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

Overview

Experience Knoxville in a new way on a self-guided audio tour that looks at the city’s deep and dynamic heritage in the development of American country music. Discover new stories about the talented musicians and songwriters who were born here or used the city as a springboard to fame, in Nashville and beyond. Some just came to play, while others left their mark in memorable ways. We’ll meet the truly famous, like Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, and Elvis Presley, but also the more obscure performers and songwriters such as Charlie Oaks and Arthur Q. Smith. Along the way, you'll hear interesting facts and tales from Knoxville’s history and culture along the way, too. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident curious about local history, which often connects to national history, this tour is the perfect primer to Knoxville’s Country Music roots. This walking tour can be enjoyed on location or even virtually at home with our Continuous Play function which disables the GPS playback.

What's included

• ✓Lifetime access to this tour in English
• ✓Access to our App for Android and iOS
• ✓Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

• ✕Smartphone and headphones
• ✕Food and drink
• ✕Transportation

What you'll do

1. 1

   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. 2

   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. 3

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

4. 4

   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. 5

   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. 6

   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. 7

   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. 8

Availability & pricing

Pick your exact date & check live availability on the booking page.

Good to know

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.