There is a lot to do in a weekend visit to Knoxville. Market Square has much to offer, but if you venture beyond Gay Street, you’ll find the niche restaurants, autumn landscapes and rich culture that lay within the city.
Although Knoxville may look different for returning alumni, there are restaurants and experiences both new and familiar to make this homecoming weekend memorable. Here are six Knoxville gems to consider during your visit.
Breakfast at Matt Robb’s
A trip to the South isn’t complete without a homemade biscuit. Matt Robb’s is a local restaurant run by Robb himself. You come for the fresh baked biscuits and stay for the company as Robb greets his customers and serves the delicacy with a smile.
The concise menu leaves minimal room for error. Grab a bacon, egg and cheese biscuit — or elevate it by adding one of the assorted cream cheese and jellies — to start off your weekend.
A walk at Ijams
Now that the the autumn leaves are falling, a walk at Ijams sets the perfect scene for a walk with your family or college friend. Only three miles from downtown, Ijams provides a landscape like no other with the quarry. Multiple hiking trails to choose from at the nature center are a great escape from the game day madness to come.
Create a playlist of nostalgic family tunes or your favorite songs from college to create the perfect soundtrack to your outdoor excursion.
A trip to Knoxville Museum of Art
KMA is a free art museum downtown that showcases pieces local to Knoxville and beyond. Current exhibits include blown glass and furniture galleries of historic architecture.
The museum is open Friday through Sunday from 1-5 p.m. and is the perfect venue for a post-game day activity. This relaxed environment and original artwork bring the beauty of Knoxville’s culture to life.
Dinner at 71 South
Located in South Knoxville, the restaurant resides inside a repurposed building in Baker Creek. The building was originally constructed in the 1930s and has since taken new form as a trendy restaurant.
71 South serves classic southern fare with an elevated twist. Menu highlights include a burger of the month, south haven penne and a brunch menu to fuel your game day. This menu and atmosphere are an unlikely pair but surprise patrons every day.
Drinks at Bernadettes Crystal Garden
Knoxville has a series of rooftop bars to choose from, but Bernadettes takes the crown for the most unique view both inside and outside the venue.
The three-in-one-space includes the crystal gardens, Preservation Pub and Scruffy City Hall. All three vendors are housed within the same building and each bring an interesting personality to the establishment. Bernadettes is a three-story building with assigned crystals to each floor. The building is decorated with broken glass, amethysts and specially curated crystals to bring an ornamental feel to the bar experience.
The menu matches its atmosphere as some of the drinks and small plates have ethereal-themed names.
Watch the game at the Local Smokey
If you came to be in the homecoming atmosphere and avoid the chaos of Neyland Stadium, cheer on the Vols at the Local Smokey in Old City. This dive bar will take you right back to the glory days of college.
After sharing stories of “remember when” with your college buddies, engage in some friendly competition by starting a game of darts or pool.
The Local Smokey is an off-campus hot spot for Vols fans.
As you plan your homecoming itinerary, branch out from the typical trip to Market Square hot spots and try these underrated Knoxville staples to balance out your weekend.
