Maker Exchange is a coffee shop, tavern, art marketplace and event space at 710 Clinch Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902, in downtown Knoxville beside World’s Fair Park. Curated in partnership with Dogwood Arts, it puts Knoxville-made art, furnishings and craft at the center of a day-to-night stop: come for locally focused coffee or a meal, browse work by regional makers, and stay for a cocktail or public happening.
What to Expect at Maker Exchange
The experience is spread across a collection of social spaces rather than a conventional single-room café. The coffee shop prepares fresh local coffee for a quick stop or a slower sit-down in the couches and chairs around the building; a walk-up window directly off Clinch Avenue is useful when you are heading into World’s Fair Park. Breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner service broaden the appeal beyond the morning rush, while the Tavern faces the park through a wall of windows and looks toward the Knoxville Museum of Art.
Art is integral to the setting. Dogwood Arts curates the makers on display, including 2D work, jewelry and accessories, ceramics, fiber, glass, metal and wood. The Curio is the shoppable focal point: an evolving display of Knoxville-made sculpture, jewelry, ceramics and other pieces available to view and buy. Much of the furniture and many of the everyday details were also sourced from local makers. The drinks list includes curated libations such as The Overlook, a $17 cocktail made with reposado tequila and pawpaw.
- The Curio: Browse and purchase a rotating selection of Knoxville-made art and fine craft, curated by Dogwood Arts.
- Tavern windows: Settle in with a drink and park-facing views toward World’s Fair Park and the Knoxville Museum of Art.
- Walk-up coffee window: Pick up fresh local coffee from the Clinch Avenue side when time is short.
- Maker-made setting: Look closely at the mugs, furnishings and decorative details sourced from Knoxville creatives.
- Happenings spaces: Check the calendar for presentations, performances, meet-ups and bookable celebrations.
Maker Exchange at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 710 Clinch Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Downtown Knoxville, beside World’s Fair Park |
| Operating Hours | Daily service hours vary between the coffee shop, Tavern and events; check the official site before setting out. |
| Admission / Price Range | No admission charge for the public art display; food and drinks are paid separately. $$; The Overlook cocktail is $17. |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 45 to 90 minutes; longer with a meal, shopping or an event. |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | KAT downtown bus stops on Cumberland Avenue are a short walk; paid downtown garages and Marriott Knoxville Downtown valet parking are nearby. |
| Official Website & Phone | makerexchangeknox.com · +1 865-522-2800 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Arrive early for a calmer coffee stop, especially if you want a lounge seat or are collecting a drink from the walk-up window before exploring the park. For brunch, dinner or drinks at the Tavern, reserve a table through the official website rather than relying on a walk-in during peak evening periods. Check the happenings calendar if you want to catch a performance, maker meet-up or presentation; event programming changes regularly. The Curio’s art display is available for viewing and shopping around the clock.
Maker Exchange is part of the Marriott Knoxville Downtown complex, with a ground-level arrival from Clinch Avenue and hotel elevators for upper-level access. The indoor public areas allow wheelchair and stroller circulation, and the lounge-style seating provides places to pause; contact the venue ahead for seating arrangements or event-specific access needs. Pair a visit with a walk through World’s Fair Park, the Knoxville Museum of Art across the park edge, or the Sunsphere, all within roughly 5 to 10 minutes on foot. Market Square’s independent shops, bars and restaurants are also an easy 10-to-15-minute downtown walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Maker Exchange open, and what is the best time to visit?
Coffee, Tavern and event schedules can differ, so consult the official website for the current daily hours. Mornings suit a quick coffee and art browse, while late afternoon or evening is best for the park view, cocktails and dinner atmosphere.
Do I need a reservation, and how expensive is it?
You can reserve a Tavern table online, a smart choice for brunch and busy dinner periods. There is no ticket to enter the art display; expect a $$ spend for food and drinks, with The Overlook listed at $17.
How long should I plan for Maker Exchange?
Allow 45 to 60 minutes for coffee, the Curio and a look at the maker displays. Budget 90 minutes or more for a full meal, cocktails, shopping or a scheduled event.
Is Maker Exchange accessible and suitable for families?
Its ground-level hotel setting, elevators and indoor seating make it practical for wheelchairs, strollers and multigenerational groups. Families can combine a daytime stop with World’s Fair Park; ask staff about dietary needs and seating before ordering.
When planning your Knoxville travel guide or comparing verified restaurants and event venue in Knoxville, pair this stop with standout local spots including Cradle of Country Music Park, World's Fair Park, Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, and THE TENNESSEAN Hotel (nearby).
