Useful Information

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Traveling to Knoxville

Knoxville is accessible by air and road, with convenient connections from across the United States and beyond.

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By Air

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is approximately 20 minutes from downtown and the University of Tennessee, with direct flights to most major U.S. hubs.

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Airport to Downtown/University of Tennessee:

Unfortunately, there is no public transit from the airport. Please arrange a rideshare or taxi.

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Early November typically offers affordable transatlantic fares ($500-1000 round-trip).

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By Road

Knoxville is easily accessible via Interstate 40 (east-west) and Interstate 75 (north-south). Greyhound buses connect to Nashville, Atlanta, and Charlotte.

 

Accommodation

Hotel room blocks ($150-229/night) have been secured at full-service downtown hotels within walking distance of conference venues. Additional booking information will be provided upon registration.

 

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Visa Guidelines

A visa may be required to attend the conference. 

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The B status allows individuals to participate in temporary business (B-1) or pleasure (B-2) activities. While they may engage in business activities, they may not work. The following activities are permitted in an academic setting:

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• Observing and consulting

• Independent research that does not benefit the university

• Negotiations, conferences, and seminars

• Clerkships for medical school students

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We have created a guide that will provide step-by-step guidance on the B visitor visas at Understanding B-1/B-2 Visitors and Visa Waiver.

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ISSS is not typically involved with the tourist visa application for individuals.  However, the department may be requested to write an invitation letter to demonstrate the purpose of the visit to the US.

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Citizens of countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) do not need to apply for a visa to enter the US. as a tourist. Instead they can apply for an online travel authorization through the ESTA system before traveling to the US.

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Individuals who enter the US on the basis of a B-visa are normally admitted for a period of six months. People who enter under the Visa Waiver Program are normally admitted for a period of 90 days.

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Getting Around Knoxville

The University of Tennessee campus sits immediately adjacent to downtown, connected by World's Fair Park. Conference venues, hotels, and activities are all within a compact, walkable area.

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Walking

Downtown and UT campus are highly walkable with most destinations being around 5-15 minutes on foot.

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Bikes & E-Scooters

E-scooters (Bird, Lime) available throughout downtown and there are over 120+ miles of greenways to explore many with downtown connections.

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Public Transit

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) operates the #1 Downtown Connector, a free bus that connects most of the conference area. The University of Tennessee also runs free campus buses that link downtown to much of the university campus, making it easy to navigate between conference venues and UT facilities.

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Ride-Sharing

Uber and Lyft widely available ($5-10 downtown to campus)

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You won't need a car for conference activities—walking and the free downtown connector bus cover everything!

 

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Explore Knoxville

Our city with a small-town feel offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventure to downtown entertainment.

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Recreation

Outdoor adventure is easy to find in Knoxville! The Urban Wilderness offers 1,500 forested acres with world-class mountain bike trails just minutes from downtown, while the city boasts 120 miles of paved greenways and natural trails connecting neighborhoods and parks. Less than an hour away is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited and most biodiverse national park in the United States, offering stunning fall colors and endless hiking opportunities.

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Discover outdoor activities

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Downtown

Between restaurants, shopping, museums, and galleries, downtown Knoxville is full of life. Market Square, the Old City, and Gay Street host favorite eateries and shops. The historic Tennessee and Bistro Theaters and other venues bring world-class performers to Knoxville year-round. The Knoxville Museum of Art and The McClung Museum are also wonderful destinations to learn more about the art and culture of the region.​

 

Sports

Cheer on the Vols and Lady Vols! Neyland Stadium holds nearly 102,000 fans, one of the largest football stadiums in the nation. Knoxville is also home to the Ice Bears (hockey), Tennessee Smokies (baseball), and One Knoxville SC (soccer). Our conference dinner will be held in the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, where we highlight the special role Knoxville has played for women in basketball.

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Weather in Early November

Pleasant fall weather with beautiful foliage!

• Temperatures: 10-20°C (50-68°F)

• Conditions: Mild and comfortable; occasional light rain

• Daylight: ~7am-6pm (Daylight Saving Time ends Nov 2)

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Pack: Layers, light jacket, comfortable walking shoes

 

Currency & Payments

• Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD)

• Cards: Widely accepted (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)

• Mobile payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay common

• Cash: Useful for tipping and food trucks; ATMs readily available

 

International visitors: Notify your bank before traveling​

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Cultural Tips

Tipping is expected in the U.S. with 20% being an acceptable and generous tip.

 

Southern Hospitality

Knoxville has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Expect warm greetings and conversation: it's part of the local culture!

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Safety

Downtown and UT campus are safe and well-lit. As with any city, stay aware of your surroundings. Emergency: 911

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Need More Information?

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• Visit Knoxville: https://www.visitknoxville.com

• University of Tennessee: https://www.utk.edu/about/knoxville

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We look forward to welcoming you to Knoxville for ICSC 2026! Questions? Contact us at icsc2026@utk.edu