Knoxville, home to the historic University of Tennessee, is well-known for its college-town atmosphere and proximity to the Smokies.
But guess what? There’s more to this attractive city than a handy pit break and scholarly wonders. From delectable food to ancient sites, the city will keep you occupied for weeks.
Check out our list of the greatest sites to visit in Knoxville, TN to make your vacation even more memorable.
East Tennessee History Center
The Museum of East Tennessee History is the key to understanding Knoxville’s past. Award-winning exhibitions that change on a regular basis tell the narrative of the people, places, and events that defined this area. The Center, which is immediately across the street from the Tennessee Theatre and only a few streets from other historic sights such as Blount Mansion and James White’s Fort, aims to pique the attention of a diverse audience. The interactive displays in the signature exhibition, Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee, allow visitors to not only be in the presence of original artifacts from the region’s past, but also to hear first-person accounts of what life was like, all set against a backdrop of compelling, historic imagery.
World’s Fair Park
This grassy park, located in the middle of downtown Knoxville, was previously the site of the 1982 World’s Fair. It is now a public park and one of the must-see free things to do in Knoxville.
This park is ideal for photographers due to its beautiful grass and lovely walks. Furthermore, it is a relaxed haven where you can unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. And did we mention that it offers a multitude of events throughout the year?
Take a leisurely stroll along the park’s well-kept paths. At the vast Performance Lawn, you may also attend a concert or a festival. From April through October, the Splash Pads, a kid-friendly water feature, are open.
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McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
This museum, which opened in 1963, provides an educational experience with its various exhibitions and events. The museum houses a range of exhibits chronicling Tennessee’s history, ranging from dinosaur fossils to Civil War artifacts. Even better, it offers a wide range of educational activities and events relating to archaeology and history. “Mony,” a 24-foot-long, 2,400-pound bronze duck-billed dinosaur skeleton, will captivate you. After that, take in the fascinating 2,000-year-old exhibits at “Ancient Egypt: The Eternal Voice.”