Knoxville vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Knoxville vacation rentals

Stay near Knoxville's top sights

University of Tennessee86 locals recommend
Turkey Creek71 locals recommend
Market Square270 locals recommend
Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum13 locals recommend
Ijams Nature Center273 locals recommend
Old City75 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Knoxville

  • Total rentals

    1.4K properties

  • Total number of reviews

    97K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    810 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    520 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    90 properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    830 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Knoxville

Welcome to Knoxville

Knoxville is equal parts urban life and outdoor adventure, a fusion you might only find in a metropolis that sits just out of reach of the Smoky Mountains. Dubbed “Scruffy City” decades ago when it was chosen as the site for the 1982 World’s Fair, the nickname has stuck — and Knoxville has embraced being the weird, artsy cousin to Nashville’s more polished veneer. As you drive into Knoxville on Interstate-40, the 266-foot-tall Sunsphere, one of the relics of the World’s Fair, shines like a beacon, letting you know that you have, in fact, arrived in Tennessee’s third-largest city.

A university town with a massive student population, Knoxville has a youthful vibe, with plenty of art installations and indie shops. The food scene, too, is pulsing, as is the craft beer — more than 20 breweries now call Knoxville home. Hikers, bikers, and those who simply like to exist outdoors often flock to the city due to its waterfront perch (the Tennessee River divides the campus and downtown from South Knoxville, or SoKno) and the fact that it boasts more than 100 miles of paved greenways and trails. The city’s lower cost of living compared to its neighbors draws creative entrepreneurs who want to try something new, which means that with each visit to Knoxville you’re likely to discover something completely unique, off the wall, or both.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Knoxville

With Tennessee’s relatively mild climate, May through October are prime months for enjoying Knoxville, the summer in particular if you plan to take advantage of the city’s many water features. The golden falls of East Tennessee are gorgeous, with the leaves peaking in mid-October each autumn. Spring, however, may very well be the best time to visit Knoxville for those who love both art and flowers. Every April, downtown Knoxville is awash in color with the annual weekend-long Dogwood Arts Festival and the multi-day Chalk Walk art competition on Market Square.


Top things to do in Knoxville

Ijams Nature Center

A 315-acre compound spanning gardens, a natural bird sanctuary, and the spring-fed Mead’s Quarry, Ijams is a prime spot to while away an afternoon swimming, canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. If you want to get your heart rate up, test your balance at the Navitat adventure park, whose tree-based terrain spans bridge crossings, tunnels, rolling barrels, nets, and zip lines.

Ale Trail

Craft beer lovers will be eager to sip their way through Knoxville’s various homegrown brews. The Ale Trail links more than two dozen craft breweries and taprooms with a passport that encourages you to visit all of them safely and get rewarded for your efforts. The Knox Brew Bus is one convenient transportation option to hit up many of the stops along the trail.

Market Square

At the turn of the millennium, many of Market Square’s buildings were vacant or boarded up; today, the area is the epicenter of much of Knoxville’s commerce and tourism. In addition to boasting water features and some excellent restaurants and bars, Market Square houses the verdant Krutch Park with its many sculptures, including the Tennessee Woman Suffrage Memorial statue.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Knoxville?

    Knoxville has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with highs around 88°F (31°C). Winters are usually mild, with temperatures hovering around 49°F (9°C), though occasional snowfall can occur.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Knoxville?

    Popular activities include exploring the historic Market Square, strolling along the Tennessee River on the Volunteer Landing Park, and visiting the Knoxville Museum of Art. For sports enthusiasts, catching a game at Neyland Stadium is often recommended.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Knoxville?

    Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit Knoxville, thanks to the mild weather and outdoor activities. The Dogwood Arts Festival in April and the Boomsday Festival over Labor Day weekend are two notable events during these seasons.

  • What are the best places to stay in Knoxville?

    Downtown Knoxville is a popular area to stay due to its proximity to attractions like Market Square and the Tennessee Theatre. The Old City is also frequently suggested for its historic charm and vibrant nightlife.

  • What are the best places to visit in Knoxville?

    Visitors frequently visit the Sunsphere Tower for its panoramic city views. The East Tennessee History Center, offering insights into local history, and Old City, a vibrant neighborhood full of unique shops and eateries, are also popular.

  • What are some hiking trails in Knoxville?

    Knoxville has a variety of hiking trails, including the House Mountain State Natural Area, a 5 mile (8 km) trail with scenic views at the summit. The Seven Islands State Birding Park features easy trails, perfect for bird watching and wildlife viewing.

  • What are some family activities to do in Knoxville?

    Families can explore the interactive exhibits at The Muse Knoxville, a child-friendly science museum. Zoo Knoxville is another favorite, housing over 800 animals. For a serene outdoor experience, consider a picnic at Ijams Nature Center.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Knoxville?

    Pigeon Forge, home to the Dollywood amusement park, is a great day trip choice, located about 35 miles (56 km) from Knoxville. Another option is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, only 45 miles (72 km) away.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Knoxville?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 830 vacation rentals in Knoxville featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Knoxville?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Knoxville. Choose from more than 520 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

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