Interested in Knoxville (home, college, to live in)

[movinginatl]

I have only visited Knoxville once. We are considering moving there in a year or so since it's close to the mtns. Is it realistic to have a mtn home near Knoxville and commute in from work? Is the atmosphere in town like a college town? We like to have unique shops, restaurants, good beer, etc. Any of your insight into the Knoxville area for us is greatly appreciated.
PS - We used to be Asheville residents and had to leave due to lack of jobs... we loved Asheville!

[knoxmomma]

Probably not too realistic to live in the mountains and commute to work, although I guess it depends on what you are used to. That would probably translate to about 45 minutes minimum. Knoxville is a fairly large town; certainly bigger than Asheville. Parts of town have a college feel, parts of town have a very suburban feel, parts of town not so nice. Downtown and Bearden have lots of unique shops/beer pubs/restaurants. Far West Knoxville especially is much more suburban and more national chains. Something for everyone I suppose.