Kaizen

Once described as a “Scruffy City” on the banks of the Tennessee River, Knoxville is far and away Tennessee’s most low key urban center. Situated just west of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the city holds space for a surprisingly diverse array of Appalachian voices andn perspectives and is quickly becoming a destination for makers, artists and musicians from around the world. If you get a chance to stop by or decide to make the pilgrimmage for the Big Ears festival post pandemic, check out a few of these foodie (and brewie?) staples to hold you down during your stay.

Don't knock Knoxville! This adorable city seated on the river was not somewhere we originally planned on visiting, but when we got the chance to explore we took it, and man are we glad we did. This is a gold mine! In this guide you'll find accommodation recommendations, great shopping, and the most delicious eatz.