A long layover in Knoxville is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at McGhee Tyson Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 100 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave TYS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Knoxville takes about 100 minutes by Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) Bus Route 12. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Transport from McGhee Tyson Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from McGhee Tyson Airport into town:
- Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) Bus Route 12: About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Knoxville might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring Knoxville on a Layover
For a layover visit to Knoxville, we’d suggest Market Square and Sunsphere at World’s Fair Park. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at TYS, check out Smoky Mountain Marketplace or Local Art Displays to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
In Knoxville
If you make it into town, Calhoun’s at the Airport is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Stock & Barrel.
Inside TYS
If you’re staying in the terminal, Ruby Tuesday (TYS) is your main option. PZA Pizza (TYS) works too if you want something quick.
Storing Your Luggage at McGhee Tyson Airport
Luggage storage options at TYS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Knoxville for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and TYS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Knoxville and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TYS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Knoxville exploring the streets or relaxing at TYS, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.