives.  I didn't know what I was expecting, but I wasn't expecting what I did see in the 30,000 square feet  of gallery.  When it comes to homewares, come to Bennett if you're looking for something unique.

The gallery displays the work of different artists every month, featuring mostly sculptors and painters.  Local, as well as international artists are represented.  Original …

The Cupcakery, Knoxville, TN

The Name Says It All

by Brad Williams | April 30, 2010

Cinnamon struesel, red velvet, Italian cream (coconut-cream cheese frosting on a cream cheese-filled French vanilla cake), gold rush (chocolate buttercream on golden yellow cake), confetti (vanilla buttercream on French vanilla cake with bright colored candy pieces), peanut butter cup, carrot top, turtle, double chocolate, tuxedo, and more.  These are the kind of gourmet cupcakes the Cupcakery produces in quantities of 500 to 1,000 per day.  The business is owned by two sisters whose …

Savelli’s, Knoxville, TN

Authentic Italian, Local Owners

by Brad Williams | April 30, 2010

In a world of Olive Gardens and the like, an authentic Italian restaurant that is locally owned is a rare gem to be found in the South, but Savelli's on Sutherland Avenue in Knoxville fits the bill.

I'll admit, it doesn't look like much from the outside. The building housing Savelli's might have been a dozen other things before, and the exterior, like all the exteriors in this part of town, is retro to …

Tea at the Gallery, Knoxville, TN

Tearoom, Art Gallery, and Fine Teas

by Brad Williams | April 23, 2010

I have written several articles on Tea at the Gallery for several publications; it is a place I hold to be among the best treasures in Knoxville.  How many places, in how many cities, can you walk into a beautifully sunlit, wood-floored art gallery, sit at a table covered in fine linen, drink any of hundreds of teas and tisanes, and snack on a three-tiered platter of soup, fruit salad, sandwiches, scones, clotted …

UT Gardens, Knoxville, TN

Open for Festivals and Beyond

by Brad Williams | April 22, 2010

As part of the Dogwood Arts Festival, there are numerous open gardens in Knoxville, but it's hard to argue against the one the University of Tennessee nurses as one of the best.

The University of Tennessee Gardens are open to the public all year, and even has reserved parking for visitors, on a campus where parking is otherwise practically impossible.  The nationally recognized garden displays nearly every kind of plant …

Four Points by Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House Hotel, Knoxville, TN

Award-Winning, Centrally-Located Stay

by Brad Williams | April 16, 2010

It's the No. 1 Sheraton Four Points in North America, scoring highest in overall guest satisfaction for the third year running, and it was recently named "Hotel of the Year" by Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Inc.  Starwood, which owns Westin, Sheraton, St. Regis, and others, places the hotel among its top five worldwide.

A trip to the Four Points Web site tells the story to prospective guests. The place is …

Dogwood Arts Festival, Knoxville, TN

Scenic Knoxville's Blooms

by Brad Williams | April 16, 2010

It was in response to a bit of bad press about Knoxville's scenery from a New York Times writer that the Dogwood Arts Festival began.  There are few finer examples of Southern attitude scaled up: "I'll show you."  Now, at the 50 year mark, the annual festival is a huge operation and nationally acclaimed. Parades, artist exhibits and galleries, concerts, and more make for a long and varied line-up of activities associated with …

The Hotel St. Oliver, Knoxville, TN

Market Square's Secret Hotel

by Brad Williams | April 09, 2010

The Hotel St. Oliver calls itself Knoxville's best-kept secret, and as far as places to stay are concerned, I agree.  When I think of Market Square downtown, I'm thinking restaurants, maybe Shakespeare in the Square plays or one of our concert series. But on a corner brick building with the stately charm of Knoxville's past, above the awnings of Market Square Kitchen, hides a not a hotel, but an inn.

Guest rooms …

Mead’s Quarry, Knoxville, TN

Adventure Awaits

by Brad Williams | April 08, 2010

A drive to the Island Home area of Knoxville is never wasted.  Some of the most beautiful, idyllic homes are located here, on a divided road planted with mature trees, in front of the Tennessee School for the Deaf.  But go on further, and you will come to Mead's Quarry, an expansion of Ijams Nature Center.  The hike here is a short one, but you'll scarcely find more diverse, adverturesome scenery.  …

South’s Finest Chocolate Factory, Knoxville, TN

Easter, Knoxville-Style

by Brad Williams | April 02, 2010

At the entrance to World's Fair Park, practically in the shadow of Knoxville's iconic Sunsphere, rises the giant brick Chocolate Factory, with roots in the 1982 World's Fair and branches of trade flourishing.

South's Finest Chocolate Factory is Knoxville's contribution to the candy world, being the only local full-line chocolate maker. More than 100 varieties of sweet goods are produced there, a process which can be seen through the shop's interior windows.  …

Casa Don Gallo, Knoxville, TN

Best Mexican in Town, Period.

by Brad Williams | April 01, 2010

How can I say that?  Best Mexican food in town?  Are you sure?

Yes. I have never mentioned Casa Don Gallo to anyone who hasn't immediately launched into an account of all the reasons they love it, assuming they've been there.  I went when the restaurant first opened its doors, and the place is still a rich luxury for lunch or dinner, and I'm not saying it's expensive.

A lunch of arroz con …

The Rush 24/7 Fitness Complex, Knoxville, TN

Better Than Your Hotel Gym

by Brad Williams | March 26, 2010

Bright energetic colors and high-tech equipment define the Rush, voted Best Fitness Complex by Knoxville's Metropulse.  With locations in West Knoxville, Knoxville Center Mall, Farragut, and elsewhere, the chain seeks to expand from its beginnings in Knoxville into a national chain. Owner Larry Gurney left 24-Hour Fitness in California to start his own chain east of the Mississippi.

As its name suggests, the Rush is open 24 hours a day. It is …

Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria, Knoxville, TN

Nightlife, College-Style

by Brad Williams | March 26, 2010

The first impression many get of Barley's is its sheer size.  It has the look of an empty factory or warehouse, with sturdy board floors, thick pillars, and high ceilings on both floors. It was, in fact, a 19th century hardware/feed store. The square brick building can be home to hundreds of downtown employees and college students on a busy night, all shooting pool, throwing darts, dancing, and, of course, chowing down. The …

The Irish Times, Knoxville, TN

St. Patrick's Day, Year-Round

by Brad Williams | March 19, 2010

St. Patrick's Day is over, but Knoxville's population can "go green" anytime of year at the Irish Times pub in Turkey Creek. Since the restaurant opened in 2007, it has gained a reputation for being the most family-centered, responsible bar in town. This place cards everyone, even if they have white hair and a beard reaching the floor.  That goes for desserts with alcohol in them too. Far from a smoky tavern, the pub is …

Big Ridge State Park, Knoxville, TN

Lake to Sky Hikes and More

by Brad Williams | March 19, 2010

Though it is now a proud demonstration of recreation development, Big Ridge State Park is as much notable for past events as present ones.  From the site of a Native American ambush of a white settler high on a rocky ridge to old cabin ruins and graveyards, Big Ridge is more than just a walk through the woods. 

Just 25 miles north of the city, this place makes a great excursion from …

The Climbing Center, Knoxville, TN

When it Rains ... Climb Indoors

by Brad Williams | March 12, 2010

I can think of a lot worse after school hangouts than a rock climbing gym, so don't mind the teenagers on the ceiling if you visit the Climbing Center. 

When its too wet, too cold, too dark, or just not convenient enough to climb on real rocks, I head to the Climbing Center just a few minutes from the university.  Chalk-dusted, molded resin forms of many shapes form an extreme ladder up …

Litton’s, Knoxville, TN

Locally Celebrated Burgers

by Brad Williams | March 11, 2010

Across the street from the Fountain City Lake and park, sits the long-established house of burgers known as Litton's.  Former UT football elite and Super Bowl star Peyton Manning says it's where he likes to grab a bite when back in his college town.  Just a sidewalk away from shops, three schools, the park, a post office, etc., Litton's is right at the heart of Fountain City, just minutes from downtown.  Almost everyone …

Norris Dam State Park, Lake City, TN

Lake Views and Miles of Challenges

by Brad Williams | March 04, 2010

It takes just 30 minutes to reach the retreat of Norris Dam State Park, a sanctuary for outdoor lovers of many flavors.  The dam itself is a TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) creation, and it serves as a bridge to connect cars to different areas of the park now.

My boating friends agree that Norris is perhaps the most scenic lake to sail in the TVA reservoir system, with 700 miles of twisting, …

University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN

Big Opportunities in a Small Town

by Brad Williams | March 03, 2010

"Big public school" is term appropriately suited to the University of Tennessee. Translation: Tons of opportunities, easy to get into. You don't have to be rich or score a 36 on your ACT to get in to UT, but the ambitious can use it as an elevator to high places in the world.

Musicians will never consider their college experience second-rate if they play in the Pride of the Southland Band, and …

Kalamata Cafe, Knoxville, TN

A Taste of Many Ethnicities

by Brad Williams | February 26, 2010

"What kind of food do they have?" people ask me about this place.

"Well, it's got sushi, and Japanese dishes like tonkatsu and tempura, but they also have Italian food."

"What?"

Exactly.  It's hard to put Kalamata into a category, and that's all for the best.  I've eaten out in this town, and I'm the kind of guy who likes to order something different until I know the menu.  It's no easy …

Carpe Librum Booksellers, Knoxville, TN

Local Flavor for Voracious Readers

by Brad Williams | February 25, 2010

I wasn't surprised to learn that the five books topping Carpe Librum's bestsellers list were written by local authors.  Sure this city has a Books-A-Million and Barnes & Noble, but we've got better: a local bookshop with local literature.  Market Square:  A History of the Most Democractic Place on Earth by Knoxville writer and historian Jack Neely is just one.  When you walk in the door you will be greeted by a large sectiond …

Level 10, Knoxville, TN

Breakdancing Fridays

by Brad Williams | February 18, 2010

The Saturday night dance scene in Knoxville is saturated with venue options, so the revelry has begun to spill into Friday. Club Level 10, in Bearden's Western Plaza, has given a home to a subculture of the club crowd: breakdancers.

An impressive number of breakdancers, or bboys and bgirls, reside in the city, popping up in clubs around town as old ones close and new ones open their doors.  But for the first time, …

Travel Guide to Knoxville

Why You Should Visit Knoxville

by Brad Williams | February 15, 2010

Energy. Don't think quaint, quiet, or cozy. Don't think sleepy B&Bs or antique shops. Knoxville is a pulsing mass of humanity trapped in a bright haven between mountains and rivers.

Knoxville attracts 100,000 to Neyland Stadium alone to watch college football at its best, with thousands more tailgating for miles around.  The Lady Vols and men's basketball drives in thousands on their own and the TV teleports those who wish they were here.

The …

The Golden Roast, Knoxville, TN

Antique Roasted for Study and Leisure

by Brad Williams | February 12, 2010

The Golden Roast is one of the few establishments that has been able to sustain itself in the vicinity of the University of Tennessee.  For 10 years, it has been the espresso bar of choice for students with taste.  Sure, there's a Starbucks inside the library, but why not walk down the stairs to the street corner below for local gourmet?  It's an escape from the frantic library complex, the beating heart of a …

Sobu, Knoxville, TN

No Skimping on Sushi

by Brad Williams | February 11, 2010

I've spent a lot of time in Asia, including the southern coast of Japan, so I like to think I know something about sushi.  Knoxville has been flooded by trendy sushi places within recent years, but Sobu is among the frontrunners.  The environment is dim with bright, colorful lights and modern Asian style, including a wall-high seated Buddha statue perched in a fountain.  There's also a pretty sizable Buddha head behind the spotlessly clean sushi bar.

Morningside Park, Knoxville, TN

Disc golf downtown

by Brad Williams | February 05, 2010

I like to think of Morningside Park as downtown Knoxville's back yard.  It's in walking distance from most of the downtown hotels and entertainment.  The 23-acre park has familiar features: rentable shelters, one old and one very new playground, walking paths, and exercise equipment along the trails.

While the park is perfect for an evening walk after a downtown dinner, the real fun here is the disc golf course.  Knoxville has a surprisingly large …

Coffee & Chocolate, Knoxville, TN

A double-dose of gourmet indulgence

by Brad Williams | February 04, 2010

A relatively new addition to the Market Square eatery lineup, Coffee & Chocolate lacks the Starbucks pre-fab feel, and the taste is every bit as good.  Knoxville has many independent coffee shops, and there is none better than this small operation.  Especially if you're a chocolate lover.  Sure, you can get a shrink-wrapped chocolate muffin here too, but cakes that come in creme brulee, black & white espresso, coffeeholic, and peanut butter mousse won't be available …

The Ice Chalet, Knoxville, TN

Year-round ice skating in the South

by Brad Williams | January 28, 2010

When wintry weather inspires thoughts of skiing and snow, hot chocolate and a glowing wood fire, Knoxville natives retreat to the Ice Chalet, one of the longest established destinations in the city.

With a history dating to 1962, the Ice Chalet was one of the first two rinks in the South with regular public skating hours.  It remains among the very few places to tie-on skates in Tennessee.  The chalet's long legacy, preserved in black-and-white …

William Hastie Natural Area, Knoxville, TN

Mountain bikers' secret getaway

by Brad Williams | January 27, 2010

You won't find it on Google Maps, and none of the locals I've happened to ask have ever heard of it, but I'm going to let you in on a little secret kept by the outdoor community.

From downtown Knoxville, take James White Parkway to Riverside Drive SE.  Continue on South Knoxville Boulevard until the freeway deadends and you are forced to exit at Sevierville Pike.  Hang a left and keep your eyes peeled for Margaret …