Wagbar Knoxville: East Tennessee's New Favorite Hangout Is Here

October 2025 marked a milestone for Knoxville's dog-loving community—and the response has been incredible.

When Wagbar Knoxville opened its doors at the former Creekside location this fall, we knew East Tennessee was ready for something special. What we didn't expect was just how enthusiastically the community would embrace the concept of a true off-leash dog park combined with a relaxed bar atmosphere.

The numbers tell an exciting story: hundreds of dogs have already romped through our off-leash play areas, making new friends and burning off energy while their humans kick back with craft beer and good conversation. But beyond the metrics, it's the energy of the place that really stands out—the wagging tails, the laughter, the sense that people have found exactly what they were looking for.

A Space Knoxville Was Waiting For

East Tennessee has always been serious about two things: outdoor living and community. Knoxville embraces both with open arms, whether it's riverside trails, farmers markets, or neighborhood gatherings. Wagbar fits right into that culture.

"We've been looking for a place like this forever," one member told us during opening week. "Somewhere our dogs can actually be dogs while we hang out with friends. It's perfect."

That sentiment has come up again and again. Dog owners in Knoxville were clearly ready for a space where their pets weren't just tolerated but celebrated—where dogs could run free in a safe, supervised environment while humans enjoyed quality time together without constantly managing leashes or worrying about boundaries.

What Makes Wagbar Knoxville Special

Located at 6729 Malone Creek Drive, Wagbar Knoxville offers everything that's made the concept successful in Asheville and beyond, adapted for the unique character of East Tennessee.

The Off-Leash Experience Our spacious outdoor areas give dogs room to run, play, and socialize under the watchful eyes of trained staff who understand dog behavior. Whether your pup is a social butterfly or prefers one-on-one play, they'll find their groove. We require proof of current vaccinations (Rabies, Bordetella, and Distemper) and ask that dogs be at least 6 months old and spayed or neutered—simple requirements that keep everyone safe and happy.

The Social Scene While dogs play, humans can actually relax. Our bar features local craft beers, wine, ciders, and non-alcoholic options, served in a laid-back atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. Covered areas mean you can enjoy the space year-round, and rotating food trucks bring variety to the experience.

Community at the Core From the start, Wagbar has been about more than just providing a service—it's about building community. Whether you're a regular who knows everyone by name or a first-timer figuring out the ropes, there's a sense of belonging here that keeps people coming back.

The Opening Week Buzz

The first weeks exceeded our expectations in the best possible ways. Word spread quickly through Knoxville's dog-loving networks, and we saw packed parks, enthusiastic new members, and the kind of genuine excitement that reminds you why this work matters.

Social media lit up with photos of happy dogs mid-sprint, new friendships forming over the fence, and more than a few comments along the lines of "where has this been all my life?"

Local media took notice too, with coverage highlighting how Wagbar fills a real gap in Knoxville's pet-friendly landscape. While the city has always welcomed dogs at many outdoor spaces, few offered the freedom of a true off-leash environment combined with quality amenities for humans.

Looking Ahead

As we settle into our rhythm, we're excited about what's next for Wagbar Knoxville. We're planning regular events—breed meetups, seasonal celebrations, live music nights—that will give the community even more reasons to gather.

We're also listening. The feedback from our first weeks has been invaluable, helping us fine-tune everything from park flow to food truck schedules to membership options. This is your space, and we want it to work perfectly for you and your dogs.

Join the Pack

If you haven't visited yet, now's the time. Whether you're in downtown Knoxville, West Knoxville, or anywhere in the surrounding area, Wagbar is ready to welcome you and your pup.

We offer flexible options: day passes for occasional visits, punch passes for regular guests, and monthly or annual memberships for those who want to make Wagbar part of their routine. Humans 18+ enter free—you're only paying for your dog's access to the off-leash park.

Location: 6729 Malone Creek Drive, Knoxville, TN
Hours: Check our website for current hours and special events
More Info: wagbar.com/knox

What People Are Saying

Robyn Biren – "Lovely, large area for your dogs and you to enjoy the day! Lots of TVs to catch the latest game, pool table, and fire pits to keep warm with. Awesome staff, very attentive. Great drinks! Nice mulch and pool area for the dogs as well as a fabulous sand pit to get your 'dig' on. Highly recommended, and we will be back!"

Alison Foster – "My boy had the best 2 1/2 hours there opening day! Super nice owners, staff, and an awesome place to chill with your furry friends. I sat and read while my pup ran around with his new friends. I felt very comfortable letting him run and be free. Having the staff around to keep watch and make sure everyone was getting along really helped any anxiety I normally have at a regular dog park. We are excited to come back!"

Adrianne McNaughton – "My dog loves this place and it came at the perfect timing with the early sunset and cold weather. Very casual with fire pits, a sand pit, a small water hole, a stage (occasional live music), TVs with the games on, beer / non alchs, an indoor area, and wifi. The dogs here are well behaved and workers pay attention to what the dogs are doing. My dog has a blast and I enjoy socializing with the dog parents around the fire pits!"

The Bigger Picture

Wagbar Knoxville represents something larger than just another location for our growing brand. It's proof that communities across the country are hungry for spaces that honor the bond between people and their dogs—places where both can be themselves, make connections, and enjoy quality time together.

East Tennessee welcomed us with open arms, and we're honored to be part of this community. Here's to many more wagging tails, new friendships, and perfect evenings at Wagbar Knoxville.

Ready to see what the buzz is about? Bring your pup and join us. We'll see you at the park.