Cultural & Historical Destinations in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

1. Sunsphere

A iconic symbol of Knoxville, this tower offers panoramic views and a revolving restaurant.

Historical Significance: Originally built for the 1982 World's Fair.
Panoramic Views: Offers a unique perspective of Knoxville from its observation deck.
Revolving Restaurant: Enjoy a meal while rotating for an ever-changing city view.

Houses over 4,000 works by artists from East Tennessee and beyond.

Regional Focus: Emphasizes on local, regional, and national art.
Educational Programs: Provides workshops, lectures, and tours for visitors of all ages.
Permanent Collection: Includes works by renowned artists like Andrew Wyeth and Georgia O'Keeffe.

The original home of John Sevier, first Governor of Tennessee.

Historical Landmark: Preserved to showcase the lifestyle and history of early Tennessee settlers.
Restoration Efforts: Continuously being restored to maintain its historic integrity.
Guided Tours: Offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors.

A replica of the original home of Knoxville's founder, James White.

Educational Experience: Provides an immersive look into the life of early settlers.
Living History: Historic interpreters demonstrate daily life in the late 1700s.
Archaeological Site: Surrounding area is an active archaeological site for research and education.

A historic home that offers a glimpse into the life of Knoxville's early aristocracy.

Architectural Significance: One of the oldest and best-preserved Federal style homes in East Tennessee.
Historical Artifacts: Houses a collection of Civil War era artifacts.
Garden Tours: Beautiful gardens and historic landscape to explore.

A peace bell, cast in South Korea, gifted to the city of Knoxville.

Peace Symbol: Represents friendship and unity among nations.
Public Participation: Visitors can ring the bell to honor peace.
Historical Context: Inscribed with messages of hope and peace from around the world.

Preserves the history of East Tennessee through research, education, and collections.

Research Facility: Provides access to a vast collection of historical resources.
Exhibitions: Hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics related to East Tennessee's history.
Educational Programs: Offers lectures, workshops, and tours for visitors.

A picturesque valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Historic Buildings: Preserves a collection of historic structures from the early 1800s.
Scenic Drive: Offers a scenic, one-way loop road through the valley.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears.

A driving tour that highlights key locations related to the Civil War in Knoxville.

Historical Significance: Showcases Knoxville's role during the Civil War.
Self-Guided Tour: Includes detailed information and directions for the tour.
Military History: Covers battles, sieges, and the Union occupation of Knoxville.

Highlights the significant contributions of African Americans to the music industry in East Tennessee.

Cultural Importance: Preserves the rich musical heritage of African Americans in Knoxville.
Self-Guided Tour: Includes detailed information and directions for the trail.
Musical Legacy: Showcases the impact of local musicians on American music.

A museum dedicated to the history and achievements of women's basketball.

Sports History: Honors the contributions of women in basketball.
Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive displays and simulators.
Inductees' Stories: Features biographical information of inductees into the Hall of Fame.

A wildlife management area with hiking trails, historic structures, and natural beauty.

Natural Habitat: Provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species.
Historic Structures: Preserves several structures from the early 1800s.
Outdoor Activities: Offers hiking, bird watching, and nature photography opportunities.

A historic district in downtown Knoxville featuring shops, restaurants, and events.

A public park that hosts events and features the Sunsphere and the World's Fair Global Heritage Garden.

Historical Significance: Originally built for the 1982 World's Fair.
Outdoor Events: Hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.
Global Heritage Garden: Showcases plants and trees from around the world.

A peaceful sanctuary featuring over 600 plant species and various gardens.

Peaceful Retreat: Offers a tranquil escape from the city.
Educational Programs: Provides workshops, tours, and classes on gardening and horticulture.
Unique Gardens: Includes a Japanese garden, sensory garden, and herb garden.