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.

Explore Knoxville

History & Museums

Culturally rich, deep in history, Knoxville has a full slate of world-class museums and galleries to explore and cater to your curious spirit.

Whether it’s contemporary works of art, the region’s fossils, or our celebration of women’s basketball, dive into our city’s past, present, and future at some of our favorite local attractions.

Museums

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.
Museums

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".
MUSEUMS

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.
MUSEUMS

Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame

A celebration of athletes, coaches, and pioneers who have had an impact on women’s basketball, the Hall of Fame is home to memorabilia, exhibits, and the world’s largest basketball, which measures 30 feet tall and weighs 10 tons.

Female basketball player, number 3, holding a ball, stands on a gym court facing the hoop, with other players in the background.

In the Heart of Knoxville