3-Day Itinerary: Exploring Knoxville and Beyond in January

Knoxville, Tennessee, offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, arts, and Southern hospitality. Located just an hour from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville is the ideal base for outdoor adventures and urban exploration alike. January is winter in East Tennessee, so visitors should expect cooler temperatures, typically ranging from highs near 47°F to lows around 27°F. While snow is rare in the region during this time, you may encounter frosty mornings or light flurries, making the backdrop all the more scenic. This time of year often features fewer crowds, so you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy popular attractions and trails more peacefully.

For a three-day trip to Knoxville, pack comfortable clothing for outdoor activities, layered outfits for changing temperatures, and sturdy footwear for hiking. This guide offers a detailed itinerary that highlights some of the best Knoxville has to offer, from exploring vibrant city landmarks to immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Smoky Mountains.

Day 1: Urban Exploration and Local Heritage

Morning: Breakfast and Market Square

• Start your day with breakfast at The French Market Creperie, located downtown near Market Square. They serve excellent coffee, crepes (both sweet and savory), and pastries to fuel your day ahead.
• After breakfast, explore Market Square, the beating heart of Downtown Knoxville. Originally established in 1854, this vibrant open-air space has always been a central spot for commerce, arts, and gatherings. Wander through boutique shops, enjoy public art installations, and, if you’re lucky, attend a local winter pop-up market nearby.

Midday: Knoxville Museum of Art and World’s Fair Park

• Walk to the Knoxville Museum of Art (KMA), about a 10-minute stroll from Market Square. Admission is free! The museum features permanent collections such as “Higher Ground,” a celebration of East Tennessee’s artistic excellence. Be sure to explore the monumental glass sculpture, “Cycle of Life: Within the Power of Dreams” by Richard Jolley, which is one of the largest glass works in the world.
• Afterward, take a walk through World’s Fair Park, which hosted the 1982 World’s Fair. Climb the Sunsphere, a 266-foot-tall iconic structure, and enjoy panoramic views of Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains in the distance. The fourth floor has an observation deck, and tickets are only around $5.

Evening: Dinner and Southern Hospitality

• Head to Calhoun’s on the River for dinner. Located along the Tennessee River, this spot is known for its BBQ ribs, fried catfish, and scenic views. End your day with hearty Southern cuisine and relax before Day 2’s outdoor adventures.

Day 2: Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Morning: Drive to the Smokies

• Start early and drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, approximately 50 minutes from Downtown Knoxville via US-441 S. Pick up maps and speak to park rangers for updates on trail conditions. January hiking allows for striking views with leafless trees, but trails may be icy, so wearing appropriate gear like microspikes is highly recommended.

Hiking Recommendation: Laurel Falls Trail

• This 2.6-mile roundtrip hike is one of the most accessible and scenic trails in the park. It’s perfect for winter because the falls may freeze into beautiful icy formations. The paved path makes it moderately easy, though be cautious of slick sections in colder weather.
• Fun Fact: The trail was named for the mountain laurel bushes lining the route.

Lunch in Gatlinburg

• Drive about 10 minutes to Gatlinburg, a charming mountain town just outside the park. Grab lunch at The Park Grill, a cozy restaurant featuring Appalachian-inspired dishes like trout and hickory-smoked BBQ.

Afternoon: Cades Cove Loop

• After lunch, drive about 45 minutes to Cades Cove, one of the park’s most picturesque areas. This 11-mile scenic loop is known for its open fields surrounded by mountains and opportunities for spotting wildlife like deer, turkeys, and maybe even bears. Winter’s bare trees offer unobstructed views and unique photo opportunities. The drive takes about 2-3 hours with stops and short walks to historic cabins and churches.

Evening: Return to Knoxville

• Drive back to Knoxville (about 1.5 hours), and enjoy a low-key evening. Consider visiting a local brewery like Schulz Bräu Brewing Company, known for its authentic German lagers and spacious beer hall atmosphere.

Day 3: History and Local Flavors

Morning: Breakfast and James White’s Fort

• Start your day with breakfast at Pete’s Coffee Shop, a Knoxville institution serving up traditional Southern breakfast staples like biscuits and gravy.
• Walk to James White’s Fort, a reconstructed pioneer settlement founded by Knoxville’s namesake in 1786. Step back in time as you explore log cabins, blacksmith exhibits, and learn about the city’s early history.

Midday: Zoo Knoxville

• Spend your afternoon at Zoo Knoxville, located just 15 minutes from downtown. Known for animal conservation efforts, the zoo features red pandas, elephants, and a popular reptile exhibit. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to catch the highlights and feed giraffes at the Boyd Family Giraffe Encounter.

Afternoon: Tennessee Riverwalk

• End your trip with a leisurely walk along the Tennessee Riverwalk, part of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness. This greenway offers stunning views of the river and is dotted with public art and rest areas. You can also rent bikes if you’re feeling adventurous.

Evening: Last Dinner in Knoxville

• Close out your visit with dinner at Stock & Barrel on Market Square. Known for its gourmet burgers and craft cocktails, this spot gives you a final taste of Knoxville’s inventive culinary scene.

Driving and distances account for winter road safety, so budget extra time for travel. Enjoy your trip!