In a state better known for hot chicken, biscuits, barbecue, and meat-and-three legends, pizza is not usually the first thing people brag about. Then you get to Knoxville’s Pizza Palace and that whole assumption falls apart. Sitting on East Magnolia Avenue since August 10, 1961, this longtime local favorite has the kind of staying power …
East Tennessee
Big retirement dreams usually come with one rude little detail: the price tag. That is exactly why Erwin, Tennessee, feels like such a satisfying find. Tucked into the mountains of Unicoi County in the state’s northeast corner, this small town has the kind of setup budget-conscious retirees keep hoping still exists somewhere. It has a …
Some restaurants look like they’re trying hard to get your attention. Miss G’s Tortas Y Tamales in Chattanooga does the exact opposite, and that may be part of its charm. From the outside, it feels modest and easy to miss. Inside, though, it’s the kind of place that gets people talking, then driving, then bringing …
Retirement dreams usually come packaged with a trade-off. You get the pretty downtown, but no real conveniences. Or you get the hospitals, stores, and services, but the place feels like every other highway exit in America. Jonesborough dodges that problem rather nicely. Tucked into Northeast Tennessee, this little town has the kind of Main Street …
A lot of weekend getaways promise “escape,” but Ancient Lore Village actually commits to the bit. About 15 minutes from downtown Knoxville, this tucked-away resort trades standard hotel corridors for winding stone paths, storybook cottages, treehouses, gardens, woodland trails, and a setting that looks like someone dropped a fantasy novel into East Tennessee and decided …
There are plenty of places in Tennessee where you can grab tacos and call it a night. Then there are the restaurants people actually talk about afterward. El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant falls into that second category. It is the kind of spot families return to for birthdays, weeknight dinners, post-game meals, and those random evenings …
Some places get famous with flashy signs and big claims. Wild Love Bakehouse doesn’t really need that. Tucked along North Central Street in Knoxville, this bakery has built its reputation the better way: one laminated, butter-rich croissant at a time. Locals know the deal. You go early, you scan the pastry case like it’s a …
Tucked away on River Street in Chattanooga, there’s a sandwich shop that many locals have been quietly loving for years. River Street Deli doesn’t rely on flashy decor or a polished, trendy look to win people over. Instead, it does what the best neighborhood delis always do — it lets the food speak for itself. …
Nestled along the beautiful Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga, the Tennessee Aquarium offers an unforgettable journey through freshwater and ocean habitats. One of its most thrilling attractions is a massive alligator that visitors can observe up close, watching this powerful reptile glide gracefully through the water. With two enormous buildings packed with incredible exhibits, interactive …
Knoxville has a thriving antique scene that attracts collectors and casual browsers alike. Whether you’re hunting for mid-century furniture, vintage clothing, or one-of-a-kind treasures, the city’s antique shops offer something special around every corner. From sprawling flea market-style malls to cozy boutiques filled with carefully curated finds, these local favorites make treasure hunting an adventure …
McKay’s Knoxville isn’t your average bookstore—it’s a massive warehouse filled with endless rows of used books, movies, music, games, and collectibles that make every visit feel like a treasure hunt. Located on Papermill Place Way, this beloved spot has earned a loyal following among locals and travelers alike who come searching for rare finds and …
Tucked away in Chattanooga, Tennessee, there’s a restaurant that’s been serving up Southern comfort food for over 70 years. Bea’s Restaurant isn’t just a place to grab a bite—it’s a destination where families gather around lazy Susan tables and share platters of fried chicken, homemade sides, and warm cornbread. People drive from all over the …
Driving down Clinton Highway in Knoxville, Tennessee, you might do a double-take when you spot what looks like a full-size airplane perched on top of a building. This isn’t your imagination playing tricks on you. The Airplane Gas Station is a real roadside landmark that has captured the hearts of locals and travelers for decades. …
Knoxville has a steakhouse secret that locals have been keeping to themselves since 1968. Ye Olde Steak House sits along Chapman Highway, serving up flame-grilled steaks in a cozy log cabin setting. While most people come for the prime rib or ribeye, regulars know the real showstopper is actually the baked potato, loaded with all …
Tucked away in the rolling hills of East Tennessee sits a charming town that holds a remarkable secret: Jonesborough existed before Tennessee itself became a state. Founded in 1779, this historic gem predates Tennessee’s statehood by seventeen years. While most people know Nashville or Memphis, few realize that Jonesborough’s tree-lined streets and preserved buildings tell …
Tucked away on North Central Street in Knoxville, Tennessee, sits a diner that has folks buzzing across the state. The Diner at Twisters Shakes & Sundaes has become famous for serving up one of the most talked-about banana splits you will ever taste. People are making special trips from all over Tennessee just to experience …
Whataburger has finally made its way to the Chattanooga area, and fans couldn’t be more excited. The beloved Texas-based burger chain opened its first location in East Ridge, Tennessee, bringing its famous menu to eager diners. For years, locals have been asking for a Whataburger nearby, and now their wishes have come true with a …
A century of arrivals, departures, and downtown memories now pauses at a crossroads. The Chattanooga Choo Choo Station at 1400 Market St. is officially listed for sale, and the stakes feel personal if you have ever strolled its gardens or sipped coffee beneath its grand arches. Investors see potential, but locals feel the heartbeat of …
Picking the right first date spot can make conversation flow, help nerves settle, and spark a little chemistry. Knoxville is packed with charming dining rooms, soft lighting, and dishes that invite sharing without feeling fussy. You will find relaxed energy in Market Square, elegant corners downtown, and cozy nooks that make time slow in the …
This February, Torikaya opens at 1120 Houston St., Suite 150, bringing the lively spirit of a Japanese izakaya straight to downtown. Think glowing lanterns, charcoal smoke curling through the room, and the easy hum of a place that already feels like a neighborhood favorite. Designed for lingering evenings, shared plates, and spontaneous second rounds, Torikaya …
As January winds down and winter settles across East Tennessee, Knoxville has a delicious tradition that gives locals and visitors something to look forward to: Chocolatefest. Held in Knoxville each year, this beloved festival transforms the final stretch of the month into a celebration devoted entirely to chocolate. At a time when the holiday season …
Craving a night out in Knoxville without the buzz? You are in luck, because this city is quietly becoming a haven for mocktail lovers who want flavor, craft, and a bit of atmosphere. From speakeasy vibes to rooftop views, you will find zero proof drinks that are every bit as thoughtful as their spirited cousins. …
Looking for budget friendly fun in Knoxville that still feels special? You’re in the right place, because these kid approved spots pack big adventure without draining your wallet. From shady trails and splashy fountains to hands on museums and skyline views, there is plenty to explore at a price that lets you say yes more …
Chattanooga has quietly become one of the South’s most exciting food cities. From riverside seafood shacks to cozy Italian bistros, the Scenic City offers flavors that stick with you long after the last bite. When you ask locals where they love to eat, these eight restaurants come up again and again—each one serving unforgettable dishes …
Knoxville has become a haven for coffee lovers, with local shops popping up across the city that offer much more than just a caffeine fix. These neighborhood favorites serve expertly crafted drinks, provide cozy spaces to work or relax, and create a sense of community that keeps people coming back day after day. Whether you’re …
Knoxville knows how to do comfort food right, and nothing hits the spot quite like a perfectly cooked burger. Whether you’re craving something classic or looking to try a creative twist, this city has burger joints that’ll make your taste buds dance. From food trucks to downtown hotspots, these ten places serve up patties worth …
Knoxville has a personality all its own, and the best way to find it is by doing what the locals do. Skip the typical tourist traps and head to the places where people actually hang out, eat, and spend their weekends. These spots will show you the real side of the city—relaxed, creative, and full …
There’s something magical about starting your day with a fresh pastry or a warm slice of cake from a local bakery. Knoxville has an amazing collection of bakeries that serve everything from classic comfort treats to creative, build-your-own desserts. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast on the go or treating yourself to something special, these spots will …
Knoxville has quietly built a reputation as one of the South’s most exciting food cities. Locals know the best spots aren’t always the ones with the flashiest signs or the longest lines. Instead, they’re the places where flavors tell stories, where chefs pour their hearts into every dish, and where a single bite can make …
Planning a day out in Knoxville and want your pup by your side the whole time? You are in luck, because this city nails the mix of great food, craft beer, and sunny patios where dogs are treated like VIPs. From Market Square buzz to laid back neighborhood hangouts, there is a patio for every …