Are you looking for fun things to do in Knoxville, Tennessee? If so, this article is for you. It is written from the perspective of a native East Tennessee Knoxvillian. Being a resident gives me the insider’s view of all that there is to see and do. Whether you are visiting for business, passing through or attending a University of Tennessee football game (Go Vols!), you will find that Knoxville has plenty to do.
Lions, tigers and more! A favorite attraction is the Knoxville Zoo. As one of the top rated zoos in the US it draws many people to Knoxville annually. When visiting, you will want to allow plenty of time. Many families can tour the zoo in the afternoon. If you want to take in a Bird Show or other program you will need to add a full day to your itinerary. Tickets for the Knoxville Zoo can be purchased in advance from this link. Parking may be prepaid or paid at the gate. It is an extra charge.
Another great place to visit is the Knoxville Museum of Art. Admission to the Knoxville Museum of Art is free (although donations are accepted). The Knoxville Museum of Art is located at 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive at zip code 37916. It is on the edge of the World’s Fair Park. If you stop to visit one attraction you might want to see them both. There is no charge to visit either attraction. Hours for the museum can be found here.
The World’s Fair Park in Knoxville is a hold over from the 1982 World’s Fair that drew crowds from all over the world. In the summer children play here and families can picnic. Couples and singles can take a walk around the reflecting pool in the shadow of the Sunsphere (a local landmark that was erected for the 1982 World’s Fair.) The park has a few upscale restaurants and is a great place to unwind for a couple of hours.
Neither the Knoxville Art Museum nor the World’s Fair Park is far from Neyand Stadium. This is where the football team of the University of Tennessee Volunteers play. Either stop would be a good add-on to a football if you go several hours before the game. Alternatively, staying over on Saturday night and visiting these attractions on Sunday is a good idea.
On fall Saturdays the entire area along I-40 near downtown and the University of Tennessee can be a challenge to navigate. Saturday ball game traffic and parking can be challenging. There are places where you can park your car and ride a shuttle bus to Neyland Stadium for the game. If you do decide to drive the best thing to do is to take it slow and allow plenty of time so you won’t be tempted to hurry.
Knoxville, Tennessee has an abundance of motels and restaurants in all price ranges. Check your favorite online motel sites to compare rates and availability. Other sites to check include Knoxville Tourism and Sports or the website for the City of Knoxville.
