The Strip Cumberland Ave - A neighborhood in New Orleans near St. Charles Avenue. St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans is a prominent thoroughfare known for its historic architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and the iconic St. Charles Streetcar line. It's a symbol of New Orleans and a popular route for Mardi Gras parades.
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The Strip Cumberland Ave

4.1
·59 reviews·Knoxville, United States

Knoxville's vibrant student district on Cumberland Ave, buzzing with nightlife, diverse eateries, and the energetic pulse of UT.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings & Weekends

Peak energy and student buzz

CrowdHigh
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The Strip Cumberland Ave - A neighborhood in New Orleans near St. Charles Avenue. St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans is a prominent thoroughfare known for its historic architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and the iconic St. Charles Streetcar line. It's a symbol of New Orleans and a popular route for Mardi Gras parades.

The Strip Cumberland Ave

Best Time

Evenings & Weekends

Peak energy and student buzz

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Knoxville's vibrant student district on Cumberland Ave, buzzing with nightlife, diverse eateries, and the energetic pulse of UT.

4.1
(59 reviews)

"This place is the true pulse of Knoxville TN's nightlife! Wonderful atmosphere and amazing staff!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Dress Codes

Some bars have dress codes; sweatpants might not always fly! :dress:

Student Hotspot

Expect a lively, student-centric atmosphere, especially on weekends. :mortar_board:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Student Hangouts & Nightlife

Student Hangouts & Nightlife

Cumberland Avenue

The heart of UT Knoxville's social scene, buzzing with bars, restaurants, and shops.

Whataburger's Knoxville Debut

Whataburger's Knoxville Debut

1830 Cumberland Ave

Experience the excitement of Texas's iconic burger joint, a recent popular addition.

Nostalgic 'Wall' Spot

Nostalgic 'Wall' Spot

Near Stefano's

A spot for reminiscing about simpler times, once a popular gathering place for students.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating The Strip's Vibe

The Strip on Cumberland Ave is a lively hub, especially popular with University of Tennessee students. Expect a bustling atmosphere, particularly on weekends and game days. Dress codes can be a surprise, so check ahead if you're aiming for a specific venue.

Timing Your Visit for Fun

For the best experience, consider visiting during evenings or weekends when the energy is highest. However, if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, weekday afternoons offer a quieter glimpse into local life and student hangouts.

Best Times

When
Evenings & Weekends
Why
Peak energy and student buzz
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
More relaxed, local feel
Crowd
Medium
When
UT Game Days
Why
Electric atmosphere
Crowd
Very High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

February 16, 1989 Alec and I went on our first date! 😳 We went to see a movie at The Terrace Tap House and then to eat at Taco Bell on the Cumberland Ave Strip. My taste in restaurants has definitely changed over the last 35 years, but it was fun to partially re-create our night! #datenight #firstdate #anniversary
angieriedl
45 likes • 1K views

Check Dress Codes

Some bars have dress codes; sweatpants might not always fly! :dress: Reddit

Student Hotspot

Expect a lively, student-centric atmosphere, especially on weekends. :mortar_board:

Welcome to Knoxville, Whataburger! The Texas-based fast food restaurant opened its first Knoxville location this morning at 1830 Cumberland Ave. on the Strip, just a short walk from the University of Tennessee. It's on the lower level of the TENN student apartments, the same building as Raising Cane's. Whataburger fans lined up down the block to get their first taste of the famous made-to-order ...
knoxvillephoto
424 likes • 12.7K views
Twenty years ago, my friends and I were broke. So when the weather was good, we’d meet in front of this liquor store on Cumberland Ave (aka “The Strip”) in Knoxville. We’d sit on this brick planter we called “The Wall” in the evenings after work. We’d eat Taco Bell, smoke cigarettes, & chat for hours. If @dougiefreshyes was working at Stefano’s, we’d try to grab free pizza. (Thanks Doug) Might s...
chriswhill
7.3K likes • 219.3K views

New Foodie Finds

Discover recent additions like Whataburger, drawing crowds. :burger:

Parking Pointers

Parking can be tricky; consider walking or rideshares. :car:

reddit.com

Dance club (non country based) that allows under 21 with X on hand?

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Dress Codes

Some bars have dress codes; sweatpants might not always fly! :dress: Reddit

Student Hotspot

Expect a lively, student-centric atmosphere, especially on weekends. :mortar_board:

New Foodie Finds

Discover recent additions like Whataburger, drawing crowds. :burger:

Parking Pointers

Parking can be tricky; consider walking or rideshares. :car:

First Date Memories

A place for memorable dates, from movies to casual eats. :heart:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(59 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Strip on Cumberland Ave is celebrated for its energetic nightlife and as a central hub for University of Tennessee students, offering a lively atmosphere and a variety of dining options. While many praise the friendly staff and fun environment, some visitors have encountered issues with rude service and unexpected dress codes, though positive experiences with helpful staff are also noted.

"This place is the true pulse of Knoxville TN's nightlife! Wonderful atmosphere and amazing staff! Only blocks from the new Smokies stadium, Market Square and the University of Tennessee, this is the spot for dancing, drinking and celebrating after a win for any Knoxville sporting event!"

James Speed

"Very kind, welcoming, and generous staff. Bartender is a hilarious girl. She shared her Pokémon fruit snack with me."

Andy G

"Misplaced my phone near close and I was told to come back the next day when they opened. Arrived after 8:00 PM (opening time on Google) and not one employee out of 10+ was helpful. Not only did the bouncer treat me as if I was lying, but one bartender in particular was extremely rude, treating me as an inconvenience and a bother. She proceeded to point out that I was there an hour before open. I responded that Google lists Hanna’s opening time as 8:00 PM and then she says “well, it’s incorrect.” Shortly after this exchange, a very nice bartender finds my phone and hands it to me with a smile on her face. It’s a shame she has to work with people who have such ugly attitudes. I will not be back here."

Ricky Wilson

What People Like

Lively atmosphere
Friendly staff
Great nightlife

What People Dislike

Rude service
Strict dress codes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Strip is easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transport. It's located conveniently near the University of Tennessee campus. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours or events, so rideshares or walking are often recommended. TikTok

Limited street parking is available, but it fills up quickly. There are also several paid parking lots and garages in the vicinity. Be prepared for potential fees and to search for a spot. Reddit

The Strip is very walkable, with most shops, restaurants, and bars within easy strolling distance. For longer distances or to avoid parking hassles, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. :walking:

Yes, Knoxville's public bus system serves the Cumberland Ave area, making it a viable option for reaching The Strip without a car. Check local transit schedules for routes and times. :bus:

The Strip is a short distance from downtown Knoxville, typically a 5-10 minute drive or a longer walk, depending on your starting point. It's also close to Market Square. :cityscape:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Strip itself is a public street and does not require tickets for general access. Individual venues like bars or clubs may have cover charges or specific entry requirements. :ticket:

Hours vary significantly by venue. Bars and clubs are generally open late into the night, especially on weekends. Restaurants have more standard dining hours. It's best to check the specific hours for any place you plan to visit. Reddit

Many bars on The Strip are 21+ due to alcohol service. However, some venues may allow patrons under 21 with specific policies, or have separate areas. Always verify age requirements beforehand. Reddit

Generally, bars serving alcohol are 21+. Some establishments might have specific nights or sections for under 21s, but this is not common. It's crucial to confirm with the venue directly. Reddit

Dress codes vary. While some casual spots are fine with anything, popular bars and clubs might enforce dress codes, sometimes prohibiting athletic wear like sweatpants. It's wise to dress smart-casual to be safe. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Strip offers a diverse range of food options, from fast-casual student favorites like Taco Bell and Whataburger to various pubs, pizza joints, and other eateries catering to a young crowd. Instagram+1

While known for its student vibe, some spots offer a more relaxed atmosphere suitable for dates, especially if you avoid peak college party times. Consider places with good ambiance or unique menus. Instagram

You'll find popular chains like Taco Bell, a long-standing favorite, and the newer, highly anticipated Whataburger, which has become a major draw. Instagram+1

Many restaurants on The Strip offer vegetarian options, and some are increasingly adding vegan choices. It's recommended to check menus online or ask staff for specific dietary accommodations. :seedling:

Dining prices on The Strip generally range from budget-friendly fast food to mid-range casual dining. You can find affordable meals, especially if you're a student on a budget. :moneywithwings:

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant street art, neon signs of bars, and the general lively atmosphere. The area around the University of Tennessee campus also offers scenic backdrops. TikTok

Yes, the bustling environment provides plenty of dynamic shots. Be mindful of crowds and private property when taking photos. TikTok

Street photography, capturing the student life, nightlife, and unique local businesses are popular themes. TikTok

While not traditional landmarks, the unique storefronts, lively bars, and the general energy of Cumberland Ave serve as iconic visual elements. The presence of popular eateries like Whataburger also draws photo ops. Instagram

Golden hour before sunset can offer beautiful lighting, while evenings come alive with neon signs, perfect for capturing the nightlife. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While The Strip is primarily a student hub, families can find enjoyable moments. During the day, exploring eateries like the popular Whataburger or grabbing a casual bite at Taco Bell can be fun. Instagram+1 The lively atmosphere can be engaging, but it's best to visit during daylight hours or early evenings to avoid the more intense nightlife scene. Consider it for a quick, casual meal stop rather than an extended family outing. :ice_cream:

💰 Budget Travelers

The Strip is a paradise for budget travelers, especially students. You'll find numerous affordable dining options, from classic fast-food chains like Taco Bell to pizza places and burger joints. Instagram Many bars also offer happy hour specials. Parking can be a cost, so utilizing public transport or walking if you're nearby can save money. Reddit :moneywithwings:

👫 Couples

For a date night, The Strip offers a unique blend of casual fun. While it's known for its student energy, you can find spots with a good atmosphere for a relaxed evening. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or looking for venues with a slightly more mature vibe. Recreating a first date at a familiar spot can also be a charming idea. Instagram :couplewithheart:

🍻 Nightlife Enthusiasts

The Strip is the go-to for Knoxville's vibrant nightlife, especially for those seeking a lively, student-centric scene. With numerous bars and clubs, there's always something happening. Be aware of potential dress codes and age restrictions, and consider rideshares for easy transport. TikTokReddit :dancer:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of UT Knoxville

The Strip on Cumberland Avenue is intrinsically linked to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. It serves as the primary social and entertainment district for students, offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and shops that cater to a younger demographic. Many visitors come here to experience the energetic college town atmosphere, especially during football season or other major university events. TikTok

This area has a rich history of being a student hangout, with some spots holding nostalgic value for alumni. It's a place where memories are made, from first dates at the local cinema to late-night study breaks fueled by fast food. The constant influx of students ensures that The Strip remains dynamic and ever-evolving, with new businesses opening and trends emerging. Instagram

When visiting, expect a lively and sometimes loud environment, particularly on weekends. It's a place to immerse yourself in the local student culture, grab a bite at an iconic eatery, or enjoy the nightlife. Understanding its connection to the university is key to appreciating the unique character of The Strip. :mortar_board:

Culinary Delights and Student Staples

The Strip offers a diverse culinary landscape, heavily influenced by student preferences and affordability. Long-standing favorites like Taco Bell have been staples for decades, providing a nostalgic taste of student life for many. Instagram

More recently, The Strip has seen exciting additions, such as the highly anticipated opening of Whataburger. This Texas-based fast-food chain drew significant crowds, highlighting the area's appeal for popular and trending eateries. Instagram Beyond these iconic spots, you'll find a variety of pizza places, burger joints, and casual dining options perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. TikTok

While many options are budget-friendly, it's worth noting that some establishments may have dress codes, so it's advisable to check beforehand if you're planning a night out at a specific bar or restaurant. Reddit The food scene here is a reflection of its student population: accessible, diverse, and always buzzing with activity.

Navigating The Strip's Nightlife

The Strip truly comes alive after dark, transforming into Knoxville's premier destination for nightlife, particularly for the under-21 crowd and university students. The atmosphere is energetic, with numerous bars and clubs offering a variety of entertainment options. TikTok

While many venues are 21+, there are often options that cater to a younger demographic, or specific nights where policies might differ. It's essential to check individual venue policies regarding age restrictions and dress codes, as some places can be quite particular. Reddit The proximity to the University of Tennessee and recent stadium developments means that post-game celebrations often spill onto The Strip, creating an electric and festive mood. Reddit

From dancing to simply enjoying a casual drink, The Strip provides a dynamic nightlife experience. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and during major university events. Rideshares are a convenient way to navigate the area and avoid parking headaches. :cocktail:

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