Best Things to Do in Knoxville, TN

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a destination of pristine beauty, home to diverse wildlife, scenic drives, and numerous hiking trails. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has everything from summit hikes that let you overlook mountain ridges to breathtaking waterfalls that feel straight out of a storybook.

Here are some quick facts about visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park while in Knoxville:

• The closest access point to the park is in Townsend, TN, which is roughly a 45-minute drive from the heart of Knoxville. Visit the National Park Service website for more information about the Townsend entrance and current road conditions or closures.

• The national park is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week (weather permitting).

• Dogs are prohibited in most parts of this national park except for two trails — the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.

Visit the National Park Service’s plan your visit webpage to discover more information about the park.

World’s Fair Park is one of Knoxville’s most vibrant activity hubs in the downtown area.

The park is home to the iconic Sunsphere, a 266-foot tower offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. In addition to the Sunsphere, the park also features event spaces, interactive fountains, and open green areas that are perfect for relaxing on sunny days.

 

The Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum is an enchanting oasis comprising 47 acres of lush gardens, walking trails, and woodland.

This attraction is a favorite among both locals and visitors, as admission to the gardens is completely free thanks to the support of local members and community supporters. Becoming a member comes with its own perks as well, such as free and discounted admission to classes, concerts, and events.

The Ijams Nature Center is a 318-acre urban nature sanctuary that provides an array of recreational activities including hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife spotting. The nature center also offers a variety of educational programs for young learners as well as senior adults.

At this preserve, you can find an extensive network of trails, as well as boating put-ins, zip-lines, and educational exhibits. This nature center offers something for every member of the family, especially those who enjoy spending time outdoors and learning more about the natural world.

Zoo Knoxville is home to over 800 animals from around the world, offering an immersive experience for visitors. With exhibits like Gibbon Trails, African Forest, and Boyd Family Asian Trek, Zoo Knoxville brings conservation, education, and entertainment together for a memorable experience that appeals to both children and adults.

Zoo Knoxville members can enjoy free daily admission. Visit the Zoo Knoxville website for more pricing information and to plan your visit.

The Knoxville Museum of Art is  wonderful destination for anyone interested in contemporary and regional art. This museum features both rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection of work.

At this museum, you can not only view the many amazing artworks the facility has to offer but also attend art classes and participate in various events hosted by the museum. Admission to the museum is free, as the museum is supported by its members, art class fees, and events.

Many of the rotating exhibitions at this museum are focused on the culture and natural environment of East Tennessee, making this museum an engaging place to explore both art and regional heritage.

Check out the Knoxville Museum of Art website for more information.

Step back in time at the East Tennessee History Center, also known as the Museum of East Tennessee History and sponsored by the East Tennessee Historical Society.

This engaging museum offers a glimpse into the region's rich history through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. The eastern region of Tennessee is rich in Native American heritage, Civil War history, and cultural landmarks that help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the area's past.

Visit the East Tennessee Historical Society website to learn more about this history center and museum.

The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture is operated by the University of Tennessee Knoxville and is a Smithsonian affiliate, as well as an accredited museum with the American Alliance of Museums.

At this museum, you can find a diverse collection of archaeological artifacts, geological specimens, and art pieces that offer a fascinating journey through history, science, and culture.

Plan your visit on the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture website today.

At the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, the achievements of women in basketball are celebrated, with various honors for players, coaches, and contributors to the sport.

Along with annual induction ceremonies, the hall of fame features exhibits that showcase memorabilia, interactive experiences, and the inspiring stories of female basketball pioneers.

This museum is definitely worth adding to your itinerary if you enjoy sports history or want to learn more about the impact of women in athletics.

Hours to this facility vary throughout the year, so check the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame website for more information.

Climb aboard the Three Rivers Rambler, a historic steam train that takes passengers on a scenic journey through Knoxville's picturesque landscapes.

This nostalgic ride offers a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding natural beauty. The narrated tours provide insights into the history and culture of the area, as well as a fun and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

To book a ride with the Three Rivers Rambler, call (865) 524-9411 for more information.

Marble Springs State Historic Site is the historic home of Tennessee's first governor, John Sevier.

Step into the past at Marble Springs Museum, where you can catch a glimpse into frontier life with its log cabins, gardens, and demonstrations of traditional crafts. Visitors can explore the grounds, attend special events, and learn about the daily lives and traditions of early Tennesseans.

Visit the Marble Springs website to learn more.

Market Square Farmers’ Market is a bustling, open-air market that takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Wednesday market is exclusively at Market Square in downtown Knoxville, while the Saturday markets occur at Market Square, Union Avenue, and Market Street.

This farmers’ market is a great place to discover fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted goods, live entertainment, and community events.

Plus, the market offers SNAP and SNAP Doubling services every Wednesday and Saturday, as well as the Nourish Kids program, which is a free activity held on the second Saturday of every month.

The Wednesday market takes place from May 3rd to November 15th, while the Saturday market takes place from May 6th to November 18th.

Visit the Nourish Knoxville website for more information about the farmers’ market and its events.

James White Fort is an early historical site in Knoxville that showcases a reconstructed 18th-century log fort.

By visiting this destination, you can discover the triumphs and tribulations of the city’s early settlers, including the history of Knoxville’s founder, James White.

With its period-authentic buildings and engaging interpreters, James White Fort offers an immersive look into the city's early years and frontier heritage.

The historical fort is open from April to November, Monday to Saturday. From December to March, the fort is open Monday to Friday.

Stop by the James White Fort website for more information and directions.

If you have ever wondered what life was like during Prohibition, stop by the Peter Kern Library Speakeasy — if you can find it, that is.

The speakeasy is designed to mimic the secrecy of speakeasies during the Prohibition era and is disguised as a book-lined library with a hidden bar that serves up craft cocktails in a cozy and secretive atmosphere.

Step back into the Prohibition era at the Peter Kern Library Speakeasy. Hidden behind bookshelves and filled with historic charm, this unique venue offers carefully crafted cocktails in an intimate setting that history enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike can appreciate.

Experience the grandeur of the Tennessee Theatre, a historic venue that hosts a wide range of performances. From Broadway shows and concerts to classic movie screenings, this beautifully restored theater offers an elegant setting and exceptional acoustics.

Each season, the theater presents an exciting lineup of performances, including musicals, theatrical productions, concerts, and special events.

Visit the Tennessee Theatre website for showtimes and event information.