Knoxville Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide

Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Knoxville.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

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.

πŸ“ 409 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

The Vault

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 229 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 531 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

Preservation Pub

Highly rated Pizza in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 1331 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Pizza cuisine

Local Smokey

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 410 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 404 Williams St, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 906 Sevier Ave #126, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 507 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

Space Bar

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 229 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 179 N Seven Oaks Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

Tern Club

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 279 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 135 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

Brother Wolf

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 141 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 108 W Jackson Ave #1, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 106 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 103 W Depot Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable 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.

πŸ“ 1215 N Central St, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒBudget-friendly prices
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 106 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Eros Knoxville

Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 77 reviews.

πŸ“ 815 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒWelcoming atmosphere
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Sassy Ann's

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 114 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 820 N 4th Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒBudget-friendly prices
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 507 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 11220 Outlet Dr, Knoxville, TN 37932, USA

  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Fly by Night

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 123 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 906 Sevier Ave #126, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

LunaVerse Knoxville

Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.2 stars from 54 reviews.

πŸ“ 940 Blackstock Ave, Knoxville, TN 37921, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒWelcoming atmosphere
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Five Thirty Lounge

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.6 stars from 682 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 32 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒBudget-friendly prices
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 8502 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 101 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

The Mill & Mine

Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.7 stars from 1037 reviews.

πŸ“ 227 W Depot Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Scruffy City Hall

Highly rated Bar in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 896 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 32 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒBudget-friendly prices
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

Preservation Pub

Highly rated Pizza in Knoxville with 4.4 stars from 1331 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 28 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic 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.

πŸ“ 1820 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic Bar cuisine

Bijou Theatre

Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.8 stars from 1467 reviews.

πŸ“ 803 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Tennessee Theatre

Highly rated International in Knoxville with 4.9 stars from 3419 reviews.

πŸ“ 604 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable 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.

πŸ“ 430 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

STIR

Highly rated American in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 769 reviews.

πŸ“ 217 Willow Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic American cuisine

The Firefly/ Marble City Kitchen

Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.1 stars from 161 reviews.

πŸ“ 501 W Church Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable staff

Lilou Brasserie

Highly rated French in Knoxville with 4.3 stars from 269 reviews.

πŸ“ 428 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic French cuisine

Knox Bros

Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.9 stars from 285 reviews.

πŸ“ 411 E Summit Hill Dr SE, Knoxville, TN 37915, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒBudget-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.

πŸ“ 242 Morrell Rd, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA

  • πŸŒƒWell-reviewed establishment
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒAuthentic American cuisine

Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen

Highly rated Restaurant in Knoxville with 4.5 stars from 326 reviews.

πŸ“ 126 Bernard Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒEstablished local favorite
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable 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.

πŸ“ 7621 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA

  • πŸŒƒHighly rated by customers
  • πŸŒƒPopular with locals and visitors
  • πŸŒƒKnowledgeable 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.

  • β€’Book tickets in advance for popular shows
  • β€’Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
  • β€’Dress code varies - check venue requirements
  • β€’Turn off mobile phones during performance
  • β€’Check for student or group discounts

Bijou Theatre

Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Knoxville venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.

  • β€’Book tickets in advance for popular shows
  • β€’Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
  • β€’Dress code varies - check venue requirements
  • β€’Turn off mobile phones during performance
  • β€’Check for student or group discounts

Scruffy City Hall

Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Knoxville venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.

  • β€’Book tickets online in advance
  • β€’Check show duration and intermissions
  • β€’Arrive early to find parking
  • β€’Review venue policies before attending
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Book tickets in advance for popular shows
  • β€’Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
  • β€’Dress code varies - check venue requirements
  • β€’Turn off mobile phones during performance
  • β€’Check for student or group discounts

Open Chord Stage

Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Knoxville venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.

  • β€’Book tickets online in advance
  • β€’Check show duration and intermissions
  • β€’Arrive early to find parking
  • β€’Review venue policies before attending
  • β€’Check for package deals

Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum

Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Knoxville venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.

  • β€’Book tickets online in advance
  • β€’Check show duration and intermissions
  • β€’Arrive early to find parking
  • β€’Review venue policies before attending
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Start early to explore multiple venues
  • β€’Use ride-sharing or public transit
  • β€’Keep valuables secure
  • β€’Check dress codes for upscale venues
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Start early to explore multiple venues
  • β€’Use ride-sharing or public transit
  • β€’Keep valuables secure
  • β€’Check dress codes for upscale venues
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Start early to explore multiple venues
  • β€’Use ride-sharing or public transit
  • β€’Keep valuables secure
  • β€’Check dress codes for upscale venues
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Start early to explore multiple venues
  • β€’Use ride-sharing or public transit
  • β€’Keep valuables secure
  • β€’Check dress codes for upscale venues
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Start early to explore multiple venues
  • β€’Use ride-sharing or public transit
  • β€’Keep valuables secure
  • β€’Check dress codes for upscale venues
  • β€’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.

  • β€’Start early to explore multiple venues
  • β€’Use ride-sharing or public transit
  • β€’Keep valuables secure
  • β€’Check dress codes for upscale venues
  • β€’Stay in groups for safety

Essential Tips

  • πŸŒƒCheck dress codes before heading out
  • πŸŒƒArrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
  • πŸŒƒUse ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
  • πŸŒƒKeep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
  • πŸŒƒPace yourself and stay hydrated
  • πŸŒƒResearch cover charges and drink prices
  • πŸŒƒMake reservations for popular venues
  • πŸŒƒBring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
  • πŸŒƒStart early - some venues close earlier than expected
  • πŸŒƒAsk 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.

Enjoyed this guide? Share it!