Welcome to Knoxville, TN:
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Stay in Comfort at the Marriott Downtown Knoxville
The Marriott Downtown Knoxville will be the host hotel for the 2026 Worship Pastors Metro 2 Conference, offering the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience. Located in the heart of downtown Knoxville, this beautifully renovated hotel is just steps away from Market Square, World’s Fair Park, and the University of Tennessee campus. Enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms, top-tier amenities, and stunning city views—all within walking distance of Knoxville’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you’re relaxing between sessions or exploring the city, the Marriott Downtown Knoxville provides the ideal retreat for an unforgettable conference experience.
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Explore Knoxville: Food, Fun, and Adventure
Explore Knoxville: Food, Fun, and Adventure
Within a 10-mile radius of the Crowne Plaza, Knoxville is packed with restaurants, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences that cater to all tastes.
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A Week of Fellowship and Worship
Of course, the highlight of our time together will be the worship sessions, workshops, and fellowship designed to encourage and equip you in your ministry. Throughout the week, you'll experience:
Inspiring worship led by gifted leaders who understand the unique calling of worship pastors.
Workshops and breakout sessions tailored to help you grow spiritually and practically in your role.
Opportunities for deep connection with fellow worship pastors who share your challenges, joys, and passion for ministry.
And don’t worry—we’ve got plenty of surprises planned to keep you laughing and having fun! Our goal is to create a week where you can recharge, refocus, and rejoice in all that God is doing.
We are thrilled to announce that the 2026 Worship Pastors Metro 2 Conference will be hosted in none other than Knoxville, Tennessee! Mark your calendars for February 2026 because this is going to be a week filled with fun, worship, laughter, and unforgettable experiences. Your hosts, Kory and Josh, along with their wives, Ainsley and Amy, are preparing an exciting lineup of events that will celebrate God's work in our lives and ministries. But that's not all—Knoxville has so much to offer, and we're ready to give you a taste of everything this vibrant city is known for!
Culinary Adventures
Knoxville’s food scene is bursting with flavor and variety! Whether you’re a fan of Southern comfort food or looking for international cuisine, you won’t be disappointed.
Calhoun’s on the River – A local favorite for Tennessee barbecue with stunning views of the Tennessee River.
Stock & Barrel – Famous for gourmet burgers.
Tomato Head – Fresh, locally-sourced pizza and vegetarian-friendly options.
Yassin’s Falafel House – Consistently ranked one of the friendliest places in America, this spot offers incredible Mediterranean dishes.
Craving something sweet? Be sure to stop by Cruze Farm Dairy for some of the best soft-serve ice cream you’ll ever taste!
Iconic Attractions
Knoxville is a city with rich history and culture. Here are some must-see spots:
Market Square – The hub of downtown life, where you can enjoy live music, street performers, and local shops.
World’s Fair Park – Home to the Sunsphere, a famous symbol of Knoxville's role in the 1982 World's Fair.
Tennessee Theatre – A beautifully restored historic theater where you can catch a show or simply marvel at the architecture.
Volunteer Landing – A scenic riverside walkway perfect for unwinding after conference sessions.
University of Tennessee Campus
Knoxville is home to Big Orange Country! The University of Tennessee (UT) campus is a cornerstone of the city’s identity. Explore iconic landmarks like Neyland Stadium, home of the Tennessee Volunteers, and The Hill, the historic center of campus. Whether you're a sports fan or not, the energy and spirit of UT are contagious.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the outdoors, Knoxville is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short drive away. In the city, you’ll find opportunities to hike, bike, or paddle along the Tennessee River or in Ijams Nature Center, a 315-acre urban nature preserve filled with trails, scenic overlooks, and even a quarry for kayaking.
We Can't Wait to See You!
As you prepare for the 2026 Worship Pastors Metro 2 Conference, know that we are praying for you and your ministries. Knoxville is ready to welcome you with open arms, and we know God has something powerful in store for each of us. So get ready for a week full of fun, worship, food, and fellowship in the heart of East Tennessee.
Stay tuned for more details and updates as the conference draws near. Until then, start planning your trip, and get excited about what God has in store.
We can’t wait to see you in Knoxville, February 2026!
Blessings,
Kory and Josh
Your Metro 2 Conference Hosts