Deals on vacations and trips to Knoxville

Knoxville Vacations

If you take vacations like you take your barbecue—complex, smoky, and layered in sweetness and a tangy kick—then order up a delectable Knoxville getaway. Nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains and steeped in American Civil War and prohibition history, the city of Knoxville provides a fusion of modern city life, outdoor adventure, and historic attractions. Wander through centuries of architecture, from 18th-century Georgian mansions to ranch houses of the 1940s and the glittering Sunsphere Tower—all slow-simmered together with smooth bluegrass music and stirred by international festivals.

Major Attractions in Knoxville

While on vacation in Knoxville, you'll enjoy some of the city's most dramatic sights. Get a bird's eye view from the observation deck of the Sunsphere Tower, rising more than 250 feet. Reminiscent of a disco ball shimmering over the city, the tower presides over World's Fair Park. Park fountains include a one-story geyser and interactive fountains designed to splash and play in during summer's heat. See the city from the unique perspective of the water on a stand-up paddle board or canoe at the Outdoor Knoxville Adventure Center by the downtown waterfront.

During winter, glide gracefully around an ice skating rink in Market Square—perfect for a romantic date or a fun family vacation in Knoxville. The square bustles with activity throughout the year, with a summer concert series and a farmers market running from May through November. To take a spin around the city, reserve one of our rental cars and drive to more than 60 historic buildings in downtown, or bike along the downtown greenway that follows the river.

Top Hotels in Knoxville

Before you abscond to the land of plucky banjos and blooming dogwood trees, curate your own custom Knoxville vacation package from our array of convenient flights and guest-loved hotels.

• Hilton Knoxville: Stay a few blocks from the Tennessee River waterfront and a slew of downtown landmarks, including East Tennessee History Center and Bijou Theater. When you aren’t out on the town, enjoy a soak in the outdoor or order up a lovely meal to your room after an energizing workout in the 24-hour fitness center.
• Hilton Knoxville Airport: Relax with the perfect pairing of convenience and comfort in this Hilton connected to McGhee Tyson Airport in Alcoa. Stay a short shuttle ride from your return flight while only a few miles from Alcoa attractions, like Meigs Falls. Dine in the hotel restaurant, soak in the pool and spa tub, and embark on your adventure in Knoxville refreshed.
• Holiday Inn Knoxville Downtown: Brighten your day with the vibrant and elegant décor of this Holiday Inn located right in the middle of downtown. Each room comes with complimentary wireless internet and a state-of-the-art entertainment center, but don’t expect to spend all your time inside—Knoxville Museum of Art and Sunsphere Tower are within walking distance, after all.
• Hampton Inn Oak Ridge: East of Knoxville, stay outside the big city in quiet Oak Ridge. This Hampton Inn is within walking distance to Oak Ridge Art Center and a short drive to the Children's Museum of Oak Ridge, so bring the kids. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast before a beautiful drive around the Great Smoky Mountains.

Annual Events in Knoxville

For a flurry of local flavor, plan your Knoxville vacation around the many festivals and events that fill the city with energy and excitement year-round. Taste the best biscuits you've ever laid lips on at the Biscuit Festival in May. The festival is home to all things buttery and delectable, including booths, bake-offs and a Mr. or Ms. Biscuit Pageant. When school lets out for summer, World Fair Park transforms into the Children's Festival of Reading. About so much more than books, this event features interactive science exhibitions, art displays, and cooking workshops for kids.

Known as the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville waits with spectacular views and a rich, multifaceted history. Save on vacation deals in Knoxville with Travelocity and start exploring.