So not all of us will be going back home for summer vacation. For those collegiettes™ staying in Knoxville, it’s important to know where the fun can be had when there’s not a guaranteed party every weekend. With the majority of students gone for the summer, you have to look beyond the Fort for entertainment. But never fear, there is life in Knoxville beyond the Strip and the pool at your apartment complex.
Of course there are all the old faithfuls. Gatlinburg, Market Square, Gay Street, Turkey Creek… you get the idea. But there are plenty of places in close proximity to campus that won’t break your bank (especially with these gas prices). So here are some variations on your favorite leisure time activities. Have a fun summer!
Shopping
So odds are you’ve been to West Town Mall. It’s just a short drive down I40 to the West Hills exit and there you have the mall. Just a bit further down the interstate, the Lovell Road exit takes you to Turkey Creek. And you could shop for days in that place! But this summer, why not discover some new shopping? There are some awesome boutiques hidden around Knoxville just waiting for you to shuffle through the racks.
My personal suggestion: Serendipity and Curiosity
These little boutiques are open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. but without classes in the way, you’ll have plenty of time to look through their amazing dresses and jewelry. There’s no shortage of eye candy walking through with walls covered with pictures of celebs. Plus, they have some killer sales!
Address: 5204 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TN 37919-5000
(865) 588-0812
Movies
Don’t get me wrong, I love the gay street theater. But with weather this nice, how could you deny a night at the drive-in? A drive-in movie is perfect for a date night or a girls’ night. Parkway Drive-In Theater is located near Knoxville in Maryville, Tenn. Gates open at 7 p.m. and tickets for adults are only $7! Check out the website to see what movies are playing!
Address: 2909 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy.
Maryville, TN 37804
Box-office phone 865-379-7884
Bowling
Ok so maybe this isn’t your normal weekend past time, but you’re going to need something to do on those rainy summer days. Strike and Spare Family Bowl located in West Knoxville is the perfect place for a fun day or night. There are different specials every day and night so you can find something that suits your price range. The alley has a full service bar for those over 21 and a snack bar with a full menu for customers of any age. Visit the website for information on specials or find them on Facebook!
My personal suggestion: Dollar night!
Sunday starting at 7 p.m. and Tuesday starting at 8:30 are dollar nights. $1.10 per person per game and $3 for bowling shoes. You can’t beat that. Plus for those ladies 21+ there are dollar Jello shots and specials on draft deer.
Address: 213 Hayfield Road
Knoxville, TN 37922-2304
(865) 690-5211
Dining
It is no surprise that Knoxville is full of places to eat! But this summer, why not branch out to restaurants and types of food that you’ve never tried before? Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup and McDonalds burgers will still be there when you need a familiar fix. Visit Knoxville websites for tons of suggestions. Try Knoxville.org and Knoxnews.com.
My personal suggestion: Taste of Thai
If you have never tried Thai food, now’s your chance! They have a wide variety of traditional Thai dishes. You can control the spiciness of your dish with their star system. One star (or no stars) is least spicy all the way to Thai hot!! I have never been brave enough to try it, but more power to you if your taste buds can handle that kick.
Address: 213 North Peters Road
Knoxville, TN 37923-4910
(865) 691-4442
Painting
Feeling artsy? Grab your girls, or make it a mother daughter date, and try Painting With a Twist! Go to the website and chose the painting you like the best. Then make your reservation online to attend the painting class that day and create your own masterpiece. And don’t forget to bring your “twist” – your favorite adult beverage! So get you a bottle of your favorite wine and spend a couple hours in touch with your inner artist.
Address: 10932 Murdock Dr. Suite 103-A
Knoxville, TN 37932
(865) 675-2500
These are just a few suggestions to get you started. Make sure to spend some time exploring local websites. You’d be amazed at what’s hiding in Knoxville. Make this summer one to remember!