The Heartbeat of Knoxville: Market Square

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
• YesYup
  [yup]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/Come on in
  [pleez/kum on in]
• Thank youThank ya
  [thank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fahyn. how 'bout yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [ah-nt kach-in on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu, please
  [kan eye chek out thuh men-yoo pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [ah dohnt doh meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI need to settle up, please
  [ah need too set-ul up pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Call the Po-lice!
  [kawl thuh po-leece]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kawl uh dock]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [ahm turnd uh-round]
• I'm illI ain't feelin' right
  [ah-nt feel-in ryt]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [ahm fiks-in toh bahy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [ahm just brow-zin]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats thuh dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thats uh bit stee-p]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock somethin' off?
  [kan yuh nok sum-thin off?]

• What time is it?What time we lookin' at?
  [whut tyme we look-in at]
• It's one o'clockIt's one on the dot
  [its wun on thuh daht]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [toh-day]
• TomorrowMorrow
  [morr-ow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [sev-in]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wheres a/the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whuts thuh add-res]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kan yuh point it out (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thuh nekst (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-it (to)]

Market Square in Knoxville, Tennessee, has its roots in the early 19th century when it served as a bustling marketplace for local farmers and merchants. Established in 1791, this area was initially designed as the central public square of the city. It became a hub for trade and commerce, reflecting the growing economic activity in the region surrounding the Tennessee River.

During the Civil War, Market Square was a focal point for both Union and Confederate forces. Knoxville's strategic location made it a battleground, and the square was used for various military operations. Following the war, Market Square emerged as a symbol of resilience, showcasing the city's recovery and renewed economic vitality.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Market Square underwent significant transformations with the construction of new buildings, including the iconic Bijou Theatre in 1909. This period marked the square’s evolution from a marketplace to a cultural and entertainment center, reflecting the broader development of Knoxville as a regional hub.

By the late 20th century, Market Square faced challenges, including urban decline. However, a series of revitalization projects began in the early 2000s, transforming the square into a vibrant space filled with shops, restaurants, and public events. These efforts have successfully restored Market Square as a key destination in Knoxville, hosting festivals, farmers' markets, and concerts.

Today, Market Square is recognized as a cultural hub in Knoxville, showcasing the city's diverse heritage. It hosts various community events, art shows, and seasonal markets that celebrate local artisans and farmers. The square's historical significance, combined with its contemporary vibrancy, illustrates Knoxville's rich cultural tapestry.

Market Square is centrally located in Knoxville, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you're arriving by car, take I-40 and exit at downtown Knoxville, following signs to Market Square. Public transportation options include the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) buses, which run frequently from neighborhoods like Old City and the University of Tennessee campus. If you're coming from the McGhee Tyson Airport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service, which takes about 20 minutes to reach Market Square.

Market Square is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is the best way to explore the area. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) buses also provide service throughout the downtown area, making it easy to reach nearby attractions. Bicycles can be rented from local bike-sharing programs, and there are designated bike lanes along some streets. For those who prefer not to walk, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.

Market Square is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's wise to stay vigilant. While violent crime rates are low, pickpocketing can occasionally occur in crowded places. Areas to be cautious of include parts of East Knoxville, particularly after dark. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid showing large amounts of cash. It’s advisable to travel in groups during nighttime hours and stick to well-lit areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Knoxville Police Department has a station nearby, and several hospitals, such as UT Medical Center, are within a short drive. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, local pharmacies are available, often with staff who can assist with over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Don’t wear overly casual attire if you plan to dine in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and traditions. Don’t engage in loud conversations in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a 'hello.' Don’t assume everyone is familiar with tourists; a simple greeting goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine at the eateries around Market Square. Don’t litter or leave food waste in public areas.

To experience Market Square like a local, visit during the weekend when the Farmers' Market is in full swing, offering fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and try out regional specialties like Knoxville's famous barbecue. Attend local events and live music performances held in the square, which often feature local artists. If you're looking for a unique souvenir, explore the specialty shops for handmade items that reflect the culture of East Tennessee.