Downtown Knoxville is full of history, and two stops make a great introduction to the city's past. The Museum of East Tennessee History tells the story of the region, while Blount Mansion offers a look at one of the earliest homes in Knoxville. Both are an easy outing from a downtown rental.
The Museum of East Tennessee History
The Museum of East Tennessee History is located on Gay Street in downtown Knoxville. Operated by the East Tennessee Historical Society, it shares the story of the region through exhibits, artifacts and changing displays. Its long-running exhibit, Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee, covers centuries of the region's history.
The museum also hosts rotating exhibits on topics ranging from local history to music and culture. Check the museum's website for current exhibits and hours.
The East Tennessee History Center, home to the Museum of East Tennessee History, tells the story of the region through exhibits on early settlement, the Civil War and more.
Blount Mansion
Blount Mansion is the circa-1792 home of William Blount, a signer of the U.S. Constitution and governor of the Southwest Territory. It's considered one of the most important historic sites in Knoxville, as it served as an early center of government in the territory before Tennessee became a state. Guided tours share the history of the house, its residents and the people who lived and worked there.
Tips for Visiting
- Check hours and tours. Both sites have set hours and may close certain days. Confirm before you go.
- Walk between them. Both are in downtown Knoxville, so you can easily visit both in one outing.
- Allow time. Plan an hour or more for each.
- Bring the kids. Both sites offer something for curious young visitors.
- Check hours: Museums and historic sites often have limited hours or seasonal schedules.
- Walk downtown: Many sites are within walking distance of each other.
- Join a guided tour: Walking tours can add context and stories.
- Look up: Historic architecture is everywhere downtown.
- Plan a full day: Mix museums with lunch at Market Square.
Other Historic Sites Nearby
Knoxville has more history to explore. James White's Fort, the home of Knoxville's founder, is downtown, and other historic homes and sites can be found in and around the city. Gay Street itself is full of historic buildings.
Beyond downtown, neighborhoods such as Old North Knoxville and Fourth and Gill feature Victorian-era homes. A drive or stroll through these areas offers a look at the city's residential history.
A Great Rainy-Day Plan
Both sites are mostly indoors, making them a reliable choice on a rainy day. Pair them with lunch on Market Square or a show at a historic theater for a full day downtown.
Combine a history-focused morning with an afternoon at World's Fair Park or an evening show at the Tennessee Theatre.
Who Will Enjoy It
History buffs, families, students and anyone curious about East Tennessee will find these sites interesting. They also offer a nice change of pace from busier attractions.
Knoxville's Early History
Knoxville was founded in 1791 and served as the first capital of Tennessee. Downtown still holds reminders of those early days.
James White's Fort
James White's Fort recreates the home of Knoxville's founder, James White, who settled the area in 1786. Visitors can tour reconstructed log buildings and learn about frontier life.
Old City
Knoxville's Old City district, centered around Jackson Avenue, features restored warehouses and brick streets. Today, it's home to restaurants, bars, shops and music venues.
Knoxville in the Civil War
East Tennessee was deeply divided during the Civil War, and Knoxville was occupied by both Confederate and Union forces. The 1863 Siege of Knoxville and the Battle of Fort Sanders were key events. Exhibits at the East Tennessee History Center and markers around the city help tell this story.
Architecture to Look For
- The Tennessee Theatre: Its Spanish-Moorish interior is a highlight.
- Historic storefronts: Many downtown buildings date to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
- The Old City: Brick warehouses reflect Knoxville's role as a railroad hub.
Getting Around Downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville is compact and easy to explore on foot. Gay Street, Market Square, the Old City and World's Fair Park are all close together, and the University of Tennessee campus sits just to the west. Knoxville Area Transit runs a free downtown trolley system on select routes, which can be handy for longer hops. Check KAT's website for current routes and schedules.
- Park once: Public garages are spread around downtown, so you can leave the car and walk.
- Watch the calendar: UT football weekends, festivals and big concerts fill restaurants and rentals quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You'll likely walk more than you expect.
- Plan a mountain day: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is roughly an hour's drive from downtown, depending on traffic and which entrance you use.
Why Stay Downtown
A downtown loft or apartment puts you in the middle of the action. You can walk to dinner, catch a show and stroll back without worrying about parking. For groups, a rental with several bedrooms and a shared living space keeps everyone together, and a kitchen makes it easy to enjoy farmers' market finds or a relaxed breakfast before a busy day. It also makes Knoxville a convenient city base if you'd like to pair urban fun with day trips to the Smokies.
Stay Downtown
Our downtown Knoxville lofts and apartments put you close to these historic sites. Browse our Knoxville vacation rentals to find the right place for your trip.