4 Super-Cool Knoxville Attractions You Won’t Want to Miss

knoxville attractions

Don’t write off Knoxville, Tennessee, as nothing more than a college town. Yes, there are a lot of college students roaming around “Knox Vegas.” In fact, if you hear the term “Knox Vegas,” there’s a good chance it came from the mouth of someone under 25.

There are plenty of Knoxville attractions that have nothing to do with the University of Tennessee, though. You don’t have to be a co-ed on the prowl to find fun things to do in Knoxville.

Knoxville is one of the top places to visit in Tennessee, and here are four Knoxville sites worth knowing about.

The Sunsphere

Knoxville isn’t the biggest city in Tennessee (that would be Nashville). It’s not even the second-biggest city in Tennessee (that’s Memphis).

With a population of less than 200,000, Knoxville ranks as the third-biggest city in the state. Despite that, it still managed to play host to the 1982 World’s Fair. If you visit the World’s Fair Park, it’s hard to miss the metallic orange sphere rising above the skyline.

The Sunsphere originally closed after the World’s Fair, but its observation deck reopened a few years ago. Admission is free for visitors who want to enter the Sunsphere and take a 360-degree look at the Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River.

The Riverfront

Speaking of the Tennessee River, visiting the area along the riverfront is one of the best possible Knoxville outdoor activities.

Taking a walk along the river bridge is a worthy experience any time of day, but it’s especially stunning in the hour or so before sunset.

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Once you’ve experienced the river view, you’ll understand why so many residents are moving into areas near the water.

Zoo Knoxville

Zoo Knoxville is a stellar choice if you’re traveling with kids. Getting there is simple, as it’s east of downtown and off Interstate 40.

Like any good modern zoo, the facility focuses on both conservation and education. Children under four get in free to exhibits with names like Black Bear Falls and Chimp Ridge. Adults will have to pay $19.95, while kids between the ages of four and 12 get in for $16.95.

The zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Dec. 24 and 25.

McKay’s Books

One of the top bookstores in the Southeast is on a nondescript street in Knoxville called Papermill Place Way. McKay’s is one of those Knoxville attractions that’s easy to miss unless you know to look for it.

McKay’s motto is “previously owned, seriously loved,” and you can feel that love the minute you walk in the door. They also sell vinyl records, DVDs, CDs, and even old-school video games.

There’s two levels worth of treasures to explore, so carve out at least a couple hours in your schedule before hitting up McKay’s.

More Knoxville Attractions

There are tons more Knoxville attractions that are worth a look. Unlike some cities, you don’t have to bust your budget to have a good time on your visit.

In fact, Knoxville is one of the best cities to visit if you’re a tourist on a budget. There’s a wide variety of Knoxville activities that cost nothing at all.

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Looking for more cheap travel tips? Take a look at our blog post for broke travelers.