Market Square is the gathering place of downtown Knoxville. This pedestrian plaza is lined with independent restaurants, shops and patios, and it hosts events throughout the year. If you're staying downtown, it's a short walk from many rentals and an easy place to spend an afternoon or evening.
What You'll Find
- Restaurants: Market Square is surrounded by independent restaurants with options for brunch, lunch and dinner. Many have outdoor seating that's perfect on a nice day.
- Shops: Local boutiques, bookstores and gift shops make it easy to find something unique.
- Public space: The square has open areas, fountains and places to sit, making it a pleasant spot to relax and people-watch.
The Farmers' Market
The Market Square Farmers' Market takes place on Saturdays during the growing season, with local produce, baked goods, crafts and more. It's a lively way to start a weekend morning and a good chance to pick up ingredients if your rental has a kitchen. Check the market's website for current dates and hours.
Events and Festivals
Market Square hosts concerts, festivals and community events through the year. In winter, the square has hosted holiday ice skating, which is a festive outing for families and couples. Event schedules change, so check local calendars or our local events page while you plan.
Tips for Visiting
- Walk from your rental. Market Square is easy to reach on foot from much of downtown.
- Plan for busy times. Weekend evenings and event days can be crowded, so make dinner reservations where possible.
- Explore nearby. Gay Street is just steps away, and Krutch Park sits next to the square.
- Check game day plans. Tennessee football weekends bring big crowds downtown.
A Bit of History
Market Square has been a public gathering place since the 1800s, when it was created as a market for farmers. Over time, it has evolved into the vibrant space it is today, while keeping its role as a community hub.
Perfect for Different Groups
Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner on a patio, families can explore shops and events, and groups of friends can hop between restaurants and bars. It's also a great place to spend a relaxed morning at the farmers' market.
Combine It with Downtown
Market Square pairs well with a stroll down Gay Street, a show at the Tennessee or Bijou Theatre, or a visit to the Museum of East Tennessee History. It's a great starting point for exploring downtown Knoxville.
A Gathering Place Since the 1850s
Market Square was established in the 1850s as a farmers' market, and it has been a community gathering spot ever since. Today, the pedestrian-only square is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, bars and shops housed in historic buildings. It's one of the liveliest spots in downtown Knoxville, especially on warm evenings.
The Market Square Farmers' Market
The Market Square Farmers' Market brings local growers, bakers and artisans to the square during the market season. You'll find fresh produce, flowers, baked goods and handmade items. Check the market's website for current days and hours.
Events and Entertainment
Market Square hosts concerts, festivals and seasonal events throughout the year. In winter, a seasonal ice skating rink has been a popular attraction. Movies and music on the square are common in warmer months. Schedules vary, so check local listings.
Dining on the Square
Restaurants around the square range from casual to upscale, with many offering outdoor seating. It's a great place to people-watch over coffee or dinner.
- Arrive early on event days: Popular events draw crowds.
- Explore nearby Market Street and Union Avenue: More shops and restaurants are steps away.
- Visit Krutch Park: This quiet park connects Market Square to Gay Street.
- Bring a reusable bag: Handy for farmers' market finds.
- Walk, don't drive: The square is pedestrian-only.
Who Will Enjoy It
Foodies, families, couples and anyone who enjoys a lively city atmosphere will find something to love. Kids often enjoy the fountains and open space, while adults appreciate the dining and shopping.
Combining Your Visit
Market Square is a short walk from Gay Street, the Old City and World's Fair Park, making it a good starting point for exploring downtown Knoxville.
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 are steps from Market Square. Browse our Knoxville vacation rentals to find the right place, and reach out to our local team with any questions.