FOUNDING HOST APPLICATIONS OPEN — Earn up to 80% revenue share

LIVE MAPTN

Knoxville Nightlife

From speakeasies to rooftop bars, Knoxville's nightlife is full of surprises.

Best Bars in Knoxville

5 venues

Peter Kern Library

cocktail bar
4.7
$$$

Hidden behind a sliding bookshelf in the Oliver Hotel

Downtown5pm-12am

Sophisticated speakeasy with a literary theme

Preservation Pub

cocktail bar
4.3
$$

Three floors of entertainment, including a speakeasy

Market Square3pm-3am

Lively pub with a rooftop patio and live music

Back Door Tavern

dive bar
4.2
$

Cheap beer, pub games, and a laid-back atmosphere

West Knoxville11am-3am

No-frills dive bar with a loyal following

Crafty Bastard Brewery

brewery
4.5
$$

Unique and experimental beers

Downtown4pm-10pm

Quirky brewery with a rotating tap list

The Vault

cocktail bar
4.6
$$$

Craft cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere

Downtown5pm-11pm

Swanky cocktail lounge in a former bank vault

Best Night Out in Knoxville

A curated evening itinerary from early drinks to late-night dancing.

7–9 PMPre-Game

Start with cocktails or craft beers at a neighborhood bar. Keep it relaxed — the night is young.

Peter Kern Library

Downtown · $$$

9 PM–12 AMPrime Time

Hit the main strip. Rooftop bars, live music, or a lively pub crawl through the best neighborhoods.

Radius Rooftop Lounge

Downtown · $$$

12 AM–3 AMLate Night

The clubs open up. Dance floors fill, DJs take over, and the real nightlife begins.

Southbound Nightclub

Old City · $$

Nightlife Neighborhoods

Downtown

The heart of Knoxville's nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. From sophisticated cocktail lounges to lively pubs, there's something for everyone in Downtown Knoxville.

Best for: A little bit of everything, from upscale cocktails to casual beers.
Crowd: A mix of young professionals, students, and tourists.
Walk Score: 91/100
Peter Kern LibraryRadius Rooftop LoungeMaple Hall

Market Square

A vibrant, pedestrian-only square in the heart of downtown, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of outdoor seating. Market Square is a popular spot for people-watching and enjoying a drink on a warm evening.

Best for: Outdoor drinking and people-watching.
Crowd: A diverse mix of locals and tourists of all ages.
Walk Score: 91/100
Preservation PubScruffy City HallBernadette's Crystal Gardens

Old City

A historic neighborhood with a creative, bohemian vibe. The Old City is home to a number of unique bars, art galleries, and live music venues.

Best for: Live music, craft beer, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Crowd: A younger, artsy crowd.
Walk Score: 87/100
Southbound NightclubBarley's Taproom & PizzeriaPretentious Beer Co
DistrictBest ForCrowdWalk ScoreTop Venues
DowntownA little bit of everythingA mix of young professionals
91
Peter Kern LibraryRadius Rooftop Lounge
Market SquareOutdoor drinking and people-watching.A diverse mix of locals and tourists of all ages.
91
Preservation PubScruffy City Hall
Old CityLive musicA younger
87
Southbound NightclubBarley's Taproom & Pizzeria

Local Nightlife Tips

  • Many bars in Knoxville have a dress code, so it's always a good idea to check before you go.
  • The downtown area is very walkable, but ride-sharing services are also readily available.
  • Some of the most popular bars can get crowded, especially on weekends, so it's a good idea to make a reservation or arrive early.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit areas, especially when walking at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best neighborhood for nightlife?

It depends on what you're looking for! Downtown has a little bit of everything, Market Square is great for outdoor drinking, and the Old City is the place to go for live music.

What time do bars close?

Most bars in Knoxville close at 3am.

Is there a cover charge?

Some bars and nightclubs, especially those with live music, may have a cover charge. It's always a good idea to check the venue's website or social media before you go.