If you are in Knoxville and looking for a beautiful place to go to appreciate our East Tennessee landscape, these places are my top 5 places.

1. Ijams Nature Center

Whether you want to learn about Knoxville's native species, walk on the riverfront, paddle board or see some old quarries, Ijams has many picturesque spots to get out of the house appreciate what's in our backyard.

2. The Summit

After about a ten minute walk, you come to this special spot that has become popular to local South Knoxvillians. Looking over the Tennessee River, viewers can see almost all of South Knoxville. Grab your ENO and a snack and you can lay back and watch the sunset with your best friends.

3. Parkway Drive In

Yes, you read that right: a drive-in movie theater like the ones in the old movies. The Parkway Theatre is my favorite theatre, not only because you get to see two movies for $7, but also because you can bring blankets, whatever food you want, and DOGS! No better way to watch a movie than under the stars.

* Disclaimer: Parkway is in Maryville, not Knoxville

4. House Mountain

In the House Mountain National Area, there is this hike. This five mile hike that takes you to this rock. On this rock you can sit or stand and look out and see forever. That five mile hike may not be appealing, but look at that view. Amazing and right here.

5. Cherokee National Park

Whether you are just driving through on your way to North Carolina or you are staying for the day, Cherokee National Forest is beautiful. Although it isn't as popular as Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is the step down. It has sights to see, hikes, recreation centers, and a cute man-made lake—Indian Boundary.

Bonus: Sunflower Fields (Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area)

If you're a lover of fields of wild flowers and beautiful sunflowers, this is going to be your spot. Rows and rows of sunflower sit waiting for you to enjoy.

No matter what you are interested in doing outside, all of these places offer a multitude of different outdoor activities. Get out there and appreciate the scenery that is right outside our backdoors.