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Explore Knoxville

Family Activities

Whether you want to play outside, uncover the Tennessee wilderness, or make museum discoveries, Knoxville is full of fun and adventure for families.

From hands-on experiences a short drive away to nationally acclaimed art right around the corner, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone amused and entertained throughout your stay.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The Muse

Hands-on learning through play inspires young minds at this children’s science museum and Knoxville’s only public access planetarium.

A smiling young Black girl looks up, touching a large, curved blue object with both hands in a bright, spacious building, likely a museum or science center.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture

Learn about Tennessee’s history, from fossil discoveries to Knoxville’s involvement in the Civil War, at this museum on the University of Tennessee campus.

A large Columbian Mammoth skeleton stands displayed in a museum, observed by a group of adults and children. Walls feature marine life replicas. Banner: "COLUMBIAN MAMMOTH".
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The Knoxville Museum of Art

Located around the corner from The Tennessean, this museum features a rotating selection of art from a myriad of artists from all eras, mediums, and genres.

A person with an Afro, seen from behind, stands viewing abstract art in a brightly lit gallery featuring wall paintings and suspended/stacked cardboard sculptures.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The Great Smoky Mountains

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most picturesque landscapes in the country, the Smokies offer more than 800 miles of trails for biking, hiking, and climbing day trips. 

A young boy in an orange shirt leads two hikers descending a steep, rocky trail through a dense evergreen forest beneath a blue sky.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

House Mountain

Knox County’s highest point, House Mountain offers a steep rugged hike or a winding, less strenuous version, rewarding both with sweeping views. An ideal day trip 8 miles from downtown.

A smiling family walks through a sunny field beside a lake. The two adults give their children piggyback rides, with evergreen trees in the background.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The Greenway

Stroll along the Tennessee River waterfront or meander through World’s Fair Park on this easily accessible 86-mile web of paved and natural pathways that winds its way through Knoxville.

A wooden boardwalk curves along a green-vegetated rocky cliff, overlooking a wide river with trees on the opposite bank under a clear blue sky.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Maple Hall Bowling Alley

A boutique 11-lane bowling alley located in the historic J.C. Penney building, just a 10-minute walk from The Tennessean’s front door, offering small bites, a bar, and a unique atmosphere.

A young boy rolls a yellow bowling ball down a lane, watched by an encouraging man and a smiling woman holding a small girl, inside a bowling alley.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The Sunsphere

A one-of-a-kind structure right across the street, The Sunsphere is an iconic part of the Knoxville skyline. Ride the elevator to the observation deck and take in the Tennessee beauty from above.

Knoxville skyline with the Sunsphere
FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Market Square Farmer's Market

From coffee and pastries to decorative plants to fruits and vegetables the Market Square Farmer’s Market showcases local vendors a 10-minute walk from The Tennessean.

A woman chooses produce while a vendor bags items from a stall laden with fruits and vegetables at a sunny outdoor "FARM MARKET".
Local Attractions

Let Your Interests Be Your Guide

  • Arts & Entertainment

    From operas, musicals, and comedy shows, to festivals, fairs, live music, theatre, and more, the soul of Knoxville is vibrant.

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  • Restaurants & Bars

    The culinary options downtown Knoxville are seemingly endless, from award-winning chefs to hand-crafted bites.

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    Grilled fish with sauce, vegetables, and grains is presented on a white plate. A glass of red wine and other gourmet dishes fill a white table. Napkin reads "Malones".

  • History & Museums

    The culinary options downtown Knoxville are seemingly endless, from award-winning chefs to hand-crafted bites.

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    A couple discusses ancient pottery exhibits in a modern museum with exposed stone walls. The man gestures towards a display, surrounded by artifacts and informational panels.

  • University of Tennessee

    Knoxville is true Vols territory, and since we’re within walking distance of the UT campus, The Tennessean is no different.

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    A gabled brick building and a clock tower stand on a sunlit grassy hill with autumn foliage under a clear blue sky.

In the Heart of Knoxville

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The Tennessean, Knoxville

Shaped by the River and Refinement

PLAN YOUR STAY