Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Knoxville, Tennessee. #Top Attractions

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Despite being Tennessee’s third-largest city (after Nashville and Memphis), Knoxville retains a small-town atmosphere. The most popular activities are historical sites, museums, theaters, parks, and shopping. Since many of the fascinating attractions are close together, Knoxville is also a walkable destination.

Check out these impressive spots you can visit anytime!

Blount Mansion

Blount Mansion is presently recognized as Knoxville’s lone National Historic Landmark. It operates as a Historic Home Museum run by the non-profit Blount Mansion Association to preserve and educate the public about its fascinating history. 

It is also Knoxville’s oldest functioning museum, having opened in 1926. Anticipate many impressive historical things you can see in the place!

Expect to see a house with a wood-frame structure with wood siding constructed using materials from North Carolina. Historical yet fascinating.

To make the tourist’s visit worth it, the Blount Mansion Association has kept the house as a museum. It has various modifications to return it to its late-18th-century appearance.

You can have a fantastic, fascinating, and educational tour of the house. You’ll learn a lot about the family that lived there, as well as a lot about Knoxville’s early history. When visiting Knoxville, it is absolutely worth your time, and the admission charge is affordable.

In addition, you can experience a great tour of the wonderfully restored home and grounds. The staff are approachable and friendly too!

If you’re up to witnessing the place’s rich history, book a visit to Blount Mansion today!

Address: 200 W Hill Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States

East Tennessee History Center

Heads up, history lovers!

The Museum of East Tennessee History is the key to understanding Knoxville’s past. Award-winning exhibits that change regularly tell the narrative of the people, places, and events that define this region.

The interactive displays in the centerpiece exhibition, Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee, allow visitors not only to see actual relics from the region’s past. You will also hear first-person tales of what life was like, all set against a backdrop of captivating, historical imagery.

In addition, the East Tennessee History Center also houses a top-tier research library and a genealogy publication. Many tourists who learn about Knoxville’s civil war history and historic mansions stop here to learn about their own.

The musical history was the most enjoyable, and they even have one of Dolly Parton’s dresses. You can appreciate every single detail while learning!

Meanwhile, you want to know more about Tennessee. In that case, the East Tennessee History Center has a large collection of Tennessee historical books and records.

It is a fantastic museum with many intriguing events and temporary displays. Sundays are free, and members are always welcome. Many lectures and programs are also free. Have fun!

Address: 601 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States

Five Thirty Lounge

Five Thirty Lounge is worth a visit if you are looking for a place to stay for a comfortable vacation.

At the top of the Hyatt Place, the old Historic Farragut Hotel, enjoy exquisite artisan cocktails, snug seats, and a new elevated experience. Sounds relaxing!

You can also witness breathtaking views of downtown Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains from the luxurious indoor bar, surrounded by 15ft glass. If you want, step outside to cuddle up close to the fire pit and take the city from 10 floors up.

In addition, you can rest assured that you will experience excellent service and surroundings. Beautiful scenery is waiting for you. Expect a various selection of drinks and a very warm atmosphere inside!

As a bonus, the rooftop setting is fantastic! Clean, inviting, and highly recommended to other visitors who have already had an experience visiting the place. Sounds great!

You can also find many very accommodating staffs. They will entertain you throughout the time you stay in the place. If it is your first time to grab a drink, they will surely guide you to the best sellers.

Five Thirty Lounge is an excellent place to visit. Have fun!

Address: 530 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States

Fort Dickerson Park

Heads up, outdoor adventure enthusiasts!

This sport climbing area features a cliff line with moderate grades, solid rock, reliable access, and bolted routes with bolted anchors for beginners to experts. Climbers should top-rope ways using their own gear and only utilize fixed equipment on anchors to lower off roads.

Various terrain and destinations create fantastic vistas, great adventures, and the opportunity to return for a new experience. The majority of the trails are multi-use bike routes.

Meanwhile, jumping or diving from the cliffs is not allowed. Of course, you can still enjoy the moment if you want to get in the water. Swimming activities are permitted in the area.

In addition to that, Fort Dickerson has two parking areas. The higher Chapman Highway entrance is the closest to the Fort. The quarry lake, where swimming is permitted, is easily accessible from the lower opening on Augusta Avenue.

It is also available in this unique place if you want to try ziplining activities. The park’s six “adventure trails” are graded in complexity, from easy to accomplished to challenging.

The course is intended to thrill, educate, and inspire, with educational themes to enhance your experience and beautiful environmental art to awaken your inner adventurer.

Choose your adventure and have a unique experience in Fort Dickerson Park!

Address: 3000 Fort Dickerson Rd SW, Knoxville, TN 37920, United States

Knoxville Children Theater

If you love watching theaters or your kids want to be in theater soon, Knoxville Children’s Theater is the best destination for you!

It is a local theater group that produces professional plays for and by children. Expect many local pieces which you can enjoy anytime.

The Knoxville Children’s Theater is dedicated to giving children chances to learn and practice skills. Through this, they can promote creative thinking, public speaking, project management, personal responsibility, leadership, and teamwork. This a great chance for kids who dream of being part of the theater industry!

If you stop by this unique place, you will be surprised by the shows directed, performed, and designed entirely by high school and younger pupils. The level of performance that they produce is incredible for children their age.

Additionally, family-friendly shows are offered. You can also expect many friendly and accommodating staff around the area. Upon entering the place, there is an admission fee, but you will be assured that it is affordable. The experiences waiting for you will make your visit worth it!

Knoxville Children’s Theater has many immersive experiences for you to enjoy. Come and visit today!

Address: 109 E Churchwell Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917, United States

Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage

Discover Knoxville, the Cradle of Country Music, in a new light with a walking tour that examines the city’s vibrant history in developing American country music. It sounds fun!

In Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage, you can discover new stories about the place’s brilliant artists and songwriters. They were either born in the city or used it as a springboard to stardom.

You can also have the chance to meet the truly famous, such as Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, and Elvis Presley. Artists and songwriters like Charlie Oaks and Arthur Q. Smith can sometimes be seen in the area. Exciting!

Whether you’re a visitor or a local interested in local history, which frequently relates to national history, this tour is an excellent introduction to Knoxville’s Country Music heritage.

Additionally, you may find vibrant places filled with coffee shops, restaurants, and bars along the journey. So feel free to enjoy the stories of Country Music at your leisure. Knoxville will never be the same to you again!

Don’t miss out on visiting Knoxville’s Country Music Heritage!

Address: Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville Museum of Art

For art enthusiasts, Knoxville Museum of Art is the best place for you!

The Knoxville Museum of Art celebrates East Tennessee’s rich, diversified visual culture and linkages to global art currents.

Witness beautiful paintings, sculptures, and glass. The only piece by a known artist was an Ansel Adams print. There was an intriguing full-room art installation composed largely of piano keys.

A comprehensive educational program complements the permanent and temporary exhibitions of the Knoxville Museum of Art. It includes school tours, workshops, outreach programs, talks, concerts, and family activities. So many options to choose from!

In addition, three floors are dedicated to various subjects. The different concepts are interesting. Exploring this fascinating place is highly recommended. You will have fun while learning new things at the same time!

You can also find different gift shops offering some lovely products at affordable prices. Take your time to choose from the souvenirs you can take home as a remembrance of your trip!

The good news, admission to the beautiful museum is always free. Plan your tour to Knoxville Museum of Art today!

Address: 1050 World’s Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916, United States

Mabry-Hazen House Museum

Book a trip to the Mabry-Hazen House Museum if you plan to visit one of Knoxville’s Historic Homes. You won’t be disappointed!

This Italianate-style residence, built in 1858 on the summit of Mabry’s Hill, overlooks the city and has been home to three generations of the same family.

Mabry-Hazen, furnished and adorned in the styles of numerous decades, provides a rare glimpse into 130 years of Knoxville history and houses one of the nation’s greatest original family collections. Make yourself ready, as you will get to explore many fascinating historical things.

You will have the chance to see a large collection of real things that belonged to the family. Most of what you see is something that would have been a part of the people’s day-to-day lives who lived so much of their lives inside the historic walls. Amazing!

This privately owned museum is open for visitors all year (March-December). It also includes a visit to the Bethel Confederate Cemetery down the hill as part of the experience.

In addition, throughout the year, there is also a regular series of unique and exciting special events. You can attend and participate in the events together with your loved ones!

Check out the Mabry-Hazen House Museum today!

Address: 1711 Dandridge Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915, United States

McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture

The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture is a general museum with permanent exhibitions on archaeology and Native Americans in Tennessee. 

You can explore Tennessee geology and fossil history, ancient Egypt, decorative arts, human origins, antique natural history prints, and the Civil War Battle of Fort Sanders.

In addition, every year, it also hosts three exceptional temporary exhibitions. If you want to see the hidden gems and appreciate the exhibits, you can participate in their events with your loved ones!

Animal shows and other activities would appeal to people of all ages, yet it is still extremely engaging. The exhibits should be suitable for youngsters in middle school and older.

They include fantastic permanent displays on various topics, including human evolution, archaeology, geology, and indigenous people. A temporary art display is also available.

You can have a guided tour of the area if you want to. Expect friendly staff around the corner. Your needs and concerns will be accommodated, so don’t miss out! 

As added fun, there is no admission fee. Sounds fun! Book your visit to The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture today!

Address: 1327 Cir Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States

Muse Kno

Muse Knoxville is for you if you want a perfect spot to visit with your kids.

Muse Knoxville is a non-profit children’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) museum in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Children of all ages can enjoy learning about the universe in the full-dome planetarium. They can also have a good time playing with the fascinating exhibits and engage themselves in exciting STEAM programs.

There’s something for everyone, with a range of programs for field trips, preschool, homeschooling, corporate collaborations, and more! You can also rent a party and event space in Muse Knoxville. A gift shop on-site is also available!

There are several activities for children of all ages. Possibilities to learn, play, be creative, and share with other children and the adults who brought them.

In addition, there is no need to worry about toiletries. The area offers small but clean bathrooms, well-appointed and kid-friendly.

Meanwhile, check out their upcoming and available events. Some of these are Mess Makers and Free Family Night. A lot of fun adventures await you!

Expect many friendly staffs that will guide your children while exploring the area. So don’t miss out!

Address: 516 North Beaman Street, P.O. Box 6204 Knoxville, TN 37914

Neyland Stadium

Neyland Stadium is the best destination you should visit if you love sports!

It is a sports stadium located in Knoxville, Tennessee. It is primarily the home of the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Still, it serves as a venue for large conventions and has hosted multiple National Football League exhibition games.

The stadium’s stated seating capacity is 101,915 people. Secure yours and enjoy the rest of the tournaments and matches!

Take note that the stadium has already undergone many renovations, so rest assured that you will see a fascinating spot now.

In addition, if you are not really into sports but want to visit the impressive stadium, there are still many options. Neyland Stadium is occasionally utilized for concerts, political demonstrations, and religious events.

In line with the events, there are also available stalls around the area where you can grab snacks and drinks. A lot of selection is waiting for you!

Bring your camera to visit this place and watch a game. Capture your favorite moment with your favorite team. Book your trip today!

Address: 1300 Phillip Fulmer Way, Knoxville, TN 37916, United States

Sunsphere Tower

Sunsphere Tower is one of the top attractions in Knoxville.

The Sunsphere is 26 floors high. The sphere’s reflected gold tint comes from each pane of glass manufactured with 24-karat gold. Imagine the impressive view that you will see!

It also provides a 360-degree view of downtown Knoxville, the Tennessee River, the University of Tennessee, and the Smoky Mountains, as well as the original 1982 World’s Fair site (now World’s Fair Park).

In addition, check out the most famous Observation Deck. It has a gallery of local photographs and information and a stunning 360-degree panorama of Knoxville.

The surroundings and the park itself were lovely. The river that ran around it was beautiful, and the sidewalk trails were a breeze to walk on. Fantastic!

If you have concerns, you can also find friendly and accommodating staff around the area. They will happily cater to all of your questions and requests.

Take note that there is an admission fee, but children under 12 are free with a paid adult.

A timeline of the 1982 World’s Fair, a gallery, artifacts, and a gift shop await you. So don’t miss out!

Address: 810 Clinch Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States

World’s Fair Park

World’s Fair Park is a city park in Knoxville, Tennessee. The park is built on the former fairgrounds of Knoxville’s 1982 World’s Fair. The Sunsphere and Tennessee Amphitheater, the exposition’s two remaining structures, are now in the park.

The impressive park is divided into three areas, a festival lawn, a performance lawn, and a lake area. You’ll have a ton of things to consider, for sure!

The park is carpeted in lush green turf, giving a beautiful setting for recreation, festivals, and performances. You can attend and participate in these activities with your loved ones!

The interactive water play area in the Court of Flags Fountain is open periodically from March until October. The fountains are popular for summertime play, and the playground area is open all year.

In addition, you will see paved walking pathways throughout the park that link to the Second Creek Greenway. It carves a path down to the riverfront, passing around the U.T. campus’s boundaries before connecting with the Neyland Greenway to Volunteer Landing Park.

Expect a beautiful greenway, walking/running path, bicycle path, playground, splash pad, shelters, and picnic area. Sounds great!

Come and visit this lovely place today!

Address: 525 Henley St, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States

Yassin’s Falafel House

If you are looking for unique and delectable cuisines, check out Yassin’s Falafel House. It’s all worth it!

If you like handmade hummus, you owe yourself to stop by and try something from their menu; you won’t be disappointed. Everything is delicious and filling!

Enjoy the bright and cheerful traditional Mediterranean restaurant that serves homemade falafel, hummus, salads, gyros, and other dishes—a perfect food destination with your loved ones.

Their menus include sandwiches, such as Falafel, Chicken, and Gyro. Falafel is wrapped in a pita with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and homemade tahini sauce. At the same time, the Chicken is grilled chicken shawarma served with pickles, garlicky white sauce & french fries all wrapped inside a pita.

You can also find salads and side dishes such as delicious french fries. If you are looking for drinks, the store offers various beverages.

Please note that most of their sandwiches and salads can be served regular or spicy, depending on your preference.

Once you get there, don’t miss out on trying their most famous dessert, the Baklava. It is made of delicious walnuts in layers of flaky filo, laced with sugar water, and topped with chopped pistachios. Impeccable!

Yassin’s Falafel House is worth visiting anytime. Enjoy your meal!

Address: 159 N Peters Rd, Knoxville, Tennessee

Zoo Knoxville

For wildlife lovers, you shouldn’t miss out on including Zoo Knoxville on your bucket list!

Zoo Knoxville is dedicated to providing every vacationer with an unforgettable experience on the outside and inside. You will experience many fun adventures in this place!

Don’t miss the most famous Animal Encounters. You can meet the animal ambassadors, talk with their caregivers, and find out how you can aid wildlife and wild places.

 Each encounter educates you about a different species, giving facts about its behavior, diet, habitat, and status in the wild, among other things, and learning while having fun!

Additionally, Soaring Eagle is an amazing flight experience that provides an exciting perspective of the zoo. This tandem zip line drags passengers backward to the top of the ravine.

If you are with your kids, check out the colorful Zoo Choo Train for a kid-friendly excursion around the koi pond!

As a bonus, camping is also possible in the area. Throughout the year, Zoo Knoxville provides a range of day camps for children aged 4 to 13. Animal encounters, games, crafts, exciting activities, zoo excursions, and trips behind-the-scenes to discover how they care for zoo animals are all part of the camp experience.

Don’t miss out!

Address: 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr, Knoxville, TN 37914, United States

Volunteer At Animal Shelters

Give back to your community by helping at an animal shelter. The number of animals in need of our assistance has increased due to the economic insecurity many families with pets are experiencing. As a result, more pets are being abandoned.

Volunteers may make a difference in their communities by lending a hand to animals in need. It gives them an opportunity to see the difference they can make for homeless animals and their local communities.

Some ways to volunteer are: to walk dogs at a local shelter, foster kittens with a rescue group, do office work for a good cause, help raise money or plan events for local animal charities, or participate in local events that raise awareness about animal welfare.

Check out the list of animal shelters in Knoxville, Tennessee, where you can help animals in need. Lend a helping hand today!

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