Between finals, friends, work and the chaos of everyday, everyone needs some time to relax.
The first Wednesday of November is designated as National Stress Awareness day. This day is dedicated to acknowledging and reducing the stressors of everyday life. Whatever relaxing looks like for you, take time to destress on National Stress Awareness Day.
Below are seven places in Knoxville perfect for kicking back and relaxing.
Golden Roast Coffee Roasters
Located right at the edge of UT’s campus, Golden Roast Coffee Roasters is a student-friendly coffee shop with the perfect menu for a small lunch or snack. With its wide coffee and tea selection and quiet atmosphere, Golden Roast’s low lighting and warm colors make for a homey space to relax this National Stress Awareness Day.
World’s Fair Park
Originally the site of the 1982 World’s Fair, World’s Fair Park has been transformed into an open park space with an amphitheater and the Sunsphere, Knoxville’s most familiar landmark. The view from the top of the golden orb is stunning and, during the week, the observation deck can be a place to be far from the world. The deck is an excellent choice for a place to go away for a moment to relax. The park also has walkways, fountains and grassy areas that can be used for leisurely strolls, a picnic or relaxing in the sun.
Little River
The Little River is anything but little. Stretching for 60 miles, Little River features some of the most gorgeous scenery in the southeastern United States. The river is partially in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and there are trails that crisscross through and are populated with wildlife. A visit to the Little River presents an opportunity to get out and enjoy some of the natural scenery East Tennessee has to offer.
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Aboretum
Combining history with local beauty, the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Aboretum offers 47 acres of colorful gardens and peaceful paths. Throughout the park, there are old walls and stone buildings built decades in the past. The lawn provides space for picnics and the peaceful nature of the shady trees makes for a relaxing atmosphere. The park is located at 2743 Wimpole Avenue, and is a great way to spend a day away from stress.
Zoo Knoxville
Zoo Knoxville is a massive 53 acre expanse with around 800 animals from all over the world. With both local and exotic animals, the zoo is a great place to watch adorable black bears or laugh as the monkeys swing from the branches. Coupled with educational opportunities, Zoo Knoxville can be both mindless fun and also leisurely learning. The zoo opens at 10 am at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive and offers cheap rates throughout the colder months.
Coffee and Chocolate
Nestled in at 327 Union Avenue, Coffee and Chocolate is a small hole-in-the-wall coffee shop complete with a full display of gourmet chocolate. The smell of coffee creates a calm, sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a breather from the busy streets of Knoxville. Whether alone or with friends, anyone can find a cozy escape with a cup of coffee and a bag of assorted chocolates.
Market Square Farmers Market
For those who like a bit more action to ease their mind, the Farmers Market is an open-air market in Market Square. Everything sold is grown or handmade in East Tennessee. Find anything from bread to hand-made sweaters to local honey. The Farmers Market is a great way to contribute to the local economy while also strolling through the heart of downtown Knoxville. The Farmers Market is open on Wednesday and Saturday mornings until Thanksgiving.
