Best Places to See the City Skyline in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

Knoxville, United States, Knoxville, Outdoor & Adventure, Best Places to See the City Skyline

Best Places to See the City Skyline in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

1. Sunsphere

Iconic tower with a globe at the top, offering panoramic views of Knoxville.
  • Iconic Structure: Sunsphere is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Knoxville.
  • Panoramic Views: The observation deck provides an unobstructed view of the city skyline.
  • Historic Significance: Sunsphere was built for the 1982 World's Fair and holds a special place in Knoxville history.

2. Volunteer Landing

Waterfront park with a great vantage point for viewing the city skyline and the Tennessee River.
  • Waterfront Location: Volunteer Landing offers a unique perspective of the city skyline overlooking the river.
  • Outdoor Activities: The park provides opportunities for picnicking, biking, and walking.
  • Evening Light Show: During the evenings, the fountains at Volunteer Landing put on a light show that's quite a sight.

3. Chilhowee Park

Hilltop park offering views of the city, Great Smoky Mountains, and the Tennessee River.
  • Scenic Views: Chilhowee Park offers panoramic views that encompass the city skyline, mountains, and river.
  • Recreational Activities: The park features walking trails, sports fields, and a golf course for visitors to enjoy.
  • Seasonal Festivals: Chilhowee Park hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the East Tennessee State Fair.

4. UT Tower

Tallest structure on the University of Tennessee campus, providing a bird's-eye view of Knoxville.
  • Campus Landmark: The UT Tower is an iconic symbol of the University of Tennessee.
  • Panoramic Views: The observation deck offers stunning views of Knoxville and the university campus.
  • Historic Significance: Built in 1935, the UT Tower is a historic structure with a rich history.

5. World's Fair Park

Former site of the 1982 World's Fair, now a park featuring various attractions and skyline views.
  • Historic Landmark: World's Fair Park is a reminder of Knoxville's hosting of the World's Fair in 1982.
  • Attractions: The park houses the Sunsphere, Iris Garden, and the Tennessee Amphitheater.
  • Skyline Viewpoints: Various spots throughout the park offer great views of the city skyline.

6. Knoxville Convention Center

Modern building located in downtown Knoxville, providing an urban viewpoint for the city skyline.
  • Urban Landmark: The Knoxville Convention Center is a modern architectural landmark in the city.
  • Event Venue: The center hosts various events, including conventions and concerts.
  • Skyline Views: The rooftop provides a fantastic view of the city skyline, especially during the evenings.

7. Market Square

Historic district with shops, restaurants, and a fountain, offering scenic views of downtown Knoxville.
  • Historic District: Market Square is the heart of historic Knoxville.
  • Shopping and Dining: The district offers a variety of shopping and dining options.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Various spots in Market Square provide views of the city skyline, particularly from the rooftop of the Tennessee Theatre.

8. Cumberland Avenue

Vibrant street lined with restaurants, bars, and the University of Tennessee campus.
  • Campus Landmark: Cumberland Avenue is a hub for student life and campus activities.
  • Dining and Nightlife: The street offers a wide range of dining and nightlife options.
  • City Skyline Views: Cumberland Avenue provides views of the city skyline, especially from Neyland Drive.

9. Wesley House Tower

Tallest building in Knoxville with observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Tallest Building: The Wesley House Tower is the tallest building in Knoxville.
  • Panoramic Views: The observation deck offers stunning views of the city skyline and beyond.
  • Unique Architecture: The tower's unique architecture adds to its appeal as a must-visit attraction.

10. Crowne Plaza Downtown Knoxville

Downtown hotel with revolving restaurant and skyline views.
  • Revolving Restaurant: The restaurant offers a rotating view of the city skyline.
  • Dining Experience: The restaurant provides a unique dining experience with unobstructed views.
  • Urban Location: The hotel is conveniently located in downtown Knoxville, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

11. Knoxville Museum of Art

Modern art museum with a rooftop terrace providing views of the city skyline.
  • Modern Art Collection: The museum showcases works by artists from Tennessee and beyond.
  • Rooftop Terrace: The rooftop terrace offers a peaceful spot to take in the city skyline views.
  • Educational Programs: The museum offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.

12. Fox Den Heights Park

Park located on a hill offering panoramic views of Knoxville and the Tennessee River.
  • Panoramic Views: The park offers stunning views of Knoxville, the river, and the surrounding hills.
  • Hiking Trails: The park features hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Picnic Areas: The park offers picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day out with family and friends.

13. Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum

Beautiful garden featuring various themed areas and skyline views.
  • Themed Areas: The garden features different themed areas, such as the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Various spots throughout the garden offer views of the city skyline.
  • Educational Programs: The garden offers educational programs and workshops for visitors, focusing on plant life and conservation.

14. Ijams Nature Center

Nature reserve with hiking trails, a canopy walkway, and skyline views.
  • Hiking Trails: The center offers various hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Canopy Walkway: The canopy walkway provides a unique perspective of the surrounding forest and city skyline.
  • Educational Programs: The center offers educational programs focusing on wildlife, conservation, and sustainable living.

15. Gay Street

Historic street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, offering views of the city skyline.
  • Historic District: Gay Street is a part of historic Knoxville.
  • Shopping and Dining: The street offers a variety of shopping and dining options.
  • City Skyline Views: Various spots on Gay Street offer views of the city skyline, especially from the rooftop of The Bijou Theatre.