Are you looking for things to do in Knoxville for couples? If so, take a read!
If you’re visiting Knoxville as a couple, it’s likely that you’ll want to take in the city’s more romantic sights or at least find things to do in Knoxville for couples (rather than families and kids!).
Hopefully this list of things to do in Knoxville with couples will give you loads of ideas and inspiration for your trip to Knoxville!
Whether you want to plan a couple of designated date-nights during your trip or are a tried and true Knoxvillian looking for some date night inspiration, we’ve got you covered. From strolling down the Historic Market Square to embarking on one of Knoxville’s very own food tours, there’s so much to do here that is sure to suit both you and your sweetheart.
So, let’s dive right in and explore some of the best things to do in Knoxville for couples!
Stroll along Historic Market Square
Firstly, a list of things to do in Knoxville for couples simply wouldn’t be complete without the inclusion of its romantic Market Square. Picture the scene: the sun is setting, the lights come on and it’s just you and your significant other in a stunning setting that seems straight out of a movie. Sounds good, right?
With tons of window shopping (or actual shopping) on offer here, there’s plenty of things to do. Amongst the boutique shops lie a plethora of restaurants too, so whether you two are partial to a simple burger or want to explore some of Knoxville’s southern staples, you’re sure to find a date spot that’s perfect for you. Located super centrally, it’s the perfect spot to explore if you’re visiting the area and want plenty to do.
Star of Knoxville Riverboat
My next suggestion for things to do in Knoxville for couples, is the Knoxville riverboat. If you just so happen to be visiting on the most romantic day of the year, why not book a Valentine’s cruise on the Tennessee River?
The perfect date spot, this romantic setting is perfect for a lunch or dinner date at sea. Can’t make it work on February 14th?
Never fear, for cruises run Tuesday through Sunday, so there should be a date that you can work with! There’s something serene about floating down the river, and the Star of Knoxville has a stunning upper deck that you two can use to check out some of Knoxville’s finest sights. This is certainly one of the best things to do for couples in Knoxville.
Knoxville: Mural Art Tour by Golf Cart
This fun day tour is a chance to see all the beautiful art murals that you can see around Knoxville. This tour will zoom you around in a golf buggy (kind of cool right?!) and take you to all the best known art murals in Knoxville, as well as some of the lesser known ones too.
It’s a really fun way to spend some time in the city, and it’s quite a cool, unique date idea too!
Museums of Knoxville
Next on my list of things to do in Knoxville for couples, it’s all the museums! If you two love to explore a city’s cultural aspects, then why not check out one (or all!) of Knoxville’s fantastic museums?
Offering something for every interest level, whether that be in the events of the Civil War or the arts, there are plenty of ways for you two indulge your curiosities. Perfect for the knowledge seeking couple, Knoxville’s museums are sure to fill an afternoon or two!
Take a romantic stroll along the riverside
Knoxville is a city of many rivers, and enjoying a romantic evening stroll along the riverside is probably one of my favourite things to do in Knoxville for couples. You can watch the sun go down over the water, see the city lights reflecting in the river – it’s perfect.
Sunsphere observation tower
The Sunsphere is a tower in the middle of town (you can’t miss it!) with an observation deck on the top, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding neighbourhoods of Knoxville.
It’s a lovely thing to do in Knoxville for couples – especially as you can take some cute selfies at the top of the observation deck! It’d also make a lovely place to propose too!
World’s Fair Park
Being home to numerous beautiful parks, Knoxville is the perfect place to enjoy your sweetheart’s company amongst nature’s wonders. The iconic World’s Fair Park is probably the best one to visit, as its amazing Sunsphere allows you to see the entirety of downtown Knoxville.
With the park being known for its peace and quiet (as well as numerous waterways, fountains and other lovely features), it’s a great place to spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy some homemade food al-fresco.
First Friday
If you two love to hit the town, then a great thing to do as a couple visiting the area is First Friday. A cherished tradition that takes place on the first Friday of each month, you’ll find numerous couples that show up for a great night out. It’s a great option for things to do in Knoxville for couples!
With galleries, bars and shops staying open late, it’s a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Knoxville at your own pace.
Whether you two like to celebrate long into the night or are just looking to explore all that the area has to offer, make sure to head down on one of those first Friday’s for a romantic night out!
Food tours
Happen to have be in a couple with another foodie? Well, Knoxville is the perfect place to explore.
With four different food tour options offered by Knoxville Food Tours, you two will be spoilt for choice. With the firm promising to offer guests the full Knoxville experience, you may both just pick up one or two new favourite foods from these awesome tours.
The Three Rivers Rambler
Next on my list of things to do in Knoxville for couples, it’s this iconic steam train! If you’re into trains (or even if you’re not!) the Three Rivers Rambler is a pretty cool things to do in Knoxville for couples. This vintage steam train is the epitome of quirky and romantic – and we just love it. It makes a perfect day out for couples in Knoxville and it’d be a gorgeous date idea too.
They have special journeys over Halloween and Christmas too – so if you’re visiting at this time of year, you might be able to time your visit for something extra memorable!
Navitat Knoxville
If you’re looking for fun things to do for couples in Knoxville, then Navitat Knoxville is going to tick all your boxes! Navitat Knoxville is a high-ropes tree adventure course, and it makes for such a fun and unique date idea! Sure, it’s not the most romantic of date ideas, but this is definitely something you’ll always remember! This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Knoxville for couples.
The Melting Pot restaurant
Next on my list of things to do in Knoxville for couples, it’s an amazing restaurant! If you’re looking for a restaurant that’s fun and a bit quirky… The Melting Pot is it!
You’ll get to pick and choose a mixture of delicious cheese fondues (alongside your choice of seafood, steak, poultry, pasta and fresh local vegetables) to make the most delicious meal. Oh, and finish with a decadent chocolate fondue of course!
Go indoor rock climbing
Next on my list of things to do in Knoxville for couples, it’s indoor rock climbing! If you’ve never been indoor rock climbing, it’s pretty easy to pick up, and you’ll certainly have fun trying (that’s for sure!).
It’s sporty, active and there’s nothing quite so fun as learning something new together!
Knoxville Botanical Gardens
Next on my list of things to do in Knoxville for couples, it’s the stunning botanical gardens!
A beautiful landscape that covers a whopping 47 acres of land, this is a great place to come as a couple that want to explore Knoxville’s horticultural side. Including stunning walking trails and botanicals that you may not find anywhere else, it’s a great place to go for an afternoon out. Make sure that you bring your camera to this one, as you might just get that perfect couple shot in an oh-so-romantic setting!
Though it’s difficult to make an exhaustive list of things to do for couples in Knoxville as everyone’s different, we hope that this list has given you some awesome date ideas for your next trip to Knoxville. Whether you don’t know the area or just need some inspiration, any of these options are sure to please you both!
Fort Loudoun Lake
If nature is what you both enjoy, then a visit to Fort Loudoun lake (just outside of Knoxville) would be a wonderful things to do in Knoxville for couples. It’s really pretty here, super scenic, and makes for a wonderful place to stroll around, enjoy a picnic and just soak in the views.
Fort Dickerson Quarry
Next on my list of things to do in Knoxville for couples, it’s the Fort Dickerson Quarry. Another scenic place to head out to.
The Fort Dickerson Quarry is a really beautiful quarry / lake covered in beautiful wildlife and surrounding by beautiful plant life. It’s really wonderful, and if you enjoy hiking or scenic strolls, then this is totally for you!
Go paddle boarding on the lake
Knoxville has three beautiful rivers – the French Broad, Holston, and Tennessee, so there are plenty of places to try out river sports and river activities. Including paddle boarding – which is one of my favorite things to do in Knoxville for couples!
Actually, this is one of my favorite things to do in Knoxville for couples! You can rent your own boards, take your time, and just explore! It’s a lovely date idea in Knoxville as it’s unique, fun and you get to see lots of the city too!
Take a cooking class together
Learning a new skill together is always one of the most romantic things you can do in a city – and there are actually quite a few brilliant cooking classes in Knoxville.
If you’re both foodies, then booking yourselves onto a cooking course or cooking class is a fantastic option for things to do in Knoxville for couples.
Visit the Knoxville Opera
If you’re after some old-school romance, then the Knoxville Opera is an amazing things to do in Knoxville for couples. The Opera is always a fancy night out, so it’s an excuse to get dressed up in your finery and have a fancy night on the town!
I hope this list of things to do in Knoxville for couples is helpful!
Hopefully this list of things to do in Knoxville for couples has given you lots of inspiration and ideas for your trip, and you’ve found some great ways to keep busy and have fun during your time in Knoxville!
Let us know if you chose any of these activities!
