Knoxville, Tennessee, is a charming city that offers a plethora of attractions and activities for travelers. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, Knoxville has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top places to visit in Knoxville, from downtown attractions to natural wonders and family-friendly fun.
Key Takeaways:
- Knoxville is a city in Tennessee that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for travelers.
- This article will showcase the top places to visit in Knoxville, including downtown attractions, natural wonders, and family-friendly fun.
Downtown Knoxville
If you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling place to explore all that Knoxville has to offer, look no further than downtown Knoxville. With its charming Market Square, historic buildings, and unique shops and restaurants, downtown Knoxville offers something for everyone.
Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly Market Square, which offers a variety of outdoor concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year. You’ll find a variety of local shops, restaurants, and bars to explore, including the popular Tupelo Honey Cafe and Peter Kern Library speakeasy.
Historic Old City
Be sure to check out the Historic Old City, a lively neighborhood just east of downtown Knoxville. This district is home to a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and live music venues. During the day, explore art galleries and street art displays. At night, check out Tennessee’s largest music venue, The Mill & Mine.
University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee, located in downtown Knoxville, is a must-visit destination for sports fans, history buffs, and architecture enthusiasts alike. The campus is home to several iconic landmarks, including Neyland Stadium and Thompson-Boling Arena, which are known for their impressive sports programs and thrilling games.
Neyland Stadium
Neyland Stadium, named after legendary head coach Robert Neyland, is the home of the Tennessee Volunteers football team. With a seating capacity of over 100,000, it’s one of the largest college football stadiums in the country and is packed with fans on game days. Even if you’re not a fan of college football, the stadium’s unique architecture and rich history make it worth a visit.
Thompson-Boling Arena
Thompson-Boling Arena is another impressive sports venue on the University of Tennessee campus, hosting the university’s basketball and volleyball programs. With a capacity of over 20,000, it’s also a popular venue for concerts and other events throughout the year.
Besides sports, the University of Tennessee is also known for its gorgeous architecture and historic buildings. The Ayres Hall, built in 1919, is particularly stunning with its classic Renaissance style and a prominent position on “The Hill.” Visitors can explore the university’s campus on their own or join one of the guided tours offered by the university.
Whether you’re a sports fan or history buff, the University of Tennessee is a must-see attraction in Knoxville that’s worth taking the time to explore.
Knoxville Museum of Art
If you appreciate art, a visit to the Knoxville Museum of Art is a must. Located in downtown Knoxville, the museum features an impressive collection of art pieces from the east Tennessee region and beyond. The museum has seven galleries showcasing various exhibitions, including contemporary art, regional art, and Thorne Rooms, which features miniature models of historical interiors.
The Knoxville Museum of Art has free admission, but donations are always welcome. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM.
World’s Fair Park
Located in downtown Knoxville, the World’s Fair Park was the site of the 1982 World’s Fair and continues to be a popular destination for locals and visitors today. The park features the iconic Sunsphere, a 266-foot tower that provides stunning views of the city.
In addition to the Sunsphere, the park also boasts the Knoxville Convention Center, which hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Visitors can take a stroll through the park’s lush gardens or enjoy a picnic on the lawn.
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum. This hidden gem located just minutes from downtown Knoxville offers over 47 acres of lush gardens and walking trails to explore.
The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum features 14 unique garden spaces, each with their own theme and design. Take a stroll through the colorful Kitchen Garden, admire the tranquil Water Garden, or relax in the serene Flowering Dogwood Display Garden.
The Arboretum boasts impressive tree collections, including over 500 species of trees and plants indigenous to East Tennessee. The various walking trails offer a chance to experience the natural beauty of Tennessee while getting some exercise.
Nature Trails at Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
For more adventurous visitors, the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum has several nature trails to explore. The three-quarter mile Flowering Dogwood Trail winds through the forest and offers a chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Arboretum Loop Trail provides a longer hike at 1.4 miles and takes visitors through the deciduous forest and ends at the beautiful woodland pond.
Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a must-see attraction in Knoxville.
East Tennessee History Center
If you’re a history buff, the East Tennessee History Center is a must-visit attraction in Knoxville. This center showcases the rich history of Knoxville and its surrounding areas through a variety of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
One of the highlights of this center is the signature exhibition “Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee.” This exhibition tells the stories of the people who have called this region home and their impact on the development of the area.
The East Tennessee History Center is also home to the McClung Historical Collection, one of the largest collections of regional history and genealogy in the southeast. Visitors can access this collection for research purposes or attend one of their many historical workshops and lectures.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn about Knoxville’s fascinating past and the people who made it what it is today!
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a beautiful destination for nature lovers. Located just a few miles east of downtown Knoxville, this 47-acre property features themed gardens, walking trails, and historical structures.
The garden’s walking trails wind through serene woodlands, open meadows, and flower-filled gardens. Visitors can stroll through the Butterly Meadow, marvel at seasonal blooms in the Dogwood and Iris Gardens, and admire the artful arrangement of native plants in the Center for Urban Agriculture.
In addition to the gardens, the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum boasts a number of historic structures. The Howe House and the Williams House, both built in the 19th century, offer a glimpse into Knoxville’s past.
The botanical garden also hosts various events and workshops throughout the year, including plant sales, art exhibits, and educational classes.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the springtime “Daffodil Hill” display, showcasing over 50,000 blooming daffodils.
Knoxville Zoo
The Knoxville Zoo is a must-visit destination for families and animal lovers alike. Located just east of downtown Knoxville, the zoo spans over 50 acres and houses over 800 animals from around the world.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Knoxville Zoo is the African Savannah, where visitors can see giraffes, zebras, elephants, and more. The Boyd Family Asian Trek is another notable exhibit, where guests can observe tigers, white-naped cranes, and other Asian species.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Knoxville Zoo also offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including a carousel, a train ride, and a splash pad for hot summer days. The zoo also hosts educational programs and events throughout the year, such as Zoo Camp and Boo at the Zoo.
Admission to the Knoxville Zoo is affordable, with tickets priced at $19.95 for adults and $16.95 for children. The zoo is open year-round, with hours varying by season.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the wild side of Knoxville at the Knoxville Zoo.
Tennessee Theatre
The Tennessee Theatre, located in downtown Knoxville, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the performing arts. The theatre, which first opened in 1928, has undergone extensive renovations and now hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway productions, concerts, and film screenings.
The theatre’s stunning interior boasts ornate decor and a grand stage, making every performance a memorable experience. In addition to its regular shows, the Tennessee Theatre also offers tours so visitors can learn more about the history and architecture of the building.
“The Tennessee Theatre is one of the most beautiful theatres I’ve ever seen. The attention to detail is just incredible.”
– a happy visitor to the Tennessee Theatre
Knoxville Riverboat Company
Another great way to see the city of Knoxville is by taking a scenic riverboat cruise with the Knoxville Riverboat Company.
Enjoy a leisurely ride down the Tennessee River while taking in the stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding landscapes.
Choose from a variety of cruises, including sightseeing tours, lunch and dinner cruises, and even themed cruises like the popular Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise.
Experience the charm and history of Knoxville in a unique way with the Knoxville Riverboat Company.
Conclusion
Knoxville is a city full of unique history and culture, offering visitors a diverse range of attractions and activities. From downtown Knoxville’s Market Square and Historic Old City to the University of Tennessee’s iconic landmarks, there is something for everyone to explore.
The Knoxville Museum of Art and World’s Fair Park provide a cultural experience, while the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum and Ijams Nature Center offer serene nature trails and outdoor activities. The East Tennessee History Center showcases Knoxville’s rich history, while the Knoxville Zoo and Tennessee Theatre offer family-friendly entertainment options.
Don’t forget to hop on a scenic riverboat cruise with the Knoxville Riverboat Company to fully experience the Tennessee River. With so much to see and do, plan your trip to Knoxville today and discover all the must-see attractions and sites that this vibrant city has to offer.
FAQ
Q: What are some must-see attractions in Knoxville?
A: Some must-see attractions in Knoxville include Downtown Knoxville, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Museum of Art, World’s Fair Park, Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, East Tennessee History Center, Ijams Nature Center, Knoxville Zoo, Tennessee Theatre, and the Knoxville Riverboat Company.
Q: What can I do in downtown Knoxville?
A: In downtown Knoxville, you can explore Market Square, visit the Historic Old City, enjoy dining and shopping options, and attend various events and festivals.
Q: What landmarks are there on the University of Tennessee campus?
A: The University of Tennessee campus is home to iconic landmarks such as Neyland Stadium and Thompson-Boling Arena.
Q: What exhibitions can I see at the Knoxville Museum of Art?
A: The Knoxville Museum of Art showcases a variety of notable art exhibitions, featuring works from local and national artists.
Q: What are the main attractions in World’s Fair Park?
A: World’s Fair Park is known for its iconic Sunsphere and the Knoxville Convention Center, which host various events throughout the year.
Q: What can I explore at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum?
A: The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum offers serene nature trails and beautiful garden spaces for visitors to enjoy.
Q: What can I learn at the East Tennessee History Center?
A: The East Tennessee History Center showcases Knoxville’s rich history through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Q: What activities can I do at the Ijams Nature Center?
A: The Ijams Nature Center provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the natural environment.
Q: What can I expect at the Knoxville Zoo?
A: At the Knoxville Zoo, you can see a wide range of animals, enjoy educational exhibits, and even participate in special events and programs.
Q: What shows can I watch at the Tennessee Theatre?
A: The Tennessee Theatre hosts a variety of live performances, including concerts, plays, and other performing arts events.
Q: What can I experience on a riverboat cruise with the Knoxville Riverboat Company?
A: The Knoxville Riverboat Company offers scenic riverboat cruises along the Tennessee River, providing a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings.
