If you’re looking for an unforgettable wedding venue in Knoxville, The Press Room is a hidden gem that combines modern sophistication with historic charm. Located in the heart of the city, this venue offers versatile spaces, excellent amenities, and a unique atmosphere that makes it a top choice for couples. As Knoxville wedding photographers, we’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories here and can confidently say it’s a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your celebration.
Christina & Michael
Laura & John
History of The Press Room
The building that now houses The Press Room has been part of Knoxville’s story for more than a century. Constructed in 1923, it first opened as a bowling alley, featuring an expansive glass façade and wide-open interior space that made it a local landmark. Over the decades, the building evolved into an automobile showroom and later a print shop—the latter inspiring the name “The Press Room.”
In March 2018, after years of thoughtful planning and restoration, owners Jim and Lori Klonaris reopened the building as a premier event venue. The renovation was led by Sanders Pace Architecture and Brownlee Construction, who preserved the structure’s original brickwork and steel trusses while introducing elegant modern finishes, dramatic chandeliers, and a versatile layout.
Today, The Press Room is part of the Spaces in the City family and has become one of Knoxville’s most sought-after venues for weddings, galas, and corporate events. Its industrial roots blend seamlessly with contemporary sophistication, making it a timeless setting for couples who want history and modern style in one unforgettable space.
Venue Details
The Press Room is a beautifully restored industrial venue that embraces Knoxville’s heritage while offering modern elegance. Exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, and open floor layouts create a stylish canvas for weddings of all sizes.
Style: Industrial chic with modern touches
Spaces: Ceremony hall, main ballroom, outdoor patio, bridal suite
Capacity: Up to 500 guests
Atmosphere: Romantic, versatile, and timeless
Amenities & Services
The Press Room provides everything you need to host a seamless wedding day. Their team helps coordinate logistics, while the flexible space allows for endless personalization.
On-site coordination team
Bridal and groom suites for getting ready
Full bar and catering options available
Ample parking for guests
Modern sound and lighting systems
Vendor flexibility with a preferred list available
Bridal Suite
The bride after her finishing makeup touches in the Bridal Suite.
Groom Suite
Signing of the Ketuhbah in the Grooms loft.
Reception Space
The Press Room reception space during a first dance.
Planning Tips
Photo Opportunities – The exposed brick walls, chandeliers, and natural light from large windows make for stunning wedding portraits.
Seasonal Events – Summer weddings benefit from the outdoor patio, while cooler months shine indoors with the venue’s warm, industrial ambiance.
Downtown Advantage – Being close to downtown Knoxville means guests can easily find accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment.
Sunset Photos – Step outside for breathtaking golden-hour shots in Knoxville’s urban backdrop.
Reviews & Testimonials
Couples love The Press Room for its spacious layout, professional staff, and versatility. Many mention the ease of hosting both the ceremony and reception under one roof, while guests consistently praise the elegant atmosphere and convenient location.
FAQ
Below you can find some frequently asked questions and answers for the Press Room. We do recommend contacting the venue directly for questions not answered here and for the most up-to-date information.
The venue can accommodate up to 500 guests.
Yes, the venue allows outside vendors, though they also provide a preferred vendor list.
Yes, ample on-site parking is available for your guests.
The Press Room is fully ADA-compliant and accessible.
Absolutely. Many couples choose to hold everything in one location for convenience.
The Press Room offers full catering and bar packages, but you may also bring in approved vendors.
Map & Directions
The Press Room is conveniently located in the Broadway corridor of Knoxville, just minutes from downtown. Below, you can find a map and directions.
From McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – Knoxville’s Airport (~20 minutes)
Exit the airport and follow signs to US-129 N / Alcoa Hwy toward Knoxville.
Continue on Alcoa Hwy (about 12 miles).
Merge onto I-40 E / I-275 N toward Knoxville.
Take Exit 389 for Hall of Fame Drive/Broadway.
Turn left onto Broadway.
The Press Room will be on your left at 730 N Broadway.
From Downtown Knoxville / Market Square (~5 minutes)
Head north on Gay Street.
Turn left onto Summit Hill Drive.
Turn right onto Broadway (US-441 N).
Continue for about 0.5 miles.
The Press Room will be on your left at 730 N Broadway.
From I-40 Eastbound (Coming from Nashville, ~2 hours 30 minutes)
Take I-40 E toward Knoxville.
As you approach Knoxville, merge onto I-275 N.
Take Exit 389 for Broadway.
Turn left onto Broadway.
The Press Room will be on your left at 730 N Broadway.
From I-40 Westbound (Coming from Asheville, ~2 hours)
Take I-40 W toward Knoxville.
Merge onto I-40 W / I-75 N toward Lexington.
Take Exit 389 for Hall of Fame Drive/Broadway.
Turn right onto Broadway.
The Press Room will be on your left at 730 N Broadway.
From the University of Tennessee Campus (~7 minutes)
Head east on Cumberland Ave toward downtown.
Continue straight to Summit Hill Drive.
Turn left onto Broadway (US-441 N).
Drive about 0.6 miles.
The Press Room will be on your left.
From Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge (~1 hour)
Take US-441 N / Parkway out of Gatlinburg.
Continue through Pigeon Forge and Sevierville.
Merge onto I-40 W toward Knoxville.
Take Exit 389 for Broadway.
Turn right onto Broadway.
The Press Room will be on your left at 730 N Broadway.
Local Hotels & Accommodations
The Tennessean Personal Luxury Hotel
Distance: ~0.4 mi — about 8 minutes walking Address: 531 Henley Street, Knoxville, TN 37902 Phone: (865) 232‑1800 Website: thetennesseanhotel.com Average Price Range: Luxury tier — around $227 to $269+ per night
Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University (IHG)
Distance: ~0.6 mi — about 3 minutes by car, 10–12 minutes walking Address: 401 W Summit Hill Drive, Knoxville, TN 37902 Phone: (865) 522-2600 Website: crowneknox.com Average Price Range: Mid-range — around $109 to $129 per night
Marriott Knoxville Downtown
Distance: ~0.5 mi — around 3–5 minutes walking Address: 525 Henley Street, Knoxville, TN 37902 Phone: (865) 522-2800 Website: marriott.com (Knoxville Downtown) Average Price Range: Upper mid-range — around $160–$160.65+ per night
Courtyard Knoxville Downtown (Marriott)
Distance: ~0.5 mi — roughly 3–5 minutes walking Address: 210 West Church Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37902 Phone: (865) 566-9100 Website: via Marriott site Average Price Range: Mid-range; likely $110–$140+ per night
Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown
Distance: ~0.5 mi — about 3–5 minutes walking Address: 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902 Phone: (865) 544-9977 Website: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-place/en-US/tyszd-hyatt-place-knoxville-downtown Average Price Range: Around $135 to $160 per night
