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Knoxville’s warm weather “in” and “out” list

We’re taking a page from our favorite teen magazines and sharing our takes on what’s hot and what’s not in Knoxville.

A sign for Seven Islands State Birding Park is posted on a wooden board. In the background is a small parking lot in front of rolling green hills.

Spot songbirds, hawks, and waterfowl along the meadow trails at Seven Islands State Birding Park — because birding is so in this year.

Photo by Brian Stansberry via Wikimedia Commons

We already know you’re trendy. You’re reading 865today, so you’ve always got the scoop on what’s happening in the Scruffy City. But what about what’s hot and what’s not?

As the weather heats up, we’re bringing the “in” and “out” trend to Knoxville. Here are our Knoxville hot takes:

Out: Pretending birding is for retirees.
In: Learning about the backyard birds of Knoxville + going birding at Seven Islands State Birding Park, where over 220 species of birds have been sighted.

Out: Setting off fireworks within city limits without a permit.
In: Heading to the annual Festival on the Fourth instead.

Out: Getting stuck in traffic at Cades Cove.
In: Exploring new hiking trails around the region.

Out: Having some of the worst drivers in the US.
In: Being one of the best places to live in the US (No. 29).

Out: Crying over big box store closures. (We’ll never forget you, Joann Fabrics.)
In: Finding local alternatives like Gina’s Bernina Sewing Center.

Out: Mocha Mousse.
In: Tennessee Orange.

Out: Weak plans that don’t make it out of the group chat.
In: Staying updated on exciting local events via our monthly Plan Ahead.

Out: Overspending our paychecks.
In: Checking out free things to do around Knoxville.

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