The first city founded in Tennessee was Nashville. The second was Knoxville. This means that when you visit Knoxville, find a wonderful hotel, and then set out on the quest, there is a history to be found and experienced that will blow your mind. Well, that is if you happen to be another person who is taken with the history of the cities in the United States, such as myself. The buildings that still stand today, the old streets to walk down, and the feel of being in an older city of the U.S. is one that is to be cherished and embraced to the fullest extent. This is the perfect place to spend some time, for an entire vacation, or for a weekend retreat.
Historical tours are available that will take you through the Old Gray Cemetery, the James White Fort, the Armstrong-Lockett House and the Ramsey House Plantation. This is a tour that will offer a look at not only the history of Tennessee, but the history of the United States as well. Any walking tour through the city requires a stop at the Haley Heritage Square. Here one will find an emotional tribute and memorial dedicated and in honor of Alex Haley, the award winning writer of the epic novel “Roots”.
In 1982, Knoxville was the hosting city to the World’s Fair. Now, more than twenty years later, the site still attracts visitors from around the world. There is a scrumptious Candy Factory, a playground and the Knoxville Museum of Art, all located within this one site. And throughout the rest of the city, there are many more galleries and museums that explore the science, the culture, the art and the history of Knoxville. The Knoxville Zoo is a great place to visit if you are traveling with children, as there are many interactive exhibits and educational programs that mix a bit of fun with a bit of learning. The rich history, and the variety of ways to experience that history is one of the things that makes this city one of the perfect vacation destinations of the Southern United States.