Live Near UTK? Check Out These Local Hotspots
As one of the largest cities in the Appalachian region and home to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is an exciting community with lots of interesting local hotspots for UTK students to check without having to stray too far from campus. Of course, in a city with as much to see and do as Knoxville, trying to decide which of those exciting places to explore first can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why we at Knox Ridge have compiled the following list of fun things to do, delicious places to eat, and quiet places to study near the University of Tennessee campus!
Looking for apartments near UTK? Contact us today to schedule a tour of our Knoxville student apartments!
FUN THINGS TO DO IN KNOXVILLE, TN
GO SHOPPING
Knoxville’s shopping scene has got you covered whether you enjoy hanging out in sprawling malls with brand name stores or perusing bustling farmer’s markets. West Town Mall, the premier shopping destination of East Tennessee, is host to hundreds of stores — some of which are exclusive to Knoxville. With a myriad of trendy shops, a movie theater, and a food court, West Town Mall is a great place to spend the day with friends. Those who prefer home-grown, handmade products should head down to the farmer’s market hosted in Market Square every Saturday!
ENJOY NATURE
As Knoxville is one of the gateways to the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s only natural there’d be some stellar spots to bask in nature near UTK. Ijams Nature Center is a 315-acre park where visitors can hike, bike, fish, kayak, or simply unwind in the sunshine. Conversely, if exotic wildlife is what you’re after, Zoo Knoxville is home to over 800 animals and offers discounted entry for college students who bring their school IDs. As one of the southeast’s premier zoological experiences, Zoo Knoxville is a must-visit attraction for animal-lovers.
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN
The UTK campus is located mere minutes away from Downtown Knoxville and all its fantastic entertainment venues, museums, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Downtown Knoxville presents endless opportunities for fun. Grab some friends and try to find your way out of Escape Game Knoxville, sing your heart out at Knox Box Karaoke, or appreciate captivating pieces of artwork from local artists at Art Market Gallery. Stop by over holiday break to see a transformed, festive downtown and go ice skating!
MUST-TRY EATS NEAR UTK
NAMA SUSHI
Located downtown in Market Square, Nama Sushi Bar is the best spot to enjoy a filling platter of sushi in Knoxville. Nama also offers special diet options for vegetarians and vegans. Though it’s a bit pricey, it’s an excellent restaurant for students to celebrate and treat themselves after surviving exam week!
GUS’S GOOD TIMES DELI
Gus’s Good Times Deli is a local classic and was one of UTK alum Peyton Manning’s favorite back when he played for the Vol’s. Swing by for delicious and affordable burgers, sandwiches, and sides. Too busy studying to eat out? Gus’s Good Times Deli offers delivery!
STATUS DOUGH
Status Dough is an artisanal doughnut and coffee shop that uses only the highest-quality ingredients. With dozens of unique flavors and a rewards program that earns you free doughnuts and coffee, must we really say more?
BEST STUDY SPOTS FOR VOLS
HERE AT KNOX RIDGE
Residents of our UTK student apartments gain exclusive access to our community amenities, such as a lazy river and large hot tub. Our community’s high-speed poolside Wi-Fi allows residents to study and work on their tan simultaneously. Residents can also study in our relaxing clubhouse or the serene privacy of their individually keyed bedrooms. Contact us to learn more about our UTK apartments!
NEW STUDENT UNION
The University of Tennessee's new Student Union is a convenient spot to study on-campus. The second and third floor of the Student Union is outfitted with comfy couches and study tables with charging ports so Vol’s can kick back, plug in, and study for as long as necessary. Not to mention, the union’s first floor has dining options in case you get peckish.