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So if you're looking to become insta-famous or just hoping to save these spots to your mental hard drive, stick with us as we explore five of the most picturesque places in Knoxville.
Located on acres of the former Howell Nurseries just five minutes from Holston River Park , The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum has a lot going on and even more attractions coming soon, including a butterfly meadow and outdoor classroom. On the northwest side of Wimpole Avenue, wedding parties, professional photographers , and tour groups traipse amongst the transportive stone terraces and gatehouses near the KGBA Visitor's Center, escaping to a whimsical land pulled from the mind of stonemason Joe Howell.
This is easily the most picturesque part of the gardens, with wide meandering lawns stretching between impressive stonework and booming flowerbeds.
The fourth-largest Tennessee city, it is the seat of Hamilton County. October 10, Are there things for children to enjoy? These days they are just another place to take a selfie or shoot a video. More on that later.
Heading south across Wimpole Avenue and then west past the Cedars of Lebanon will take visitors to the Center for Urban Agriculture , newly established at the former site of the C. Howell Nursery. Here, fresh vegetable gardens spread across the ruins of the old nursery terraces, providing beautiful photographic contrasts and a reminder that from the old and dying, new life often comes.
South across the Tennessee River is another example of old things made new. In the heart of what was once Knoxville's burgeoning marble industry, Mead's Quarry is home to a beautiful lake formed from an abandoned mining site. With easy shore access for paddlers on one side and steep limestone cliffs on the other, there are many ways to experience and photograph the area.
A short hike up Tharp Trace will take explorers through an old miners' graveyard and on up to an overlook of the lake.
Cotton Eyed Joe at Outlet Dr. Sapphire at S Gay St.
If you want to stay at lower elevation, you can explore the old nearby railroad or take a picture with the endearing bird-faced water tank. If you're reading this in time, make this next destination an immediate, top priority.
During the first few weeks of July, a dazzling sunflower display explodes at Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area. This seasonal sea of yellow swaying in the breeze is one of Knoxville's most stunning unsung sights. Bring your camera ready to capture this annual performance by mother nature. Anyone who has ever been single knows that a furry friend is your best wingman.
Dogs are the easiest conversation starters, and they instantly make you the most popular person in the area. Take your pup to the dog park downtown or through Market Square to see what soul mates might flock your way.
No problem! You can take a pup out for a walk on the weekend to help them get some exercise! Each meetup has a specific concept e.
Nature Lovers, Singles in their 30s, etc. If you can manage to run more than a mile without keeling over, your next hot date might be waiting for you Monday evenings at the Bearden Beer Market run. Find the nature-loving man or woman of your dreams by, simply, going outside.
From the rooftop patio to the live music indoors, this downtown three-story bar is your best bet at finding that special someone. On the prowl for your next hot date? Show us where you'll be! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram knoxvilleweekend and Twitter knoxweekend.