Knoxville, Tennessee, is widely recognized for being home to the University of Tennessee, but this lively city offers much more than just college nightlife and tailgating. With a thriving dining scene, a pedestrian-friendly downtown, and a plethora of family-oriented attractions, Knoxville serves as an excellent destination for your next family getaway. Explore our curated list of Knoxville highlights, and prepare for an unforgettable vacation that your family will cherish forever.
Engage with Wildlife
Zoo Knoxville
As one of the premier zoos in the Southeast, Zoo Knoxville provides a fantastic family outing. With a variety of animals, including lions, wolves, rhinos, and baboons, the zoo also features the recently unveiled Tiger Forest, home to the critically endangered Malayan tigers.
Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tour
If you have an evening to spare in Knoxville and children aged 8 and older, do not miss this unique ghost tour. Led by local historian Jaden Anderson, these family-friendly excursions combine local lore, ghost hunting, and scientific exploration. Equip yourselves with ghost hunting tools as you aim to uncover the city’s most famous spirits. We had an exhilarating experience on the tour, one that will remain etched in our memories.
The Sunsphere
A visit to Knoxville isn’t complete without a complimentary elevator ride to the top of the iconic Sunsphere. Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, this landmark offers stunning views from its observation deck, where you can learn about the fair’s history while gazing through its gold-plated windows.
The Muse
This engaging children’s science and art museum features interactive exhibits that both educate and entertain. Home to Knoxville’s sole public-access planetarium, admission is just $7 per person, with planetarium activities available for an extra $2. An excellent value!
Ijams Nature Center
Part of Knoxville’s expansive Urban Wilderness, this 315-acre nature hub offers 3.5 miles of trails, environmental education programs, as well as canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals at Mead’s Quarry Lake. Check the schedule for family programs during your visit, or simply enjoy a hike or summer float.
Three Rivers Rambler
Step back in time aboard the Three Rivers Rambler, a coal-fired steam engine that departs from downtown Knoxville, taking you past historical landmarks to the scenic “Three Rivers Trestle.” Weekend rides are offered seasonally, along with special Halloween and Christmas excursions designed for families. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly!
Where to Stay
The Oliver Hotel
If you’re looking for a top-tier experience, consider The Oliver Hotel, a luxurious boutique stay located in Market Square. This hotel houses two popular restaurants, Oliver Royale and Tupelo Honey, alongside the chic Peter Kern Library bar. With complimentary bike rentals available, you may just find yourself exploring the city rather than staying indoors.
Holiday Inn Knoxville Downtown
For a budget-friendly family option, the Holiday Inn Downtown is conveniently located next to the Sunsphere. It features an indoor pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi, all within walking distance of attractions like the World’s Fair Park splash pad and the Knoxville Museum of Art.
Delightful Dining
Stock and Barrel
This trendy burger spot in Market Square is always bustling with patrons. Known for its locally-sourced craft burgers and scrumptious duck confit fries, it’s easy to see why. Each burger we sampled was delightful, but the bison and Black and Blue varieties stole the show. I would gladly return just for the fries!
Kaizen
Just a short walk from Market Square, Kaizen offers a relaxed atmosphere and small plates of delicious Asian-inspired cuisine. The diverse menu features kid-friendly options that everyone in the family will love, including the highly-praised steamed buns.
OliBea
Although you might encounter a wait for a table at this charming restaurant in Old City, the brunch is well worth it. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, with standout dishes like delicate biscuits and a cheesy collard green sandwich.
The French Market Creperie
Transport yourself to a Parisian café at this downtown eatery, renowned for its authentic crepes made with imported flour. With both sweet and savory options available, we highly recommend the Dutch ham and cheese crepe topped with an egg and the indulgent Smores crepe for dessert.
Sweet Treats
The Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain
For an authentic soda fountain experience in downtown Knoxville, stop by the Phoenix Pharmacy. Don’t miss the signature sundae, the Streetcar, which is nothing short of epic. The menu also features delicious hand-spun shakes and artisan ice cream.
Status Dough
For families who love both cake and yeast donuts, Status Dough is the ideal spot. Freshly made each day, their inventive flavors are sure to please, particularly the popular Buttermilk Old Fashioned.
Ham’ n Goodys
Located off the main route on Northshore Drive, this beloved bakery is a must-visit. Their lemon cookies and glazed almond tea cookies are otherworldly, and the red velvet and strawberry cakes are simply the best I have ever tasted, with the option to purchase by the slice!
Shopping Hotspots
Market Square
As the social heart of downtown Knoxville since the 1860s, Market Square boasts fantastic shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Seasonal events and water play fountains add to its charm, making it a vibrant destination to explore.
Mast General Store
This extensive general store offers a variety of items, from toys and candy to clothing and Appalachian gifts. It’s a great place for kids to find affordable souvenirs.
Bliss & Tori Mason Shoes
Once you step into this stylish downtown boutique, it will be hard to leave. The chic yet budget-friendly clothing and accessories make it a delightful shopping experience.
Pretentious Glass Company
To find a truly unique Knoxville souvenir, visit Pretentious Glass Company. Known for its exquisite glassblowing, you can purchase stunning beer glasses crafted by expert artisan Matthew Cummings. Enjoy a refreshing drink next door at Pretentious Beer Company while watching a live glassblowing demonstration.
Explore the City
To make your sightseeing more convenient, Knoxville offers a free trolley service that covers three routes throughout the city. There are also parking garages with complimentary parking during nights and weekends, and street parking is free on Sundays. Knoxville is just an hour from Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and only 45 minutes from Dollywood, making it an increasingly popular hub for tourists.
In summary, Knoxville offers a dynamic blend of family-friendly activities, delicious dining, and unique shopping experiences, making it a perfect destination for your next family vacation. For more information on family planning and home insemination, check out this article on the Home Insemination Kit. For expert insights, visit York Fertility Clinic and for additional resources, explore News Medical.