Housed in a 1960s Volkswagen showroom, Xül Beer Company's 5th Avenue taproom boasts a 180-degree glass facade offering panoramic views of downtown Knoxville. The mid-century modern decor, featuring plush couches and quartz countertops, creates an eclectic yet comfortable atmosphere. Known for its innovative beers like the PB&J Mixtape sour and the MF Doom-inspired Rhymes Like Dimes IPA, Xül also hosts themed trivia nights and offers a spacious beer garden for patrons to enjoy.

Tucked in Knoxville's Old City, Brother Wolf is a cocktail bar inspired by Italian aperitivo culture. Known for its extensive Negroni menu, including the viral Negroni Sbagliato, it also offers an impressive selection of Italian spirits and classic cocktails. The space is cozy and welcoming, with rustic Italian bites available daily from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. It's a great spot to enjoy a pre- or post-dinner drink, especially if you're dining next door at Osteria Stella.

Token Game Tavern is a lively spot in Knoxville where you can enjoy a mix of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and a full bar. The menu features shareables like ciabatta pizza bites and corn dog nuggets, along with handhelds such as the Cuban sandwich. The space is spacious and designed with groups in mind, making it a fantastic option for large parties. Whether you're into burgers, pizza, or lighter fare, Token Game Tavern has you covered. For those looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere in a spot that’s not too loud but still vibrant, Token Game Tavern is a hidden gem.

Located in Hardin Valley, Orange Hat Brewing Company is a family-friendly brewery known for its small-batch beers and welcoming atmosphere. The spacious taproom features both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating families and pets. They offer a variety of craft beers, including rotating seasonal selections, and have recently introduced a kitchen serving shareable appetizers, hearty wraps, crispy flatbreads, and refreshing salads. The brewery also hosts live music, trivia nights, and other events, fostering a lively community vibe. Food trucks are often on-site, providing additional dining options. For those interested in non-alcoholic beverages, they serve their own Tempo Kombucha and a selection of non-alcoholic beers. The ample parking lot is shared with neighboring businesses, and visitors are advised to park cautiously during wet conditions.

Schulz Bräu Brewing Company brings a slice of Munich to Knoxville with its authentic German-style beers and traditional fare. The spacious Biergarten, furnished with imported German tables and benches, offers a cozy outdoor setting complete with fire pits and a misting system for year-round comfort. Inside, the Great Hall and Mezzanine Loft provide ample seating, while the taproom boasts a rotating selection of 16 German-style beers on draft. The attached Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen serves up classic dishes like schnitzel and currywurst, enhancing the authentic experience. Recognized for its exceptional beer garden, Schulz Bräu Brewing Company has been celebrated as one of the "best beer gardens in America."

Located in a historic 1934 building in downtown Knoxville, The Local Smokey offers a comfortable atmosphere with ample natural light during the day and warm streetlights in the evening. The spacious interior features a 360-degree bar, multiple high-top and regular-height tables, and bar seating, accommodating up to 300 guests. Entertainment options include five pool tables, cornhole, darts, and a stage for live music and comedy performances. The menu boasts Southern-style favorites like wings, burgers, and pizza, complemented by a selection of craft beers and cocktails. The bar is family-friendly, with bar-height booster chairs available for children. Its proximity to the upcoming Smokies Stadium adds to its appeal as a local gathering spot.

A sprawling 25,000-square-foot venue in Knoxville's Hardin Valley, Cotton Eyed Joe boasts a 2,500-square-foot dance floor and a semi-truck DJ booth. Known for its live country music, line dancing lessons, and themed events, it has been a local favorite for over 30 years. The club offers a full menu with Southern-inspired dishes like BBQ Chicken Tater Skins and Joe's Famous Chicken Wings. With a capacity of over 4,000 people each week, it's a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a lively night out.

Hidden behind the lobby of The Oliver Hotel, Peter Kern Library is Knoxville's only speakeasy. Accessed through an alleyway, this intimate bar exudes 1920s charm with dark wood, a fireplace, and shelves of books. Cocktails are named after literary characters, adding to the unique atmosphere. It's a cozy spot where time seems to slow down.

A 1970s-themed cocktail bar in South Knoxville, Fly By Night offers a nostalgic atmosphere with vintage posters, leather booths, and a disco ball. The menu features reimagined classic cocktails like dirty martinis and grasshoppers, along with beer, wine, and mocktails. Located at 906 Sevier Ave. Suite 126, it's open Tuesday through Sunday, closed on Mondays.

Alice in Appalachia is a whimsical bar and boutique in Knoxville's Market Square, offering a fusion of creative cocktails and unique shopping. The space is divided into two distinct areas: 'Down the Rabbit Hole,' a bar serving coffee, tea, cocktails, and tea sandwiches, and 'Through the Looking Glass,' a retail space featuring a curated selection of local goods and souvenirs. Signature cocktails include the 'Glitter Cat,' a pink vanilla vodka drink reminiscent of a smoothie, and the 'Jabberwocky,' a chocolate espresso martini with a hidden treasure at the bottom. The venue also offers a seasonal rooftop seating area, perfect for enjoying bottomless mimosas during brunch.