Knoxville is a beautiful Tennessee city situated near the Great Smoky Mountains and offering an abundance of natural beauty. It is also well known for being home to the University of Tennessee. Beyond that, however, it is also a city that is home to many businesses, a thriving arts and culture scene, many diverse neighborhoods, and much to see and do. Even better, it is a city with a vibrant and welcoming LGBT community where all can feel welcome and at home. If you’re thinking of finding your next home in Knoxville, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love!
A Look at Knoxville's History
Knoxville has a long and rich history. In fact, it was established as the capital of the Southwest Territory as long ago as the administration of George Washington. It was there when Tennessee was founded and was in fact the capital of the state for the first 20 years of its existence. As the state grew, Knoxville did too, particularly after the arrival of the railroad which brought a great deal of industry to the city. As it grew, it also became increasingly diverse and today it is a thriving, welcoming, vibrant city where all can find their place and feel at home.
A Few Fun Facts About Knoxville
Read more fun facts about Knoxville here.
Knoxville’s LGBTQ Community
Knoxville is a city with a smaller LGBTQ community, but one that is diverse, and supported by various resources, including:
PFLAG Oak Ridge is the Knoxville area’s chapter of the national PFLAG organization. PFLAG is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country and has 500 chapters with more than 200,000 members in the United States. PFLAG plays a critical role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community, and offers monthly support meetings, as well as resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for the LGBTQ community, friends, and allies.
Knox Pride is a community-based LGBTQ organization dedicated to supporting, advancing, and celebrating Knoxville’s LGBTQ community. Throughout the year, the group plans events, provides support and works to create a community where all can feel loved and celebrated for who they are and all they add to the city.
What's the Weather Like in Knoxville?
Those who live in Knoxville can expect to experience all four distinct seasons each year. The city has warm and humid summers with a high reaching around 88°F in July, and cold, occasionally snowy winters with a low of around 28° in January and about 6 inches of snow on average. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant and are wonderful times to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Knoxville receives about 50 inches of rain each year.
Can’t-Miss Events in Knoxville
Knox Pride’s Pridefest is Knoxville’s annual celebration of all that the LGBTQ community adds to the city. The weeklong festivities include a parade that begins at the state capitol building, parties, family-friendly activities, and many other events. It’s one party that you'll definitely want to put on your calendar.
The Best Neighborhoods in Knoxville
If you’re thinking of making a move to Knoxville, you will find that the entire city is very welcoming. Unlike some cities that tend to have one specific “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Knoxville is sprinkled throughout the city, so there are many neighborhoods that would make wonderful places to call home. It is always advised to contact a Knoxville gay realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect home in the ideal neighborhood. The current median list price of homes for sale in Knoxville is around $350,000.
Arts and Entertainment
Old City Performing Arts Center
For those looking for excellent local theater, look no further than the Old City Performing Arts Center. This unique local spot offers a variety of excellent performances throughout the year in several genres. Whatever your tastes, you're sure to find a show (or several!) here to delight, inspire, and entertain.
Since the 1860s, Knoxville’s Market Square has been an important center of Knoxville’s community, offering a wide variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and more. It’s a great place to relax and have fun, and throughout the year, many events are offered here, from outdoor movies to Shakespeare on the Square, and other live entertainment.
Parks and Recreation
One can hardly think of Knoxville without thinking of the Great Smoky Mountains. One of the country’s stunning natural treasures, this beautiful area offers natural beauty as far as the eye can see with an abundance of hiking trails, recreational opportunities, and countless natural wonders to enjoy.
World's Fair Park is a unique Knoxville park that was once home to Knoxville's 1982 World's Fair. Today, this beautiful space is home to the Sunsphere and the Tennessee Amphitheater, which are two structures that were present at the original fair. It’s a wonderful place to see a show, take a walk, or simply relax on a beautiful Knoxville day.
Knoxville Nightlife
For those looking for us fun spot out in Knoxville, you’ll definitely want to put CORE on your list. This locally owned LGBTQ bar offers great music, friendly crowds, live shows, and strong drinks.
Tern Club is a very unique Knoxville nightspot known as being a neighborhood oasis for tropical cocktails. With its unique vibe, friendly bartenders, and welcoming crowds you'll definitely want to make sure you stop by and give it a try.
Contact a Knoxville Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Knoxville, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Knoxville, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Knoxville gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
