Knoxville, Tennessee
We're so excited to have you join us. Here's everything you need to know for your visit to our charming city.
Getting to Knoxville
For our California guests, you'll likely connect through a hub. Prioritize TYS if available, otherwise consider these options.
Travel Buffer & Time Zone
Knoxville is on Eastern Time. If driving from Atlanta (ATL) or Nashville (BNA), please account for the 3-hour drive + traffic. We recommend reserving your rental car as early as possible!
McGhee Tyson (TYS)
Best overall choice for convenience. Direct flights from many hubs.
Nashville (BNA)
Often more flight options and potentially better deals for families.
Atlanta (ATL)
Major international hub. Usually the cheapest but longest drive.
Where to Stay
We recommend West Knoxville for the best balance of value, space (kitchenettes), and family-friendly amenities.
Home2 Suites by Hilton (West)
Kitchenette-style rooms + Free breakfast. Modern & spacious.
TownePlace Suites (Cedar Bluff)
Ideal for families. Full kitchenettes & daily breakfast.
Best Western Suites (Downtown)
Great value and closest to the wedding venue.
Check-in & Stay Tips
Local hotels typically have check-in at 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. If you need a full kitchen, please confirm with the hotel as some "suites" only include a microwave and mini-fridge. Pro Tip: Rates vary by date (target ≤ $150). We don't have a room block, so pick whatever fits your family best and book early!
Wedding Day Details
Morning & Arrival
Knoxville is slower on Sunday mornings—most coffee shops open closer to 9:00 AM. For the 2:00 PM wedding, we recommend arriving 20 minutes early for easier parking. A dedicated prayer area will be available at the venue.
Prayer & Jumu'ah
Prayer Schedule (Adhan Times)
| Date | Fajr | Sunrise | Dhuhr | Asr | Maghrib | Isha |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 9 (Thu) | 5:58 AM | 6:53 AM | 1:38 PM | 5:16 PM | 8:05 PM | 9:18 PM |
| Apr 10 (Fri) | 5:56 AM | 6:52 AM | 1:38 PM | 5:16 PM | 8:06 PM | 9:19 PM |
| Apr 11 (Sat) | 5:55 AM | 6:50 AM | 1:38 PM | 5:16 PM | 8:07 PM | 9:20 PM |
| Apr 12 (Sun) | 5:53 AM | 6:49 AM | 1:37 PM | 5:17 PM | 8:08 PM | 9:21 PM |
| Apr 13 (Mon) | 5:51 AM | 6:48 AM | 1:37 PM | 5:17 PM | 8:09 PM | 9:22 PM |
Halal (Zabiha) Dining
Knoxville has a wonderful selection of Zabiha Halal spots. Everything listed below is verified Halal. Note: Halal options aren't available everywhere in town, so we recommend planning your meals ahead!
Hot Birds
Nashville Hot ChickenGenuine Zabiha Halal Nashville-style hot chicken. Spicy and delicious.
Yassin's Falafel House
MediterraneanFamously "The Nicest Place in America". A must-visit for any visitor to Knoxville.
Chef Irie's
CaribbeanUnique Caribbean flavors with a great local following. See schedule on IG.
Knox Bros
NYC Style HalalFreshly grilled chicken & gyro plates with authentic signature white sauce.
Aroma Indian Kitchen
IndianExcellent Indian variety right in the heart of West Knoxville.
Sticky Rice Cafe
Laotian / AsianFamous for their sticky rice and authentic Laotian dishes. (Chicken Only)
CM Chicken
Korean Fried ChickenCrispy, flavorful Korean-style fried chicken.
The Egyptian Taste
EgyptianAuthentic Egyptian home-style cooking.
Turkish Market & Deli
TurkishMarket and deli with incredible Turkish specialties.
Red Onion
Pakistani Food / PizzaLocal favorite for authentic Pakistani food and delicious halal pizza.
Uncle Sam’s Restaurant
AmericanSimple, practical American options with halal meats.
Crescent Knox
Explore more local Muslim-owned businesses and restaurants in the area with Knoxville's Muslim Business Directory.
Explore Knoxville
Nature & Outdoors
Family & Kids
- Zoo Knoxville – A classic, easy win for families of all ages. Map
- Dollywood – World-famous theme park and entertainment. Map
- The Cove at Concord – Lakeside park, splash pad, and playgrounds. Map
- Apple Barn – Fresh apple treats and country charm in Pigeon Forge. Map
- Market Square – Walk around, desserts, and open space for kids to move. Map
Mountain Realities
Visiting the Smokies? Bears are real—keep your distance and secure your food! Roads are curvy and cell service is spotty once you enter the park. Watch for deer near dusk and bring comfortable boots/shoes for nature trails (it can get muddy!).
Suggested Itineraries
Have some extra time? Here are two ways to experience the best of Knoxville.
The 3-Hour Sprint
- Hour 1 Easy stroll through Ijams Nature Center trails.
- Hour 2 Grab a specialty coffee and walk through the historic Old City.
- Hour 3 Explore Market Square and downtown Knoxville.
The Scenic Experience
- Morning Take a scenic drive to Newfound Gap overlook in the Smokies.
- Mid-day Stop by the Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge for treats, or explore Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge for fun shops, attractions, and local eats!
- Evening Return to Knoxville for a celebratory dinner downtown.
Guest FAQ
Answers to what you might be wondering about.
What is the dress code?
The wedding dress code is Traditional—wear your favorite cultural outfit! We want to see you shine in the room. Formal wear is also welcome, but traditional attire is highly preferred.
What is the weather like in April?
Expect beautiful but variable spring weather. Highs are typically ~70°F and lows ~48°F. Layers and a compact umbrella are highly recommended for the occasional shower.
Is there a prayer space at the venue?
Yes, we have arranged for a dedicated prayer area at the venue for all our guests to use throughout the day.
What time zone is Knoxville in?
Knoxville is in the Eastern Time Zone (EST). Please keep the time change in mind if you are driving from Nashville or flying from out of state!
When should I fly out on Monday?
To avoid a stressful exit (especially if driving back to Nashville or Atlanta), we suggest booking mid-day or afternoon return flights.
Are there toll roads or EV chargers?
There are no toll roads on typical drives into Knoxville from Nashville or Atlanta. EV chargers are currently limited in the downtown area; we recommend searching ahead and planning stops accordingly.