Sip, Stroll & Explore Knoxville

Knoxville Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas

Looking for places where you can walk around with a drink in Knoxville? Knoxville's Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORA) allow adults 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating restaurants and bars and enjoy them while exploring designated areas of downtown.

Whether you're visiting Market Square, attending an event, shopping downtown, or heading to a Tennessee Smokies game, Knoxville's DORA program lets you experience downtown at your own pace.

Quick Facts

• 📍 Location: Downtown Knoxville
• 🍺 Alcohol permitted within designated DORA boundaries
• 🕙 Hours: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. daily
• ⏰ Last call: 9:30 p.m.
• ✔️ Must be 21 or older
• 🥤 Drinks must be purchased from participating businesses

What Is a DORA?

A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area allows guests ages 21 and older to carry an approved alcoholic beverage outside the business where it was purchased and enjoy it within clearly marked boundaries.

Only beverages purchased from an approved DORA establishment may be carried within the area. Drinks must be served in an approved clear cup or can displaying an official Knoxville DORA sticker.

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How It Works

1. Find a Participating Business

Look for the official DORA decal displayed at participating restaurants, bars, and other approved establishments.

2. Purchase a DORA Beverage

Order an eligible beer, wine, or cocktail. The business will serve it in an approved clear container with an official DORA sticker.

3. Sip and Stroll

Enjoy your beverage as you explore the streets, public spaces, and participating businesses located within the DORA boundaries.

4. Finish Before You Leave

Your beverage must be finished and the container recycled or properly disposed of before you leave the designated area.

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Know Before You Go

Help keep Knoxville’s DORA safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

• You must be 21 or older to purchase or consume alcohol.
• Stay within the marked DORA boundaries.
• Carry only drinks purchased from an approved DORA establishment.
• Drinks must be served in an approved clear cup or can with a DORA sticker.
• Outside alcohol and personal drink containers are not permitted.
• Do not take a DORA beverage into another establishment.
• Empty and recycle or dispose of your container before leaving the DORA.
• Please drink responsibly.

Standard laws regarding public intoxication, impaired driving, and underage drinking remain in effect.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Important Notice

DORA boundaries, participating businesses, operating hours, and program requirements may change. Please follow all posted signage and instructions from participating establishments and local authorities. Drink responsibly and arrange for a safe ride when needed.