Exploring Knoxville and Beyond: Our Favorite Coffee Shops, Hikes, and Hidden Gems

Knoxville is charming, from its vibrant coffee culture and delicious food spots to its stunning Great Smoky Mountains proximity. Here's a roundup of our recent adventure in Knoxville, with some favourite spots we discovered and a few we wish we'd made time for. Plus, I've included some top recommendations for must-see places we'll be adding to our list for next time!

Morning Coffee Spots

Knoxville's coffee scene is intense! Each spot we visited offered something unique, and we were never short of options for a cozy start to our mornings.

• Frothy Monkey: This café is modern and rustic and offers all-day brunch with a Southern twist. Their coffee game is excellent, and the cozy vibe makes it easy to unwind and refuel.

• Old City Java: Located in the heart of Old Town, Old City Java gave us that authentic local feel. The coffee was delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect for a quiet break.

• Five and Hoek: A must for any coffee lover! Five and Hoek's artisanal coffee and friendly baristas made this spot a memorable stop.

• Awaken Coffee: This charming café felt like a hidden oasis. With various drink options and welcoming vibes, it's a place where you can settle in for a good conversation or a quiet moment.

• Mahalo Coffee: The island-inspired decor at Mahalo Coffee transported us to a different world. The coffee was on point, and the ambiance felt refreshingly bright.

• Honeybee Coffee: We found Honeybee Coffee lively and relaxed. Their roast was one of our favourites, and it's clear why this spot has a loyal following.

• K Brew Bagels: A Knoxville staple! K Brew's bagels were the perfect pairing for their expertly crafted coffee. It's an ideal spot for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.

Food and Dining Highlights

Knoxville's dining scene is varied, with an impressive mix of local flavours and global inspiration.

• Kaizen Ramen: Craving something warm and comforting? Kaizen Ramen didn't disappoint. This spot offers delicious ramen with a twist, adding flavour to every bite.

• The Vault (Next Time!): We didn't make it here, but The Vault is on our must-try list for its legendary cocktails and historic vibes. Set in a converted bank vault, it's known for its unique atmosphere and crafted drinks.

• Stock & Barrel (Next Time!): Everyone raves about this burger joint, so we're saving it for our next trip. Their burgers and bourbon selections come highly recommended!

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Knoxville's proximity to incredible natural beauty made slipping away for an adventure easy. These scenic spots around the Great Smoky Mountains gave us a refreshing break from city life.

• Great Smoky Mountains: A true natural wonder! With endless trails, we were in awe at every turn, soaking in mountain views, vibrant foliage, and fresh air.

• Kuwohi: Known to locals and more adventurous hikers, Kuwohi offers trails that are a bit more secluded but well worth the trek. The trail was challenging but offered an unforgettable experience.

• Cataract Falls: For a lighter hike, Cataract Falls was perfect. The trail is serene, surrounded by beautiful greenery and the calming sounds of cascading water.

Where We Stayed

Hilton Knoxville offered us a comfortable home base with great city views and proximity to everything. It was easy to unwind here after long days out exploring.

Must-See Spots We Missed (But Wish We Hadn't!)

For our next Knoxville trip, these are on the itinerary:

• Market Square: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially on weekends, with live music, outdoor dining, and a lively local market.

• Ijams Nature Center: This nature center combines the beauty of Tennessee's landscape with fun outdoor activities. There's hiking, canoeing, and even a ropes course.

• World's Fair Park: A central Knoxville gem, this park has gorgeous fountains, walking trails, and the famous Sunsphere observation tower for panoramic views.

• Knoxville Museum of Art: This museum is a must for art lovers. It showcases the talents of local and regional artists and captures the essence of East Tennessee culture.

• Neyland Stadium: We may not have caught a game, but Neyland Stadium is iconic for sports fans. The energy here during a University of Tennessee game is unmatched!

  
  

Check out Jacob's Photos from Knoxville

Follow his photography journey through his Website or his Instagram!

Closing Thoughts

Knoxville truly surprised us with its charm, friendly locals, and rich mix of coffee shops, scenic hikes, and local attractions. Knoxville has everything you need for a cozy café, a picturesque mountain hike, or a lively downtown experience. We can't wait to return and dive deeper into everything this city offers!

Until next time!

-Tayste