Knoxville Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Knoxville.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Knoxville! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Knoxville has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Knoxville. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Knoxville offers over 90 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Suttree's High Gravity Tavern
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 951 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 409 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Vault
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 229 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 531 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Preservation Pub
Highly rated Pizza in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 1331 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Pizza cuisine
Local Smokey
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 410 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 404 Williams St, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Fly by Night
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 123 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 906 Sevier Ave #126, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Radius Rooftop Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 657 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 507 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Five Thirty Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 682 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Space Bar
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 229 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 179 N Seven Oaks Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Tern Club
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 279 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 135 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Brother Wolf
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 141 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 108 W Jackson Ave #1, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Old City Sports Bar
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 528 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 106 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Monkey's Bar
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 73 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 103 W Depot Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
Club XYZ
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 3.9 stars from 161 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1215 N Central St, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Southbound bar and Nightclub
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 2.6 stars from 140 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 106 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Eros Knoxville
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 77 reviews.
📍 815 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Sassy Ann's
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 114 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 820 N 4th Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Radius Rooftop Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 657 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 507 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Cotton Eyed Joe
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 3.8 stars from 1257 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 11220 Outlet Dr, Knoxville, TN 37932, USA
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Fly by Night
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 123 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 906 Sevier Ave #126, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
LunaVerse Knoxville
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.2 stars from 54 reviews.
📍 940 Blackstock Ave, Knoxville, TN 37921, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Five Thirty Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 682 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Scruffy City Hall
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 896 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 32 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
Open Chord Stage
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 445 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 8502 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Boyd’s Jig and Reel
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 1718 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 101 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Mill & Mine
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 1037 reviews.
📍 227 W Depot Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Scruffy City Hall
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 896 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 32 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Preservation Pub
Highly rated Pizza in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 1331 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Pizza cuisine
The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint
Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 1884 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1820 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Bijou Theatre
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 1467 reviews.
📍 803 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Tennessee Theatre
Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.9 stars from 3419 reviews.
📍 604 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
The Kennedy
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 1160 reviews.
📍 430 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
STIR
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 769 reviews.
📍 217 Willow Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
The Firefly/ Marble City Kitchen
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.1 stars from 161 reviews.
📍 501 W Church Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Lilou Brasserie
Highly rated French in Knoxville with 4.3 stars from 269 reviews.
📍 428 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic French cuisine
Knox Bros
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.9 stars from 285 reviews.
📍 411 E Summit Hill Dr SE, Knoxville, TN 37915, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
Drake's Knoxville
Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.3 stars from 2343 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 242 Morrell Rd, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 326 reviews.
📍 126 Bernard Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Knoxville Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 1672 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 7621 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Tennessee Theatre
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Knoxville venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Bijou Theatre
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Knoxville venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Scruffy City Hall
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Knoxville venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Knoxville, TN
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Knoxville venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Open Chord Stage
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Knoxville venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Knoxville venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
Radius Rooftop Lounge
Explore Knoxville's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Scruffy City Hall
Explore Knoxville's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Southbound bar and Nightclub
Explore Knoxville's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
LunaVerse Knoxville
Explore Knoxville's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
The Vault
Explore Knoxville's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Five Thirty Lounge
Explore Knoxville's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- 🌃Check dress codes before heading out
- 🌃Arrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- 🌃Use ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- 🌃Keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- 🌃Pace yourself and stay hydrated
- 🌃Research cover charges and drink prices
- 🌃Make reservations for popular venues
- 🌃Bring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- 🌃Start early - some venues close earlier than expected
- 🌃Ask locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Knoxville varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Knoxville range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knoxville offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Knoxville cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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