Things to Do in Knoxville

If you haven’t already fallen in love with this city, it’s time to add Knoxville to your list. Situated along the Tennessee River, it offers everything from boat tours in wildlife habitats to live performances at an opulent theatre. You'll soon understand why this city is also nicknamed "Knock-your-socks-off-ville."

Theatre Time in Tennessee

The Tennessee Theatre is a must visit while in town. Once known as “the South’s most beautiful theatre” when it opened in 1928, its evolution continues after a restoration. Now a historical landmark, the theatre offers an array of entertainment options and retains its cultural significance for the community and beyond. There’s something for everyone here, whether you prefer classical music, vintage films, intimate concerts or theatrical performances. When you stroll into the lobby of the opulent Tennessee Theatre, you’ll be dazzled by its Spanish Moorish architecture and distinct design elements. Another options for music in a more intimate setting is the pitch-perfect Bijou Theatre.

Market Square Magic

Hit up downtown Knoxville's entertainment and cultural epicenter known as the Market Square District. Knoxville locals and tourists alike eat, drink, shop, play and explore in the district—and have since the 1860s. Your whole crowd will enjoy the niche shops, farmer’s market and other culinary delights, while the kids will delight in the two water play fountains. At night, the area turns up the fun with lively music and street performers. The Market Square District is always bustling with free live music concerts, annual festivals, Shakespeare on the Square, ice skating in the winter and gallery walks on the First Friday of every month. Pets are welcome here, too.

Ijams Nature Center

Ijams Nature Center is more than just a city park and protected wildlife habitat; it's a state of mind. The experience encourages you to be protective of the environment with exposure and education about the diverse ecosystems on this planet. You can get lost in exploring Ijams' 300 acres of natural delights, including forests, meadows, spring-fed ponds and 10 miles of hiking trails. Rent bicycles for the whole group or learn to kayak on the lake. Ijams is built into an abandoned quarry, but its serene beauty feels thousands of miles away from Knoxville's big-city bustle.

Museum of Art Festivities

Immerse yourself in the East Tennessee art scene by spending an afternoon at the Knoxville Museum of Art. Located in the World’s Fair Park and regally perched atop a hill near downtown, the museum mixes its collection of local art with internationally known names for both permanent and traveling exhibitions. Things get a little livelier when the sun goes down and the museum hosts live music on most Friday nights for its Alive After Five event. You can also delight in tasting new Southern specialties, dancing the night away or just wandering through the museum’s many galleries. An added perk is free admission.

Hilltop University Fun

Nostalgic for that quintessential college town experience? Opt for a visit to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This sprawling campus, known as the Hill, seems to go on forever and retains its original charm. Immerse yourself in campus life with a leisurely stroll by the beautiful, historic buildings that dot the university. If you’re hungry, stop for a snack at one of the many restaurants, bars and cafés nearby. Football fans definitely need to swing by Neyland Stadium. In addition to its impressive size, the loyalty and pride of the fans will amaze you. Go Vols!

History Comes Alive

Whether you're a longtime Knoxville fan or gathering your clan here for the first time, East Tennessee is a remarkable place rich in historical significance. A visit to the Museum of East Tennessee History located in downtown offers an exciting time-traveling lesson of the city’s past. Forget dusty artifacts—this museum brings history to life with interactive displays like "Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee." You'll hear stirring first-person accounts of what life was like for the state's early natives set amongst a changing backdrop of engrossing imagery. Tickets are only $5 for adults and kids 16 and under get in free.

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