Are you seeking fun activities to do but don’t have any money? In Knoxville, there are plenty of free fun things to do on a zero budget.
Ijams
Ijams is a must-have on this list. The Knoxville Urban Wilderness, a popular but never crowded outdoor destination, includes this nature area in South Knoxville. The 300-acre park offers 10 miles of hiking trails, educational events, and is open all year. You’ll feel transported out of the city if you walk the boardwalk trail. If you pronounce it “eye-mms” rather than “eye-jams,” you’ll sound like a native. If you’re a mountain biker, head to Baker Creek Preserve, which is located in a different part of the Urban Wilderness.
The Knoxville Museum Of Art Knoxville, Tennessee
The Knoxville Museum of Art is a must-see on any list of free and entertaining things to do in Knoxville (KMA). This lovely museum is conveniently located near World’s Fair Park and is ideal for solo or family visits. Richard Jolley created one of the world’s largest glass and steel installations, which is housed in the museum. A revolving gallery is located on the main level, while an upstairs modern art gallery and a permanent gallery dedicated to east Tennessee artists are located on the second floor. For a beautiful perspective of the Sunsphere and downtown, go outside on the second floor near the gift store.
The McClung Collection
The McClung Collection, not to be confused with the McClung Museum, is the Knox County Public Library’s history and genealogy department, which is located on the third floor of the East Tennessee History Center (which itself is free on Sundays). There are almost 75,000 books, 3,000 printed genealogies, 19,000 rolls of microfilm, and much more in this collection. People researching their ancestors’ pasts may find what they’re seeking on the shelves – or online, thanks to national databases that encompass multiple states.
Cradle Of Country Music Walking Tour
Have you seen Ken Burns’ PBS documentary on country music? In and around Knoxville, there are various tourist attractions and well-known country performers. On Instagram, we have a saved highlight that will take you through all of the stops to learn why Knoxville is recognized as the “Cradle of Country Music.”
The University Of Tennessee Gardens And Knoxville Botanical Gardens
Here’s a bonus: These are fantastic spots to stretch your legs (and let the kids burn off some energy!) if you’ve been in the car for a while. The Knoxville Botanical Gardens, which span 47 acres, are open every day from sunrise tonight. There are walking trails and historic buildings to explore, and your pets are invited to join you for the day. The UT Botanical Gardens are a must-see for those who appreciated the Knoxville Botanical Gardens. This area off Neyland Drive on campus is a fantastic place to practice photography skills, whether it’s a family portrait or macro shots of the many flora on site.
Galleries Of Fine Art
If you enjoyed the KMA and are looking for more art, we can point you in the right direction. Knoxville is home to a number of free galleries. Some are traditional galleries with curated collections, while others, like the Art Market Gallery, are artist collectives with art for sale. Some, like the Dogwood Arts Gallery or the Fountain City Art Center, are run by non-profits, while others, like the University of Tennessee’s Downtown Gallery on the 100 Block or the student-run Gallery 1010 in East Knoxville, are linked with the university.
Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets are fantastic locations to people-watch and window shop even if you have no intention of purchasing vegetables. Knoxville offers a plethora of markets spread out around the city. The largest is the Market Square Farmers Market, which is now located at Mary Costa Plaza at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium Coliseum, rather than in the Square. In the link above, you may learn more about additional markets and operating days.
Some, such as the Broadway Studios & Gallery and The Emporium, offer artists studio space in addition to galleries. The Emporium on the 100 Block is an excellent place to begin.