Knoxville Market Square
Knoxville, TN, 37902
If you like shopping, Knoxville’s Market Square is the place to be. This pedestrian-friendly area was developed over several decades in the second half of the 19th century, and is full of boutiques ranging from women’s clothing stores to gift shops. There are also plenty of restaurants, many with outdoor seating for warm summer days, plus a fair few bars and pubs and a kid-friendly wading fountain for summertime play.
The basics
In the heart of Knoxville, Market Square is the Tennessee city’s main commercial hub and a great place to hang out. You can join a Knoxville walking tour that includes a stop here, but it’s also easy to visit the square on your own. If you’re in town between May and November, be sure to check out the Market Square Farmers’ Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. You can also find events from outdoor concerts and movie nights to art festivals throughout the year.
Things to know before you go
- Market Square is a must-see for first-time visitors to Knoxville.
- The square and most of the shops and restaurants surrounding it are wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly.
- Free public restrooms, including ADA-accessible restrooms, are available on the corner of Wall Avenue and Walnut Street.
How to get there
Market Square is in the heart of Knoxville’s pedestrian-friendly downtown. It’s easy to visit on foot, though there’s plenty of parking if you’re coming from farther away in your own car. You can also take the Green Line of Knoxville’s free trolley line straight to the square, and scooters and e-bikes are widely available.
When to get there
Knoxville is a year-round destination, with warm summers and festive holiday seasons, both at the square and beyond. While Market Square is worth visiting no matter when you come to Knoxville, it’s at its most lively on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through November, when the twice-weekly Market Square Farmers’ Market takes place.
Knoxville’s Sunsphere
About a 10-minute walk from Market Square stands Knoxville’s most unusual structure: the Sunsphere. Constructed for the 1982 World’s Fair, this 26-story truss-style structure is crowned with a golden sphere that resembles a large disco ball. Today, it serves as an observation deck offering great views of the city. The mayor of the city also makes himself available for public meetings at the famed structure on most weekdays.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!