University of Tennessee Walking Tour (Self Guided), Knoxville

Founded in 1794 as William Blount College, The University of Tennessee (UT) in Knoxville is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Nowadays, the UT flagship institution features a mix of historic and modern sites which draw many a visitor to the city.

The campus covers nearly 600 acres in downtown’s west end, including over 200 buildings and a faculty of more than 1,700 academic staff, and has no shortage of interesting things to see and do.

Topping the list of notable attractions of the "Big Orange" (a popular nickname for UT, derived from the school's distinctive shade of orange prominently featured on its sports uniforms and other branding materials) is Neyland Stadium, home to the university's football team and one of the largest sports arenas in the country. "Rocky Top", the university's official “fight” song, is a popular tune among UT fans and is often played at sporting events and other university gatherings.

Among other iconic locations to check out is Ayres Hall, with its distinctive clock tower, found in the historic part of the campus, known as "The Hill". The multi-level Hodges Library is a standalone architectural landmark, while the UT Gardens are another beautiful spot to explore, boasting a wide variety of plants on display.

In addition to these attractions, the UT campus also features a vibrant arts community. The Clarence Brown Theatre hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and dance performances.

"Vols for Life" is a popular phrase among UT alumni which is often used to express their lifelong commitment to the university and its values. To find out what they are and to feel this dynamic place from within, if only for a brief moment, consider taking this self-guided walk.