Best Things to do in Knoxville | Must-see attractions 2025

Ijams Nature Center

8:00 AM–Dusk

Nature reserve

2915 Island Home Ave

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Ijams Nature Center is a 315-acre urban park in Knoxville, TN, featuring trails, wetlands, rock formations, and activities like hiking, biking, and canoeing.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Special programs and events may incur fees.

West Hills Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

7624 Sheffield Dr

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West Hills Park in Knoxville, TN, offers expansive green spaces, sports facilities, and a playground, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration.

Thompson/Boling Arena

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

1600 Phillip Fulmer Ave # 202

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Thompson-Boling Arena, located in Knoxville, United States, serves as the home for University of Tennessee basketball and hosts various major events.

Duration: 2–4 hours, depending on events.

Prices vary for events; check specific event details for ticket information.

World's Fair Park

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

963 Worlds Fair Park Drive

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World's Fair Park and Festival in Knoxville features a unique open space with fountains, gardens, and the notable Sunsphere, celebrating the legacy of the 1982 World's Fair.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events and rentals may require a paid ticket.

Knoxville Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1050 World's Fair Park Dr

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Knoxville Museum of Art in Tennessee focuses on regional artists with exhibits, concerts, and classes in a modern 4-story building.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Blount Mansion

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

200 W Hill Ave (btw Gay St and State St)

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Blount Mansion, built circa 1792, is the historic home of U.S. Constitution signer William Blount in Knoxville, Tennessee, offering tours and event rentals.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Events and special exhibitions may incur charges.

Mabry-Hazen House

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1711 Dandridge Ave

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The Mabry Hazen House in Knoxville, built in 1858, showcases over 2000 artifacts, offering insights into Knoxville's rich history and heritage.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Certain special exhibitions may have a fee.

West Town Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

7600 Kingston Pike (Morrell Rd)

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West Town Mall is an indoor shopping destination in Knoxville, TN, featuring over 150 stores, including 40 exclusives to the East Tennessee region.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. All stores and facilities are accessible without any entrance fee.

Caswell Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

620 Winona St

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Caswell Park in Knoxville, TN, features sports fields, playgrounds, and green spaces, offering recreational activities for families and sports enthusiasts alike.

Duration: Approximately 1-3 hours.

Free. Some organized sports leagues may have participation fees.

Frank H McClung Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1327 Circle Park Drive

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The Frank H McClung Museum in Knoxville offers exhibitions on natural history and culture, featuring local geology, fossils, and ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Ramsey House Plantation

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2614 Thorngrove Pike

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Ramsey House Plantation, built in 1797, is a historic site in Knoxville, showcasing Georgian architecture and extensive gardens. A venue for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special programs may require a paid ticket.

Bleak House- The Confederate Memorial Hall

1:00 PM–3:30 PM

Museum

3148 Kingston Pike

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Confederate Memorial Hall, formerly Bleak House, is a historic site in Knoxville, serving as a museum and venue for events, showcasing Civil War history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Guided tours on Wednesdays and Fridays; mention this ad for 15% off in the Gift Store.

Concord Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

10960 Concord Park Drive

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Concord Park in Knoxville offers a par-3 golf course, a skate park with ramps, and a cove for sand volleyball, catering to various recreational activities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events and classes may require a fee.

Downtown Island Airport

Open 24 Hours

Airport

2701 Spence Pl

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Downtown Island Airport in Knoxville, USA, provides a gateway for general aviation flights with modern facilities and scenic waterfront views.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for a casual visit.

Free. Access to the airport is permitted but landing fees apply for aircraft using the facility.

Tennessee Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

604 S Gay St

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Tennessee Theatre, a refurbished 1928 grand theater in Knoxville, hosts concerts, Broadway plays, and cultural events, with an ornate lobby open for viewing.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Paid. Prices vary by event; check the schedule for details.

Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

500 Howard Baker Ave

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Knoxville Civic Coliseum serves as a prominent auditorium and performing arts center, hosting a variety of events in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on the event.

Varies per event. Some performances may be free, while popular events often charge admission.

McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1327 Circle Park Dr

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The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture in Knoxville, Tennessee, offers collections in anthropology, archaeology, and natural history. Enjoy free entry and parking.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

University of Tennessee

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

2704 Kingston Pike

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University of Tennessee in Knoxville offers diverse programs, established in 1794, and is a key educational institution in the southeastern United States.

Duration: 1-2 hours to explore the campus.

Free to visit the campus and public events. Some specific events may charge a fee.

Women's Basketball Hall of Fame

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

700 Hall of Fame Dr

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The Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville celebrates female basketball athletes with exhibits, memorabilia, and interactive displays for all ages.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Sunsphere Tower

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Tower

810 W Clinch Ave

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Sunsphere Tower in Knoxville, a 300-foot structure built for the 1982 World's Fair, offers panoramic city views and a taste of local culture.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

The Muse Knoxville

Mo-Su 10:00-16:00

Museum

516 N Beaman St

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The Muse Knoxville is a children's science museum with hands-on exhibits and a planetarium, inspiring a love for learning in kids and families.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults (ages 2-64) $7, Free for children under 2, seniors 65+, teachers & military with ID.

Haley Heritage Square

Open all day

Park

Morningside Park 1600 Dandridge Avenue

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Haley Heritage Square is a scenic park in Knoxville, featuring a statue of author Alex Haley, known for his novel 'Roots'. A cultural site celebrating Haley's legacy.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Adair Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1807 Adair Dr

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Adair Park in Knoxville offers 30 acres of greenery, walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds, making it a popular recreational area for locals and visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

Victor Ashe Park

Open 24 hours

Park

4901 Bradshaw Road

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Victor Ashe Park spans 120 acres in Knoxville, offering soccer and football fields, a golf course, and playground facilities for visitors of all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours is recommended for enjoying various activities.

Free. No entrance fees are required for park facilities.

Holston River Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

3300 Holston Hills Rd

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Holston River Park in Knoxville offers scenic river views, walking trails, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some community events may require registration.

Tyson Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

2351 Kingston Pike

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Tyson Park in Knoxville, TN offers facilities for running, skateboarding, and tennis, serving as a recreational hub in Knox County.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission charges for general park access.

Marble Springs State Historic Site

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1220 W Governor John Sevier Hwy

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Marble Springs State Historic Site in Knoxville, TN, is the historic home of John Sevier, Tennessee's first governor. Explore preserved buildings and engaging nature trails.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a fee.

Fort Kid

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

1050 Worlds Fair Park Dr Across From the Knoxville Museum of Art

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Fort Kid is a popular children's playground in Knoxville, featuring a wooden fortress, slides, climbing structures, and community artwork. Ideal for family outings.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No cost for entry.

Suttree Landing Park

Open 24 hours

Park

along the South Knoxville Waterfront

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Suttree Landing Park in Knoxville offers riverfront spaces for picnicking, walking trails, and recreation. Enjoy scenic views and a peaceful environment on the Tennessee River.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required.

New Harvest Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

4775 New Harvest Ln

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New Harvest Park in Knoxville offers a spacious outdoor area for recreation, featuring trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds amidst natural beauty.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration.

McFee Park

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

917 McFee Rd

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McFee Park in Knoxville features playgrounds, trails, and green space ideal for recreational activities and family gatherings.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. No admission fee required for entry.

Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

329 Sharp's Ridge Memorial Drive

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Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park in Knoxville offers scenic hiking, picnicking, and veteran tributes with panoramic skyline views of the Smoky Mountains.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for park maintenance.

Cherokee Caverns

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Cave

8524 Oak Ridge Hwy

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Cherokee Caverns in Knoxville offers guided tours through fascinating limestone formations and unique geological features, showcasing the wonder beneath the Earth’s surface.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Adults: $12, Children (6-12): $6, Children under 6: Free.

Farragut Folklife Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

11408 Municipal Center Dr

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Farragut Folklife Museum in Knoxville, USA highlights local maritime history and folk art through unique exhibits and artifacts, making it a valuable cultural resource.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

UT Gardens

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

2518 Jacob Dr

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UT Gardens in Knoxville, Tennessee, serves as an outdoor laboratory showcasing various plant types, featuring themed gardens and seasonal displays.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Volunteer Landing Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

500 Neyland Dr

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Volunteer Landing Park in Knoxville offers a scenic riverfront setting with walking paths, recreational activities, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Fort Dickerson Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

3000 Fort Dickerson Road Southwest

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Fort Dickerson Park in Knoxville, TN, is a sprawling 1,000-acre park featuring hiking trails, Civil War sites, and a swimming quarry.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free.

Ewing Gallery of Art and Architecture

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1715 Volunteer Blvd

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Ewing Gallery of Art and Architecture exhibits student artwork at the University of Tennessee, showcasing creativity and design in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

First Presbyterian Church Cemetery

Open All Day

Church

620 State St (Church Street)

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First Presbyterian Church Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee, known for its rich history and beautiful landscape.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be appreciated.

Marie Myers Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

4715 Sevierville Pike

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Marie Myers Park in Knoxville offers trails, playgrounds, a pond, and sports fields in a natural, serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have associated fees.

Fountain City Art Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

213 Hotel Rd

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Fountain City Art Center in Knoxville, USA, features diverse art exhibits, workshops, and classes, fostering creativity across all ages.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Anchor Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

11730 Turkey Creek Rd

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Anchor Park in Knoxville, United States, is a 15-acre family-friendly park with scenic lakefront views, picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing opportunities.

Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours.

Free.

Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center

8:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

3301 E Magnolia Ave

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Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center in Knoxville features an exposition center, amphitheater, lake, barns, and a bandstand, all on an 81-acre city-owned site.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Certain events may have ticket costs.

Beverly Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

5311 Beverly Park Cir

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Beverly Park in Knoxville offers expansive green spaces, playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas, serving as a community hub for outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration or fees.

Parkway Baptist Church

Office Closed

Church

401 S Peters Rd

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Parkway Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN, is a vibrant community church known for its welcoming congregation and various community outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours recommended for services and community events.

Free. Donations appreciated for various outreach programs.

Chapman Highway Driving Range

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Golf Course

8711 Chapman Hwy

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Chapman Highway Driving Range in Knoxville offers golfers a practice facility with multiple driving stalls and a short game area, catering to all skill levels.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid. Pricing varies based on the number of balls purchased.

Charles Krutch Park

Open 24 hours

Park

504 Market St

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Charles Krutch Park in Knoxville, TN, features colorful public art installations, benches, and a tranquil water feature, providing a peaceful retreat in the city.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Dead Horse Lake Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

9700 Sherrill Blvd

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Dead Horse Lake Golf Course in Knoxville offers a scenic 18-hole course designed for both amateurs and experienced players, blending challenges with beautiful landscapes.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Green fees average $35 for adults, discounts available for juniors and seniors.