Knoxville

    Knoxville Gay Bars and Hotels

    Knoxville is a city Tennessee with a small gay scene centred around a couple of gay venues.

    Knoxville is considered to be the gateway to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. You can take a road trip from Knoxville to the Smoky Mountains, including a 25-mile drive to Dollywood. Knoxville is known for Southern food and hospitality. You'll also find relics from the Civil War and the fort built by the first settlers during the American Revolution. You can take a stroll down Gay Street in the heart of the city, although it isn't Knoxville's gay district!

    Take a trip to Dollywood

    To get from Knoxville to Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, you can drive from Knoxville in about an hour.
    Dollywood
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    2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37863, United States, Knoxville, USA

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    In the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood draws LGBTQ+ visitors with its unique blend of Southern charm, camp, and rollercoasters. The park is a testament to Dolly Parton's genius as a businesswoman, self-promoter, and camp icon. For some gay travelers, visiting Dollywood could be likened to a pilgrimage.

    Dollywood offers a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, live country and bluegrass music shows, traditional crafts, and Southern dining. Its location in the Smoky Mountains brings a strong connection to nature, with scenic views and nature trails. Dollywood emphasizes Appalachian culture, local craftsmanship, and Dolly Parton’s influence throughout the park.

    Dollywood features over 50 rides and attractions, including a range of roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly experiences. Some of the standout rides include:

    • Lightning Rod: A record-breaking wooden roller coaster that launches riders up a steep hill at 45 mph.
    • Wild Eagle: A wing coaster that gives riders the sensation of flying as they soar above the park.
    • Mystery Mine: A steel coaster that takes riders through dark tunnels and sharp turns.
    • Tennessee Tornado: A high-speed roller coaster with loops and dramatic drops.

    Does Dolly Parton own Dollywood and make money from it?

    Dolly Parton is a co-owner of Dollywood, but she does not solely own the park. It is operated as a partnership between Dolly and Herschend Family Entertainment, a company that manages several theme parks and attractions across the U.S. Dolly Parton’s involvement includes shaping the park's identity, with many attractions and events reflecting her personal story, music, and Appalachian heritage.

    As a co-owner, Dolly Parton does profit from Dollywood’s success, though she has stated that her primary motivation is to create jobs and boost tourism in her home region of East Tennessee. The park has become a major local employer and economic driver for the area, and its success also contributes to her brand and business ventures.

    How to get to Dollywood from Knoxville

    By Car: The most direct and convenient way is by driving. The distance is about 35-40 miles, and the trip takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. You'll take I-40 East from Knoxville, then exit onto U.S. Highway 441 South toward Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. From there, follow signs to Dollywood.

    By Shuttle: If you prefer not to drive, you can check for shuttle services that run between Knoxville and Dollywood, though availability may vary. Local services like Knox Area Transit (KAT) may offer seasonal or special routes.

    By Taxi/Rideshare: You can also take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from Knoxville to Dollywood. This is a convenient option if you don't have a car, though it may be more expensive than driving yourself.

    Once in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is clearly marked with signs directing visitors to the park.

    Weekday: 10am-9pm

    Weekend: 10am-9pm

    Last updated on: 11-Oct-2024

    Gay bars and clubs in Knoxville

    Knoxville has a few popular gay bars and LGBTQ+-friendly spots where visitors can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. These venues are located in and around central Knoxville.
      Club XYZ
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      1215 N Central St, Knoxville, USA

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      5
      Audience Rating

      Based on 1 votes

      Club XYZ is a gay bar and club in Knoxville, TN. It hosts drag shows, karaoke nights and it has a dance floor. Often gets busy at weekends.
      Features:
      Bar
      Club

      Weekday: Mon-Fri: 7pm-3am

      Weekend: Sat-Sun: 7pm-3am

      Last updated on: 8-Aug-2023

        The Edge
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        7211 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, USA

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        4
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        Based on 2 votes

        The Edge is a gay bar in Knoxville. They have 2 pool tables, 2 dart boards, 2 video game machines. There's also a large outdoor patio, amateur drag nights, burlesque and other themed nights.
        Features:
        Bar
        Club

        Weekday: Mon-Fri: 5pm-11pm

        Weekend: Sat-Sun: 1pm-11pm

        Last updated on: 8-May-2024

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