Knoxville’s World’s Fair Park is, without a doubt, one of the city’s most well-known and beloved attractions. It has been a popular hangout and leisure spot for those seeking a more laid-back experience for many decades.
Tennessee Theatre
When it first opened in 1928, the Tennessee Theater was dubbed a cinema palace. Because of this, it’s become one of the most popular destinations for both entertainment and architecture in the world. Additionally, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The theatre is decorated in a Spanish-Moorish style, and it features unique and beautiful elements that further contribute to its already stunning appearance. Intricately patterned Asian carpets, drapes and linens, and sumptuous Czech-style crystal chandeliers lend warmth and luxury to the space.
Blount Mansion
Restored and reconstructed, Blount Mansion now tells the storey of Tennessee’s early years. It was built in 1792 by William Blount, a founding father of the United States and Governor of the Southwest Territory when he established Knoxville as the territory’s capital. As “the house with many eyes,” visitors can learn about the mansion’s fascinating and occasionally shady past. As early as 1926, the Blount Mansion Association stepped in to conserve the house and turn it into a museum showcasing Knoxville, Tennessee colourful past. December’s Merry and Bright Celebration and October’s Tour of Myths, Legends, and Legendaries are two of the many events the museum hosts throughout the year. Days of operation are Tuesday through Friday.
The Zoo at Knoxville
The Knoxville Zoo is a great way to see some of Knoxville, Tennessee most stunning fauna in one spot, with over 900 creatures to choose from. All kinds of exotic species can be seen here, including Komodo dragons and Khaleesi, housed in separate enclosures. Other attractions include a splash pad, a theatre, and a carousel. There are also animal interaction sessions where visitors may get up and personal with the animals.
Knoxville Museum of Art
“Celebrating East Tennessee’s art and artists,” the Knoxville Museum of Art celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The $6 million makeovers of the structure, coated in Tennessee marble, contains the largest figural glass display globally, the Cycle of Life exhibit. As a result, it now features a collection of miniature dioramas from America’s most well-known small diorama group in its permanent displays. At Alive After Five, you may enjoy a wonderful evening of music, food, and drink with some of Tennessee’s best musicians.
Market Square Farmers’ Market
The Market Square Farmers’ Market is unquestionably one of the top things to do in downtown Knoxville. As part of Nourish Knoxville, a wonderful citywide initiative aimed at encouraging farmer and community partnership, this initiative is being offered. In addition to helping farmers and craftspeople, it also provides city dwellers with a variety of nutritious food choices. With a variety of sellers preparing to sell a variety of goods with a local flavour, the Market Square Farmers’ Market sets up shop every week. The merchants manufacture every item on sale, from raw ingredients to baked products to prepared meals to handmade presents.
James White Fort
The James White Fort, the former home of Knoxville’s founder James White, is now open for visitors to explore. It is ideal for learning about frontier life through hands-on activities, such as cooking demonstrations, spinning mills, and even blacksmithing classes. This working-life museum hosts a variety of seasonal activities, including ghost tours for Halloween, so be sure to check out the schedule while you’re in town.
Knoxville’s The Muse
Children in Knoxville love The Muse Knoxville, so if you’re planning a trip there with them, you’re in for a treat. The 4,000-square-foot complex features art and science displays. Most of the exhibits at the site are interactive to learn by doing rather than just reading about them. A planetarium in Knoxville is the only one of its kind in the city, so if you’re curious about the solar system, this is the place to go.
Knoxville is a great city to explore on foot, as many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance. There’s a lot to see and do in and around Market Square, as well as museums and other attractions in and around World’s Fair Park. The Sunsphere is a great place to get a sense of Knoxville’s landscape. The Great Smoky Mountains are a short drive from town if you want to catch some fresh air.
