Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
1. Sunsphere
A iconic landmark, the Sunsphere offers panoramic city views and a revolving restaurant.
- Iconic Landmark: One of Knoxville's most recognizable symbols
- Revolving Restaurant: Offers a unique dining experience with changing city views
- Observation Deck: Provides stunning panoramic views of the city
2. World's Fair Park
A 106-acre park commemorating the 1982 World's Fair, offering various attractions and events.
- Historical Significance: Site of the 1982 World's Fair
- Outdoor Concert Venue: Hosts numerous concerts and events throughout the year
- Sculpture Garden: Features a collection of sculptures from around the world
3. University of Tennessee's Neyland Stadium
The third largest college football stadium in the U.S., home to the University of Tennessee Volunteers.
- College Football History: A historic venue for college football games
- Tailgating Culture: Famous for its vibrant pre-game tailgate parties
- Large Capacity: The third largest college football stadium in the U.S.
4. Knoxville Museum of Art
A premier art museum showcasing works by Tennessee artists and American masters.
- Tennessee Focus: Highlights the work of Tennessee artists
- American Masters: Includes works by American masters like O'Keeffe and O'Neill
- Free Admission: Offers free admission to the public
5. Ijams Nature Center
A 319-acre nature sanctuary offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and environmental education.
- Nature Sanctuary: Provides a peaceful escape from city life
- Hiking Trails: Offers numerous trails for all skill levels
- Environmental Education: Provides educational programs about local ecosystems
6. Market Square
A vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and live music performances.
- Shopping Destination: Home to numerous unique boutiques
- Dining Options: Offers a variety of local and international cuisines
- Live Music: Hosts live music performances throughout the year
7. Mabry-Hazen House
A historic mansion museum showcasing Civil War history and the lives of the Mabry and Hazen families.
- Civil War History: Offers insights into Knoxville's role in the Civil War
- Historic Mansion: A well-preserved example of Antebellum architecture
- Family Dynamics: Explores the lives and relationships of the Mabry and Hazen families
8. Knoxville Zoo
A family-friendly zoo featuring more than 900 animals from around the world.
- Animal Diversity: Showcases a wide variety of animal species
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about the animals and their habitats
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species
9. Blount Mansion
The historic home of Knoxville's founder, William Blount, offering a glimpse into early Tennessee history.
- Early History: Offers insights into early Tennessee history
- Furnished Rooms: Features beautifully preserved, furnished rooms
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours of the mansion and grounds
10. University of Tennessee Gardens
A collection of gardens on the University of Tennessee campus showcasing various plant species.
- Plant Diversity: Features a wide variety of plant species
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about gardening and horticulture
- Relaxation Spot: Provides a peaceful escape from the bustling campus