Rocky Top has always been home sweet home to me. Having lived in Knoxville since 1997, I have had the privilege to experience some of the many (and there are many) wonderful attractions this city has to offer. From hiking trails to yummy food and shopping favorites, I've compiled a list of some of the gems Knoxville has to offer. No matter who you are or what you do, these Knoxville gems are waiting for you to discover them for yourself.
Long's Drug Store
This Knoxville gem has been around for years and years, and yet the food remains delicious and affordable. Doubling as a pharmacy, Long's is a local, family run business that anyone can, and will, enjoy.
Check it out today at 4604 Old Kingston Pike.
The Plaid Apron
Located in Knoxville's Seqouyah Hills neighborhood, this cafe, run by a married couple, is like a dream come true. Ranging from scrumptious breakfast dishes, to tasty lunches and simple but delicious dinner items, The Plaid Apron is truly a treat. If you haven't been, you need to change that, as in this week.
The Plaid Apron is located at 1210 Kennesaw Avenue.
House Mountain
Knoxville is known for it's neighboring Smoky Mountains, but not many people are aware of the hiking trails in Knoxville's immediate area. House mountain is only 30 minutes from downtown Knoxville in nearby Corryton, and is the highest point in Knox county at 2064 feet. The trails are "moderate to strenuous," but are worth it with a beautiful view as your reward.
Enter House Mountain Natural Area at 9601 Hogskin Road.
Val's Boutique
Girls -- this one is for you. Val's Boutique is my go-to local boutique for any and all of my fashion needs (and wants...and probably things I don't really need, too.) Commonly known as "Val's," this trendy boutique is stylish, affordable, and so stinking adorable. From date night dresses to anything and everything orange you could think of, Val's has you covered. (And Val herself was a Vol, what could be better!)
Visit Val's as soon as you can at 7309 Kingston Pike.
And follow Val's on Instagram.
Sweet P's BBQ
Good and cheap barbecue. That's about all there is to say! You want to check this out, trust me.
Oh, and it was on Man Vs. Food, once.
Visit Sweet P's at 3725 Maryville Pike.
The Bluffs
Located off of Alcoa Highway, the bluffs are a popular attraction for young and old Knoxville residents alike. Just a quick little walk gives you spectacular views of downtown Knoxville and the Tennessee river. Go at night and the view is even cooler.
Four Seasons
Vintage, anyone? They say it best when they say, "Whether you’re looking for a desk and chair, a cool retro lamp, a vintage hat, a kitschy tablecloth, a mirror or a costume for your next Mad Men party, come take a peek inside Four Seasons Vintage and enjoy a cup of coffee and a ginger snap while you're here."
They have what you're looking for, I can promise you.
Go shop with them at 5710 Kingston Pike, Suite C.
McKay's Book Store
This Knoxville gem is the best place to buy, sell, or trade used books, CDs and movies. This place is like a book lover's heaven, people. It's a whole new world beyond those doors. You will not leave empty handed, even if you try.
McKay's is located at 230 Papermill Way.
Gus's Good Time Deli
The name doesn't lie, folks. Gus's Good Time Deli is the home of the best cheese fries around, as well as good times. Every college student has been between the hours of midnight and 3 a.m. at one point, and they've never regretted it. It's good food, it's good people and it's a good time. It's also my favorite artist Drew Holcomb's favorite place to grab grub in Knoxville, so there's that.
To have a good time, visit 815 Melrose Place.
Mast General Store
This downtown Knoxville store is truly a gem. As the owners put it, "Mast Store offers a variety of goods from fashion to fried chicken cookbooks and toffee to tents." All sorts of cute and fun trinkets can be found at Mast General Store, and even if you don't have the funds to shop around, just walking around the store is a treat in itself!
Visit Mast General at 402 S Gay Street.
Dead End BBQLast but not least is one of the tastiest gem's Knox Vegas has to offer. Dead End BBQ is mouth-watering good. Dead End's website speaks the truth when it says Dead End BBQ takes you,"to the smells, the sounds, and the homemade tastes of an exceptional American neighborhood barbecue in East Tennessee."
Visit Dead End BBQ at 3621 Sutherland Avenue.
