In the heart of downtown

 

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and honored as the Official State Theatre of Tennessee, "Knoxville's Grand Entertainment Palace" reopened in 2005 after a $25.5 million restoration process. Today, the Tennessee Theatre offers the rare opportunity to step back in time. The magnificent architecture and stunning décor shine as brightly as they did on the Theatre’s opening day on October 1, 1928, and will overwhelm even the most discriminating visitors.

Directions & Parking

From I-40 East: Take Exit 388a, James White Parkway to Summit Hill Drive, (first exit). Turn right onto Summit Hill Drive. Turn left onto Gay Street at the third traffic light. The Tennessee Theatre is located at 604 South Gay Street.

From I-40 West: Take Exit 388, James White Parkway to Summit Hill Drive, (first exit). Turn right onto Summit Hill Drive. Turn left onto Gay Street at the third traffic light. The Tennessee Theatre is located at 604 South Gay Street.

While the Tennessee Theatre does not own or operate any parking lots or garages, there are several options for parking downtown. There are more than 10 garages and surface lots throughout downtown that offer free parking after 6pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. Those closest to the Tennessee Theatre include the Locust Street garage, Market Square garage, the Langley garage, and the Dwight Kessel garage. Two nearby paid parking options are located at First Tennessee Plaza and Riverview Tower. For more information on parking options, including a map, click the link below.

Downtown Parking Map

Dress code

There is no specific dress code for The Tennessee Theatre. Some events such as the Symphony and Opera will draw a dressier crowd. Most people enjoy dressing up to go to the Theatre, but you will see people wearing everything from casual to Sunday best, and on Opera nights, formal wear.

Concessions

For most shows, the concession stand in the lobby sells snacks, sodas, beer, wine, and mixed drinks. For movies, we sell popcorn, candy, soda, beer, and wine. Prices vary from $2-9. Food and beverages are allowed inside the auditorium for all events except symphony, opera, and all classical music events, and at the artist’s specific request.

Lost & Found

If you've lost something in the Theatre, please call the Box Office at 865.684.1200, Monday through Friday from 10am to 3pm.