20 Fun Facts About Knoxville Tennessee

Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. From its role as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains to its vibrant arts and music scenes, Knoxville is a place that has something for everyone. Here are 20 fun facts about Knoxville that you may not have known.

1. Knoxville was the first capital of Tennessee, serving as the seat of government from 1796 to 1812.
2. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, was founded in 1794 and is the state’s flagship institution of higher education.
3. Knoxville is home to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federal agency that provides electricity to millions of people across the Southeast.
4. The city is named after Henry Knox, a Revolutionary War general who served as the first Secretary of War under President George Washington.
5. Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, with a population of over 187,000.
6. The city is located at the crossroads of three major interstate highways: I-40, I-75, and I-81.
7. Knoxville is known for its vibrant music scene, with a rich tradition of country, bluegrass, and rock ‘n’ roll.
8. The city was the birthplace of famous country music singer Dolly Parton.
9. Knoxville is home to the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, which honors the achievements of female basketball players and coaches.
10. The Knoxville Museum of Art features a collection of over 7,000 works of art, including pieces by famous artists like Picasso, Warhol, and O’Keeffe.
11. The city’s annual Dogwood Arts Festival celebrates the blooming of the dogwood trees each spring and features art exhibits, live music, and other cultural events.
12. Knoxville is home to the Tennessee Theatre, a historic venue that has hosted performances by legends like Elvis Presley and B.B. King.
13. The Sunsphere, a 266-foot-tall tower located in World’s Fair Park, was built for the 1982 World’s Fair and offers stunning views of the city.
14. Knoxville is home to the Knoxville Ice Bears, a minor league hockey team that plays at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum.
15. The city’s Market Square is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring restaurants, shops, and a weekly farmers’ market.
16. Knoxville is home to the Knoxville Zoo, which features over 800 animals and is one of the top attractions in the region.
17. The city is located just a short drive from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the country.
18. Knoxville is the site of the annual Boomsday Festival, a massive fireworks show that takes place on Labor Day weekend.
19. The city is home to the Tennessee River, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
20. Knoxville is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and Southern hospitality.

Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city that is steeped in history and culture, with a vibrant arts and music scene, top-notch attractions, and friendly residents. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a fun place to visit, Knoxville is definitely worth checking out.