When UT home games roll around, Knoxville comes alive — streets humming, tailgates fired up, and bars/restaurants leaning into specials, big screens, party menus, and a fan energy you can’t fake. Read on for just a FEW local places worth checking out on gameday (or before/after)!

 

The Local Smokey

Location & Vibe:
404 Williams Street, downtown Knoxville/Old City. The bar is in a historic 1934 warehouse-style building, with large windows, warm streetlamp glow at night, and a classic-but-fun sports bar feel. They pitch themselves as a “sports bar near the UT campus” with lots of TVs, games, and the fan energy to match. 

Good to know & eats: Get their Ultimate Smokey Burger — ½ lb hand‑formed patty with your choice of cheese, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and their signature “Smokey Sauce.” Pool, darts, and cornhole are up for grabs on the patio. If you're in the downtown/campus area, The Local Smokey presents a solid mix of bar energy + good food + gameday atmosphere.

 

Old City Sports Bar

Location & Vibe:
106 S. Central St. Downtown, in Knoxville’s Old City. A go‑to spot for sports fans wanting a high‑energy environment with many TVs and a crowd ready for the game.

Good to know & eats: Hot dogs, dips, burgers, and more classic fare plus a partnership with Southern Grit for wings, salad, and more. They also have reservations for their private room and VIP areas on their website. If you want the full sports bar feel — loud, lots of screens, fans all around — this is one of the obvious picks.

 

Calhoun’s (on the River and local branches)

Location & Vibe:
Multiple Knoxville locations (e.g. near the river, Turkey Creek, etc.). The flagship “on the river” location is beloved for its views of the Tennessee River and the Vol Navy (boats lined up during games)

Good to know & eats: If you’re organizing a group or want food delivered to a tailgate spot, Calhoun’s is part of the infrastructure. And for fans who want a scenic postgame meal, its riverside location is a boost. Solid menu of BBQ and all the fixins.

 

Cool Beans Bar & Grill

Location & Vibe:
1817 Lake Avenue, Knoxville (on “The Strip,” near UT campus)
It’s a lively college crowd bar/grill, often called “the local go‑to for campus life, nightlife, food, and drinks.” eatonthehouse.com+4bars10.com+4Restaurantji+4

Good to know & eats: On Vols gamedays, they often run "Wake up it's gameday" promos, like free Yuengling until the first score. Burgers, wraps, and a selection of wings with dry rubs and sauces.

 

Bearden Hill Fieldhouse

Location & Vibe:
Located at 6600 Kingston Pike (Bearden area)
It’s styled as a major local sports bar / restaurant, with emphasis on craft beer, event nights, and a relaxed but energetic bar + food atmosphere.

Good to know & eats: This is an especially great option if you want to get involved in the gameday spirit, but find downtown or campus a little intimidating. You can still have fun all over Knoxville, and this is a great example. One of the more robust menus on this list with flatbreads, wings, burgers, wraps, and more. Also, check out the Half Barrel on campus, which is their sister establishment, perfect for that nostalgic college feel!

 

Tommy Trent’s

Location & Vibe: 
36 Market Square, Knoxville (downtown / Market Square) 
Think "old‑time sports saloon" with a large patio, full bar, beer selection, casual but busy downtown energy.

Good to know & eats: Often has elevated versions of pub fare, including items like poutine fries and daily soups, perfect for cozy fall football days. This is on the corner of Market Square, so if people watching is part of your gameday routine (poutine, routine - fun!), then this is a satisfying pick.

 

Suggested Gameday Flow & Tips

  • Start early: Head to a spot like Balter or Downtown Grill before noon, pick up tailgate trays or party platters.

  • Mid‑afternoon: Move toward campus or stick to downtown to catch pregame energy.

  • Postgame: Explore the Ale Trail for some drinks, treat yourself to dessert, or just follow the crowd and see where it takes you.

 

Need to plan your perfect Gameday experience?
This page has everything you need. Go Vols!