Every year, millions visit the Great Smoky Mountains and Dollywood. But no trip to East Tennessee is complete until you’ve seen the neighboring “big city” of Knoxville. In the spring, the lush foliage turns bright green and virtually every tree is in bloom. In fact, Knoxville is well-known for its Dogwood Arts Festival, held this year on April 4-23. The climate is said to be perfect for flowering dogwood trees, and they’re in peak bloom during the festival. Drive the numerous “dogwood trails” throughout the town and see nature show off: Spectacular blooming dogwood, redbud, crabapple and cherry trees line the roads, and gardens burst with tulips, daffodils, pansies and other colorful flowers. The festival also includes art demonstrations and exhibits, bluegrass music with local and regional performers, arts and crafts markets, and plenty of other activities for adults and kids.

All that marveling at nature can make you hungry, so don’t forget a stop at Litton’s Market and Restaurant. Established in 1946, Litton’s is known for its big burgers served on homemade buns, but also offers steaks, seafood and a variety of meat-and-three “blue plate” specials featuring meat loaf or fried chicken. Whatever you do, don’t skip dessert: Litton’s boasts a variety of homemade cheesecakes, layer cakes, pies, cookies and brownies that are simply not to be missed. Personal favorites include the Italian cream cake, red velvet cake and caramel brownies.

While you’re in town, check out World’s Fair Park, the site of the 1982 World’s Fair. It’s now home to the Knoxville Museum of Art, The Candy Factory, a playground called Fort Kid, and the fair’s iconic Sunsphere. History buffs might enjoy James White Fort, Confederate Memorial Hall, Armstrong-Lockett house or Blount Mansion. It may not be a hip metropolis, but you might be surprised at what you’ll find in good ol’ Rocky Top.