Nashville seems like the place to be, right? WRONG.

Well, that's a little harsh, because Nashville, like Memphis , is a slice of Tennessee you should definitely try to visit in your lifetime. But, over on the east side of the state is Knoxville, a city that definitely doesn't get as much credit as it should.

Home to the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville boasts good food and a cool arts scene, thanks in part to one of its most significant landmarks, the Tennessee Theatre.

While you're not eating and drinking your heart out, there are other activities like paddling and vintage shopping that will have you playing with the locals -- heck, maybe you can even fit in as a pretend Knoxvillian. Maybe.

If you're looking for a last-minute spring break getaway or you just need another excuse to get out of town, we recommend Knoxville -- we promise you won't regret it.

1. You'll breathe the fresh air as you enjoy the great outdoors.

While in Knoxville, it would be a mistake not to explore the outdoors. And really, as the city's nestled in a gorgeous valley just west of the Great Smoky Mountains, you can hardly avoid it.

Stop, smell the flowers and read some history at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum , where there are multiple walking trails and displays that show off nature's greatest beauties.