For many of us, sustainability isn’t a trend – it’s a way of life. We hope this post helps guide you to experience Knoxville consciously by supporting local makers, preserving the environment, and discovering the city in a way that truly connects you to it.

 

🌿 Eat with the Seasons: Farm-to-Table Dining & Farmers Markets

Knoxville’s local food scene thrives on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and supporting it means enjoying some of the best meals the city has to offer.

  • The Plaid Apron, A Dopo, and J.C. Holdway are go-to spots for chef-driven menus that prioritize local sourcing.
  • On Saturdays, head to Market Square Farmers’ Market (spring through fall) or New Harvest Farmers Market in East Knoxville to grab just-picked produce, artisan cheeses, pasture-raised meats, and handmade goods.
  • For a zero-waste shopping experience, visit KnoxFill, Knoxville’s first refill and low-waste shop, where you can stock up on sustainable toiletries and home products.

 

🛍 Support Local Makers & Ethical Shopping

Skip the big-box souvenirs. Knoxville’s “Maker City” identity means you’re never far from a handcrafted treasure.

  • Browse the Visit Knoxville Gift Shop, Jacks of Knoxville, and Pretentious Glass Co. for locally made art, candles, prints, and glassware.
  • Some local shops and Makers take their craft a step further with recycled and upcycled art. Fourth and Glass Recycling Co. transforms locally collected glass into coasters and other items. SpaceJunk, a creative use center, provides a space for artists to find and donate second-hand art supplies. Master Repurposers create one-of-a-kind items with upcycled materials and even teach classes around town.
  • So many other local places to shop in town, we'd be here all day if we listed 'em all! 

 

🌳 Explore Nature Responsibly

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is a rare gem: over 1,000 forested acres just minutes from downtown.

  • Spend the day hiking, mountain biking, or paddling at Ijams Nature Center, a nature preserve that balances recreation with education and conservation.
  • Be a responsible guest: stay on marked trails, pack out trash, and consider making a donation or volunteering for trail clean-up events through Ijams or Keep Knoxville Beautiful.

🚲 Go Car-Free (or Car-Less)

Want to shrink your carbon footprint while exploring? Knoxville makes it easy (especially downtown, which is known for its walkability!):

  • Rent a bike or cruise along the city’s extensive greenway system. For more adrenaline, snag a mountain bike for the Urban Wilderness!
  • Use KAT (Knoxville Area Transit) to get around town. You’ll find e-bikes and scooters around downtown too.
  • Driving an EV? Public charging stations are available downtown, at hotels, and near major attractions like Zoo Knoxville and Ijams. Use this helpful map to find a station near you.

 

🤝 Connect Through Voluntourism

Want to give back while you explore? Knoxville offers meaningful ways to make a difference, after all - we're in the VOLunteer State, home of the University of Tennessee Volunteers!

  • Keep Knoxville Beautiful often hosts neighborhood clean-up events and tree plantings.
  • Ijams Nature Center welcomes volunteers for invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and event support.
  • Visit Volunteer East Tennessee to browse vetted opportunities during your trip.

 

 

🌎 Travel Better, Feel Better

Sustainable travel doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. 

We hope you find that in Knoxville, it enhances your experience! 

You’ll eat better, meet more locals, and find truly one-of-a-kind treasures.

Plan your sustainable visit today!