Knoxville, Tennessee, is often recognized for its University of Tennessee campus, but this lively city has so much more to offer beyond bars and tailgates. With a flourishing dining scene, a pedestrian-friendly downtown, and numerous family-oriented activities, Knoxville is an ideal destination for your next family getaway. Explore our curated list of Knoxville highlights, and prepare for a memorable vacation that your family will cherish forever.
Fun Activities
Zoo Knoxville
A day at Zoo Knoxville is a must for families. Celebrated as one of the finest zoos in the Southeast, it features a wide variety of animals, including lions, wolves, rhinos, baboons, and the newly unveiled Tiger Forest, home to rare Malayan tigers.
Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tour
If your family has just one evening to spare, book the Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tour for kids aged 8 and older. This is not your typical ghost tour; it blends local history with paranormal exploration and science. Led by guide Jamie Adams, families can utilize ghost-hunting tools to seek out Knoxville’s most famous spirits. Our experience was unforgettable!
The Sunsphere
No trip to Knoxville is complete without ascending the iconic Sunsphere. Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, this structure is a recognizable symbol of the city. Enjoy a complimentary elevator ride to the observation deck, where you can learn about the fair’s history and take in breathtaking views through its gold-plated windows.
The Muse
Visit The Muse, a hands-on science and art museum designed to engage children. It also houses the city’s sole public-access planetarium. With admission priced at just $7 and planetarium activities for an additional $2, it’s a fantastic bargain for families!
Ijams Nature Center
Explore 315 acres of natural beauty at Ijams Nature Center, part of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, environmental education programs, and rentals for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Don’t miss the chance to visit Navitat Knoxville, an adventure park nestled in the trees.
Three Rivers Rambler
Step back in time aboard the Three Rivers Rambler, a coal-fired steam engine that takes you through downtown Knoxville to the scenic “Three Rivers Trestle,” where the French Broad and Holston Rivers converge. Weekend rides in season last 90 minutes, and special Halloween and Christmas excursions with family activities are available. Be sure to reserve your tickets early!
Where to Stay
The Oliver Hotel
For a luxurious family stay, consider The Oliver Hotel in Market Square. This boutique hotel features two of Knoxville’s top restaurants, Oliver Royale and Tupelo Honey, alongside the trendy Peter Kern Library bar. With complimentary bicycles available, you might find it hard to leave the premises!
Holiday Inn Knoxville Downtown
For a more budget-friendly option, the Holiday Inn Knoxville Downtown is right next to the Sunsphere. It boasts an indoor pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi, all within walking distance to attractions like the Knoxville Museum of Art and Fort Kid, a massive playground.
Dining Delights
Stock and Barrel
This trendy burger joint in Market Square is a family favorite for good reason. Known for its locally-sourced craft burgers and duck confit fries, expect to find a packed house. The bison and Black and Blue burgers are highly recommended!
Kaizen
A short stroll from Market Square is Kaizen, an Asian restaurant offering tapas-style small plates. Families will love the kid-friendly options like chicken katsu and tofu steam buns.
OliBea
Though you may have to wait for a table at this delightful eatery in Old City, the seasonal menu featuring fresh, local ingredients makes it worth it. Standouts include airy biscuits and a unique grilled cheese sandwich with collard greens.
The French Market Creperie
Step into this charming downtown bistro for delicious crepes. Choose from sweet and savory options, like the Dutch ham and cheese crepe topped with an egg or the decadent S’mores crepe for dessert.
Sweet Treats
The Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain
Head to this historic soda fountain for a sweet treat! Their flagship sundae, the Streetcar, is a must-try for the whole family, and they also serve up delicious hand-spun shakes.
Status Dough
This bakery offers a range of cake and yeast doughnuts, each day featuring imaginative flavors like Strawberries and Cream and Maple Bacon. The Buttermilk Old Fashioned is a crowd favorite!
Ham’ n Goodys
Don’t miss this hidden gem on Northshore Drive. Their lemon cookies and red velvet cake are legendary, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything quite like them anywhere else.
Shopping Spots
Market Square
As the heart of downtown Knoxville since the 1860s, Market Square boasts vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Don’t miss seasonal events and the beautiful Turkish lamps at Agora Knoxville!
Mast General Store
This expansive general store has something for everyone, from candy to clothing. It’s a great place for kids to find affordable souvenirs.
Bliss & Tori Mason Shoes
This downtown boutique is a treasure trove of stylish yet affordable clothing and accessories. You might lose track of time (and money) browsing!
Pretentious Glass Company
For a one-of-a-kind souvenir, check out this glassblowing studio in Old City. Afterward, relax at Pretentious Beer Company next door and enjoy a craft beverage while watching live glassblowing.
Knoxville offers an array of activities, dining, and shopping experiences that cater to families. With its rich history and vibrant culture, it proves to be an excellent choice for your next family outing. For those interested in family planning and home insemination, check out this resource for more information. If you’re considering home insemination options, BabyMaker is an authority on the topic. For further guidance on pregnancy and fertility preservation, listen to this podcast.
In summary, Knoxville is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, dining, and shopping. Whether you’re exploring the zoo, enjoying a ghost tour, or indulging in local cuisine, you’re bound to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Keyphrase: Family activities in Knoxville
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]