The city of Knoxville is growing in popularity with each passing season. In addition to a year round moderate climate, the city is located within 90 minutes of six National Parks, including the Great Smokey Mountain National Park, and is home to one of the finest universities in the world, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Known throughout the area for its unsurpassed beauty and tranquility, this eastern Tennessee city is alive with a variety of activities year round. No matter what a visitor’s personal taste, ranging from the outdoors to the cultural arts, Knoxville, Tennessee has it. The city is easily accessible from virtually anywhere. It is located at the geographical center of the eastern United States and is within a day’s drive of half the nation’s population. Knoxville sits at the crossroads of three major interstates (I-75, I-40, and I-81). The two busiest times of the year are when the University of Tennessee is in full session and the summer, when tourists come to visit nearby Great Smokey Mountain National Park and the many local attractions. Visitors are warmly welcomed in this temperate climate. During the busy summer season, the countryside is green and gentle. With the daytime temperatures in the mid 80’s F and the evenings dropping into the mid 60’s F, it’s a perfect time to partake of any of the numerous outdoor activities. The fall color is truly magnificent as hills light up in brilliant autumn hues. Winter is brief and mild with just a dusting of snow. When it does snow, it transforms the already postcard like setting into an entirely new effect. Spring arrives early and stays for a long time, featuring glorious dogwoods, azaleas and other beautiful flowers. Throughout the year, Knoxville has a very accommodating climate. Knoxville offers a host of activities in every season. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise along the Tennessee River aboard an authentic paddle wheeler riverboat licensed by the US Coast Guard. During the day, a historic visit to Blount Mansion should not be missed. Built in 1792, Blount Mansion was home to territorial Gov. William Blount, signer of the U.S. Constitution. Guided tours of this National Historic Landmark show 18th century antiques and the workings of frontier government. If visitors are feeling a little more like seeing the sites on their own, a downtown self-guided walking tour highlights the beginnings of country music in Knoxville. The tour includes markers regarding Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, The Everly Brothers, Roy Acuff and others. Of course, a trip to the sprawling campus of the University of Tennessee is a must. Whether it’s visiting the Football Hall of Fame, watching one of the many sporting events taking place year round, or just wandering the campus, the University is truly remarkable. For those individuals intrigued by the Civil War, a must see is the Mabry-Hazen House Museum & Civil War “Bethel Cemetery”. This home of the Civil War and Victorian periods showcases original artifacts including china, silver, crystal, and antique furnishings. At various times, the house served as headquarters for both Union and Confederate troops. More than 1,600 Civil War soldiers and 50 Union prisoners are buried in Bethel Cemetery. Attractions, great weather, unsurpassed beauty, year round entertainment and sports: this easily accessible eastern Tennessee city has it all.
