Knoxville

Around the 865: Business Openings, Canceled Trips and Changes Ahead

Knoxville Tours customers seek refunds, House of Strays opens in the Old City, and new concepts prepare for South Knoxville and the stadium district
Chris Paris

Chris Paris

Oct 22, 2026

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Knoxville Tours Cancellations Leave Travelers Looking for Answers

 

Customers of Knoxville Tours have reported unexpected trip cancellations and delays in receiving refunds, according to an October 20 WATE investigation.

 

The reporting cites an insurance issue involving buses and staffing shortages as factors behind the disruption.

 

Travelers who have booked trips should seek written confirmation of their trip status, retain payment records and keep copies of correspondence about refunds.

 

Specific refund deadlines or guarantees should not be assumed without a direct company statement or the applicable booking terms.

 

House of Strays Opens in the Old City

 

House of Strays opened October 7 at 205 West Jackson Avenue, adding a theatrical cocktail lounge to Knoxville's Old City.

 

Owner AJ Tierney has described a vintage-inspired space with an eye toward performances, creative events and gatherings.

 

The business has discussed future programming, but dates for possible shows should be checked against current announcements before readers make plans.

 

This is a confirmed opening, rather than a proposed concept.

 

Stone's Throw Coffee Prepares for South Knoxville

 

Stone's Throw Coffee is preparing to open at 3615 Chapman Highway, Suite A, in the former South Press space.

 

Owners Casey and Zoey Stone are planning a coffee shop and arts-oriented gathering place, including opportunities for readings, acoustic music and community events.

 

The business's official website lists an opening day as forthcoming, even though earlier news coverage projected late October.

 

Readers should check the business's own announcements rather than assume that the shop is serving customers yet.

 

More Restaurants Planned Around Covenant Health Park

 

The growing district near Covenant Health Park has several anticipated food and entertainment concepts.

 

Reports have identified ParTee Golf, T. Ralph's Burgers & Fries, Disco Chicken & Donuts and Knox-Quila Cantina among businesses planned for The Delaney building.

 

Projected fall opening windows have varied and should not be mistaken for verified opening dates.

 

The new locations of T. Ralph's and Disco Chicken are intended to complement their existing Kern's Bakery operations.

 

As individual businesses confirm opening days, 865 Daily can provide readers with separate updates.

 

Keep Watching the Changes

 

Knoxville's business picture includes both exciting new gathering places and unexpected disruptions to established services.

 

For this roundup, Holy Land Market & Deli, the PepsiCo plant and the Jefferson County Chamber are intentionally excluded because they have their own standalone news coverage.

 

Business schedules, staffing and opening dates can change quickly, so check directly with a venue before traveling.

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865 Daily is your local guide to life around Knoxville and East Tennessee, delivering useful updates on what’s happening, what’s changing, where to go, and what’s worth knowing across the 865 region. From local events and restaurant openings to neighborhood changes, small business updates, outdoor escapes, and Smoky Mountain highlights, 865 Daily helps resident

© 2026 865 Daily.