St. John’s Lutheran Church – founded 1888
Open Streets Knoxville, hosted by Bike Walk Knoxville, will close a segment of Broadway Avenue to cars from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30, so that pedestrians and cyclists can explore the downtown area from a completely different perspective.
Traveling the route from Glenwood Avenue to Emory Place, event goers will have the opportunity to enjoy the charming, distinct character of several North Knoxville neighborhoods, a wide variety of businesses, and even a handful of historic churches.
Central United Methodist Church – founded 1927
Not only will these churches host activity stations—some will offer open tours of their stunning sanctuaries. History buffs, architecture admirers, and even casual wanderers will be sure to appreciate the historic treasures that this segment of Broadway has to offer.
Even more exciting? After roaming the event for a bit, visitors can head over to Old Gray Cemetery toward the southern end of the Open Streets route and enjoy the 18th annual Lantern and Carriage Tour for a mere $10 entry fee. The cemetery tours will last from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Sunday.
Old Gray Cemetery Lantern and Carriage Tour
Founded in 1850, Old Gray Cemetery is the second-oldest cemetery in Knoxville and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The cemetery features magnificent monuments and romantic, Southern trees that set the mood for a site established prior to the American Civil War.
Old Gray Cemetery – founded 1850
So, whether you attend Open Streets in order to dabble in some of the new age activities (like AcroYoga), or whether you intend to thumb through some pages in the history book this Sunday, be sure to take a peek at some of Knoxville’s oldest churches. You will not be disappointed!
www.OpenStreetsKnoxville.com
Broadway Baptist Church - founded 1885
St. James Episcopal Church – founded 1923