Discover the Heartbeat of Downtown Knoxville

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
• Thank youThank ya
  [thank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Excuse me/Sorry]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout y'all?
  [Fine. How 'bout y'all?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak English?]
• I don't understandI don't git it
  [I don't git it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to pay, please
  [I'd like to pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [Git outta here!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [How much does it cost?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya lower the price?
  [Can ya lower the price?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [sev-un]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [Can ya show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Downtown Knoxville's history is deeply intertwined with the founding of the city itself. Established in 1786 by James White, the area became the first capital of Tennessee in 1796. The early years saw the construction of essential infrastructure, including the first courthouse and the establishment of important trade routes along the Tennessee River, facilitating growth and attracting settlers.

During the Civil War, Knoxville was a strategic location due to its railroads and position along the Tennessee River. The city changed hands multiple times between Union and Confederate forces. The Battle of Fort Sanders in November 1863 was a significant engagement, leading to Union control over the city, which played a crucial role in the Union's efforts in the region.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of significant industrial growth for Downtown Knoxville. The establishment of various manufacturing industries, including textiles and furniture, transformed the economic landscape. The construction of the Southern Railway and the subsequent development of a robust transportation network further enhanced the city’s industrial capacity.

In the late 20th century, Downtown Knoxville experienced a cultural renaissance, driven by efforts to preserve its historic architecture and promote arts and culture. The renovation of the Tennessee Theatre, originally opened in 1928, and the establishment of various arts festivals revitalized the downtown area, making it a vibrant cultural hub.

The 21st century has seen continued efforts in urban revitalization in Downtown Knoxville. Projects such as the Market Square renovation and the development of the Knoxville Convention Center have contributed to a dynamic urban environment. The area is now known for its mix of historic charm and modern amenities, becoming a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

Downtown Knoxville is accessible from various neighborhoods in Knoxville via multiple transportation options. If you are coming from the West, take the Kingston Pike (US-70) which leads directly into the heart of Downtown. From the North, utilize Broadway (US-441), which connects directly to downtown. Public transit options include the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) buses that run frequently from different neighborhoods, with routes 10, 11, and 12 being particularly useful.

Downtown Knoxville is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. KAT buses provide reliable public transportation throughout the area, while the Knoxville Trolley serves as a fun option for tourists, offering a scenic ride around the downtown area. For those preferring a more active approach, bicycles can be rented from local bike-sharing programs. Additionally, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.

Downtown Knoxville is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Areas to be cautious in include parts of East Knoxville, especially after dark, where crime rates can be higher. Always stay aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The University of Tennessee Medical Center is the primary hospital in the vicinity. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-critical health issues, there are several pharmacies throughout Downtown Knoxville.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, as it could be deemed disrespectful in certain public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly smile and eye contact. Don't be overly formal; a simple 'hello' is often sufficient. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and support local eateries. Don't waste food or show disdain for different culinary practices.

To experience Downtown Knoxville like a local, explore the Market Square, where you can find local vendors, food trucks, and live music. Attend a festival or event, as Knoxville has a vibrant community that regularly hosts celebrations. Engage with locals at coffee shops or pubs to learn about hidden gems and recommendations. Don't miss the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Tennessee Theatre for cultural experiences.