Knoxville, Tennessee, is often recognized as the home of the University of Tennessee, but this vibrant city offers far more than college nightlife. With its emerging culinary scene, pedestrian-friendly downtown, and a multitude of family-centric attractions, Knoxville is an excellent choice for your next family getaway. Explore our curated selection of family-friendly activities, ensuring your vacation becomes a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Experience the Outdoors
Zoo Knoxville
As one of the premier zoos in the Southeastern United States, Zoo Knoxville provides a thrilling day out for families. Encounter a diverse range of wildlife, from majestic lions to playful wolves, and don’t miss the newly established Tiger Forest, featuring rare Malayan tigers.
Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tour
If your family is looking for a unique evening adventure and has kids aged 8 and older, the Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tour is a must. This isn’t your typical ghost tour; led by guide Max Thompson, it combines local history, paranormal exploration, and hands-on science experiments. Try ghost-hunting equipment to uncover Knoxville’s mysterious past—an outing your family will surely remember!
The Sunsphere
No visit to Knoxville would be complete without riding the elevator (free of charge!) to the top of the iconic Sunsphere. Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, this structure offers panoramic views and insights into the city’s history through its observation deck adorned with 24-karat gold-plated windows.
Ijams Nature Center
Located in Knoxville’s expansive Urban Wilderness, Ijams Nature Center spans 315 acres and features 3.5 miles of hiking trails. Families can enjoy environmental education initiatives, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Mead’s Quarry Lake. Check the Ijams schedule for family programs or just enjoy a day of exploration.
Three Rivers Rambler
Step back in time aboard the Three Rivers Rambler, a coal-fired steam engine that transports passengers from downtown Knoxville to the scenic Three Rivers Trestle. The 90-minute excursions are available on weekends, with special rides during Halloween and Christmas, featuring fun activities for children.
Where to Stay
The Oliver Hotel
For those wanting a luxurious experience, The Oliver Hotel in Market Square is a boutique property that also features two popular restaurants—Oliver Royale and Tupelo Honey—along with a stylish bar, the Peter Kern Library. You might find it hard to leave, especially with complimentary bicycles at your disposal.
Holiday Inn Knoxville Downtown
For a more budget-friendly family choice, consider the Holiday Inn in downtown Knoxville. Located next to the Sunsphere, this hotel offers an indoor pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. It’s a short walk to attractions like the Knoxville Museum of Art and Fort Kid, an expansive playground.
Dining Options
Stock and Barrel
This trendy burger spot in Market Square is always bustling. Their locally-sourced craft burgers and duck confit fries are a hit. Each family member can choose from an extensive list of burgers, with the bison and Black and Blue varieties receiving special praise.
Kaizen
Just a short distance from Market Square, Kaizen offers a relaxed atmosphere with affordable, Asian-inspired tapas that are surprisingly appealing to kids. From mushroom fried rice to delicious steam buns, there’s something for everyone.
OliBea
While waiting for a table at this charming Old City eatery can be a challenge, it’s well worth it. With a menu focused on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, you’ll want to try the light and fluffy biscuits and their creative take on grilled cheese, featuring collard greens.
The French Market Creperie
Stepping into this downtown gem feels like entering a Parisian café. The crepes made from imported French flour are the highlight, with both sweet and savory options to satisfy any palate.
Sweet Treats
The Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain
Don’t miss the authentic soda fountain at the Phoenix in downtown Knoxville. Treat your family to a signature Streetcar sundae—it’s a must-have. The menu also features hand-spun shakes and artisanal ice cream.
Status Dough
For families who can’t decide between cake and yeast donuts, Status Dough offers both, made fresh daily with inventive flavors such as Strawberries and Cream and Maple Bacon. If you only try one, the Buttermilk Old Fashioned is a favorite.
Ham’ n Goodys
Located on Northshore Drive, this bakery is a hidden treasure. Don’t miss their lemon cookies and glazed almond tea cookies; they’re simply unforgettable. Their red velvet and strawberry cakes also come highly recommended.
Shopping Adventures
Market Square
As the social nucleus of downtown Knoxville since the 1860s, Market Square boasts excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife. Families can also enjoy seasonal events like Movies on the Square and the farmer’s market featuring local crafts and produce.
Mast General Store
This expansive general store has something for everyone, from candy and toys to apparel and gifts. It’s an ideal spot for kids to find inexpensive souvenirs.
Pretentious Glass Company
For a unique souvenir, visit the Pretentious Glass Company in the historic Old City. Renowned glassblower Matthew Cummings produces stunning beer glasses, and you can enjoy a craft beer next door while watching a live glassblowing demonstration.
Final Thoughts
Knoxville also offers a free trolley service to ease sightseeing, and several parking garages provide free parking on evenings and weekends. With its proximity to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville has become a popular stop for tourists eager to explore these iconic destinations. For more information on family activities, check out this helpful resource.
In summary, Knoxville is a delightful destination for family adventures, offering a blend of enjoyable activities, dining options, and places to stay that cater to all preferences.