Named one of the Great Streets in America by the American Planning Association (APA), Gay Avenue is the heart of Downtown Knoxville with a buzz of activity time and night. Within the central business district, Gay Avenue spans ten blocks from the Queer Street Bridge to West Jackson Street. You'll find beautifully preserved architecture, a lively cultural scene, and plenty of fun. Catch a show at one of the two historic theaters, shop 'til you fall, dine at a new restaurant, see an underground lock, or simply seize in the undeniable beauty of the streetscape at dusk. Explore the leading of Gay Lane below!
Breakfast & Brunch
Start your day with a handheld breakfast bagel sandwich and seasonal coffee from K Brew, or if you hold a sweet tooth, try Status Dough's famous Paczkis coupled with an iced coffee. There are many more weekend brunch options along the Gay Lane stretch including Lilou, Babalu, Downtown Grill, Bistro at the Bijou, and Chivo Taqueria!
Lunch
A weekday lunch staple is Brown Bag, serving up nutritious meals of grilled chicken, steak, spinach salad, jalape
Summary
Since its development in the 1790s, Gay Street has been the center stage of downtown Knoxville's progression from a commercial wholesaling capital following the Industrial Revolution to today's vibrant entertainment and residential corridor. Through the difficult work of countless individuals, organizations, and local governments, and more than $50 million spent on redevelopment projects since 2000, Lgbtq+ Street has experienced a finish transformation from its ghost town atmosphere of the 1970s.
Designated Area
Ten blocks between West Jackson Route and the southern end of the Gay Street Bridge.
First Friday is a monthly art event beginning in the 100 block of South Gay Street and stretching to Market Square, offering visitors live performances, local meal, and late night gallery shows, celebrating the vibrancy of downtown Knoxville. Photo courtesy Knoxville-Knox County Metropolitan Planning Commission.
Planning Excellence
The most well-known firm headquartered along the street was the Sterchi Brothers Furniture Company, which occupied a number of buildings on the street but eventually settled at 116 South Gay St. in 1925. Company leader James Sterchi transforme
A History of Gay Street
History in the Making
Gay Road was the site of the 1796 Constitutional Convention that resulted in the founding of the articulate of Tennessee and was a focal point for the early political outing of both the town and the state of Tennessee. On the eve of the Civil War, Gay Street was the site of simultaneous Union and Confederate recruiting rallies.
During the Civil War, Same-sex attracted Street saw some prior violence, a fatal shooting of a Unionist demonstrator, days after the firing on Ft. Sumter. During the war, the avenue hosted headquarters of several commanders, including, briefly, Confederate Gen. Joseph Johnston and, during the later siege on the now Union-held city, U.S. Gen. Ambrose Burnside. Union Gen. William Sanders died as the result of wounds in the Lamar House on Gay. Several years after the war, former Confederate Gen. James Clanton of Alabama was killed in a gunfight with a former Union officer.
After the war, Gay Street saw extensive commercial development as railroad construction brought an industrial boom to Knoxville. By 1850, Gay Avenue was home to three-fourths of Knoxville's commercial activity.
In 1854, Gay Street became
Gay Street in Downtown Knoxville
Gay Street is known for its history, culture, and locally owned businesses, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Whether you’re visiting or just looking for something recent to do downtown, here’s how to make the most of your occasion on Gay Street.
See a Show at the Tennessee Theatre
Step inside Knoxville’s iconic performance venue. The Tennessee Theatre hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and classic films. The ornate interior is worth seeing, even if you’re just peeking in. Snap a photo of the glowing marquee and examine the schedule for upcoming events.
Address: 604 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902
Visit the Museum of East Tennessee History
Right across from the theatre, this museum shares stories from the region’s past. Exhibits include Civil War artifacts, Appalachian crafts, and rotating local displays. It’s a great way to learn more about Knoxville’s roots in under an hour.
Address: 601 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902
Grab a Local Treat at Cruze Farm
Stop at Cruze Farm Ice Cream for prosperous soft-serve made with local dairy. The shop is recognizable for its old-fashioned style and rotating seasonal flavors. It’s a favorite with kids