Discover a wide range of activities in Knoxville that cater to everyone in the family! Whether you have toddlers or teens, Knoxville offers affordable and exciting options for all ages. Are you traveling solo or planning a romantic escape? Knoxville is perfect for that, too!

Explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, unwind in the serene Urban Wilderness, savor meals at top-rated restaurants, and dive into the city's nightlife. From scenic river views to rooftop experiences, Knoxville promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.

Knoxville, Tennessee, is a vibrant city that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, Knoxville has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Knoxville, Tennessee.

KNOXVILLE NIGHTLIFE

The Salsa Party at Kerns Food Hall

📍LOCATION: 2201 Kerns Rising Way, Knoxville, TN 37920

Overview

Knoxville, Tennessee, has an exciting nightlife scene, especially for salsa enthusiasts. Head to Kerns Food Hall every Friday for the lively Salsa Party hosted by SalsaKnox Dance Company. From 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM, you can dance to the beats of Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, and Merengue while meeting fellow dancers in a fun and energetic atmosphere.

Asylum at LunaVerse Knoxville

📍LOCATION: 940 Blackstock Avenue Knoxville, TN 37921

Overview

Discover Knoxville's newest and most dynamic arts and entertainment hub, spanning over 10,000 square feet of space. Conveniently located at LunaVerse Knoxville, it's easy to find! Simply take the I-40 to the 17th Street exit, head towards the University of Tennessee, take a left onto Blackstock Avenue, and drive past the Emerald Youth soccer fields. You'll see Asylum on the right, ready to offer a vibrant experience for all visitors.

KNOXVILLE ATTRACTIONS

The Sunsphere

📍LOCATION: 810 Clinch Avenue, Floor 4 Knoxville, TN 37902

Overview

The Sunsphere, built for the 1982 World’s Fair, is a unique architectural landmark in Knoxville. Standing 26 stories tall, its 4th Floor Observation Deck offers stunning 360-degree views that stretch from downtown Knoxville to the Great Smoky Mountains, covering iconic spots like the Tennessee River, World’s Fair Park, and the University of Tennessee campus. Visitors can explore a gallery, a timeline of the 1982 World’s Fair, memorabilia, and a gift shop.

Another key landmark from the 1982 World's Fair is the Tennessee Amphitheater, which holds historical importance as one of the few remaining structures from the event. It serves as a central feature in World's Fair Park, hosting various events and activities, including concerts, festivals, and leisure walks.

Admission is $5 for adults, and children 12 and under can enter for $1 with a paying adult. The Sunsphere is open from 10 am to 5 pm on weekdays, with extended hours on Saturdays (9 am-5 pm) and Sundays (12 pm-4 pm). Please note that the deck closes daily from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm for a staff meal break.

Randy Tyree, former Knoxville Mayor and a key figure during the 1982 World’s Fair, now welcomes guests to the Sunsphere Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 am-1:30 pm. Don’t miss your chance to meet him!

Fun facts: The Sunsphere’s golden panes were crafted with 24-karat gold, each costing $1,000. It’s also been featured in pop culture, including an episode of The Simpsons, and stands among other World’s Fair icons like the Eiffel Tower and Seattle’s Space Needle.

Zoo Knoxville

📍LOCATION: 3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive, P.O. Box 6040 Knoxville, TN 37914

Overview

Zoo Knoxville is dedicated to offering exciting, educational experiences that both inspire animal lovers and raise awareness about animal conservation. Our core mission is to protect animals from extinction while ensuring a fun and memorable visit for all guests.

Visit the Boyd Family Asian Trek, home to the critically endangered Malayan tigers. This award-winning exhibit, recognized as one of the top 10 zoo exhibits in the U.S. by USA Today for three years, offers you the chance to get up close with our resident tigers, Tahan and Batari. You’ll also encounter red pandas, gibbons, and langurs.

Don’t miss the Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus (ARC), our innovative indoor exhibit. This world-class exhibit, which has earned accolades from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), features fascinating species like Cuban crocodiles Rose and Miguel.

Starting May 2024, explore Planet Predator, where you’ll learn about ancient and modern-day predators such as the Megalodon, Saber Tooth Tiger, and Terror Bird, and their crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance.

Zoo Knoxville offers fun experiences like the Soaring Eagle Zipline, Giraffe Encounters, Tortoise Trail, and more! Tickets for adults are $26.95, kids (3-12) are $21.95, and seniors (65+) are $21.95. Parking is $5. Memberships offer unlimited visits and exclusive perks!

Zoo Knoxville—where adventure meets conservation.

Navitat Knoxville

📍LOCATION: 2915 Island Home Avenue, Ijams Nature Center Knoxville, TN 37920

Overview

Navitat Knoxville’s Ijams Canopy Experience offers a thrilling tree-top zipline adventure that both excites and educates visitors. With six different adventure trails, there’s something for every skill level—from easy trails just 10 to 15 feet above the ground to more challenging ones that soar up to 60 feet in the treetops.

Mead's Quarry Lake is a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and is easily accessible from the visitor center.

Each trail features 10 to 12 fun obstacles such as ziplines, bridges, balancing beams, rolling barrels, and climbing nets. What makes this experience truly unique is the park’s blend of educational themes and stunning environmental art, offering a memorable journey for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Pick your trail and enjoy an unforgettable adventure among the trees!

The Star of Knoxville Riverboat

The Star of Knoxville Riverboat is a beloved attraction in downtown Knoxville, offering scenic cruises along the picturesque Tennessee River. This charming riverboat features a spacious deck with comfortable seating, a fully-stocked bar, and a menu brimming with delicious Southern-style cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner cruise, a family-friendly sightseeing tour, or a lively party cruise with friends, the Star of Knoxville has something for everyone.

Throughout the year, the riverboat hosts special events and fireworks displays, including a spectacular 4th of July celebration. As you glide along the Tennessee River, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a perfect way to experience Knoxville from a unique vantage point while enjoying great food, drinks, and company.

Three Rivers Rambler

Step aboard the Three Rivers Rambler for a nostalgic journey through Knoxville’s rich history and scenic landscapes. This historic train offers a 90-minute ride that takes passengers through the heart of the city and its picturesque surroundings. As you chug along, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Tennessee River and the majestic Smoky Mountains.

The Three Rivers Rambler is especially enchanting during the holiday seasons. Around Halloween, the train is decked out in spooky decor, creating a fun and festive atmosphere. During Christmas, passengers can enjoy hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies as they take in the holiday lights and decorations. This unique and educational experience is perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to explore Knoxville in a memorable way.

ARTS & CULTURE

First Friday Knoxville

📍LOCATION: Downtown Knoxville

Knoxville boasts a vibrant community of artists, cultural institutions, and arts organizations. Two decades ago, locals began gathering on the first Friday of each month in downtown Knoxville to celebrate the arts. Since then, this tradition has expanded across the city, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore an array of artistic talent and enjoy great company throughout Knoxville.

Art galleries and venues all over the city now showcase diverse art displays and live performances. Notable downtown hubs like The Art Market, The Emporium, and the Visitors Center—home to WDVX's Blue Plate Special—are located along Gay Street, making it a prime spot to stroll, sip, and shop for unique art. Market Square and the Old City also offer additional art, entertainment, and dining opportunities.

Supporting Knoxville's local artists at First Friday is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's creative scene. Numerous businesses, galleries, and organizations in the downtown area host exhibitions, and if you're an artist looking to showcase your work, check out Downtown Knoxville's list of venues actively seeking collaborations.

Knoxville Museum of Art

Nestled in downtown Knoxville, the Knoxville Museum of Art is a cultural gem that showcases a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present. The museum’s permanent collection features works by renowned artists such as Thomas Hart Benton, Grant Wood, and Georgia O’Keeffe, offering visitors a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions and interactive programs designed for both adults and children. The building itself is a masterpiece, with a stunning atrium that offers beautiful views of the Tennessee River. Best of all, admission to the Knoxville Museum of Art is always free, making it an accessible and must-visit destination for art lovers and families alike. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Knoxville Museum of Art promises an inspiring and enriching experience.

FREE THINGS TO DO

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness

📍LOCATIONS:

1. Helix Trails

2. Baker Creek Preserve

3. Forks of the River WMA

4. Fort Dickerson Park

5. High Ground Park

6. Ijams Nature Center & Quarries

7. Marie Myers Park

8. River Bluff Wildlife Area

9. William Hastie Natural Area

Discover and explore – your next adventure is closer than you think! Knoxville's Urban Wilderness offers an incredible outdoor experience where you can hike, bike, climb, paddle, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the woods—all right in the heart of the city. With over 60 miles of trails and greenways, you’ll find connections to a stunning nature center, serene lakes, historic landmarks, breathtaking quarries, adventure playgrounds, five city parks, and a vast 600-acre wildlife area. No matter your interest, there's an adventure waiting for you!

Knoxville Parks & Gardens

Knoxville’s 4,500 acres of parks and open spaces offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're looking to take a peaceful walk or jog by the lake, test your skills at a skate park, observe wildlife in a natural setting, or simply unwind with a book beneath a shady tree, there’s a park nearby to suit your outdoor passions. Embrace the fresh air and find your perfect retreat in one of Knoxville's many beautiful green spaces.

Discover Knoxville’s History and Culture

Learn about the city’s rich history at the East Tennessee History Center the historic James White’s Fort, a restored 18th-century frontier fort visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, featuring a collection of regional and American art discover the city’s connection to the Civil War at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture, which features an impressive collection of archaeological finds from ancient Egypt, including everyday items and ceremonial pieces dating back over 2,000 years, showcasing the rich history and cultural significance of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

East Tennessee History Center

Explore exhibits on the history of East Tennessee, including its role in the Civil War and the Tennessee Valley AuthorityLearn about the region’s natural history, including its geology and wildlifeDiscover the center’s collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history of Knoxville

James White’s Fort

Take a guided tour of the historic fort, which features restored 18th-century buildings learn about the history of the fort and its significance in the region and the surrounding historic district, featuring charming shops and restaurants

Explore Downtown Knoxville

Visit the Tennessee Theatre, a historic theater featuring live performances and concerts.

Explore the World's Fair Park, a vibrant public park that was originally the site of the 1982 World's Fair, featuring notable attractions like the Sunsphere and the Tennessee Amphitheater, along with walking trails, gardens, and a lake.

Discover the city’s vibrant arts scene at the Knoxville Museum of Art.

Take a stroll along the Tennessee River waterfront, featuring beautiful views and public art installations.

Downtown Knoxville Attractions

Visit the Sunsphere, a 266-foot-tall observation tower offering panoramic views of the city explore the historic Market Square, featuring shops, restaurants, and live music a tour of the Tennessee Theatre, a historic theater featuring live performances and concerts

World’s Fair Park

Explore the park’s walking trails, gardens, and lake visit the Sunsphere, a 266-foot-tall observation tower offering panoramic views of the city discover the park’s public art installations, featuring works by local and international artists.

Additionally, visit the Women's Basketball Hall, a unique venue dedicated to women's basketball history. It features interactive elements like skill-testing basketball courts, the Hall of Honors celebrating inductees, and the world's largest basketball on display.

Outdoor Activities and Nature

Explore the Ijams Nature Center, a 275-acre nature preserve featuring hiking trails, gardens, and a lake visit the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, a 47-acre garden featuring beautiful plants and flowers take a stroll along the Tennessee River waterfront, featuring beautiful views and public art installationsDiscover the city’s many parks and green spaces, including Lakeshore Park and World’s Fair Park

Ijams Nature Center

Explore the center’s hiking trails, featuring beautiful views of the surrounding countryside visit the center’s gardens, featuring a variety of plants and flowers take a guided tour of the center, featuring information on the region’s natural history

Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum

Explore the garden’s beautiful plants and flowers, featuring a variety of species and exhibits take a stroll along the garden’s walking trails, featuring beautiful views and public art installationsDiscover the garden’s educational programs, featuring information on gardening and horticulture

Lakeshore Park

Explore the park’s walking trails, featuring beautiful views of the surrounding countryside visit the park’s lake, featuring fishing and boating opportunities a picnic lunch, and enjoy the park’s scenic views

Family-Friendly Fun

Visit the Zoo Knoxville, featuring a variety of animals and exhibits explore the Muse Knoxville, a children’s museum featuring interactive exhibits and activities in a show at the Knoxville Children’s Theatre, featuring live performances and concertsDiscover the city’s many parks and green spaces, featuring playgrounds and picnic areas

Zoo Knoxville

Explore the zoo’s animal exhibits, featuring a variety of species from around the world a guided tour of the zoo, featuring information on the animals and their habitatsDiscover the zoo’s educational programs, featuring information on animal conservation and wildlife

Muse Knoxville

Explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, featuring hands-on activities and games a guided tour of the museum, featuring information on the exhibits and activities discover the museum’s educational programs, featuring information on science, art, and history

Knoxville Children’s Theatre

Take in a show at the theater, featuring live performances and concertsExplore the theater’s educational programs, featuring information on acting and theater production the theater’s community outreach programs, featuring information on theater and the arts

Food and Drink

Visit the Old City, featuring a variety of restaurants and barsExplore the Market Square, featuring a variety of restaurants and shops take a food tour of the city, featuring samples of local cuisineDiscover the city’s many coffee shops and cafes, featuring a variety of coffee and pastries

Local Favorites

Try the city’s famous barbecue at one of the many local restaurants the Knoxville Farmer's Market, featuring fresh produce and local products a tour of the city’s breweries, featuring samples of local beer

Coffee and Nightlife

Visit the city’s many coffee shops and cafes, featuring a variety of coffee and pastriesExplore the city’s nightlife scene, featuring a variety of bars and clubs take a tour of the city’s breweries, featuring samples of local beer

Arts and Entertainment

Visit the Tennessee Theatre, a historic theater featuring live performances and concertsExplore the Knoxville Museum of Art, featuring a collection of regional and American art in a show at the Clarence Brown Theatre, featuring live performances and concertsDiscover the city’s many galleries and studios, featuring works by local and international artists

Neighborhoods to Explore

Visit the Old City, featuring a variety of restaurants and barsExplore the Market Square, featuring a variety of restaurants and shops take a stroll along the Tennessee River waterfront, featuring beautiful views and public art installationsDiscover the city’s many neighborhoods, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions

Old City

Explore the neighborhood’s many restaurants and bars, featuring a variety of cuisine and drinks visit the neighborhood’s shops, featuring a variety of local products and souvenirs take a stroll along the neighborhood’s streets, featuring beautiful views and public art installations

Market Square

Explore the square’s many restaurants and shops, featuring a variety of cuisines and products visit the square’s public art installations, featuring works by local and international artists a stroll along the square’s streets, featuring beautiful views and public art installations

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, featuring beautiful scenery and outdoor activities the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, featuring information on science and technology a tour of the nearby wineries and vineyards, featuring samples of local wineDiscover the city’s many nearby attractions, featuring a variety of activities and exhibits

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Explore the park’s beautiful scenery, featuring mountains, forests, and wildlife take a hike along the park’s many trails, featuring beautiful views and public art installationsVisit the park’s visitor center, featuring information on the park’s history and natural history

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Take a tour of the laboratory, featuring information on science and technology explore the laboratory’s exhibits, featuring information on the history of science and technology the laboratory’s educational programs, featuring information on science and technology

Tips for Visiting Knoxville

Getting Around: The city has a public transportation system, featuring buses and a downtown trolleyAccommodations: The city has a variety of hotels and accommodations, featuring a range of prices and amenitiesEvents and Festivals: The city hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, featuring live music, food, and activities

Events and Festivals

Knoxville Festivals: The city hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, featuring live music, food, and activities Knoxville Events: The city hosts a variety of events throughout the year, featuring live music, theater, and activities Discover the city’s many events and festivals, featuring a variety of activities and exhibits