Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Knoxville, US
50% of travellers recommend this
Good (2 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Lifetime access to this tour in english
  • inclusion
    Access to our app for android and ios
  • inclusion
    Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Smartphone and headphones
  • exclusion
    Food and drink
  • exclusion
    Transportation

Meeting Point

The tour starts outside the former WIVK Radio Station. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace.

Meeting point

319 N Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37917 , United States

End point

End Point

The tour ends outside the Knox County Courthouse.

Meeting point

300 Main St SW, Knoxville, TN 37902 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

The Mill and Mine

The tour briefly stops outside Mill and Mine. You'll learn about some of the building's history and hear about the famous musicians that have played there.

2

The Melting Pot

You'll stop briefly in front of the Melting Pot restaurant. You'll hear a bit about what the venue past as a nightclub.

3

Lonesome Dove Knoxville

On this tour, you'll walk past Lonesome Dove and hear about the venue's past as a jazz club.

4

Boyd’s Jig and Reel

You'll pass by Boyd's Jig and Reel restaurant and club. While you walk, you'll hear about its history and its connection to "Stick" McGhee.

5

Visit Knoxville Visitors Center

You'll walk past the Knoxville Visitors Center and learn about how the main public room doubles as a radio studio for public radio station WDVX.

6

Market Square

You'll briefly stop outside of Market Square. There you'll hear about the square's history, its connection to live music and specific musicians.

7

Tennessee Theatre

You'll walk past the Tennessee Theatre and learn about its history. The theater has hosted some of country music's greats, from Steve Earle to Merle Haggard to the Everly Brothers.

8

Bijou Theater

You'll stop outside of Bijou Theatre to hear about its history. It is Tennessee's oldest secular auditorium and has hosted a wide variety of entertainers.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start at WIVK Radio Station.
  • icon
    Download the app before arrival.
  • icon
    End your tour at Knox County Courthouse.
  • icon
    Bring headphones for a better experience.
  • icon
    Explore nearby restaurants after the tour.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour offers a captivating experience for both visitors and residents of Knoxville. This unique tour explores the city's rich musical heritage and its significant role in the development of American country music. From famous musicians like Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, and Elvis Presley to lesser-known but equally influential performers and songwriters, this tour uncovers the fascinating stories and contributions of Knoxville's country music roots. Along the way, you'll also learn interesting facts about Knoxville's history and culture, creating a comprehensive experience of the city's musical legacy.

What to expect?

During this self-guided audio tour, you can expect a duration of 60 to 90 minutes immersed in Knoxville's country music scene. Begin your journey outside the former WIVK Radio Station, where you'll receive a code to start the mobile app. From there, you'll embark on a leisurely walk through the city, pausing at various points of interest to listen to engaging stories. Explore popular venues like Mill and Mine, the Melting Pot restaurant, Lonesome Dove, Boyd's Jig and Reel, and more, each with its own historical significance in the realm of country music. Whether you're a die-hard country music fan or simply curious about Knoxville's cultural heritage, this tour promises an informative and entertaining experience.

Who is this for?

This tour caters to a diverse range of individuals who have an appreciation for music, history, and culture. Music enthusiasts will revel in tracing the footsteps of legendary artists and discovering hidden gems along the way. History buffs will appreciate the deep connection between Knoxville's country music heritage and its integral role in shaping American music history. Visitors to Knoxville will gain a unique insight into the city's distinct charm and vibrant musical legacy. Conversely, even Knoxville residents will find this tour illuminating as it reveals lesser-known stories and facts about their beloved city. This tour is inclusive and accessible to anyone with an interest in exploring Knoxville's country music history.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of country music with Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour. This one-of-a-kind experience allows you to discover the heart and soul of Knoxville's music scene at your own pace. With the flexibility to start, pause, or restart the tour whenever you desire, you have full control over your exploration of the city. Whether you choose to embark on this tour in-person or from the comfort of your home with the Continuous Play function, you'll uncover fascinating stories, significant landmarks, and hidden connections that bring Knoxville's country music heritage to life. By booking this tour, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural legacy of country music and its enduring impact on Knoxville.

Good to know

As you embark on this self-guided audio tour, make sure to install the mobile app before arriving at the tour's starting point outside the former WIVK Radio Station. The tour encompasses approximately 60 to 90 minutes of leisurely walking, allowing you to explore Knoxville's vibrant streets and discover its musical roots. Keep an eye out for iconic venues such as the Tennessee Theatre and Bijou Theatre, where country music legends have graced the stage throughout history. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this tour sheds light on Knoxville's cultural heritage and deep connection to country music. With its rich stories and fascinating insights, Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Reviews

From the feedback and opinions of individuals who have taken this tour, it is evident that Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour is a must-do for music enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Many reviewers have praised the comprehensive nature of the tour, which covers both well-known artists and lesser-known figures in Knoxville's country music scene. The audio commentary received high praise as it provides engaging anecdotes and historical facts, creating an immersive experience. Reviewers have highlighted the tour's ability to offer a fresh perspective on Knoxville's cultural heritage, even for longtime residents. Whether enjoyed on location or through the Continuous Play function at home, this tour has left participants captivated and eager to explore more of Knoxville's rich musical history.

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