Known as the "Gateway to the Smokies," Knoxville unabashedly promotes itself as the perfect jumping off point for excursions to the multitude of natural wonders just outside the city limits. (Photo: Chris Myers and Christian Neuhauser) » More Photos

However, as it did in most cities, the Great Depression dealt Knoxville a severe financial blow. Bank and business failures quashed the previous decade's optimism and plunged the city into a decade of despair. The onset of World War II provided the local economy with a huge boost thanks to local ventures – such as Alcoa Aluminum, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the nearby super-secret nuclear facility, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory – crucial to the nation's war effort. As the 1970s approached, a new generation of civic leaders emerged with ideas and plans to revive the downtown districts and make the region even more attractive for development. Focusing on restoring the city center, cleaning up the riverfront, and providing financial initiatives for new business projects, this progressive plan of action generated ongoing economic and social growth, culminating in Knoxville being chosen as the host site for the 1982 World's Fair.

Since then, the city hasn't looked back. In a business-friendly environment, many high tech industries, some homegrown and others relocating in the Knoxville area, have infused the city with an affluent, well-educated workforce. These new arrivals have embraced the city's Southern charms, as well as its many cultural opportunities. Home to the main campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville also touts its many museums and a thriving community of craftspeople, musicians, and performing artists.

Known as the "Gateway to the Smokies," Knoxville unabashedly promotes itself as the perfect jumping off point for excursions to the multitude of natural wonders just outside the city limits. And of course, as stated before, the nearby Great Smoky Mountains offer some of the best motorcycling roads in the United States, a fact not lost on the organizers of the annual Honda Hoot. Back in 2000, after the event's planners decided the event had outgrown its original venue in Asheville, North Carolina, the people of Knoxville stepped up to the plate and recognized the Hoot as a great opportunity to host thousands of new visitors and show off their city. Each year, residents welcome Hoot participants with open arms and a true sense of good ol' Southern hospitality. As for amenities, you can certainly find what you're looking for in downtown Knoxville, where the many dining, shopping, and entertainment choices dovetail nicely with its college-town atmosphere and energy.