Top 10 Insta-Worthy Spots in Downtown Knoxville
Everywhere you turn Downtown Knoxville provides a picture-perfect background – and we're not just saying that. Historic architecture, neon signs, and of course, iconic Gay Street and Market Square provide hundreds of photo ops. But we've dug a little deeper and rounded up spots that aren't all over the 'gram already. Below is our Top 10 local picks to elevate your Instagram game. Do you want to know what Insta-spot you are? Take this quiz!
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Cassiopeia
One of Knoxville's largest murals, the colorful "Cassiopeia" is located on the east side of Market Square Garage (in the alley facing the Square). Stretching along the entire alley are six faces of East Tennesseans that artist Addison Karl picked to be part of the mural. In between each portrait are colorfully painted blocks, which provided a rainbow backdrop for this super creative pose.
The Standard's Yellow Door
The Standard is a popular downtown event venue and a photographer's dream. But you don't have to be a guest at a wedding to take advantage of its character. The yellow door outside is a pop of color your feed needs!
Oliver Royale
The Oliver Royale is known for fresh dishes and innovative cocktails in a romantic setting. We're making it known for the gorgeously designed bar that's the perfect backdrop for your next photo. When you enter into the long and narrow restaurant, your eyes go straight to this spot. And with a delicious cocktail in hand, so will the eyes of your followers, wondering if you just traveled to New York City. Nope, Downtown Knoxville has got it all.
Railroad Tracks
These leading lines though...! Running throughout downtown, you'll find decades old railroad tracks that provide a charming background for your next post. Many of the tracks intersect behind the Jackson Terminal, which is a great area to explore – and where you can even find trains to pose with. This picture was taken on the tracks tucked behind Candy Factory Lofts near World's Fair Park.
Radius Rooftop Lounge
With arguably one of the best 360 aerial views of downtown, the Smoky Mountains, and the Tennessee River, Radius Rooftop Lounge is an Insta-worthy spot for all the right reasons: the downtown skyline, the sleek and modern pool, the cute libations, the cozy lounge corners and the overall vibe. It's a one-stop spot to capture a week's worth of gorgeous photos!
Strong Alley
The artistic gem of downtown, Strong Alley is filled with murals ranging from bold and colorful to weird and unique. Travel through the alley, located between Market Square and Gay Street to discover dozens of designs and backdrops. It transforms from bright and happy in the daytime to dark and mysterious at night, with equally stunning pictures.
Hyatt Place Hotel
The Hyatt Place's interior is a work of art. With eclectic style, tall windows, and a dash of historic architecture both inside and out, taking a picture here will make people think you took a trip to Europe. Both the rooftop and interior bars are good places to snap photos, but our favorite spot is right here in the lobby with that velvet green couch contrasted against the ceiling height curtains.
World's Fair Park
This is probably the most popular spot on our list, but the neat thing is the number of places you can capture a shot in World's Fair Park that will keep your feed full for days. To achieve the look in this fun and colorful picture by Instagram influencer Ashley Renne, go to the south side of the park where you'll find boulders, a creek, pond and trees. It's a mix of nature and city all in one snap!
Market Square Farmers' Market
Every Wednesday and Saturday, May-November, Market Square is filled with fresh flower, fruit, and vegetable vendors, and a variety of local makers. Not only are you supporting local and being practical by purchasing a bunch of goods, you are also buying props for your shot!
Henley Street Pedestrian Bridge
The long, narrow bridge that hovers over Henley Street is not only fun to walk across, but it is great for the 'gram too. If you're looking for an urban setting, look no further than snapping a carousel of pictures on this bridge.